Imbali is sheltered in a riverine forest overlooking a river in a 10,000 hectare private concession in Kruger National Park. It is one of only three lodges in the area and is built on the site of a 400-year-old African settlement where evidence of an ancient culture has been found. The lodge continues the safari tradition of a bygone era, incorporating comfort and luxury in the serene African bush. A waterhole next to the camp provides wonderful wildlife and bird watching from the decks. The romantic suites are furnished in understated luxury and boast jacuzzis or plunge pools.
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A 100-year-old jackalberry tree grows unapologetically through the teak deck, rising to meet the Tsonga-style thatched roof – a sign of just how sensitively this place was built. The main lodge is all plush leather sofas, African tapestries and crackling fireplaces, with a sparkling pool overlooking that famous waterhole. High tea arrives each afternoon with freshly baked cakes before the evening drive, and dinner is a candlelit affair on the deck or, twice weekly, under the stars in the boma. The wine list is solid, and post-dinner brandies and cigars are very much encouraged.
Imbali has twelve spacious suites, tastefully decorated in neutral colours with charming splashes of African tradition. Each suite has a large king-size bed and a romantic en-suite bathroom with spectacular views of the wilderness. Large French doors let the beautiful outside wilderness in. A large deck with a sunbed and a jacuzzi or plunge pool, overlooks either the river or savannah grasslands. The spacious stone and marble bathroom has a Victorian bathtub and a shower. Fluffy bathrobes are provided.
Imbali Safari Lodge offers morning and evening game drives in the world-renowned Kruger National Park. Bush walks with an experienced guide and bird watching in the hide overlooking the waterhole are also offered. Other activities include traditional dancing, storytelling, special interest talks and even a visit to a traditional healer. Guests can enjoy spa treatments in the privacy of their suite or soak in their private jacuzzi or pool. Specifically tailored kiddies activities are available for the younger guests.
The waterhole visible from the dining deck – guests have nicknamed it 'Elephant TV'. Herds wander down to drink while you tuck into lunch, and if you're lucky, a leopard might make an appearance after dark.
Between game drives, you can take your own car into the wider Kruger for a self-drive safari – rare freedom from a private concession. Pack a cooler box and stop at one of the park's picnic sites for an ice cream.
It's a solid two-hour transfer from the nearest airport, so factor that into your flight timings. There's also no mobile signal – blissful for some, unthinkable for others.
Imbali 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 Imbali 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 Imbali Safari Lodge start from around $820, or US$820, 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.
In the very heart of the Kruger National Park, you’ll find wildlife galore and guides who know the bush like their own backyard.
