I’ve been pretty lucky to visit some phonemenal places in South Africa over the years and am always excited to discover hidden gems in KZN. Karkloof Safari Villas is one such gem, especially as it’s situated less than an hour from Durban, yet it feels a million miles away.
You’re literally surrounded by rolling green hills, forests of lush trees, views across picturesque grasslands and a valley which leads to the magnificent Karkloof Falls, accessible only by guests at Karkloof Safari Villas – in itself a reason to visit, but there are so many more reasons to.
From the minute Rosemary welcomed us, the hospitality was warm and unobtrusive. This 5-star lodge is luxurious with separate lounge, bar and dining rooms and large wraparound decks providing vantage points to admire the surrounding valley. Snaking wooden walkways lead the way to 16 private villas, each with its own viewing deck, king-size bedroom & seating area, separate dressing room and spa bathroom, with a bath sized for two to take in the best views in the house.
I honestly could’ve just curled up on that bed to listen to birdsong all afternoon, then taken a long hot bath while admiring the view and finally retired in a fluffy gown and slippers – it really did feel like home! Instead we were treated to a game drive and spa experience followed by dinner on the day we arrived and then a beautiful walk to the Karkloof Falls the following day – all activities which are available exclusively to guests.
The Karkloof Safari Villas have just changed ownership and now offer exclusive sole-use of the property for up to 32 guests celebrating a wedding or special occasion, as well as individual villa bookings with 3 packages available ranging from R3950 per person sharing to R10200 per person sharing. A conference package has also been added.
Boasting 3 of the Big 5, along with giraffe, hippo, warthog and an array of antelope and birds, activities include game drives, bird watching, guided walks and hikes to the Karkloof Falls, as well as fishing, romantic picnics, bush braais and bike riding.
The food was delicious, the gin and tonic perfection (a local Inverroche Verdant) and the bed so comfy I wanted to take it home. I loved our hike to the Falls – a distance of just a few kilometers as the crow flies, but a steep climb up walkways to a breathtaking vantage point from which to admire the dramatically cascading water – also the perfect spot for a romantic proposal!
My only regret was that I wasn’t there for a week!
Thank you for a wonderful escape from reality – a truly beautiful part of KZN and I so look forward to returning one day.
For more information on Karkloof Safari Villas:
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | +27 (0) 33 569 1321
Luxury Accommodation Packages available:
FISH EAGLE: Luxury Accommodation, lunch, dinner & breakfast, non-alcoloholic beverages, 3 spa treatments and 2 game drives – R10 200.00 per person sharing per night.
HORNBILL: Luxury Accommodation, lunch, dinner & breakfast, 2 game drives – R6900.00 per person sharing per night.
STARLING: Luxury Accommodation, breakfast, 1 game drive (optional) – R3950.00 per person sharing per night.
NOTE:
I was invited by and stayed as a guest at Karkloof Safari Villas, but all opinions expressed here are my own. View my post of the separately owned Karkloof Safari Spa here.
Pics: header & footer image supplied, all others taken by me.
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