WHY

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Big Five Safari Experience

Karongwe is a prime destination for seeing Africa’s Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. 

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Luxury Accommodations

The reserve offers a range of luxury lodges and tented camps, each providing a comfortable and stylish stay. The lodges include amenities such as private plunge pools, spa services, and gourmet dining, ensuring a relaxing and indulgent stay.

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Intimate and Exclusive Setting

Karongwe provides an intimate and exclusive safari experience. With fewer vehicles and guests on the property, the game drives are less crowded, allowing for more personalized wildlife encounters and a deeper connection with nature.

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Diverse Wildlife

In addition to the Big Five, Karongwe is home to a wide variety of other wildlife, including cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hyenas, and a rich array of bird species. The reserve’s diverse ecosystems—ranging from riverine forests to open savannahs—support this variety of animals, making every game drive a new adventure.

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Expert Guides and Trackers

Karongwe employs experienced guides and trackers who are passionate about wildlife and conservation. Their knowledge enhances the safari experience, offering deeper insights into animal behaviour, plant life, and the overall ecosystem. They are skilled in tracking elusive animals like leopards, making the drives more exciting and educational.

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Photographic Opportunities

Karongwe’s varied landscapes and abundant wildlife make it a paradise for photographers, offering stunning opportunities for capturing the beauty of African wildlife and scenery.

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Proximity to Other Attractions

Karongwe Private Game Reserve is conveniently located near other popular South African attractions, such as the Panorama Route, Blyde River Canyon, and the Kruger National Park. This makes it easy to combine a stay at Karongwe with other iconic destinations in the region.

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WHEN

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Winter (May to August)

Winter is the dry season in Karongwe, which means the vegetation is sparse, and animals tend to congregate around water sources. This makes wildlife easier to spot, especially the Big Five. The cooler temperatures (ranging from 5°C to 25°C or 41°F to 77°F) are also ideal for game drives. Winter offers clear skies and little to no rainfall, making it great for photography and stargazing. This season typically sees fewer tourists, allowing for a more intimate safari experience.

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Spring (September to November)

Spring marks the transition from the dry winter to the wetter summer months. Temperatures start to rise, and the bush begins to turn green, though it's still easier to spot wildlife than in the peak summer. This is an excellent time for birdwatching as migratory birds return and the bush comes alive with activity. Temperatures are warm but not too hot, ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), making it a comfortable time to visit.

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Summer (December to February)

Summer is the wet season, with afternoon thunderstorms bringing lush greenery to the landscape. This makes for beautiful scenery but can make wildlife harder to spot due to the dense vegetation. Many animals give birth during the summer, so you might see young animals and their interactions with the environment. Expect hot and humid conditions, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F), so be prepared for warm days. Despite the beautiful scenery, summer sees fewer tourists because of the heat and rains, offering a quieter experience.

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Autumn (March to April)

Autumn is similar to spring, with mild temperatures and less rainfall. The landscape is still green, and the weather is generally comfortable, with temperatures between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). As water sources begin to dry up, animals become more concentrated around the remaining water, making them easier to spot.

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WHERE

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Karongwe Private Game Reserve is located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, in the northeastern part of the country. The reserve is situated in the Lowveld region, near the Drakensberg Mountains, and is approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) west of the famous Kruger National Park.

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Where To Stay

Shiduli Private Game Lodge

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Shiduli offers 24 comfortable suites, each with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and private verandas. Ideal for families, Shiduli features a large swimming pool, beautiful gardens, and a kid-friendly environment. The lodge also offers a communal dining area and a bar where guests can relax after game drives.

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Kuname Lodge

Kuname Lodge has only 5 suites, ensuring an exclusive and tranquil experience. Each suite includes a private deck overlooking the river or bush, with luxurious bathrooms featuring outdoor showers. Perfect for couples or those seeking a more intimate safari experience, Kuname offers personalized service and a serene environment. The lodge's proximity to the river provides excellent wildlife viewing from the comfort of your deck.

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Chisomo Safari Camp

Chisomo features luxury safari tents, each with en-suite bathrooms, private decks, and comfortable furnishings. The tents are elevated on wooden platforms to enhance the view of the surrounding bush. Chisomo combines the thrill of a tented safari with comfort and luxury. The camp offers a more traditional safari ambiance, with a central dining area, boma (outdoor fireplace), and a swimming pool.

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Becks Safari Lodge

Becks Safari Lodge offers 11 contemporary suites, each with spacious interiors, private plunge pools, and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide stunning views of the bush. This lodge is known for its sleek, modern design and luxurious amenities and offers an infinity pool, spa services, and fine dining.

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Kuname Manor House

The Manor House offers 3 en-suite bedrooms and is available for exclusive use, making it perfect for families or small groups and includes a private pool, large living areas, and a fully equipped kitchen. With its private and spacious setting, the Manor House allows guests to enjoy a personalized safari experience with the flexibility to tailor activities and meals according to their schedule.

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Karongwe River Lodge

The lodge offers 11 luxury suites, including 2 family suites. Each suite features a private deck with river views, air conditioning, and en-suite bathrooms. Set on the banks of the Makhutsi River, this lodge provides a romantic and serene atmosphere, perfect for couples. Offering a central pool, dining area, and a bar with views of the river where animals frequently come to drink.