PAKAMISA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE - in which the Pakamisa Lodge is situated - comprises a pristine malaria-free wilderness area of some 2500 hectares. Access to the reserve is restricted, enabling guests at Pakamisa to enjoy the exclusive experience of natural African bushveld with its unparalleled abundance of wildlife and exotic vegetation. Guests can expect to see giraffe, zebra, waterbuck, blue wildebeest, red hartebeest, warthog, kudu, nyala, impala, bushbuck, common and mountain reedbuck, grey and red duiker, klipspringer, baboon, vervet monkeys, caracal, genet as well as many smaller mammals, predators and reptiles. The birdlife, too, is prolific and varied.

The name "Pakamisa" in Zulu means "to lift up" and we assure our guests that their spirits will soar in this African Shangri-La. We offer discerning visitors luxury, comfort and security with top class European cuisine amidst pristine African wilderness.

The basic philosophy of the management and staff at Pakamisa is to provide much more than accommodation and meals. We offer round-the-clock service and are always happy to organise custom-made holidays to suit your individual preferences; from Tiger fishing in the nearby Jozini Dam to a champagne picnic in the African bush - we strive to fulfil the holiday dreams of all.

Pakamisa is located in northern KwaZulu Natal, 380km from Durban and 450km from Johannesburg. Flights and vehicle transfers are available.

Superbly located on the high plateau of the Pakamisa Mountain, Pakamisa Lodge affords breathtaking views over the evergreen valley and plains of the Pongola River and the surrounding mountains.

Far away from any stress or hectic pace, our guests appreciate and enjoy the exclusive, intimate atmosphere, especially as accommodation is limited to a maximum of 16 guests. The unique Italo-Spanish architecture and style of the Pakamisa Lodge blends the finest of European and African ambience.

Our eight spacious, tastefully-decorated suites offer the highest standards for comfort and complete relaxation. Each suite, comprising a bedroom, lounge, deluxe-bathroom (bath, shower, two basins and separate toilet), wardrobe and own veranda, is fully equipped with in-room electronic safe, mini-bar and tea/coffee facilities. Each suite has been individually styled after an African animal, a theme picked up in valuable paintings and local artifacts.

The impressive Main House, with an eclectic mix of African and European art and antiques, offers the finest atmosphere for either quiet relaxation or socializing with friends and other guests.

• Meet new friends around the grand fireplace in the spacious Living Room.
• Choose a good book from the extensive Hotel Library that contains many treasures to delight the most discerning bibliophile in a variety of languages.
• Sip a cocktail in the cosy Hunter's Bar with its intimate atmosphere.
• Relax and enjoy wonderful music on the sweeping terrace with its panoramic views of spectacular Africa.
• Our pool terrace, also with spectacular views, offers guests an oasis of tranquility where light snacks and exotic drinks can be enjoyed after a refreshing swim in the large Rock Pool.
• A perfect day can be rounded off around a crackling campfire under the stars enjoying the natural nocturne of the African night.

The elegant El Prado restaurant at Pakamisa, with its reputation for pleasing the most fastidious gourmet, strives for perfection in hospitality, entertainment and fine dining:

• From a sumptuous breakfast up to a light lunch
• Afternoon tea and sundowners
• Romantic alfresco dining on the covered veranda
• Gala Diner with concert entertainment.

All in a stylish but comfortable atmosphere. The cuisine, as well as the wines and liquors from our cellar, are of the highest international standards.

PAKAMISA is majestically positioned in the spectacular mountainous region of northern Zululand in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province. The hotel is some 15 km south-west of the small town Pongola and is situated in the middle of its own extensive and private Game Reserve.

GAME DRIVE - Accompanied by an experienced game ranger, guests may traverse the entire reserve in an open safari vehicle. Your guide will explain the often fascinating life cycles of everything from insects, plants and trees to the behaviour patterns of the mammals and birds, giving you a chance to experience at first hand the magic of the African wild.

GUIDED WALKS - Rejuvenate your spirit on long walks through the unspoiled bushveld. The numerous Bush walks are the best way to work up an appetite, these range from stalking trips with camera and binoculars to a comfortable stroll to a shaded picnic spot, where you will be surprised by a creative prepared Bush meal. Since none of the larger and more dangerous mammals roam the Private Game Reserve and access is restricted, you can look out for your own little corner of paradise.

BIRDWATCHING - More than 200 species have been recorded in the Pakamisa Game Reserve with many more occasional visitors and seasonal migrants. From soaring eagles overhead to the vivid sunbirds flitting through the shrubs, the area offers birdwatchers constant excitement.

HORSES - Horse lovers will be impressed by our Pakamisa Arabian Stud. The Arabian horses, originally born and bred in Andalusia, Spain, by Isabella von Stepski, renowned internationally as an Arabian expert. Isabella transported her entire stud from Spain to this special corner of Africa where these noble horses are thriving well. The first generation of the African-born Arabians are already galloping across the endless pastures. All horses are worked under saddle and the proud breeder is only to happy to arrange riding excursions with the entire herd for guests with equestrian interest.

Horse-back safaris, through the Game Reserve provide guests with a unique and unforgettable experience. An elegant but comfortable lounge and veranda at the Pakamisa Stables invite riders and their friends to enjoy pre-ride drinks and snacks as well as a delicious dinner in a very special setting at the end of a day in the saddle.

GOLF - We are happy to arrange transport to the small but challenging nine-hole golf course in Pongola, a 40-minute drive from Pakamisa. Visitors are assured of a warm welcome on this well-maintained course.

SIGHT SEEING TOURS - SOME OF THE MANY OPTIONS:

Cultural tours to the nearby centers of the proud and colourful history of the Zulu people, including conducted tours of the famous battlefields of the Anglo-Zulu and Anglo-Boer wars.

St. Lucia World Heritage Site - wildlife observation and boat cruise through this vast coastal wetland.

Visits to local traditional Zulu villages, Zulu dancing and traditional Zulu arts and crafts.

FISHING - Expeditions to the nearby Jozini Dam (approximately one hour's drive) can be arranged for anglers seeking the legendary, hard-fighting Tiger fish and other freshwater species. The Jozini Dam, one of the largest in the region, is in a beautiful setting and an abundance of wildlife visits its shores. Our team will drive you there and back and organise everything you need for a memorable day's fishing.

SHOOTING - Pakamisa Game Reserve boasts its own shooting range in a fascinating mountain location (far removed from the hotel itself to avoid noise disturbance). Here a modern clay target parcours is available for enthusiastic clay target shooters.

You tell us your requirements - we will organize all facilities for you in this unique and beautiful setting.

Pakamisa Lodge has at its disposal all the latest technical equipment, including audio-visual facilities, to ensure a smooth-running event. The pure, crystal mountain air of Pakamisa is guaranteed to invigorate and inspire those creative spirits.

Rates vary across high and low seasons. Please enquire for most recent rate. A Dinner, Bed & Breakfast rate is also available in 2010 at ZAR 1200 per person per night sharing.

RATES INCLUDE:

• Luxury accommodation in en-suite suites, three superb meals daily, teas & coffees.
• Two daily game viewing activities, which can be one horse ride, one game drive or a bush walk.
• Taxes, fees and tourism levy.

RATES EXCLUDE:

• All beverages, mini bar, laundry service, shop purchases, personal expenses and gratuities.
• Clay target shooting available at an extra cost.

CHILDREN POLICY:

• Children under the age of 3 are free of charge (cot available).
• Children sharing parent's room pay 50% of adult rate.
• Each suite can accommodate up to 2 extra beds.
• Children over 12 years are treated as adults.
• Children from the age of 10 years are allowed on horse rides.
• Pakamisa offers special activities for children, where the object is not just fun, but also to teach about the animals, trees and birds.