ARATHUSA SAFARI LODGE
Arathusa Safari Lodge is situated directly adjacent to a waterhole and is famous for excellent sightings of the Big Five, especially the leopard. It hosts several thatched rooms, a luxurious living area, an infinity pool overlooking the bush and a spa.
Arathusa Safari Lodge is located in the northern region of the Sabi Sand Reserve. It is owned and operated by the Dannhauser family and has been open to the public since 2006. The name “Arathusa” comes from the Northern Sotho Word “Reathusa”, meaning “to help one another”. It is a Big Five destination and is well-renowned for leopard sightings, with as many as 14 leopards living in the area. There is a large waterhole just next to the lodge which allows for excellent animal and bird watching directly from the vicinity of the camp. From the comfort of the camps swimming pool, guests can admire the large herds of buffalo and elephants that frequently visit the neighboring waterhole; which also happens to be generously populated with hippos.
This lodge hosts rich landscapes varying from open savannas and riverine thickets to river beds and lush bush vegetation, with the perennial Manyeleti River making its way through the park. It is famous for its exceptional safari experience with daily game drives in an open 4×4 vehicles offered twice a day. These drives will be guided by a ranger and local tracker in order to ensure an exceptional and educational safari experience. Guests can even enjoy guided walks with an armed ranger; an activity perfect for those looking for an adrenaline rush. Those simply looking to relax can enjoy a range of African inspired treatments at Arathusa’s Spa which overlooks the beautiful African bushveld.
Arathusa’s accommodation includes 9 Standard thatched rooms and 4 Luxury rooms. The rooms are elegant, simple and traditionally furnished with all the comfort of features such as air-conditioning, a comfortable netter bed, large en-suite bathroom with a bath and separate indoor and outdoor showers as well as a private viewing deck perfect for animal and bird watching. The Luxury rooms are larger and are positioned further away from the main camp facilities, therefore offering more privacy. These rooms are bush facing and each include a lounge area, a covered outdoor deck and a private plunge pool.
The lodge also has a main living area with a spacious and comfortable open plan layout. It offers an infinity swimming pool that directly overlooks the waterhole; making it the perfect spot to watch the wildlife while wallowing in the pool with an ice cold drink. Drinks can also be enjoyed at the bar, whilst meals are served in the traditional open-air boma under the stars or on the deck overlooking the waterhole around a warm fire.