Say ‘Sabi Sands’ to experienced safari enthusiasts, and they’ll likely nod their heads in appreciation. Located in the epic Kruger National Park, this is the place to see the Big Five, and just happens to be where you’ll find Idube Game Lodge.

Situated in the southeastern reaches of the reserve, getting here isn’t too much of a hassle. An airstrip nearby means you can get a Land Rover transfer to camp, or if you prefer to self-drive from Johannesburg or Pretoria, you should allow about 5.5 hours for your journey. Every minute spent getting here will be rewarded with opportunities to be amazed by the views from your accommodation, the quality of the service from the team in camp, and of course, the breadth of wildlife sightings you’ll experience.

Choose from chalets or suites

Chalets

The 8 chalets here are some of the most solid structures in which you can enjoy a stay in Kruger National Park. They have brick walls and tiled roofs, and are all located under the shade of knobthorn and jackalberry trees. Each is decorated in its own unique way – African inspired, of course, with either a double or twin beds, two armchairs, plus a desk with chair. Your ensuite has two wash basins, a shower, bathtub and flushing toilet. Outside, you’ll find another shower that’s part of a private deck with seating from which you can keep an eye on the wildlife that visits camp.

Makubela Suites

If you’re looking for space, privacy and luxury, these 2 suites will deliver. They have everything you get in the chalets plus an entrance hall, lounge area and mini-bar. Your patio is accessed via sliding doors and is stocked with sun loungers and topped off with a plunge pool. Elephants have been known to drink from these by the way.

Charming gardens and a warming fire pit

You’re sure to be charmed by the gardens with their plush lawns and tall trees, many of which you can see from the main area of camp. It’s here that you’ll find a communal lounge with a variety of seating options and coffee tables for your drinks. Maybe snuggle up near the fireplace with a book you’ve selected from the shelves, or enjoy some sport on the satellite TV.

The dining room has separate tables at which you can enjoy your meals and the South African house wines they keep in the cellar. You can also choose to eat in your accommodation, out on the shared deck area, or in the boma, warmed by the fire pit, weather permitting.

The outdoor bar offers you a chance to drink-in the views of wildlife. You might see a warthog wandering by, or monkeys and squirrels playing in the trees. A hide is accessed via the Shadulu swing bridge by the dam in camp, giving you an extra place to get even closer to the visiting animals.

There are two communal swimming pools here, both in locations that allow for splashing around and wildlife spotting as you relax in the water or on one of the recliners around the pool.

The curio shop is the place to go for souvenirs, plus there’s an air conditioned gym, so you can keep up your exercise regime during your stay. Spa treatments including manicures and Swedish massages can be booked and carried out either in your room, or out on a private part of the deck.