Shikwari Bush Lodge

Our lodge accommodating eight guests in four suites, personally run and managed by the Lawrie family is nestled under the majestic Drakensburg Mountains; in an elegant and relaxed setting surrounded by a reserve with plains game. This is a comfortable and friendly setting to explore the Limpopo Province and a short drive to Kruger National Park. Included in the accommodation is a three course set menu Dinner and full Continental and English breakfast. Book for our delicious Victorian Afternoon Tea set out on the veranda or under the trees or on cooler months in the lounge with the glow of candles and a glass of sherry.

The Main lodge area has a tranquil plunge pool and shady veranda. While away the hours here with a book from the selection in the library or simply enjoy the sun around the pool. Spend the day out; do the boat trip on the Swadini Dam, in the Blyde River Canyon or see rehabilitated wild life at Moholoholo Animal Rehabilitation Centre. Lunch at one of the many great restaurants in the area or order a picnic at Franklyn Recreational Park they include a blanket and there is plenty of quiet shady areas to relax and enjoy your picnic. Take one of their hikes or play the French game of Boules on the lawn.

Our lodge commands wonderful vistas of the Skilderkrans Mountain, part of the Northern Drakensburg Mountains home to the Manoutsa Vulture Colony with up to 660 pairs of Cape Vulture. This is the fourth largest colony in the world. Take a nature walk or game drive around our reserve with Ann our FGASA Guide, she will show you a different aspect of the bush. Taking in some of the lesser known flora and fauna. Wonderful and informative Big 5 trips can also be arranged to a private reserve with Ann hosting and taking along snacks and drinks. The Panorama Route is also a must see. At the end of the days touring, watch the sunset turn the Skilderkraans Mountain into a rainbow of colour while having sundowners. Meet for a pre-dinner drink and chat at our convivial Warthog Bar with other guests, before sitting down to a delicious 3 course dinner either plated or served buffet style on our veranda or in our well-appointed candlelit dining room served personally by us. Our Chef might also do a South African Braai (barbecue) on warm nights, in the boma around a fire. This brings one close to the sounds of the night and is an opportunity to see the wonderful night sky and stars.

Food at Shikwari has a distinctive South African flavour along with a touch of French and Italian flair. Favourite South African favourites such as Bobotie, Durban Curries, Karoo Lamb, Malva Pudding, Koeksüsters and Cape Brandy Tart are just some of the local treats. This along with homemade scones, pastries, pasta and French classic’s such as Cheese soufflé’s, Chocolate Fondant, Coq au Vin Blanc are the order of the day.

Retire when the day is done to our four luxurious suites, secluded amongst the bush. Each suite is beautifully decorated and well-appointed with a hospitality tray with a supply of freshly ground coffee, coffee plunger and Twinning’s Teas. Rusks or Cookies. There also is a mini bar stocked on request to our guest’s requirements.

The en-suite bathrooms have large oval baths, basin and toilet and all the suites have outdoor showers. Fluffy towels and Bathrobes are supplied and a range of specially chosen natural toiletries is always available. All our beds are dressed with percale linen and all rooms have air conditioners and fans.