Izingwe Lodge offers a truly private stay in the south-west of Welgevonden Game Reserve, an area where the mountain valley stretches into picture-perfect grasslands that are home to everything from white rhino to cheetah. The private residence of a top international interior architect and designer, the lodge is available on an exclusive-use basis, meaning a private guide and vehicle for every game drive. Full-day drives through the reserve are easily arranged with no limits as to length of drive or time of day: if lions are heard calling at dinner time, the game-drive vehicle can easily be summoned so you can set out to find them!

Simultaneously cosy and airy, Izingwe is a beautiful mix of African art and antiques, where polished silver candelabras marry with classic wood, stone and thatch. The private hide overlooking the waterhole is a firm favourite with birders and wildlife photographers.

Three expansive guest rooms sleep six guests (two each) in romantic four-poster beds. On chilly evenings, relax in front of the wood-burning fireplace; on balmy afternoons, pass siesta time in the secluded sala or daybed, perhaps freshening up in the outdoor shower!

Please note Izingwe accepts children older than eight sharing with an adult. All rooms are free-standing (no interleading rooms or family units are available). All rooms have king beds; one can be converted to twins.

Each accommodation unit has the following facilities:

Izingwe is rare in that game drives are unlimited and can take place at any time. This allows you to maximise your time in the bush, find that bird you’ve always wanted to see or capture the perfect picture at golden hour.