Classic colonial elegance greets guests at andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge, where being on safari comes with a generous serving of the finer things in life. Shaded by tall mopane trees, cushy sofas on the main lodge verandahs look out over pristine bush in this prime wildlife area adjoining South Africa’s Kruger National Park where all the Big Five roam. Just a short flight from Johannesburg, the private reserve is known for its elephant, buffalo and rhino, and the twice daily game drives also encounter leopard, cheetah and African wild dogs. Delicious food, a tranquil swimming pool and relaxing massages complete the luxury safari experience.
Each of the twenty thatched cottages is a self-contained retreat nestled in the trees with a private verandah for soaking up the sounds of the bush.
The high thatched ceiling over a king bed canopied in mosquito netting, solid wooden furniture, richly coloured rugs and comfortable armchairs create an old-world feel, with the addition of modern comforts such as air-conditioning, hair-dryer, internet and the green tiled en-suite bathroom with bath and shower. The two bedroom family suite is ideal for those travelling with younger children and has its own swimming pool and private safari vehicle.
Being in a private reserve away from the crowds of the National Park, vehicles can go off-road so that the knowledgeable guide and tracker team can find the best sightings over diverse terrain, from elephants traversing the reed beds by the Timbavati river to wildebeest and wild dogs in the open bushveld and lion visiting the waterhole near the lodge.
Really excellent food is served at frequent intervals, from the early morning coffee and cookies before the morning drive, to full breakfast on your return, then a leisurely lunch in the shady courtyard, tea before the afternoon drive, sundowners in the bush as night falls, and then a full a la carte dinner, or sometimes a surprise boma evening in the bush. Professional and friendly staff take care of every need and deliver the legendary andBeyond hospitality, creating a seamless African safari experience ideal both for first-timers and veteran safari-goers.
