VUYATELA takes its inspiration from contemporary African vernacular styles. The result is a unique, small, five-star luxury lodge in South Africa's Sabi Sand Game Reserve. The lodge overlooks a huge waterhole where animals come to drink.
Vuyatela - lounge area
Sharing unfenced boundaries with the Kruger National Park and Mala Mala, Vuyatela Lodge affords superb game-viewing - including the 'Big Five', cheetah, hyena, jackal, myriad buck, giraffe, and zebra. Lion and leopard sightings are excellent here.
‘Vuyatela’, Shangaan for 'come and visit again', is the sister camp to Djuma Bush Lodge. It shares the same traversing area in the Djuma Game Reserve within the Sabi Sand. Vuyatela is run by owner Jurie Moolman, a trained ecologist working with an enthusiastic and knowledgeable team. 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.
Vuyatela - leopard
We find that our clients return to Vuyatela to enjoy its superb wildlife, outstanding rangers, excellent food and, above all, the friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Read the customer reviews.
We have organised a number of weddings at Vuyatela. If you want a small bush wedding, this place is ideal - and not very expensive. Ask for details
The lodge has eight spacious and secluded, air-conditioned suites, each with separate lounge, dressing room, outside shower, large teak deck and plunge pool. The innovative architecture is drawn from African vernacular styles and creates a distinctive environment, enhanced by original tribal and township art.
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.
Remarkable features of the main lodge include the tall bird-watching tower and the vast aquarium, which is stocked with indigenous fish. There is a gym, internet library, a comfortable lounge bar and a viewing deck overlooking the waterhole.
Subject to availability, Vuyatela can offer a private safari vehicle for honeymoon couples, families, photographers and birders.
Vuyatela - cheetah
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. Your Shangaan guide will show you his house and introduce you to his family and neighbours, so you can meet ordinary South Africans in an authentic and relaxed environment.
In recognition of its substantial work with the community, Vuyatela / Djuma has been awarded the rare Fair Trade in Tourism accreditation.
Children are welcome at Vuyatela.
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.
It is not difficult to drive to Vuyatela. The journey takes a little over two hours from Hazyview. The last part, on gravel roads through African villages, is very fascinating for the glimpse of rural South African life it provides. It is a route that has been used by thousands of tourists over the years, without incident.
From £255 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.
Vuyatela - sleeping cubs
Photographs courtesy of Henry Armstrong Rainbow Tours' client
Prices are subject to currency fluctuation.