01 Kruger Park

Episode 1 Info – Click Here

  • Ezulwini Game Lodge: “Places of Paradise” –Billy’s Lodge

Ezulwini (Zulu for Paradise) Game Lodges are situated in the Big 7 Balule Nature Reserve, (named after the local RemBalule tribe’s name for the Olifants River), part of the Greater Kruger National Park.  Our two private Safari game lodges offer an exclusive intimate bush experience for all nature lovers, and our Paradise Camp is for the adventure seeker.

Kruger BridgeOur Hosts stayed at Billy’s Lodge, this private Safari Lodge is located on the banks of a seasonal river, surrounded by the resident lion pride, plains game, large knobthorn, leadwood and marula trees in the western savannah region of Ezulwini. After a devastating fire in May, the lodge has been totally rebuilt, setting new standards in design and luxury. The organic African architecture incorporates massive leadwood supports; dark earth plaster and high pitched thatched roofs. The lodge has a lot of character and features gorgeous lounge areas, dining rooms and decks, sumptuous leather armchairs and exquisite leadwood sculptures.  All sleeper wood furniture, doors and windows, as well as comfortable leather couches, were custom made.  In the commitment to, and pursuit of, excellence, Billy’s Lodge has become one of the finest lodges in the world, embracing first world comforts, yet retaining a cozy atmosphere with the rich colours and textures of the warm African bushveld. 

Billy’s Lodge also boasts the “finest wine cellar in Africa” set against the natural rock face and resembling an ancient Bushman cave. Superb chefs and rangers will ensure you enjoy the ultimate getaway. This charming, most exclusive lodge offers 4 completely private and spacious, luxury suites, with lounge, mini-bar and dining area, super king-size bed, en-suite bath, indoor and outdoor shower, private plunge pool and deck that has unspoiled and open views of the surrounding bush. We also have 2 thatched, twin or king bed chalets with en suite bathrooms. Billy’s Lodge accommodates a maximum of 12 guests, which guarantees tranquility and exclusivity. The accommodation is modern, yet traditionally African.

For the “Smooth” lovers… a typically day at Billy’s Lodge begins with an early morning game drive, in search of Africa’s exciting fauna, followed by a sumptuous breakfast on the deck. You can then go on a ranger-guided walk through the bush and learn about game tracks and all of the little creatures.  Discover how the local people use trees to make toothbrushes and toothpaste, tea and coffee, poultices, etc. Alternatively relax on a cosy leather couch, enjoying the animals at the water, and the ever present bird life in one of the top birding areas in South Africa.

For the “Rough” lovers… One can always spend the night under the African Stars and camp over, after a game drive, cook a splendid “Grondgat potjie” and listen to the natural sounds of Africa, as our Paul prefers it…

*For more information about Ezulwini Game Lodges, you can visit: www.ezulwini.com

  • Elephant Sanctuary – Hazyview

At the start of this the first episode Terence and Paul open the show on top of a massive elephant, which they then proceed to ride for the opening sequence, under the care of the experienced handler.

Elephant Sanctuary - Hazyview

The Elephant Sanctuary hosts a unique and fully guided educational program that sets itself apart from anything else that South Africa has on offer in terms of elephant interaction and touching elephants. Guest numbers are limited to ensure personal attention and maximum elephant interaction for each guest, making this a truly memorable and enriching experience.

Elephants at HazyviewThey also offer a short elephant-back ride – a privilege historically reserved for kings.

The Elephant Sanctuary’s elephant back riding program is conducted in a controlled environment to make it a safe yet exciting experience. Elephant rides are done bare back to enhance your contact with the animal and lasts ten to fifteen minutes. They claim their experience show that a 10 to 15 minute elephant back ride is long enough to fully experience the unique motion and feeling you get when riding on the back of an elephant.

Elephants at HazyviewThe safety of their guests is of paramount importance. They want their guests to have an educational experience where they learn first-hand through touch, sight, smell and simply being close to the elephants. The program teaches our guests a broader and better understanding of elephants and their conservation, along with the animals’ dynamics and anatomy. They also share with guests their knowledge on the history and future of elephants in Africa.

*For more information about The Elephant Sanctuary Hazyview, you can visit: www.elephantsanctuary.co.za

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