So, off we hit the rugged and untarred roads to Bela-Bela in the Limpopo Province, meandering in the latest SUV Haval H6, in the company of other three-self-imposed adults.
The trip- to experience at first-hand what the fuss is all about the latest addition of Safari Plains exclusive Tented- suites by the world’s leading lodges and hospitality group Extraodinary, set against the backdrop of the magnificent Waterberg Mountains in the province, a malaria free area.
Accompanied by the soothing odour of nature, thundering rain and Big Fives ready to welcome us at the Greater Mabula Game Reserve (a walk from Safari Plains-only divided by fence), yours and his entourage just wandered how beautiful the sky was, as and when the staff at the Safari Plains took a bow in welcoming us with forbidden waters to cleanse the dust from our deep throats.
It might sound it took long but the distance from Jozi to the lodge is a mere three-hours depending the make of the vehicle one is using.
Game drives, pampering in the way of massage, dinner, drinks and a swim in a gigantic pool, were part of the package for my ‘guests’.
Legend has it that ‘what happens in the bush- remains in the bush’ finish & klaar!
Safari Plains was opened in 2018 after a fanfare as part of expanding the Extraodinary portfolio within the lodge sector in Southern Africa.
It boast 20 luxuriously appointed tents, set along winding sand pathways.
Each tented suites commands a gorgeous space within the natural indigenous bushveld.
These safari style tents offer comfort and a luxurious ambience with private timber wrap around decks. The six luxury tents offer a slightly larger main area and come complete with a private sala.
All tented suites are perfectly appointed with sunken bath, a separate showers and toilet. The hospitality armoire offers a fully stocked mini bar and tea and coffee making facilities.
Safari Tents consists of 2 three quarter beds that can be converted to a king bed. Family Tents consists of 2 rooms, the second bedroom consists of 2 three quarter beds.
It’s a therapeutic walk from the reception to your tent especially having had a long drive-like we did. We left Jozi in the morning with astounding white clouds and blue skies hanging. Yes, it was a drive made uneasy by soaring temperatures but who gives a hoot when you get a chance to get out the bustling City of Johannesburg?
Was struck by the design and configuration of the interior from leather touch to oak and of course, a bed that could accommodate a handful of Lions we saw during the night game drive, thanks to our tour guide ‘Sir Badenhorst’ who made sure we took different routes from others to experience a handful of Lions lazingly stroking each other, in an open 4x4s.
We also got to see the likes of kudus, giraffes, impalas, zebra, and ostrichs all grazing together on the vast open grassland plains. What would an adventure be without a glimpse of a herd of Elephants?
Unfortunately, no sight of hippos were on offer suffice to say the usual suspects springboks were all over the bush.
As we winded down the evening we stopped in the middle of the bush (no,not for nature calls) but for sundowners with other guests from Edenvale, Boksburg, and as far as China, et al.
The lodge offers 300 bird species, 60 mammals, Big Fives and numerous plants, reptile and insect species.
According to ‘Sir Badenhorst’, they also cater for guided safari walks, hot balloon safaris, Spa, quad-bikes, weddings, etc.
One thing I took from this expedition is the warmth and hospitable reception from the entire staff- I say kealeboga- a big thank you!
Readers Offer: R 4500.00 per person sharing per night, inclusive of accommodation, 3 meals per day, selected local beverages and 2 safaris daily.
It is valid for travel until 30 April 2019.
Sydney was hosted by Safari Plains Lodge owned by Extraodinary Lodge & Hotels.
For more information visit website www.safariplains.co.za or contact Reservations Team on 011 463 3070.
