DJUMA BUSH LODGE lies in the game-rich Sabi Sand Wildlife Reserve. It is a small and intimate lodge and the low vehicle density means that you will enjoy game viewing in authentic bush.
Sharing unfenced boundaries with the Kruger National Park and Mala Mala, Djuma affords superb game-viewing at a more affordable price. Wildlife includes the 'Big Five' – lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino – and cheetah, hyena, jackal, myriad buck, giraffe, zebra, the smaller cats and the endangered wild dog. Lion and leopard sightings are excellent.
Djuma Game Reserve - white rhino
Djuma is run by owner Jurie Moolman, a trained ecologist, and an enthusiastic and knowledgeable team. Although Djuma has an extensive traversing area, Jurie has steadfastly refused to increase the number of beds. Unlike the southern area of Sabi Sand, where several lodges share the same traversing area, you rarely see other vehicles when you are out game viewing. You would be surprised what a difference this makes.
Visitors return time and again to Djuma's comfortable thatched chalets for its superb wildlife, excellent food and, above all, the friendly, informal atmosphere. Just read the customer reviews.
Djuma has eight thatched A-frame chalets, all with air-conditioning, overhead fans, mosquito nets and private terrace or deck.
A lavish hot and cold breakfast buffet is served after the morning game drive. Lunch is simpler, with a choice of hot and cold dishes. A substantial afternoon tea with fresh-baked cakes is served before the afternoon game drive and a four-course dinner under the stars awaits you on your return from the evening game viewing.
Djuma Game Reserve - cheetah
The main lodge building is a fascinating building, constructed around a massive wooden A-frame. It has two viewing decks overlooking the waterhole, a library, lounge, bar and dining area. There is a pleasant swimming pool. The Rubbing Post Spa, located at Vuyatela, offers a range of massage therapies, body and beauty treatments to people on safari at Bush Lodge.
Djuma is closely involved in the local village and offers daily tours to the nearby communities of Utha and Dixie, about 10 minutes beyond Gowrie Gate. You can visit the local school and learn about the customs and traditions of the local people.
In recognition of its substantial work with the community, Djuma has been awarded the rare Fair Trade in Tourism accreditation.
Subject to availability, Djuma can offer a private safari vehicle for honeymoon couples, families, photographers and birders.
Children are welcome at Djuma.
Hyena with pup
The light aircraft shuttle service from Kruger Nelspruit airport takes about 15 minutes and costs from £65. Alternatively, the direct air shuttle from Jo’burg costs from £145.
You can also drive into Djuma. The journey takes a little over two hours from Hazyview. The last part, on gravel roads through African villages, provides a fascinating glimpse of contemporary South African rural life. The route has been used by thousands of tourists over the years, without incident.
From £185 to Dec 08
Rates are per person per night sharing and include all meals, snacks, game viewing activities, and a guided bush walk. Drinks are extra.
Fair's flair, Nick Maes, The Guardian, 23/02/07
Discovering the rainbow, Sarah Foster, The Lady, 19/07/05
Photographs courtesy of Henry Armstrong and Daniel Dickens Rainbow Tours' clients
Djuma Game Reserve - leopard
Prices are subject to currency fluctuation.