Overview

The cosy and welcoming atmosphere offers the perfect setting for a memorable safari adventure, whether guests are relaxing with a good book, taking in the view, or chatting with other safari enthusiasts. Delicious food made with locally sourced ingredients entices the senses, and the sounds of Africa’s wildlife provide a captivating background to a meal.

Arathusa Safari Lodge is a top choice for safari enthusiasts looking for luxury, adventure, and total submersion in the beauty of the African bush because of its exceptional safari involvement, which is demonstrated by a high concentration of game, frequent sightings of leopards, and unmatched access to wildlife-rich areas.

Arathusa Safari Lodge is located on a private game reserve in Sabi Sand Game Reserve which falls within the Greater Kruger. Sabi Sands is regarded as one of the finest Big 5 safari destinations in southern Africa. It shares an unfenced boundary with Kruger Park and animals are free to roam between the two wilderness regions. The boutique safari lodge is tucked into a gorgeous riverine setting with full riverfront views. There are 13 luxury suites in total; 9 face a busy waterhole in front of the lodge and 4 are positioned a short distance from the lodge in a private setting. Arathusa’s suites are stylishly decorated while exuding bushveld warmth and character. Each ensuite unit has a luxurious ensuite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, an open-plan lounge, a private deck and a plunge pool.

Things to Do at Arathusa Safari Lodge

Discover a variety of exciting activities and encounters designed to enthral you in the beauty and wildlife of Arathusa Safari Lodge:

Game Drives

Arathusa Safari Lodge boasts exceptional game drives twice daily, in the early morning and late afternoon. Conducted in open safari vehicles, these drives are led by experienced rangers paired with local trackers.

The trackers, seated at the front of the vehicle, expertly spot and identify fresh animal tracks, while the rangers navigate the diverse terrain of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. This teamwork guarantees guests close encounters with the wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo).

The reserve is home to a rich assortment of fauna, and the sound conservation management policies in place mean the animals are not threatened by human presence.

Bush Walks

For those seeking a more intimate experience, guided bush walks are available. These walks, usually conducted in the early morning during the summer months, allow guests to explore the bush on foot under the guidance of an armed ranger.

Walking safaris involve a unique perspective on the environment, enabling visitors to appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem that are often missed from a vehicle. It’s a chance to learn about the local flora and fauna up close and gain insights into the intricate web of life in the reserve.

Game Viewing at Leisure

Game viewing from Arathusa Safari Lodge itself is a highlight, with regular sightings of leopards, a particularly elusive and fascinating species.

About 14 leopards inhabit the local area, with six frequently spotted by guests. One notable resident is a female leopard named ‘Safari,’ often seen near the camp. In addition to leopards, guests can expect to see a variety of other wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and impalas.

The Sabi Sands Game Reserve is renowned for its dense and diverse wildlife populations, ensuring that visitors have the opportunity to witness an array of animals in their natural habitats.

Bird Watching

Bird lovers will find Arathusa a paradise, with over 300 bird species recorded in the area. The lodge’s location by a large waterhole attracts many bird species, providing excellent bird-watching opportunities.

Rare birds like the Horus Swift can be seen around the camp, making it a rewarding encounter for avid birders.

Safari Spa

Arathusa Safari Lodge also features a comprehensive spa and wellness centre. Guests can enjoy a variety of treatments in two placid rooms overlooking the camp’s waterhole. The spa caters for an array of services, including facial treatments, massage therapy, signature treatments, bath ceremonies, body wraps, manicures, and pedicures.

Sundowners

An essential part of the African holiday at Arathusa is the traditional sundowner. During the afternoon game drive, guests have the opportunity to stop at a picturesque spot in the bush to enjoy drinks and snacks while watching the sunset.

Travel and Booking Information

Included in the Rate You Pay

• All meals
• Two daily game drives
• Walking safaris (subject to availability)
• Tea and coffee

Excluded from the Rate You Pay

• All beverages
• Transfers to and from the lodge
• Spa services
• Gratuities
• Personal expenses

What to Pack

• 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 Arathusa Safari Lodge 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 Arathusa Safari Lodge

Arathusa Safari Lodge is located in the northernmost region of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. The lodge is reachable by air and road.

By Air

To travel to Arathusa Safari Lodge by air, Airlink operates multiple flights from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) and Eastgate Airport in Hoedspruit. The lodge can arrange road transfers from either airport to the lodge.

Airlink also offers flights to and from Skukuza and KMIA directly to Arathusa’s airstrip, making it efficient to travel effortlessly.

By Road

Travelling to Arathusa Safari Lodge by road is a scenic and adventurous option. From Johannesburg, it is approximately a 7-hour drive (about 550 km/342 miles) through the beautiful landscapes of Mpumalanga.

From Johannesburg, take the N12 to Emalahleni (Witbank).

From Emalahleni, take the N4 to Nelspruit, passing through two toll gates. Continue on the R40 from Nelspruit to White River and then to Hazyview. Stay on the R40 towards Bushbuckridge for about 62 km until you reach Acornhoek.

At the traffic lights in Acornhoek, turn right towards Manyeleti/Tulamahashe/Hluvukani. Follow the tar road for approximately 36.1 km and then turn right onto a dirt road. After 6.4 km, turn left at Uthar Clinic and follow the gravel road for 7.3 km to Gowrie Gate.

Pay the entrance fee to the Sabi Sands Game Reserve in cash.

Proceed straight through Gowrie Gate and continue to follow the signs to Arathusa Safari Lodge (do not turn right to Arathusa Private). Turn right at the stone wall for Arathusa Safari Lodge and follow the road to the lodge entrance.

From Nelspruit, the lodge is approximately 170 km (106 miles) and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by road.

From Hoedspruit, the lodge is about 80 km (50 miles) and roughly 1.5 hours by road. Follow the directions from Hoedspruit to Acornhoek, and then proceed as described above.

From Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport the lodge is approximately 165 km and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by road. Follow the directions from the airport to Hazyview.

For those driving themselves, it’s important to note that while the lodge is accessible with a 2-wheel drive vehicle, a 4-wheel drive vehicle is more comfortable due to the dirt roads. It’s best to arrive before 15:30 to participate in the afternoon game drive, with check-in time starting at 12:00.

Use only the Gowrie Gate for entry to the Sabi Sands Game Reserve.