Camp Jabulani is a family-owned and managed private luxury safari lodge located within the private Kapama Game Reserve in Hoedspruit, South Africa (in close proximity to the Kruger National Park in the scenic Mpumalanga region).
With a Relais & Chateaux accreditation, this lodge is guaranteed to offer first class accommodation, cuisine, facilities and personalised service. But its most notable feature is the herd of trained African elephants, which were rescued by the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre.
Visitors have the opportunity to meet the elephants as well as view them in close proximity, learning more about their behavior, their unique character traits, their incredible story, and what is takes to take care of a herd of this size.
Much of this will take place while the elephants are in their natural environment, foraging in the bush, walking through the reserve or swimming in the waterhole. Photographic opportunities in close proximity of the elephants are also afforded.
This luxurious lodge has only six suites – never more than 12 guests, while the exclusive Zindoga Villa is ideally suited to the family traveller, or the client who prefers a more private, luxury experience.
HISTORY
This is the story of an abandoned baby elephant who could never have known the impact he would have on the lives of other elephants, and on thousands of people around the world.
In June 1997, just 4 months old, a tiny elephant arrived at the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC). He had been found stuck in the mud of a silt dam, and was injured and severely dehydrated. He had been abandoned by his herd.
It took a full year to nurse the elephant back to health. He truly beat the odds, as not much hope was held that he would pull through. He was monitored around the clock by a dedicated team (including a hand-reared sheep called “Skaap” which acted as a surrogate mother) and was slowly brought back to a state of health. He was called Jabulani – meaning “to rejoice”.
Now came a challenge of an altogether different kind. Despite numerous attempts to re-introduce Jabulani to the bush, he would have none of it! These humans were his family, and he had no intention of parting ways. What to do with a quickly growing elephant?
Enter the hand of fate once again.
In March 2002 word reached the HESC of some Zimbabwean elephants which faced a grisly and untimely end. These elephants were all orphans due to a culling programme that took place in the 1980s, and were already trained for elephant back safari operations.
Their owner’s farm was in the process of being expropriated by war veterans, and the elephants were tagged for their meat? A rescue mission was put into place within a matter of weeks. Two massive trucks left Johannesburg for Zimbabwe empty – and returned with a couple pachyderms.
It was with amazement that the HESC team witnessed the meeting of Jabulani and the herd. He was immediately adopted by Tokwe (the matriarch) and had finally found his kin.
Left with the overwhelming custodianship of these beautiful but mammoth animals, the next logical step was in the creation of a camp to support them. This camp would enable travellers from around the world to experience the extraordinary impact of interacting with elephants.
And so Camp Jabulani was born.
Almost 10 years later, and the elephants are alive and well. Four babies have been born to the herd, and another orphan found in the wild was rehabilitated successfully.
There is nothing ordinary about the Camp Jabulani experience. And that is because of its elephants. Discover for yourself that intangible something that will leave you marked forever.
Tucked within the dense foliage along a dry river bed, each safari suite is an oasis of opulent serenity. Massive wooden sliding doors open to interiors which are a pure translation of style, comfort, elegance and an understated appreciation of the natural environment.
Pure cotton sheets, massive stone tubs, an outdoor glass-enclosed shower, a fire-place with a separate lounge area, and a private plunge pool complement each of the rooms.
Suites are also equipped with a mini-bar, safe, hairdryer and electric blankets. Comfort is ensured by the 24 hour temperature control and overhead ceiling fan.
Expansive windows allow for uninterrupted sunshine and views of the surrounding bush. In the evenings, cozy lighting, a blazing fire and a welcoming bed draw to a perfect close another day in Africa.
Camp Jabulani’s classic and elegant interiors seamlessly blend with the rugged African bushveld, providing a warmth and comfort that makes our guests feel completely at home. The rich textures of organic elements create a harmonious and pleasing balance between ‘designer’ and ‘authentic’ – grass-pressed mud walls, stone floors and thatched roofs are but some of the natural features guests may expect to find. An open flow of light and air allow for a communion with the African bush without forsaking optimum comfort. Rich woods, crystal glasses and silver service somehow seamlessly blend into an experience of genuine hospitality and sensory indulgence. This standout among safari lodges South Africa is built along the bank of a seasonal stream. An open-plan dining room and lounge merge with the wooden deck which lies in the shade of gigantic Leadwood trees, around which the main facility was constructed. An impressive suspension bridge connects the living areas with the suites, which lie scattered beyond the river bed. The sole objective of the team of professionally skilled and personable staff is to meet the needs of their valued guests. To indulge, spoil, pamper and entertain, but most importantly – to share with them the story and the experience of the elephants.
Camp Jabulani’s classic and elegant interiors seamlessly blend with the rugged African bushveld, providing a warmth and comfort that makes our guests feel completely at home.
The rich textures of organic elements create a harmonious and pleasing balance between ‘designer’ and ‘authentic’ – grass-pressed mud walls, stone floors and thatched roofs are but some of the natural features guests may expect to find.
An open flow of light and air allow for a communion with the African bush without forsaking optimum comfort. Rich woods, crystal glasses and silver service somehow seamlessly blend into an experience of genuine hospitality and sensory indulgence.
This standout among safari lodges South Africa is built along the bank of a seasonal stream. An open-plan dining room and lounge merge with the wooden deck which lies in the shade of gigantic Leadwood trees, around which the main facility was constructed. An impressive suspension bridge connects the living areas with the suites, which lie scattered beyond the river bed.
The sole objective of the team of professionally skilled and personable staff is to meet the needs of their valued guests. To indulge, spoil, pamper and entertain, but most importantly – to share with them the story and the experience of the elephants.
Pure cotton sheets, massive stone tubs, an outdoor glass-enclosed shower, a fire-place with a separate lounge area, and a private plunge pool complement each of the rooms. Suites are also equipped with a mini-bar, safe, hairdryer and electric blankets. Comfort is ensured by the 24 hour temperature control and overhead ceiling fan.
Expansive windows allow for uninterrupted sunshine and views of the surrounding bush.
In the evenings, cozy lighting, a blazing fire and a welcoming bed draw to a perfect close another day in Africa.
Camp Jabulani’s executive chef has trained in the kitchens of great chefs around the world, and takes pride in designing fusion creations with a South African twist – always with an artistic finish.
Menus change on a daily basis. As individual tastes are as unique as personalities, a range of dietary preferences and restrictions are catered for effortlessly (Kosher and Halaal meals are sourced by prior arrangement).
Vegetarians or those who prefer lighter meals are well catered for, with inventive choices each day.
Some may even prefer simple, hearty meals. At Camp Jabulani, everything goes.
The chefs like nothing better than to interact with guests at each mealtime, and will personally present their menus. They have also been known to share a special recipe or two.
The sub-tropical climate means that chefs are spoiled for choice with an abundance of delicious fresh ingredients produced in the surrounding region.
Tastes are enhanced courtesy of hotel's very own herb garden. Wherever possible, hotel supports initiatives that promote sustainable local employment.
Freshly baked muffins, delectable teatime treats, and moreish sundowner snacks are baked daily. The chefs pride themselves on making as much as possible with their own hands. Through private cooking classes, guests may even be treated to ‘insider’ tips on making homemade breads, sauces and ice-creams.
A perfectly paired wine will transform a great meal into a sublime experience. Camp Jabulani has very carefully collected an impressive medal-winning collection of both red and white South African wines, sourced from the winelands of the Cape to be enjoyed in the bush.
Private tables are impeccably set for each guest, as hotel's team appreciates that time spent with close family and friends is all too precious. But some may prefer to share the company of new friends just met, and special arrangements will be made for a more social environment.
The atmosphere, whether indoors or out, is always elegant yet relaxed with a friendly and professional team of service staff. Mealtimes are flexible, and venues tend to change (weather dependent).
From private candlelit dinners, to traditional South African boma nights – there is no equal to the ambience of bonfires, lanterns and starry nights.
International
An open-air fitness area provides the perfect backdrop for a workout.
Camp Jabulani’s Pisa's Spa lies tucked within the dense foliage of the reserve. Or treat yourself in winter to a spa treatment in the comfort of your suite in front of a blazing fire.
The Camp Jabulani Elephant Experience is a very personal and highly immersive interaction, where man and elephant meet one another on equal terms.
Head into the wilderness, and identify the call of a bird, follow the bark of a baboon or the roar of a lion in the company of professional rangers in open safari vehicles.
Swoop over deep and mysterious gorges, linger above roaring rivers and cascading waterfalls and view the fascinating and dramatic rock formations of the Blyde River Canyon.
Visitors are able to touch cheetahs in an exclusive cheetah interaction, witness feeding sessions of various rare African vultures and to experience firsthand the projects undertaken by The Centre’s veterinary staff who operate an animal hospital.
amp Jabulani offers the quintessential personal African encounter for those seeking an unforgettable safari honeymoon experience.
Experience the magic of lighter-than-air flight near the foot of the Drakensberg Escarpment. Meet before sunrise, and enjoy a piping-hot cup of coffee while you watch your eight-storey balloon being inflated and prepared for flight.
Camp Jabulani, based on a private Big 5 Game Reserve in Limpopo makes a perfect venue for a small high-end conference, or a relaxing bush getaway for corporate executives.
The Gallery at Camp Jabulani Includes a luxury retail outlet, an art gallery and an intimate private wine cellar.
Experiencing the bush on foot, through a guided walk safari, is an entirely different experience. Being in direct contact with the earth somehow makes one feel more a part of it.
Exclusivity, personalised service, attention to detail and the ultimate one-on-one hospitality are sure to contribute to memories that last a lifetime.
Camp Jabulani is all about family, and ensuring the ultimate family safari. Whether you share in hotel's, or bring your own, hotel's team has something special in store that will delight both older and younger guests.
Children of all ages are welcome at The Zindoga Villa. Two children may be accommodated in a charming twin-bedded suite with en-suite bathroom, while a third child is easily accommodated in the suite’s adjoining lounge area where a day bed may be converted into a single bed.
Camp Jabulani’s reservations team will gladly assist in structuring your accommodation requirements to suit you.
Camp Jabulani, on the Kapama Game Reserve, has a dedicated team of caregivers on hand to take care of children should parents wish to enjoy a spa treatment in The Therapy Lapa, or dine in the general camp environment.
A specially tailored “Kiddies Menu” is available for children, which is sure to appeal to even the most discerning palate.
Camp Jabulani’s Children’s Programme has a host of exciting activities that will keep youngsters entertained for hours, while teaching them all about Africa’s diverse wildlife.
The “Team Tusker” Programme caters for safari-goers 6 years and older, and is structured to stimulate and entertain younger guests, as well as to allow parents to take a little “time out”.
Please note, children under the age of 10 may only be accommodated on early morning elephant safaris (if they are accompanied by parents | guardians). Watch the clip of an elephant interaction below.
Kids are whisked off into a wildlife wonderland, and are able to participate in any number of exciting activities which have been designed with optimum enjoyment in mind.
The Team Tusker Programme is always available, there are no time restrictions.
CAMP JABULANI
R40 between Hoedspruit and Klasserie1380 Kapama Game Reserve South Africa