The Outpost Lodge
Overview
About The Outpost Safari Lodge
Both the rugged magnificence of the Northern Kruger and the breathtaking architectural splendour of The Outpost harmonize to create an ideal setting for a harmonious coexistence with nature.
Here, in the Park’s most inaccessible area, where 80 per cent of its species are found, you will be able to fully experience the thrilling wilderness as an unanticipated wilderness adventure and a leisurely safari unlike any other await you in this area of pristine beauty.
The Outpost is a hip and modern safari lodge that provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of the Kruger National Park while also providing an unforgettable experience for our guests.
Staying at The Outpost Lodge is all about savouring the small moments. Not only does the Kruger boast more diverse and abundant wildlife than any other location in the park, but our guests are also able to appreciate the intricate details of a genuinely wild landscape, which helps them to feel grounded in the vast silence and unspoiled beauty of the area.
The Outpost is located in a private concession with a ridiculously low volume of both guests and cars. While eighty per cent of the species found in Kruger National Park are located in the concession, it is also recognized for its impeccable birding.
In the remote northeastern region of the Kruger National Park, The Outpost combines clean modern design with absolute wilderness. The clean lines of steel, concrete and Zimbabwean teak blend into the bush of the northern Kruger and create a tranquil oasis in this wilderness. The lodge enjoys an elevated view of the Luvuvhu River Valley and consists of 12 free-standing suites and a main building. The complex is connected by a 500-metre walkway of Zimbabwean teak. The remote and pristine north of Kruger is home to herds of elephants and buffalo. Resident pride of lion and the recently reintroduced rhinoceros are often seen on game drives and the elusive leopard is common the mountainous areas.
Travel and Booking Information
Included in the Rate You Pay
- Fully serviced luxury accommodation
- Two game drives per day in open safari vehicles with sundowners and snacks
- All meals
- All beverages except. premium brands
- WiFi in the central area
- Mini-Bar consumption
- Laundry
Excluded from the Rate You Pay
- Premium beverage brands and cellar-reserve wines
- Curio shop purchases
- Telephone calls
- Lodge transfers
- Park entrance fee
- Conservation fee
- Landing fees
- Spa treatments
- Compulsory international fully comprehensive travel insurance
- Any other items of a personal nature or not stipulated above
Entrance Fees
- The conservation levy for 2024 per person per stay is R215.00
- Park entry fee for 2024 per person per stay is R122.00
Child Policy
The Outpost is not suitable for children younger than 12. This ensures a tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere conducive to relaxation and wildlife viewing for all guests.
However, exceptions can be made for exclusive-use bookings where the entire camp is reserved for a private group or family.
Child Policy and Rates
Many of the accommodation establishments that Kruger Safari Co books for tours have a strict child policy. It is your responsibility to disclose the age of each child in the travelling group to the Kruger Safari Company agent and confirm that he/she is the appropriate age for tour accommodation. Kruger Safari Co cannot be held liable for an accommodation establishment refusing entry to an underage child where a child policy is strictly enforced.
Kruger Safari Co reserves the right to request a copy of a birth certificate for any child in the tour group who is confirmed to be 12 years or younger.
A children’s rate is available on request. Not all accommodation establishments offer a reduced rate for children but where applicable, Kruger Safari Co will confirm in writing at what rate a child 12 years and younger will be charged.
Booking Procedure:
Confirmation of a booking is made in writing via email once it is agreed upon by the client and the Kruger Safari Co agent. A 100% non-refundable deposit is required within 48 hours of written confirmation of a booking. Where applicable, the balance of payment of a booking is required 40 days before departure. All travellers will be required to complete our online booking form to ensure that Kruger Safari Co, the reserved establishment and all service providers have the correct information required.
No quotation issued by Kruger Safari Co and accepted by the client (provisional or final), or booking made (provisional or final) shall be binding until a final invoice has been issued and full payment received by Kruger Safari Co.
Payment Policy
All Kruger Safari Co require a 100% non-refundable deposit to the value of 50% of the total tour price. A non-refundable deposit is required to secure the booking of a tour. Full payment of the non-refundable deposit is required on written confirmation of the booking.
Terms and Conditions
Please feel free to view all of our terms and conditions.
What to Pack for Your Stay
- Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing for hot days and layering options for cooler mornings and evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes for bush walks and exploring the lodge grounds.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection during game drives.
- Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
- Binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens for capturing wildlife sightings.
- Personal toiletries and medications, as well as any necessary travel documents.
Etiquette During Game Drives
During game drives, it’s essential to observe proper etiquette to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for all guests:
- Listen to your guide’s instructions and follow their lead regarding wildlife viewing and behaviour.
- Keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing the animals and fellow guests.
- Refrain from standing up or leaning out of the vehicle while it is in motion.
- Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the wildlife.
- Always maintain a safe distance from the animals and never attempt to approach them for a closer look or photo opportunity.
- Remember to respect the natural environment and leave only footprints behind.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit The Outpost is during the dry season, which typically falls between May and September. During this time, vegetation is sparse, making wildlife easier to spot as they gather around water sources. Additionally, cooler temperatures make for more comfortable game drives and outdoor activities.
Getting to The Outpost Safari Lodge
The Outpost is located in the northernmost corner of the Kruger National Park, on the border with Zimbabwe and Mozambique, in the Makuleke private concession.
The GPS coordinates for the Outpost are S 22° 26’ 24.64”; E 31° 05’ 03.29
By Air
Guests can fly to The Outpost with private charters from Grand Central
(JHB), O.R. Tambo (JHB) or Hoedspruit Civil.
Such flights are available on a flexible schedule and will land in the Pafuri airstrip in the same concession.
Guests will be collected by a guide and taken for a game drive back to the lodge.
There are no scheduled road transfers to the lodge, but they can be arranged upon request through your tour operator.
It is possible to fly in with a private aircraft and land on the airstrip, but that should be arranged beforehand.
By Road
The Outpost is ± 650kms from Johannesburg, a journey of about 6-7 hours.
From Johannesburg, take the M1 North to Pretoria and when the M1 North becomes the N1 North, follow the Pietersburg/N1 North signs.
From close to Pietersburg/Polokwane, follow the N1 North signs towards Louis Trichardt/Makhado and proceed towards Musina.
Approximately 57 km after the turn-off to Louis Trichardt (just after the Baobab Toll Gate), turn right on the R525 to Tshipise and Pafuri.
Proceed along the R525, past the turn-off to Tshipise and enter the Kruger National Park through Pafuri Gate.
Travellers should be careful of potential potholes or stray animals like cattle, wild donkeys and goats on this stretch of road.
At the gate, notify staff that you are staying at The Outpost to pay the reduced entry fee
into the Kruger Park.
Proceed until you see the sign (built from rocks) for The Outpost (± 5.6 km) on the left-hand side of the road.
Turn right and follow the dirt road for 4 km until you reach The Outpost.
Facilities
The Outpost consists of free-standing living spaces. Perched on a hill the units enjoy far-reaching views of the valley below. The intelligent design of the living spaces highlights the view by aligning the furniture and the panoramic front of the room with it. Canvas covers open up the space completely and expose you to the unique atmosphere of the African bush. The rooms are luxuriously fitted with king-size beds and award-winning bathrooms. The open plan design allows you to unclench and relax, while luxurious amenities make you completely comfortable.
The Outpost serves three meals a day. Breakfast is usually served in the dining area overlooking the Luvuvhu River Valley, while lunch often comes in the form of a picnic under tall baobabs or at the side of a river. Dinners under the stars are always a favourite with guests.
The cuisine is African inspired and The Outpost has dedicated itself to finding the best local produce or else flying in fresh ingredients from Johannesburg.
The dining and lounge areas are situated around the bar and a well-stocked bookcase offers a variety of reading material.
A large lap pool offers a cool retreat on hot days and is a good opportunity to get some exercise.
- King size bed
- En-suite bathroom
- Outdoor terrace and day bed
- Mosquito netting
- Goose down duvets
- Retractable canvas sliders for 180⁰ views
The Outpost is located in the remote north-eastern Makuleke Region of the Kruger National Park. The area is bordered by Zimbabwe and the Limpopo River in the north and by the Mozambican border in the east. The land is owned by the Maluleke Community, which reclaimed the area after the end of Apartheid. The Outpost operates on a private concession. The aim is to establish a profitable business and train members of the local community so that Makuleke Community will own and run The Outpost in the near future. This is a prime example of empowering local communities and advanced integrated conservation.
The area covers over 25,000 hectares within the Kruger Park and is home to the Big 5 as well as most other big game. Leopards abound in the mountainous area, while large herds of buffalo and elephants roam the plains and riverbanks. Rhino has been reintroduced to the area and resident prides of lions are sighted regularly.
The Outpost Accommodation
Eleven plush, standalone rooms dot a ridgeline; each has a state-of-the-art retractable screen that can be remotely operated to provide guests with 180º of unobstructed views.
Your options include:
Rooms with a Bush View
The Bush View Spaces are located lower on the rocky ridge, on either side of the main lodge. They have a modern, chill vibe and offer magnificent views of the bush below.
Modern, retractable, remote-controlled screens replace walls in these standalone units, leaving three sides open to the elements. Guests can relax on the king-sized bed covered in mosquito netting while they take advantage of the room’s many amenities, including the daybed, the open-plan bathroom with an indoor/outdoor shower and a large bathtub, the mini bar, and the spacious balcony.
Treetop Rooms
The Treetop Spaces seem to have been placed gently in the tree canopy as they are nestled in a stand of ironwood trees. The valley can be seen through the trees but being in these areas makes you feel even more alone and private.
Modern, retractable, remote-controlled screens replace walls in these standalone units, leaving three sides open to the elements.
The rooms come with a king-sized bed with mosquito netting, a cosy daybed, an open-plan bathroom with an indoor/outdoor shower and a large bathtub, a minibar with all the fixings, and a spacious balcony where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
River View Rooms
The River View Spaces provide a haven of tranquillity in the unspoiled splendour of the northern Kruger, scattered along the ridge with panoramic views of the Luvuvhu River and the neighbouring wilderness.
These standalone units have three sides that are open to the elements, and instead of walls, they have state-of-the-art retractable screens that can be controlled remotely. Each suite has a king-sized bed with mosquito netting, a daybed for added comfort, an open-concept bathroom with an indoor/outdoor shower and a large bathtub, a minibar with all the fixings, and a spacious balcony from which to enjoy the scenery.
Honeymoon Suite
The magnificent Honeymoon Space, situated atop the ridge with spectacular 360-degree views of the verdant valley below, creates the ideal backdrop for an incredibly romantic safari.
This standalone unit has three sides that are open to the elements, and instead of walls, it has state-of-the-art retractable screens that can be controlled remotely. A king-sized bed covered in mosquito netting and a cosy daybed are part of the furnishings.
The open-plan bathroom has an indoor/outdoor shower and a large bathtub. There is a mini bar with all the necessities and a spacious corner balcony where you can soak up some rays and enjoy the scenery.
Pel’s Post
Nestled just downstream from The Outpost is Pel’s Post, an eco-luxe property with eight bedrooms.
Every one of the four suites—which can be booked separately or in their entirety for an intimate safari—includes a king-sized bed, an open-plan bathroom with an indoor and outdoor shower, a large bathtub, a mini bar with all the fixings, and a spacious wooden deck overlooking the Luvuvhu River.
Every unit, similar to The Outpost, features three sides that are open to the elements and is equipped with state-of-the-art retractable screens that can be controlled remotely.
Facilities at The Outpost
Apart from the luxurious accommodation, guests can relax in the main area and lounge, which features comfortable seating and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The camp boasts a gourmet restaurant serving delectable cuisine prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients while the bar offers a variety of beverages, including cocktails, wines, and spirits.
A refreshing swimming pool provides the perfect respite from the African heat, allowing guests to cool off while enjoying uninterrupted views of the bushveld.
For unparalleled views of the surrounding wilderness, guests can ascend to the camp’s observation deck, ideal for birdwatching or simply soaking in the sights and sounds of nature.
An on-site curio shop offers a selection of souvenirs, gifts, and locally crafted items, allowing guests to take home a piece of their African safari experience.
The camp provides conference and meeting facilities for corporate events or special gatherings, like bush weddings.
Things to Do at The Outpost
The Outpost offers a range of guided activities, including game drives, bush walks, and birdwatching excursions, led by experienced guides who share their knowledge of the local wildlife and ecosystems.
Guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation can indulge in spa treatments and wellness therapies, designed to soothe the body and calm the mind amidst the tranquillity of the bush.
At night, stargazing is a must due to the clean dark skies, without light pollution.
Itinerary
Arrival Day
Arrive at The Outpost mid-day, in time for a light lunch. Freshen up and relax before it’s time to depart on a late-afternoon game drive in the reserve.
Overnight in a luxury suite at The Outpost.
Days on safari
Wake up early for hot beverages and rusks before departing for a 3-hour sunrise game drive in the Kruger National Park. Return to your lodge for a late breakfast and spend the rest of the day relaxing at the pool or treating yourself to an afternoon sleep. Depart late afternoon after High Tea for a 3-hour sunset game drive in the private reserve.
Departure day
Head out as the sun is rising to enjoy your last game drive in Kruger National Park. Enjoy a hearty breakfast before departing mid-morning to your next destination.
What's Included
- Accommodation at The Outpost
- 3-hour game drives in Kruger National Park
- 3- Meals a day
- Local beverages
What's Excluded
- Scheduled flights and transfers to the lodge
- All purchases of a personal nature
- Beverages not stated
- Kruger Park conservation levy (charged per person per night)
- Gratuities
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Any activity not specified in the itinerary
- Visa fees if required
FAQ
What makes The Outpost Safari Lodge unique?
The Outpost stands out for its blend of rugged natural beauty and modern architectural design, offering guests a sophisticated yet immersive safari experience. Situated in the most inaccessible area of the Kruger National Park, the lodge provides an opportunity to explore pristine wilderness and encounter a diverse range of wildlife.
What types of accommodation are available at The Outpost?
The lodge offers plush standalone rooms with modern amenities and magnificent views. Guests can choose from Bush View Rooms, Treetop Rooms, River View Rooms, and a Honeymoon Suite. Additionally, there’s Pel’s Post, an eco-luxe property with eight bedrooms, ideal for intimate groups or families.
What facilities are available at The Outpost?
The camp features a gourmet restaurant, a bar serving a variety of beverages, a refreshing swimming pool, an observation deck for wildlife viewing, and an on-site curio shop. Conference and meeting facilities are also available for corporate events or special gatherings.
What activities can guests enjoy at The Outpost?
Guests can partake in guided game drives, bush walks, and birdwatching excursions led by experienced guides. Additionally, spa treatments and wellness therapies are offered for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the tranquillity of the bush.
Is The Outpost suitable for children?
No, The Outpost is not suitable for children under the age of 12. This policy ensures a tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere conducive to relaxation and wildlife viewing for all guests. However, exceptions can be made for exclusive-use bookings.
How can guests reach The Outpost?
Guests can access The Outpost via private charters from Johannesburg or Hoedspruit Civil, landing at the Pafuri airstrip within the concession. Alternatively, self-driving guests can reach the lodge via road, approximately 6-7 hours from Johannesburg, entering through Pafuri Gate in the Kruger National Park.
