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+27 15 330 5062+27 15 330 5062
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+27 73 906 7341+27 73 906 7341
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info@shibula.co.zainfo@shibula.co.za
Shibula Safari Lodge
Shibula Safari Lodge was originally named after Shibula, the “Wild Lady”. “Wild Lady” was a black rhino who was rescued from a European zoo. She was relocated to a reserve in South Africa in 1992. She became the first rhino to produce calves after being returned to the wild.
Shibula became synonymous with the conservation of black rhinos as well as campaigns to translocate them back to Africa. Naming the Lodge after Shibula was a way to pay tribute to the spirit of conservation.
Shibula is ready to share the wonders that are the Welgevonden Game Reserve and all that this beautiful piece of nature has to offer.
In keeping with the spirit of conservation, we here at Shibula also want to play our part in saving the environment, our lodge is running completely on solar energy.
This is a malaria free reserve, where the Big 5 roam freely. It is home to an extraordinarily diverse group of plant and animal life. This includes over 350 species of birds. It is a Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations and encompasses some important historic and pre-historic sites. Shibula has access to the entire 36,000ha reserve that borders with Marakele National Park.
Guests are assured of exceptional game viewing, including some of the best rhino sightings on the continent – guaranteed. Shibula Safari Lodge offers the discerning visitor Africa in all its untamed magnificence along with truly superb standards of hospitality. The Lodge compound is fully fenced against our lions, cheetahs and elephant friends so that you are totally safe when walking around the Lodge and between chalets
A Day At Shibula...
Here is what you’ll experience at Shibula, told by one of our amazing guests.
We were greeted by Malvin’s friendly smile at the gate. Within 20 minutes, on the way to the lodge, we had our first cat sighting with 2 cheetah. As we drive it is clear that Malvin is a master in the bush and he is explaining our every question and telling us interesting facts. When arriving at the lodge, to the sound of drums from the amazing staff, and as you walk out onto the deck, you realize you are somewhere very special. We are told that the entire lodge is environmentally friendly and works on Solar power. It is also clear that the lodge can accommodate larger groups like bigger families, or incentive groups. The new lodge overlooks a beautiful infinity pool, an open area of savannah, and has a view of the riverfront. The pool is very special and memorable. When making our way to the room, we looked at the beautiful deck overlooking the river. Baboons are playing on the cliff and there is the odd “scream” from one of them playing. We are keeping our eyes peeled for an illusive leopard living in the cliff. George and Bongani are looking after our every need whilst we are enjoying Sophie’s exceptional cooking. At 4 pm we go on a drive with Malvin. We spot a pride of lion after a kill feeding on a Zebra carcass and the youngsters of the pack are playing whilst the females are feeding. After we spent time with the lions we are taken to a sundowner spot where we relax with a drink in hand and with a white rhino and her calf. A very special day ends with a delicious dinner and excitement about the morning drive, which will give us the opportunity to spot the big 5, and to learn from Malvin. As we drive Malvin sees we enjoy birding and we manage to add another 10 species to our list. Our stay continues to deliver exceptional moments and at the end of our stay we were extremely sad to say goodbye to the staff. Led by Candice, it really does feel like they are a family and that we were also part of it. Thank you for an amazing experience and see you soon!
– Lourens de Jongh
