Originally a private family retreat, Chitwa Chitwa earned its name as an affectionate ode to the aging giraffe bull who shared the lakeside home as an extended member of the Brink family. According to the owner, Charl Brink, the majestic arrival of this regal relative was always signaled by the creaking of his old joints - and still today, his watchful essence is felt presiding over the lodge.

Much like the giraffe around which this charming tale of Chitwa Chitwa is centered, the 5-star Chitwa Chitwa private game lodge is magnificent and graceful in appearance, yet humble enough to evaporate into the surrounding beauty of the unspoiled bush of the Sabi Sand.

After its classic transformation into an eclectic blend of European style with African chic, Chitwa Chitwa has emerged as an exquisite balance between unbridled luxury and environmental harmony. The lodge offers all-inclusive accommodation and is very child friendly.

Nestled in a pristine golden triangle of African fauna, the luxury lodge basks in the sun on the banks of one of the largest lakes of the exclusive 63,000 hectare Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, which forms part of the greater Kruger National Park. This area, in turn, is incorporated into the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park - a world-class eco-tourism destination managed to optimize benefits for the sustainable economic development of local communities and biodiversity conservation.

With superb service and facilities, Chitwa Chitwa is ideal for weddings and other intimate special functions.

Chitwa Chitwa won the 2008 World Luxury Hotel Award for best game lodge!

Chitwa Chitwa's distinctive charm is translated into the detailed finishings of our accommodation. Natural colours and textures meld with the beauty of nature's paintbrush to replicate the serenity of the African bush indoors.

Suites: Great care has been taken to balance unpretentious style with complete comfort in our beautiful chalets. Each individually decorated suite has its own private plunge pool, framed by a spacious timber deck that overlooks the nearby lake - a popular drinking hole for our wealth of wildlife. Sleeps 2.

Chitwa House: In response to a growing demand for greater privacy and exclusive hospitality, we have created a treasured escape into unapologetic style in the form of The Chitwa House. Here, guests can enjoy a bush experience tailored to their every whim with the assistance of an experienced house butler and the enthusiasm of a dedicated ranger. Sleeps 4.

Other facilities for Chitwa Chitwa guests to enjoy include:

MAIN CENTRAL AREA:

Nestling into obscurity around the largest lake in the reserve, one of Chitwa Chitwa's most endearing features is its seamless integration into the surrounding African bush through its ideal location and design. Guests can be assured of superlative game viewing from the main lounge and dining areas as they are rendered invisible to the various groups of wild animals that congregate at the waters edge in the mornings and early evenings.

SUNSET DECK:

Shaded by old Knobthorn trees, our large wooden lounging deck affords unrivalled wildlife sightings of the Big Five (leopard, lion, buffalo, elephant and rhinoceros), who share the rugged bushveld with cheetah, giraffe, hippo, zebra and antelope. Spacious viewing areas strewn with comfy daybeds and a rim-flow swimming pool further enhance the feeling of being a part of the beautiful scenery, whilst creating the perfect environment to relax, unwind and absorb the sights, sounds and scents of Africa.

__ LIBRARY:__

Chitwa Chitwa's cosy library offers a large selection of books - both for reference reading and relaxation. The library is also equipped with an Internet access point.

CURIO SHOP:

Our curio shop is situated at the entrance of the lodge and displays a selection of hand-made African memorabilia created by skilled local craftsmen together with various traditional ornaments and bush-wear.

Located in the Sabi Sand, which forms part of the Greater Kruger Park area, and which is the birthplace of sustainable wildlife tourism in southern Africa, Chitwa Chitwa is highly acclaimed for its excellent game viewing, as all hunting in the area has been abolished for decades. As a result, the animals have grown accustomed to the presence of safari vehicles in their territory and Chitwa Chitwa can boast some of the best opportunities to meet Africa's Big Five - being the five most dangerous animals to meet on foot: buffalo, elephant, rhino, leopard and lion.

The most thrilling and eagerly-anticipated part of any stay with at Chitwa Chitwa is undoubtedly the Chitwa Chitwa Safari Experience. For over a decade, our guests have been treated to spell-binding sightings of our abundant wildlife and have left with affectionate memories of the very best of the African bush. Our highly qualified guides and Shangaan trackers ensure an unforgettable African safari by enriching the experience with their profound knowledge regarding this animal kingdom and its complex habitat.

Other activities on offer include:

• A Local Cultural Village Excursion.
• Healing and relaxing massage from Chitwa Chitwa's resident masseuse.
• Children's Eco-experience for young guests.

These Rack Rates are quoted in South African Rand (ZAR) and are inclusive of the 14% VAT. Rates are subject to change without notice.

Rates are inclusive of luxury accommodation, all meals, softdrinks, teas and coffees, Chitwa select wines and local spirits, two open vehicle safaris a day, daily walking safaris, laundry service and return transfer from the Chitwa airstrip to the lodge.

Rates are exclusive of premier cellar wines, telephone calls, purchases from the Chitwa Curio Shop, air and road transfer to and from the lodge, and Sabi Sand entrance fees.