Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge — Hotel in Bushbuckridge

We have never had an experience like we had here and we never will again. We came here for our honeymoon, it was a well reviewed place that really looked like heaven but unfortunately was just not in our price range. Two wedding postponements during COVID later and we were able to save up a bit more than we planned and we took the plunge. At the time it almost felt irresponsible to do it, but looking back at it now, not only was it one of the best decisions that we've ever made, but it's something I'd regret so heavily if I knew what I knew now. Faith and Tanya were great helping us set it up and giving us all the information we would want and more. The hospitality shown here is unreal. From airport pick up we felt like we were relatives and yet royalty here. The food was outstanding, it all tasted so good, and the drinks were mixed great (and always extra effort to get certain ingredients, etc if we were feeling for something different). The servers and food staff were more like a family that we just felt were with us the whole time. We ate at a different location for almost every meal, always something new. The rooms and the grounds of the property were unbelievable, 10 stars, walking past a giraffe to get to breakfast, sitting in a hot tub looking out at a Kudu, seriously. Awesome plunge pool in the bush, the room itself was so relaxing and cool in the A/C. The whole place was innovative and we didn't want to leave. The spa was great and we had the best massage we ever had there and I somehow got convinced to get a pedicure which was actually enjoyable. They also helped us with COVID testing needed to get there and leave and made it seamless. It also just put you in a mood, it really changed us and our outlook to truly disconnect, idk it was unbelievable. We met some really cool people there too that we spent our safari's with, the guides I felt like helped pull us together and really made some cool friendships. The safaris were out of this world, we saw at least 30 different animals, including the big five and many more, different birds, insects, etc, almost always fun, sometimes exhilarating, sometimes peaceful, often very informative while also letting you just take it in, masters of their craft. They had surprises set aside for us at a few turns, and they had so much attention to detail throughout our whole stay. Also it was authentic, they aren't tagging animals, they aren't starving for pictures (we had to take some though I mean), it's a preserve and they mean it. There's no crowding of cars we had two jeeps max (it's not a jeep, it's a comfortable tour like jeep bus that was comfortable and made viewing easy). It was the most memorable time we have ever had, and we now have vowed that we will be sure to go back one day. A special thank you to Lazarus, Patrick, Goodness, Dumisani, Tswarelo, Simon, Joanna, Bongi, Louis, Innocent, Alta, and anyone's name we forgot; there wasn't a better group that could have been made. Lazarus had my wife in tears leaving because it was just so special and he...

When we spied a giraffe from the airplane and an elephant on the way to the lodge, we knew we were in for some great game viewing. The reception by the manager with champagne and cool herbal towels felt a little like an episode of Fantasy Island. The suites, of which there are only 13 or 14, are among the most beautiful I have visited. I recommend room #1 if available, as you can see the pond from you back porch and individual plunge pool. While relaxing there we saw elephants, hippos, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope drinking casually only a 150 meters away. The all-included mini-bar was filled with unlimited various wines, beers, sodas, and liquors. The lodge met our every need, with a gym, spa, and even free laundry. Our chef created beautiful and intriguing dishes for each meal, including local bush meat items, and in my case, delicious vegetarian fare. The staff was so kind and engaging, greeting us with genuine enthusiasm and good will. I would encourage you to take the optional late morning visit to the nearby town, Huntingdon, where you will meet more of the lovely children and people of the area. I also recommend the optional walking tour with your guide to see things like tracks and spoor up close.

Now for the reason we came - the game drives. Twice a day for 3 hours each, our guide, Viviane, and our eagle-eyed tracker, Benny, led us through the private reserve which connects to Kruger National Park. Each drive in our Land Cruiser had its surprises, one time lions, one time leopards, a cheetah, wild dogs (a relative rarity!), hyena, elephants, rhinos, and on and on. We were able to see the Big Five within our first 24 hours. Viviane was very knowledgeable and informative on all aspects of the flora and fauna, the history and culture of the area, and was a delightful companion, not to mention an excellent bush driver, getting us through the rugged off-road areas so that we could maximize our game viewing. Benny amazed us continually with his skills, including seeing lion prints when we were driving almost in the dark. He then found the pride in a nearby clearing and we had a fine viewing. And for you birders out there, we were able to add over 60 birds with our guides' help.

Overall I can not imagine a more perfect...

As my husband and I celebrated our one-year anniversary, we sought a destination that would encapsulate the essence of romance and adventure. Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of South Africa's wilderness. From the moment we arrived, we knew that this would be a celebration to remember.

Our accommodations, a luxurious suite with a plunge pool overlooking wild nature, provided the perfect setting for our romantic getaway.

Each day brought new adventures as we embarked on exhilarating safari drives. Guided by expert tracker/ranger Doc and Patrick, we marveled at the sight of lions lounging in the sun, giraffes grazing on trees, and elephants roaming freely across the nature reserve. These intimate encounters with nature served as a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the world around us.

Back at the lodge, we were treated to culinary delights that tantalized our taste buds and nourished our souls. From romantic candlelit dinners under the stars to lavish bush breakfasts overlooking a watering hole, every meal was a celebration of love and togetherness.

In between safari adventures, we indulged in moments of relaxation and rejuvenation at the lodge's luxurious spa, Earth Spa. Our couples massage provided the perfect opportunity for us to unwind and reconnect amidst the tranquil surroundings.

What truly set Sabi Sabi Game Lodge apart was the attentive and personalized service provided by the staff. From arranging special surprises for our anniversary to anticipating our every need, they went above and beyond to ensure that our stay was nothing short of perfection.

As we said goodbye to Sabi Sabi and the memories we had created there, we knew that our one-year anniversary had been a celebration of love, adventure, and the timeless beauty of the African wilderness. For anyone seeking a romantic retreat that combines luxury with a sense of adventure, I cannot recommend Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge highly enough.

Doc, Patrick, Helen, Zweli, Z, Prince, Amukelani, Goodwill, Perfect, Marco, Nikita and Stephan... I want to extend a special thank you to you all who truly made our stay exceptional and...