Becks Safari Lodge could not be in a prettier setting – it perches on the banks of the Makhutsi River, with views across the landscape to the distant Drakensberg escarpment. It's the flagship lodge of Karongwe Private Game Reserve, a 9,000-hectare property whose many natural gifts include three rivers that feed it, ecosystems that range from savanna and woodland to rocky outcrops, and undulating hills that make for dynamic game drives. This is Big Five country, and the viewing is easy. We were struck by the luxurious hospitality of this small lodge; it's the perfect setting for a romantic break.
/30.5402632,-24.1819181,6/600x400?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoidGltYnVrdHV0cmF2ZWwiLCJhIjoiY2poMGw1eHpkMmRkbDJ6bW8xYWZ5OGpjYyJ9.PYvAO7lUJ40SOpGvwmQLqw&attribution=false&logo=false)
The main area offers fabulous views from river and floodplains to the horizon. The interior decor is pretty fine too, a sleek contemporary take on the old thatch-and-wood lodge design. Seating in the large open-plan lounge is arranged for intimate chats (our favourite was the fireside corner), the bar encourages sociable chats, and the dining room is glam. Outdoors, the decks offer shaded seating, an infinity pool, and a fire pit where evening drinks and stargazing are a camp ritual.
Ten double suites blend contemporary design with the landscape, using steel, locally sourced wood, and plenty of windows to striking effect. With tin roofs that amplify the romance of a rainstorm, the suites overlook either the Makhutsi River or a busy waterhole. King-sized beds with leather headboards, deep mattresses and gauzy mosquito-netting drapes are standard, as is a sitting area and, behind a solid partition, a bathroom with a deep and luxurious tub. A furnished veranda is perfect for wild-watching.
Expert guides here will get you into the bush with supreme skill and enthusiasm. Early morning game drives mean waking before sunrise and gathering for coffee and a snack before setting off, camera at the ready. Walks can be arranged in designated areas, and may include the chance to approach non-dangerous game, even acheetah. Afternoon activities happen after teatime, when temperatures drop and the action picks up again (they include the obligatory sundowner stop). Listen to the silence...
You'll love the fold-away picture windows which, essentially, makes an outdoors of the in when open wide.
Being on a private reserve has the advantage of night drives and guided walks, both of which should be undertaken.
Rooms at Becks are a good deal more well-built than other safari destinations in the area – less rustic bush lodge and more five-star hotel.
Beck's Safari Lodge 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 Beck's Safari Lodge 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.
Stays at Beck's Safari Lodge start from around $690, or US$690, 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.
Where the Big Five roam and the mountains tower in the distance, this pint-sized reserve has a lot to offer.
