Let's help you plan

Joanna - Travel Consultant
Johnny - Travel Consultant
Eve - Travel Consultant
HeartHeartHeartHeartHeart
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars on Feefo

4.9/5 (948 reviews)

Izingwe Lodge, Welgevonden Game Reserve | Timbuktu Travel
Welgevonden Game Reserve

Izingwe 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 Izingwe Lodge

Timeless South African luxury and a truly authentic safari experience
Boasting 86000 acres of secluded mountain wilderness, the Welgevonden Game Reserve is home to an exclusive-use lodge offering immaculate service and style in this year-round safari setting. With over 50 mammal species and 300 bird species, the Greater Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, declared by UNESCO in 2007, is a haven for those looking for pristine bushveld and exceptional wildlife viewing. With only three villas sleeping a maximum of 6 people, Izingwe Lodge has a wonderful sense of privacy and luxury, and it is only a mere 3 hours from Johannesburg! The area is malaria-free, and home to the Big Five.
From $1.6K per person/per night
Safari
3 Rooms
Open Map
Static map

Property details

The property

Beautifully subtle bush charm greets you as you walk through the hand-carved wooden doors of Izingwe. Echoing patterns of the bush and its wildlife, open-plan living and dining areas are decked out for comfort and relaxation. Furnishings are hand-crafted from natural woods, and quirky wildlife motifs are carved into the enormous supporting beams. On the verandah, amongst the trees is a magnificent infinity pool and dining boma. A 'hide' overlooks the waterhole, and there's a fitness centre for the active.

The rooms

Three villas are nestled in the lodge gardens, exuding comfort and bushveld tranquility. Built on raised stone foundations with high, thatched ceilings and large outdoor decks, each of the rooms maximises the views of the surrounds. Classical wooden furnishings and simple yet tasteful décor add an air of old-world glamour without taking away from the immersive bush experience. All villas have en-suite bathrooms and outside showers, and Elephant and Lion Villas have outdoor 'salas' for afternoon downtime.

Activities

Thanks to the exclusive nature of this private game reserve, game drives are intimate and uncrowded. With experiences tailored to your preferences and interests, Izingwe's knowledgeable guides will put you right in the midst of some wonderful game and bird viewing. They may also regale you with some of their larger-than-life bush tales! Splendid sightings of white rhino, elephant, cheetah and lion will keep your camera clicking away constantly; don't forget to request a picnic lunch to maximise your time.

Plan your stay

How to book Izingwe Lodge

How do I book Izingwe Lodge?

Izingwe 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 Izingwe 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.

How much does it cost to stay at Izingwe Lodge?

Stays at Izingwe Lodge start from around $1.6K 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

Welgevonden Game Reserve

Malaria-free Big Five safaris within an easy hop from Johannesburg's bright lights