Settled on the unfenced western boundary of South Africa’s renowned Kruger National Park, the little-known Manyeleti Private Game Reserve is a virtually untouched, pristine African wilderness. The 56,000 acre Manyeleti, which means “Place of the Stars”, is home to one of only two commercial lodges, with Tintswalo Safari Lodge being the only five-star boutique lodge in this area.
This vast bushland is abundant in wildlife, offering guests the opportunity to view the Big Five, Africa’s endeared “Small Five”, rare birds, large cats, endangered wild dogs, and colossal herds of wild game.
With such low vehicle density, safari hikes and game drives are an intimate bush experience, led by the engaging Tintswalo rangers, all of whom are fully accredited and experienced field guides. The trackers – sourced from the local Shangaan tribes – are well acquainted with the surrounding lands and beasts, and offer incredible insights into the native wilderness and traditional folklore.
Guests enjoy personal touches throughout their stay, such as canvas game drive bags, filled with delicious treats, binoculars, and informative reference books, as well as spontaneous sundowner stops or decadent bush breakfasts cooked over small wood fires in what seems the very heart of Africa. Guest itineraries are unique and personalized to each stay.
Birding and game viewing can also be enjoyed effortlessly from the comfort of the lodgings. The six luxury suites – and one opulent presidential suite – are staggered along the banks of a seasonal riverbed, linked by raised wooden walkways.
The suites are authentically decorated to reflect colonial times and evoke the adventures of 19th-century explorers after which they’re named. Each suite boasts king-size beds and a lavish air-conditioned, en-suite bathroom with an indoor-outdoor shower, as well as its own furnished private deck and plunge pool overlooking the wild.
Tintswalo guests can also expect to enjoy the services of a five-star establishment. Mouth-watering cuisine is served throughout the day, with each adventurous meal being served in a new location – from the raw natural beauty of a bush breakfast, to a starlit dinner on the deck, to a romantic candlelit dinner in the wine cellar.
Personal service and attention to detail are par for the course at Tintswalo Safari Lodge.