Running through the very heart of the famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve, is the Sand River, a mightily beautiful seasonal river that attracts herds of elephants and buffalo, prides of lions and the endangered white rhino. And on the banks of the river sits Londolozi's Pioneer Camp, undoubtedly the most exclusive camp in the region. If Ralph Lauren designed safari lodges, this is how he would do it, and the three gleaming mahogany suites are impeccable in every way. Book one of the suites and enjoy a romantic hideaway in the shade of the ebony trees, or book all three and bring the family for an exceptional safari that everyone will enjoy.
/31.496000289917,-24.7970589760038,6/600x400?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoidGltYnVrdHV0cmF2ZWwiLCJhIjoiY2poMGw1eHpkMmRkbDJ6bW8xYWZ5OGpjYyJ9.PYvAO7lUJ40SOpGvwmQLqw&attribution=false&logo=false)
With only three suites, privacy is the name of the game at Pioneer, and all are practically invisible in the bush. Each is a chic bolthole of soothing cream interiors, balanced with accents of leather, marble and wood, and king size beds look out over the pristine bush. The enormous Victorian bathrooms come complete with bathtub and outdoor shower, and outside, there's a plunge pool on the vast viewing deck. If you're staying as a group or family, access the other rooms by glass sky walkways.
Waking up to a 180-degree embrace of the Sand River and the soundtrack of hippo snorts, bird calls and the occasional lion roar echoing across the bush.
Some of the suites interconnect via a glass walkway, which is brilliant for families with older kids who want proximity without sacrificing privacy.
Children under 16 are only welcome if you book the whole camp exclusively — so if you're travelling with younger kids, you'll need to book all three suites.
Londolozi Pioneer Camp 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 Londolozi Pioneer Camp 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 Londolozi Pioneer Camp start from around $3.1K, or US$3.1K, 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.
A safari that surpasses every expectation awaits in this vast wilderness just west of the Kruger National Park.
