Tucked away in a quiet corner of Bushmans Kloof's 7,500-hectare wilderness reserve, Koro Lodge is a renovated farmhouse turned private sanctuary. Named after the San word for 'open vistas' – and you'll soon see why – this is an all-inclusive family retreat with its own dedicated chef, host and wilderness guide. The Cederberg Mountains provide the backdrop: rust-red sandstone formations, 755 species of fynbos plants and over 130 ancient rock art sites daubed by the San thousands of years ago. It's a place where kids can roam free (the reserve is predator-free), and where the only agenda is the one you set yourself.
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Two master bedrooms anchor the villa, each with four-poster king beds, en-suite bathrooms and understated luxury. One has a rather wonderful outdoor shower with views you won't forget in a hurry. Upstairs, a loft area sleeps four children in single beds – they'll love having their own space while staying within earshot. Just metres from the main building, a separate family area with its own bathroom can accommodate two teenagers or adults, perfect for a little extra privacy (or for keeping the late-risers happy).
The complete independence. Koro has its own chef and guide, so everything runs on your schedule – from sunrise rock art walks to late-night braais (barbeque) under the clearest skies you've ever seen.
Time your visit for August to October when the fynbos bursts into flower. The hillsides become carpeted in colour and picnics amid the blooms are nothing short of spectacular.
It's a good 3.5-hour drive from Cape Town, so plan for at least three nights to make the journey worthwhile. That said, the scenic Pakhuis Pass route is half the adventure.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Bushmans Kloof Koro 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 Bushmans Kloof Koro 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 Bushmans Kloof Koro Lodge start from around $450, or US$450, 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.
Switch off and get back to nature in this wilderness of rocky mountains and ancient Khoisan art.
