Simbavati Waterside

Several times a week, dinner in the camp is a more hearty, campfire style meal served under the stars in a ‘boma’, a circular enclosure originally made from branches. The cosy, lantern-lit ambience recalls the early days of safari pioneers.

The Big 5 - Game drives in the Klaserie take place in the early morning and late afternoon when the animals are naturally most active. Key to the experience is your English-speaking local guide. They bring their knowledge, experience and fresh observations to maximise your wildlife sightings.

Illuminated by solar lanterns, the Shilope Sleepout Deck welcomes you with a king-sized bed and a top-level lookout deck, setting the stage for a night of romance and complete immersion in the bush. Elevated above the ground, this unique experience allows you to see the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve and its wildlife from an entirely different perspective. Fall asleep to the mesmerising nocturnal sounds of the bush beneath you, only to awaken to birdsong and the warm, golden glow of sunrise. The sleepout deck is equipped with an en-suite shower and toilet, complete with hot, running water, ensuring the optimal experience.• Sleepout must be booked in conjunction with a room at Simbavati Waterside • Bookings subject to availability and must be made in advance• Includes canape style dinner and continental breakfast. If preferred, meals may be taken at the main lodges• Due to the nature of the experience, no evening game drive will occur on the night of the stay in order to take advantage of the sunset on the deck• No children under the age of 16

Why does a safari spa experience work quite so well? It’s probably because the intoxicating mix of being surrounded by nature and pampering relaxation. Together, they entice a restorative effect on your well-being.Plus the relaxing and unhurried hours between game drives are the perfect time, with few other distractions. Though the lure of a siesta on your bed with a good book, could come a close second.

Sunset drinks are an integral part to being on safari. Your guide chooses a suitable beautiful spot and you have time to climb off the vehicle to stretch your legs and enjoy a drink or two. Yes, it’s one of the iconic African memories of a safari. But that doesn’t mean that it won’t work its magic every time.