Unveiling the Wonders of Ximuwu: A Wheelchair-Friendly Safari Lodge in the Heart of Klaserie

Every now and then you come across a gem where you think “they have not missed a trick”. There exists such a place in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, and it’s an exclusive use lodge by the name of Ximuwu Lodge. Everything about Ximuwu oozes exclusivity.

On arrival it’s plain to see that this is not a conventional lodge. A brightly coloured metal art work of a rhino greets you once you pass through the entrance gate, whilst a life-size statue of a kudu bull keeps an eye on you as you get closer to the car park, which is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. We were greeted by none other than the managers. A good start, and things only got better.

The open plan main house or public area is impressive to say the least. It leads onto a very large, heated pool overlooking an open plain in front of the lodge. More artwork, a beautiful bar area complete with a brilliant sommelier, Giford Mashego, at the helm, an extensive cellar consisting of the finest South African and international wines, and a very comfortable and inviting lounge area all form part of this main house. Seeing is believing, as I have yet to see anything like it during the course of my travels. Clean lines and the absence of clutter make it all the more unique.  So many lodges feel more is better, but there is a distinct move away from this, especially in the new wave of high-end lodges such as Ximuwu.

Ximuwu also offers wheelchair accessible safaris, and every conceivable detail has been thoroughly thought through from the height of every table in the main lodge, the space throughout the lodge and even the transfer and game drive vehicles, which have a “lift” to assist those with mobility devices. Two of the four suites provide easy access to showers, toilets and vanity areas. There are many lodges who have tried to get this right, but there is nothing like Ximuwu. Every part of the lodge is wheelchair accessible, and this is also a great plus for those travelling with elderly parents or grandparents too.

Game drives traverse over just a little more than 6 500 hectares, which is exclusive to Ximuwu. This makes for an incredible game viewing experience as guests can spend as much time at a sighting as they wish, which is not possible at most private game lodges in South Africa. The photographic opportunities are endless, not only on game drive, but also from the underground hide in front of the lodge.

From fine dining to street food and family-style buffets to local delicacies, menus can be tailored to suit guest tastes and preferences. Wood-fired pizzas, snacks and cocktails by the pool, an interactive meal where the whole group participates, burgers and fries while watching the game on the projector screen and indoor or outdoor dining settings are just a few of the options available.

Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, all local drinks are included in the rate. So too is a 60-minute spa treatment per person per stay and a 30-minute helicopter flip per person per stay.

I could go on and on and on. Ximuwu is very special and, in my opinion, has set the benchmark in so many ways.