Arathusa Safari Lodge

CEDARBERG RATING

Premier

PRICING FROM

₤ 371 (Pps)

Overview
  • well priced safari lodge in the prime Sabi Sands game reserve
  • beautiful setting overlooking large active waterhole
  • small, intimate and friendly
  • attractive main lodge

Arathusa Safari Lodge is situated in the northern part of the prestigious Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park. Arathusa is owner run and has belonged to the Dannhauser Family since 1960. It offers a relaxing intimate safari experience with guests enjoying a true African Safari in the heart of Big Five country.

The main sitting area is very pretty with an open sided sitting room under thatch overlooking the infinity pool which blends harmoniously with the waterhole beyond - the perfect spot for a bit of game viewing on a hot summer's afternoon. This waterhole attracts regular sightings of elephant, buffalo, wildebeest and other antelope.

Accommodation

Nine en suite chalets with private verandas face the waterhole and are arranged around the lodge. All have air-conditioning, mosquito nets, outdoor shower, minibar, tea/coffee facilities and telephone. Four luxurious and ultra-private suites are situated further away with a sitting area, decadent bathroom and private plunge pool. Please note that these suites are set well apart from each other and the lodge and so it may entail a fair walk (5-10 minutes) to your suite, always escorted by a staff member at night.

Hearty bush meals are served on the timber deck, shaded by an aged Jackalberry tree overhanging the water, or in the starlit boma at night. Star-gazing is a popular activity in the evening as you gaze up into the crystal clear skies.

The Sabi Sands is arguably the foremost private game reserve in South Africa with an open border with the Kruger National Park and excellent wildlife sightings. It is particularly known for its big cats, especially leopard viewing. Open 4x4 game drives and game walks are enjoyed with an experienced ranger and Shangaan tracker.

The northern Sabi Sands is accessed by Gowie Gate to the north. Guests staying in the northern Sabi Sands can fly into Hoedspruit airport and take a one hour road transfer from there or opt to have a short charter flight from the Kruger Airport (or a much longer road transfer).

At A Glance

  • Swimming pool
  • Restaurants
  • Spa
  • Wifi on premises
  • Wildlife

Arathusa Safari Lodge on the map

Rooms

Suites

There are thirteen Suites available - 9 Suites are centrally located and offer views across the waterhole whilst 4 Suites have a more private bush setting and include their own plunge pools.

• Each Suite is uniquely designed, with fresh interiors and a focus on light and space.
• Each of the four remote Suites also has its own plunge pool, and affords guests the ultimate privacy
• Each suite has a bathroom en-suite, with shower, as well as a private outdoor shower and verandah. Amenities include a mini bar (stocked with a selection of beverages on request), an electronic safe, hairdryer, air conditioning, direct-dial telephone, mosquito net and tea/ coffee making facilities

Arathusa Safari Lodge Review

Loved Arathusa with the open plan main/living area situated on the banks of a large waterhole.  The standard rooms are nearest to the main lodge and also have better views on the waterhole than the luxury rooms that are really far walk away.  Did not see the Standard rooms, but really liked the Luxury rooms and apparently the Standard are just a bit smaller.  So…. definitely keep booking the Standard rooms at Arathusa as I think this is great value and definitely my favourite affordable lodge in the Sabi Sands.

Cedarberg : Sonja Brand