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Arathusa Safari Lodge, Northern Sabi Sands | Timbuktu Travel
Northern Sabi Sands

Arathusa Safari Lodge

Travel and Leisure Worlds Best Awards for number 1 tour operator in the world 2024 and number 2 tour operator in the world 2025
We're one of the World's Best Tour Operators!
Named three years running in Travel+Leisure World's Best, including No.1 in 2024

About Arathusa Safari Lodge

A lovely lodge in the game-rich Sabi Sands that will keep your credit card happy!

The thick, comforting smell of thatch welcomes you to your holiday home in the bush. This is the classic South African safari at its best, but with the distinct advantage of location. Found in the private Sabi Sand Game Reserve, on a very frequented waterhole, you won't believe your luck for discovering such a homely spot in the midst of a prime wildlife viewing reserve where the abundant wildlife from the Kruger roam across freely.

From $710 per person/per night
Safari
13 Rooms
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Property details

The property

The open plan main area has a traditional bush lodge atmosphere, inviting you to bring your book and sink away in a soft chair or chat to your fellow safari goers. Dinner is served inside or al fresco in the boma. The common area also boasts a large infinity pool and a safari spa. The deck overlooking the waterhole is a favourite for most. Watching the sun set, drink in hand, while the animals gather below takes first prize.

The rooms

Seven humble, thatched bungalows are positioned around the waterhole. They offer old fashioned comforts and warm tones. Each features a shower-over-bath, as well as an outdoor shower. Four of the eight luxury rooms face the water, while four are hidden in the woodlands beyond for a more secluded feel. The luxury rooms have private patios, lounges and plunge pools.

Activities

This part of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve is known for excellent year-round game viewing and guests can search for the Big Five on morning or afternoon game drives. Rangers do the driving and teach you more about the animals' behaviour while local trackers sit up front looking for fresh tracks. Armed rangers can also take guests on walking safaris to get closer to the sights and smells of the bush.

Why we love it

Why we love it

Arathusa has a fantastic watering hole, which draws a large number of game directly to the camp. If you've never heard of an 'armchair safari', this is the place to discover what it means...
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

Although they come at an extra cost, the spa treatments are worth every penny - and the locally-sourced, 100% natural products make them even lovelier.
Something to think about

Something to think about

The luxury suites are set a bit further from the main area and although you are escorted by an askari, it can feel like quite a long walk. They also don't have watering hole views, but do have private plunge pools.
Plan your stay

How to book Arathusa

How do I book Arathusa?

Arathusa can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made South Africa trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended South Africa trips featuring Arathusa or get advice and suggestions from one of our South Africa specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.

How much does it cost to stay at Arathusa?

Stays at Arathusa start from around $710 per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.

South Africa

Northern Sabi Sands

A wondrous portion of the famed Sabi Sands with big cats galore & the Kruger right on your doorstep.