Kubili House — Hotel in Maruleng Local Municipality

My family had the privilege of staying for five nights at Kubili House this past August (2022). It's difficult to describe in words, and even photos don’t adequately convey the beauty of this joyous boutique luxury safari lodge. The exquisite meals, attentive service, and serene atmosphere create an utterly unique experience.

We arrived into Hoedspruit Airport and were immediately greeted by Kubili House manager Tina and her staff who whisked us away to Kubili House where we were welcomed with warm hand towels and unique cocktails served by friendly and attentive staff. The open air Lodge with lofty ceilings, stunningly curated furniture, and museum quality artifacts sits nestled into the savannah. We walked across the slate stepping stones of the Koi pond and stood at the edge of the infinity pool overlooking the waters of the Kubili dam and watched Hippopotamus, Impala and Zebra. We walked down the short path to our private villa, equally elegant and luxurious with its grand canape bed, comfortable living area, and a sweeping fireplace. The floor to ceiling glass wall (which slides completely open) framed the stunning views. Our private pool looked over the Kubili dam and the savannah. Kubili House is unique in every way. The architecture and decor is a perfect combination of artistry, comfort and African history. Owners Julian and Aida Koski personally designed every detail: hand hammered brass long handled spoons found on our bathroom counter that scoop bath salts scented with herbs from their garden (Rose Gardenia, African Tabaco), the library filled with limited edition signed books, and the game drive vehicles detailed with bespoke leather, Scottish wool blankets and shearling water bottles (not to mention the crystal decanters filled with pink gin and delectable nibbles for safari sunset happy hour). The massage was the best we’ve ever had. The spa itself is lined with hand painted tapestry and hand-made oils. The food was world class (we never had the same meal twice) and like a gastronomic world tour with favorites from whole fire roasted salmon to incredible ramen.The service was unmatched (when I felt unwell homemade broth appeared almost magically and when we mentioned how nice it would be to paint our view an easel with oil paints appeared in the shade around our private pool. One need not leave Kubili House to see the animals of Krueger. As we lounged by our pool an enormous herd of elephants strolled by for a drink at the dam, followed by lions, zebras, water Buffalo, and giraffes. Out on our drives we saw prides of lions and herds of giraffes. We sat quietly as about 20 elephants and their new calfs munched on the trees around us. Our Kubili game drive guides were experienced and knowledgeable. We saw the big 5 more than once and even had the unique experience of watching a large pack of wild dogs with their pups happily playing just next to our vehicle. Maybe the best was not what we saw, but what we heard. Falling to sleep every night we kept the shutters open and gazed out to the African sky while listening to roaring lions and elephants trumpeting back. We were also fortunate to experience a traditional outdoor meal set on a river bed arranged by Kubili House, including the most magnificent table setting (leather pouches designed by Julian Koski to hold our flatware and a gorgeous leather and fabric table cloth). We watched an incredible traditional drumming and dance show while we sat having our pre-dinner drinks of bourbon and burnt orange around an open fire. Kubili House is so serene, one feels completely at peace. At first I thought it was just me becoming emotional about my stay, but when I asked if this was typical I was told frequently guests of Kubili feel an emotional connection during their stay and a great sadness when they leave. There is something about being in such a sublime environment, with all your possible needs flawlessly taken care of, that allows you to commune with the natural world, and yourself, and...

My stay at Kubili House was nothing short of magical!

The owners, Julian and Aida Koski have created an exclusive boutique lodge that redefines safari travel. The stunning architecture seamlessly integrates with the beauty of its natural surroundings. This combination of luxury living and the tranquility of being in the bush is nothing short of incredible.

For me Kubili House is the most breathtaking and soothing place in the world. The elegantly designed house is located on the edge of a large dam with spectacular views from sunrise to sunset. The open air common room is the perfect place to enjoy a front row seat for the endless parade of animals drawn to the dam. Giraffes elegantly bowing their heads to drink at the water's edge, hippos basking in the sun, zebras grazing and herds of elephants playfully swimming for hours on end. Nightfall brings a blanket of stars as well as the sounds of lions roaring and leopards stating the presence. Theater at its best!

There is so much to love about Kubili House. The staff are professional, charming and knowledgeable and felt like friends by the time I left. The food and wine...top of the line. Dining is on par with 5 star restaurants. Each meal is prepared and presented with perfection. My villa was sublime. Private pool, large soaking tub, exquisite linens and extraordinary views.

Game drives led by elite guides and master tracker were always phenomenal. We saw the big 5, witnessed rare sightings and were always up close to the action. A few highlights...a leopard sitting in a tree with a fresh kill as a hyena paced below, 3 young lions enviously eyeing the pride male's feast as well as an up close encounter with a curious young elephant who greeted us with an outstretched trunk. Our guide and tracker always made sure that we were safe and at the same time respectful of the animals.

My time at Kubili House was heaven on earth. It was an opportunity to truly live in the moment and a meditation on the spirit of Africa in all its glory. Thank you to everyone at Kubili House for the chance to relish in the luxury of life on safari and for memories of a lifetime.

I look forward to my return...

If Aman Resorts is your flavor then Kubili House is for you. The lodge is South African native decor with a touch of zen. All of it perfectly curated by the owners Aida and Julian Koski. The picturesque setting on a pond attracts many of the animals for your private enjoyment. Your experience officially begins at the local airport where you are greeted by Tina & Wayne, who will immediately make you feel like you are old friends. The staff at Kubili House are first-rate, including Tina’s sons Declan and Zandy, creating a family like ambiance. There is no request too small or large for the staff to address. The rooms are magnificent, spacious and comfortable, with all the amenities you desire, beautiful linen, a fireplace, a huge bath with a selection of homemade bath salts, wine, spirits and snacks, to name a few. A couple of rooms have a private pool. The food is Michelin quality, and is abundant, each menu expertly crafted and paired with South African wines. The Kitchen can accommodate any dietary restriction without fuss, and you only need to say it once and each meal will be prepared, mindful of your request. All this is just icing on the cake, as the main course is the magical safari experience. Each morning Welcome will greet you before dawn with his beautiful smile and coffee, before sending you off on your safari ride. You can go out early morning and late afternoon, I recommend not missing a single ride, because each is different with new animal adventures. In addition, you will have many surprises, but I cannot divulge them, you will have to go to find out for yourself. Declan will be your guide, as Stevie tracks, to ensure your safari experience is complete. Their passion is evident in each ride. My favorite experience was our evening camping out. Not to worry, everything will be set up for you to enjoy an unforgettable evening sleeping under the stars and amongst the wildlife. The sounds are exhilarating. A trip to Kubili house will be beyond your expectations, and maybe even your imagination. Thank you to all the staff for helping to make my bucket list...