Londolozi is one of South Africa's original private game reserves - a family-run business that's been raising the bar on experiential travel for nearly 100 years.
Established by the Varty family in 1926, Londolozi lies at the heart of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with the two million-hectare Kruger. All the Big Five are here but it's the leopard that reigns supreme - this is one of the best spots in the world to see leopards in the wild. Visitors can pick from five discreet and separate camps. Varty Camp is the original and remains the symbolic heart of the reserve, offering ten gorgeous chalets with private pools framed by timber decks that overlook the bush. Facilities include a photographic studio, gym, massage treatment room, boutique and wine cellar.
Children six years and older are welcome at Varty Camp, as they are at Founders Camp, whose ten chalets on the banks of the Sand River pay homage to guests and staff who have helped build Londolozi. Some are interlinked by sky walks and all boast private plunge pools. Daily yoga classes are held in the shade of a 500-year-old ebony tree, under the watchful gaze of nyala, bushbuck and monkeys.
Pioneer Camp is the most secluded of Londolozi's lodges. Its three suites are superb for a honeymoon, each offering amazing river views, though the camp can just as easily be taken exclusively for groups of six to 12 people - perfect for a multi-generational safari of a lifetime.
Most luxurious of all are Tree Camp and the Private Granite Suites. The former offers six sensational suites, nestled 70 feet up in the leadwood tree canopy. Everything here is finished to the most exacting standards, from the private pools and contemplation decks to the Ralph Lauren wallpaper and plaited leather beds. The latter boasts three contemporary-chic suites, each with large doors and windows opening onto the Sand River. Each suite has a luxurious outdoor bath and private, heated swimming pool. A sunset river bar and sunken cocktail lounge are suspended high above the river, where breeding herds of elephants follow long-remembered byways.
Londolozi Private Game Reserve is located in the game-rich Sabi Sands Game Reserve, adjacent to the world renowned Kruger National Park. Federal Air operates a daily flight from Johannesburg International Airport to Londolozi Airstrip, which is a five-minute drive from the camp. Driving, it's two and a half hours from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and 90 minutes from Skukuza Airport.