Singita, Londolozi and Lion Sands no doubt set the bench mark for safari chic and indulgent luxury. Singita Boulders, Londolozi Granite, Lion Sands Ivory and Singita Lebombo have traditionally grappled like young Avatars for the title of the best of the best. After all, one man’s meat can be another man’s poison.
Of course various factors come into the equation. The quality of the game viewing and the skill and knowledge of the rangers, the design of the lodges and standard of luxury, the service, the food and the ambience.
Our intrepid leader, David, recently set off to the Sabi Sand to experience the latest offering from Londolozi – the newly rebuilt Pioneer Camp – it only opened in June 2010.
According to Dave Varty, “The New Pioneer Camp 1926 is a symphony of style, bushveld architecture and nature. Perhaps the most exciting and adaptable camp we have ever built at Londolozi.”
Set among the dappled shade of 500 year old ebony trees, the three luxury suites & generous bush home central area is the culmination of four decades of design experience in the safari industry. With 14,000ha of exclusive traversing, the game viewing at Londolozi is insane. David saw 7 different leopards as well as both a wild dog kill and a leopard kill! Have a look at David’s photos on the Rhino Africa Facebook Page.
Pioneer Camp is the most secluded of Londolozi’s luxury camps. The three private suites have splendid river views and are perfect for honeymoons and private getaways. Yet this adaptable camp can also be converted into a private bush home for family groups of 6 – 14 people through breathtaking sky walkways – glass viaducts that link the family units.
The style is very much Ralph Lauren. Timeless, elegant and understated colonial chic. Think clean lines, modern and sophisticated decor, with floor to ceiling glass sliding panels which frame the majestic wilderness beyond.
The bathrooms are classic Victorian with modern accents in the decadent marble, chrome and mahogany finishes. Throughout the camp there is a pervading sense of history thanks to faithfully restored memorabilia of photographs, old suitcases, silver, crystal glass and gramophones. Everything about Pioneer Camp is deeply personal and provides a romantic backdrop to the adventures of a new generation of sophisticated travellers.
David’s verdict – “In terms of luxury and the quality of the game viewing, I think this is possibly the best lodge in the Kruger.”
Be sure to get in touch if you’d like to experience the magic of any of these sensational lodges and decide for yourself which is the best of the best!
