Offering four generously sized traditional safari tents, Kakuli’s thatched accommodation boasts pristine river views – as well as regular hippo sightings. Renovated and refurbished in recent years, the decor is subtle yet unique, and the camp is filled with neutral safari tones. The bedrooms are constructed with wooden frames, while the thatched roof and mesh windows work wonders to keep the tents cool and breezy, especially during the warmer months. From each tent, a wooden door links it to a magical open-air en-suite bathroom, which is beautiful enclosed in a typical African fashion – with a wall of reeds, and polished red stone floors.
The picture is completed by the sheer openness of the camp and the fact that wildlife, especially impala, puku, baboons and elephants regularly pass through the camp. Features of the lodge include a special dining room that is completely open-sided and has a sandy floor – which is not just pretty but functional too as keeps the area cool. And down the riverbank and a little closer to the water, a quiet and quaint thatched relaxation area with sofas and directors’ chairs is the perfect spot for birdwatching, reading, or even dining, should you wish.
At the centre of the camp, a thatched area on a wooden deck – that stretches right over the river bank to one side – overlooks a grazing lawn stretching all the way to the two rivers, and often, guests spend hours here to relax and watch passing game. Ranging from walking safaris to guided game drives, there are ample opportunities to also venture out of the camp to experience the wilderness, and the area is especially good for night-time explorations.
Kakuli’s reputation as the perfect location to see predators – especially on night-drives when these animals are at their most active – puts the camp firmly on the map as one of Africa’s wildlife hotspots.