Dulini Leadwood Lodge - Luxury Hotel Of The Month - December 2016

Going on safari, it’s special! There’s nothing else quite like it, looking at truly majestic animals living wild in their natural habitat. But they are also in danger from humans too due to poaching and other environmental factors. That’s why I love safari lodges like Dulini Leadwood lodge, because not only is it jaw-droppingly beautiful, they also care, deeply, for the well being of the animals that share their location with them.

​When I first walked into Leadwood Lodge, I couldn’t stop saying Wow! The décor is sublime, at one with the scenery that surrounds the lodge. The view is undeniably beautiful, overlooking a river that is frequented by elephants that drink and play in the water, as well as other animals that wander through. And then there is the staff, so friendly, welcoming and helpful.

​Our favourite staff member of our whole 2-week road trip was at Leadwood Lodge. Martha, was our private butler for the duration of our stay, we’ve never met a sweeter, more caring and attentive person and she left a lasting impression on us.

​The wildlife in Sabi Sands speaks for itself, often acclaimed as the best game viewing reserve in South Africa, and we can also state that these claims are true. On our first game drive, as soon as we came through the lodge gates, a buffalo taking a rest after the blazing afternoon sun had begun to cool. Then not 2 minutes after leaving the buffalo behind, 3 Rhinos heading for the watering hole for a well deserved drink. Whilst we were watching the Rhino, a huge herd of Buffalo were also heading for the water, clouds of dust billowing in the tracks of the massive herd. We stayed and watched the buffalo drinking for a while, but left to see what else we could find, as so far we’d only gotten a few hundred metres from the lodge. But before we could get very far again, Sarah’s keen eyes spotted a cheetah walking amongst the brush. All of this action happened within the first hour, there was another 2 hours to still find the rest of the Big 5 as well as plenty of other animals. We saw huge numbers of Elephants, Leopards mating, Lions, Hyena, Giraffe, and more, it was just unbelievable.

​We had 2 outstanding game drives and were so lucky and blessed with what we were able to witness in the wilderness.

Overall, Leadwood Lodge was our favourite experience of the whole trip. One of the unique experiences was a Boma Dinner. All of the guests at the lodge sit at the same table and enjoy a fantastic dinner of local style cuisine. With only 3 suites at Leadwood, the table setting is still small, you are also joined at the table by your guide who can always tell a good story. After you’ve finished your meal a very special show takes centre stage.

​During our dinner you could here elephants down by the river, making their deep grumbling noises communicating with each other. They sounded so close, it felt like nothing I’ve ever experienced before.

​Then there are the suites at Leadwood Lodge. With only 3 suites intimacy, attention to detail and guest satisfaction are always at the top of the list. The rooms are sublime, decorated beautifully and are huge. A lounge area to relax and read a book on the animals you will see, or to enjoy a cold drink during the day. Bushbuck, waterbuck and more surround the outside deck areas, so there’s wildlife right on your doorstep. Your own private plunge pool is a wonderful place to take an early morning dip, or to cool off during the day. Plus a huge bathroom, with a massive shower and a deep bath for a relaxing soak after getting dusty during your game drives.

We had such a special time at Dulini Leadwood Lodge because everything is outstanding. The food, the hospitality, the staff, the lodge and of course the wildlife. We have to especially thank Martha, as she was so wonderful and instantly made us feel like we were at home and Mac our game guide who was outstanding, sharing his knowledge and passion for the wildlife and the reserve. It was an extraordinary experience that was echoed by the other guests staying at the lodge, and we can’t wait to go back.

Rates for Leadwood Lodge start at R14,000 per person sharing per night on a fully inclusive basis. 3 Meals per day, ​drinks, game drives and walks and more.
(± $1,020 £825 €970)

If you enjoyed this post, please leave a comment below, we'd love to hear from you. And if you are planning a trip to South Africa anytime soon please email us with any/all your questions and enquiries, it would be our pleasure to assist you in arranging a memorable experience like ours.

Disclaimer: Our stay at Leadwood Lodge was complimentary, however all views remain our own and we do not trade off complimentary stays for a positive reflection of any kind. We will only give credit where credit is due.

View Leadwood Lodge's own webpage on our website to find out more.