We are pleased to announce that as of May 2024, we will be representing the “Babanango Game Reserve” for the German-speaking region and the Benelux countries.
This malaria-free reserve is located in the heart of Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal, amidst the upper White Umfolozi River Valley, covering approximately 20,000 hectares, offering deep insights into the history of the Zulu people.
Hellmuth and Barbara Weisser, philanthropic German investors, together with three local community trusts as landowners, founded the Babanango Game Reserve at the end of 2017, a project considered one of the most ambitious rewilding projects in Southern Africa in recent years. Successfully reintroducing a variety of endemic species, including elephants in June 2023, completed the “Big Five.”
The reserve offers four different lodges catering to various preferences. The Madwaleni River Lodge provides timeless luxury on the banks of the White Umfolozi River, while the Zulu Rock Lodge impresses with its standalone villa-style rooms in the northern part of the reserve. The Valley Lodge in the south is ideal for families and groups, while the Matatane Camp offers a “back-to-basics” wilderness experience with hiking trails and adventure activities.
The lodges at a glance:
Madwaleni River Lodge: ultra luxury lodge, in the heart of Zululand, on the banks of the White Umfolozi River, comprises a total of 12 tents with unique, award-winning design, equipped with air-conditioning, heated private pool and convenient iPad ordering of food and beverages. There are 2 x family tents (bookable on request) consisting of 2 interconnecting luxury tents with a communal area accessed via a walkway. There is also 1 x romantic luxury tent, secluded, with complete privacy with its own outdoor shower and bath. The catering is sustainable and is served from local organic ingredients. The communal area includes a gym with panoramic views, library, infinity pool with breathtaking views and a luxurious wine cellar.
Zulu Rock Lodge: Luxury lodge, perched on a mountain cliff with breathtaking views over the expansive landscape, 7 detached luxury villas (2 x Deluxe, 3 x Luxury, 1 x Romance Suite & 1 x Family Villa) equipped with every comfort, such as underfloor heating, air conditioning, fireplace, and much more. The communal area includes a pool deck, as well as a lounge area, dining room and a fantastic viewing terrace.
Valley Lodge: located in the south of the reserve, family lodge in farm style, 9 adjoining luxurious rooms with magnificent views of the gardens with a maximum capacity of 18 guests, guests of all ages welcome, unlike other lodges there is a fence for security, privacy and exclusivity, in the communal area there is an infinity and paddling pool with panoramic views, a fireplace, a library and an outdoor boma.
Matatane Camp: 130 hectares, malaria-free, fenced, rustic back-to-basics bush experience, obstacle course, multi-platform zipline with breathtaking views of the White Umfolozi River and its wildlife, traditional boma, South African braai, the main camp also offers self-catering accommodation.
