When we conceptualised Laluka, we set out to design a lodge and an experience that truly is unlike any other. It’s hard to say what made us choose our location in the Welgevonden Game Reserve, it might have been the incredible view of the valley, perhaps it was the seasonal fresh water stream that runs through the piece of land, and of course we were naturally drawn to the proximity to the watering hole – but more than that it was the feeling we got when we stood in this place. The tranquil, quiet feeling of being at peace with the world around us. Everything about Laluka is guided by that unmistakable feeling and it’s our aim to have every guest leave rested, connected and invigorated by the magnificent African bushveld.
After a long day of bush walks, game drives and hours in the hide – you’re going to need to unwind. Enjoy a massage at our spa or spend the afternoon lounging on our pool deck, taking in the views – and a couple of cocktails never hurt!
Laluka is inspired by her surroundings, and designed to be a sustainable element of the complex ecosystem that is the African bush. Part of delivering an authentic, intimate experience for our guests is ensuring that our footprint is as subtle as possible. With careful contemplation we have implemented numerous strategies to lower Laluka’s impact on the environment. The lodge uses only filtered borehole water, every meal is prepared with vegetables from our own organic vegetable garden and we even have our own cows, chickens and sheep. We have a strict recycling protocol and are committed to completely eliminating single-use plastic by 2022.
In Dutch, “Welgevonden” means “well-found” or “serendipitous discovery” and from the moment you drive through the gates it will become obvious why. Nearly 40 000 hectares of untouched African wilderness, this truly majestic stretch of land offers an intimate, personal experience of the bush.
Situated in the Waterberg District of South Africa’s Limpopo province, just 2.5hrs from Johannesburg (or a quick 45min flight), Welgevonden is easily one of Southern Africa’s most accessible game reserves and boasts the additional convenience of being in a Malaria-free area.
Complimenting the complex, raw beauty of the bushveld are our understated but undeniably luxurious suites. Complete with private patios, plunge pools, air-conditioning, outdoor showers and unique bushveld vistas; Laluka’s rooms make for an ideal space to relax and reinvigorate.
Your guide can make or break the safari experience for you, that’s why we have taken care in sourcing extremely knowledgeable, experienced local guides. We offer excellent driven safaris, but we always encourage guests to experience the intimate encounter that a walking safari offers.
Laluka overlooks one of the reserve’s best watering holes, but if you want to get even closer we have an eye-level hide that is mere centimeters from the water’s edge.
Every photographer’s dream – spend hours enjoying a personal encounter with each animal as it wonders down to quench its thirst.
Forget the cheesy tourist mementos and take something home with you that is as unique and special as your stay with us.
Whether you’re after that perfect sunset, or you’re looking to camp out at a watering hole and get an action shot, you’ll get every pic you’re hoping for at Laluka. Photography lessons, specially kitted trucks and even a printing studio back at the lodge – as keen photographers ourselves we made sure that Laluka would be fully equipped for every level of photographer.
We believe that wellness is a natural bi-product of time in the bush, but sometimes you just need a massage to go with it. Laluka’s spa boasts a wide array of facilities and treatments, using natural, local beauty and skincare products.
Our ambition to curate an experience of the bush like no other really comes to life in our food. Our chef has crafted a seasonal menu that is nothing short of a celebration of the fresh flavours of Africa.
