Sabi Sabi Selati Camp — Hotel in Bushbuckridge

My sister and I arrived at Selati Camp just after 16:30. This was our check-in day, and we had a game drive scheduled for the same time. Upon arrival, we found the hosts (lodge managers) and our rangers already waiting for us. Our bags were swiftly taken to our suite, and we were offered refreshing wet towels to freshen up before the drive. Although we were running a bit late, we were kindly allowed a quick stop at our room to freshen up.

Our rangers, Armand and Surprise, led us on an unforgettable afternoon game drive—an absolute success in terms of spotting animals on our wish list. The highlight? A breathtaking lion sighting that left us beyond excited!

From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warmth and kindness. Rebecca, one of the lodge managers, stood out as one of the most gracious and hospitable hosts I have ever encountered—hospitality is truly her calling.

The kitchen team, led by Chef Gift, prepared mouthwatering meals, complemented by outstanding service. The waitstaff made us feel at home, attentively catering to our needs and ensuring our comfort. Dankie at the bar was fantastic, and Siphiwe from housekeeping kept our suite immaculate, creating a cosy and relaxing retreat.

Selati Camp exceeded all expectations. This experience made me realize how much life has to offer—you just need to find the right place to truly embrace it. Selati fulfilled my need for socialization, a sense of belonging, and pure relaxation, all while keeping me well-fed and cared for.

And here’s an unexpected bonus: I had been struggling with persistent back pain for months, to the point where I was considering physiotherapy. Every day, I’d wake up in pain and go to bed frustrated. But my first morning at Selati was different—I woke up completely pain-free, feeling refreshed and like a new person. It turns out the culprit was my bed at home! The bed at Selati quite literally saved me from months of discomfort.

Selati Camp gets a resounding YAY from me. Having stayed at various camps across South Africa and abroad, I can confidently say this place is in a league of its own. Do yourself a favour—go experience it for yourself. Selati is a true gem, and the staff is nothing short of a dream team. Seamless guest satisfaction from one department to the...

This was our second time at Selati Camp and we were greeted upon arrival like long lost family members returning home. To that end our guide and tracker from the prior trip, Ron and Mike, returned from their time off at home just to guide us. The chef, Gift, just back from knee replacement was hard at work in the kitchen making sure we gained a few more pounds from her gourmet meals and our hostess, Lindiwe, made sure we were properly taken care of in the dining room. In the lounge Dankie kept the libations flowing and was quick to suggest a cool, refreshing beverage for those hot days.||It was obvious to see the improvements made to the rooms and property since our last visit yet Selati has kept its charm as a camp from a bygone era. A very luxurious bygone era with perfect service, truly friendly and gracious staff, and a private ownership which, hopefully, continues for generations. ||This is a small, intimate place with most of the guests there around 40 to 70ish. There were no children although 12 and up are allowed but this really is not the place for them. Also, no one ruining the day with cell phone conversations in public spaces. Life for the mature adult who appreciates the days before cell phones, the internet and people who can’t go 5 minutes without them.||The game drives this time were even more spectacular than the first time. The end of the dry season brought desperation to the animals and there was so much activity at the water holes I often didn’t know where to look or point my camera. On two of our game drives we saw the Big 5 in just that one drive. Ron and Mike would spot tracks, stop, and get out of the vehicle walking into the bush looking for leopards, hyenas, or even wild dogs. Ron has been at this so long that he often time left where the animals were walking to take us to the place he knew they would come to and put the sun to our backs at the same time for great photo opportunities. If you go to Selati have your travel agent ask for them. ||How much do I like Selati…I’m already thinking of a third trip in a...

If you think your just in a bush lodge, think again.

Sabi Sabi Selati Camp, WOW is all I can say.

ATTENTION to detail and service excellence the moment you enter the camp is notable.

Your greeted by friendly staff, and a nice cool refreshing hand towel on arrival was very welcoming after a 6km sand road motorbike ride.

The excitement of being in such a luxurious environment surrounded by wild animals with early am game drive where if you are lucky will spot a cheetah fresh on a kill.

If you are not into getting up early, & just lazing about in your cottage or taking a stroll to the pool and lounge deck to view elephants is just as beautiful.

The outdoor shower and bath set in beautiful surroundings make up for that skipped early morning game drive, to shower or take a bath in natural elements is luxurious.

As avid travelers the tranquility of the Bush and the excitement of going on a late afternoon 3 hour game drive was magnificent.

The heard of elephants with a new born calf had us mesmerized.

To see a female leopard, then a cervil, then a male leopard pretty much at the end of our game drive was mind blowing.

Thank you to Kevin and the other Ranger for tracking the animals for us.

In closing, you know that your in the bush with wild animals in your surroundings 24/7/365 days a year when a game Ranger or staff member comes and personally escorts you from your chalet at night for dinner.

If anything, add this trip to your bucket list.

Plan for 4/5 days, the bath under the stars ✨ and the growl of a lion on the hunt or the cackle of the hyenas at night make you want to spend hours in the bath wanting to decipher nocturnal animal sounds.

Thank you Andrea Howell for the service and compliments to staff members and of...