South African Safari: My Unforgettable Stay at Shumbalala Game Lodge
Dreaming of a South African safari? Here’s what it’s like staying at Shumbalala Game Lodge near Kruger. Think luxury, wildlife, and starry skies—with a personal touch.
Table of Contents
Welcome to Safari Life: Why South Africa Should Be On Your Bucket List
If a South African safari isn’t on your travel list yet, it should be. Picture early morning game drives through golden grasslands, watching lioness hunt at sunrise, and sipping wine under the Milky Way. I just got back from 6 days at Shumbalala Game Lodge in Hoedspruit with my mom, sister, and grandma—and I’m still thinking about the leopard we saw on day one.
First Impressions: Friendly Faces and Elephants
From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel like family (shoutout to the welcome drinks!) Shumbalala is tucked away in the Thornybush Game Reserve, which borders the Kruger National Park. You’re in the wild, but with five-star comforts.
We checked into our thatched-roof suite, complete with an outdoor shower, cozy sitting area, and private deck with a soaker pool overlooking a dry riverbed and a watering hole—where elephants strolled by almost every afternoon.
Safari Time: 12 Drives, 1 Epic Guide, Countless Wildlife Moments
We did twelve? (it was a long trip there and back, my brain is a little fuzzy) safaris in six days—morning and evening game drives with our guide Bryce, who was an absolute legend. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the animals and ecosystems, and you could tell how deeply he respected the wildlife. You could ask him a question about anything, even the stars, and he would have an answer. There was no rushing, no crowding. Just patient, immersive observing.
Some wildlife highlights:
- Leopard chased up a tree by a pack of Wild Dogs—which then proceeded to fight a Hyena over potential scraps
- Elephants feeding just feet from our vehicle, often giving our tracker, Fumani, a sniff
- A trio of lioness on a hunt for impala in the dark
- A rhino family trying to fend off a seemingly annoying young male
- Going out on a guided walk in the bush to stand roughly 50m away from a mother rhino and calf
We saw the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino) in just three days—but it never felt like a checklist. Each drive felt unique and intimate, and we saw many animals we might have never even thought of looking for. (Like the Lesser Bush Baby!)
The Lodge Experience: Boutique Comfort in the Wild
Shumbalala feels like a boutique hotel with safari access. There are just a handful of suites, so everything feels personal and peaceful.
What we loved:
- Incredible food: Three-course dinners under the stars, morning coffee breaks mid-safari, and fresh-baked bread at lunch and dinner (And very adaptable to dietary restrictions)
- The staff: Everyone was kind, attentive, and ready to help with anything—from extra hot water bottles in your bed at night to suggesting new drinks to try
- The setting: Surrounded by bushveld and animals, but never without hot water or Wi-Fi
We even had a candlelit dinner in the wine cellar one night—which has a window thats ground level with the riverbed, offering a perfect view of the watering hole.
What to Pack for a South African Safari (Especially in Winter!)
We visited in July, which is winter in South Africa. Surprise: it gets cold. Morning safaris started at around 2–3°C (35°F) and stayed chilly for at least an hour, until the sun had come over the horizon line.
Wish I had packed more of:
- Thermal layers (leggings and long sleeves)
- A warm toque (or beanie, for you americans) and gloves
- Insulated jacket or fleece
- Hand warmers (yes, seriously! My fingers were frozen trying to take pictures)
That being said, the lodge does kindly provide blankets, hot water bottles, and even jackets to help keep you warm, and by midday, it warmed up enough for t-shirts and sunglasses. So dress like an onion—layer up and peel as the day goes on.
Why Shumbalala Stands Out Travellers
As a young traveler, you might not be sure if a luxury safari would feel stuffy or over-curated—but Shumbalala strikes the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
- It’s all-inclusive, so you don’t worry about meals, drinks, or logistics.
- The group sizes are small, making game drives feel intimate, not touristy.
- The staff remembered our names, our coffee orders, and were always up for a chat about the visiting wildlife.
It’s ideal for a friends trip, romantic escape, or multigenerational family adventure (yep, it worked for us with grandma too… considering she actually planned the trip in the first place!)
Final Thoughts: A Safari That Sticks With You
A South African safari isn’t just a trip—it’s an experience that slows you down, reconnects you with nature, and fills your camera roll with once-in-a-lifetime moments. Shumbalala Game Lodge gave us all of that, and more.
If you’re planning a South African safari in the Kruger region, don’t overlook Thornybush—it’s got the wildlife magic without the crowds.
Would I go back? 1000%. As soon as I’m able, I will be visiting again. Just with a warmer jacket next time.
FAQ
Is a South African safari safe?
Yes, safari lodges like Shumbalala are incredibly safe, I never once felt like I was at risk in any way. Game drives are led by trained guides, and the lodges are fenced or monitored. Just follow the rules and you’ll be fine!
What’s the best time of year to go?
May to September is the dry season, which means animals gather around water sources and are easier to spot. It’s also cooler, so better chance to spot the big cats like lions and leopards, and there’s fewer bugs. I didn’t see a single mosquito.
Do I need vaccines or malaria meds?
Check with your doctor, but Thornybush is in a low-risk malaria zone. Some travelers choose to take antimalarials just in case.
How much does a safari cost?
Luxury lodges can range from $500–$1000+ USD per night, but this usually includes everything—meals, drinks, safaris, transfers. Consider it a once-in-a-lifetime splurge.
Can I go solo?
Absolutely! Many safari-goers are solo travellers, and lodges often seat guests together at meals, so you won’t feel alone.
If you’d like to see more of my photographs from our safaris, check out my photography instagram page here!