Sitting on a reserve next to the Kruger National Park, Camp Jabulani is most famous for its elephants. Liz Rampfshaw (senior tour consultant at Giltedge Africa) stopped off at the Kapama Private Game Reserve last month for a short holiday.

We chat to her about her safari experience…

What was your first impression of the property?

I received such a warm welcome by our guide, Ruan, and the lodge manager, Stefan. Camp Jabulani is a beautiful traditional style safari lodge but with lots of personal touches.

 

 

What stood out in terms of … staff or service?

The service is simply exceptional, from the butlers who know what you want to drink before you do, to the guides who try their hardest to satisfy all wildlife wishes to the bedtime stories left on my pillow. The service at Camp Jabulani was personal, friendly and professional.

Camp Jabulani
Camp Jabulani has excellent guides

 

What stood out in terms of … accommodation?

The rooms are beautiful; each room has a glass-panelled shower that looks directly into the bush. I was lucky enough to have a room number 6, Jabulani, named after the first elephant of the herd with gorgeous bush views overlooking the currently dry riverbed with a private deck and a lovely plunge pool.

Camp Jabulani is opulent with silky textures and a raw, natural creative space. The wine cellar is a stunning feature complimented by the adjacent art gallery.

 

Camp Jabulani

 

What stood out in terms of… cuisine?

The food was simply the BEST food that I have ever encountered. The chef, Dylan, would present the menu at each meal that was filled with gastronomical delights and fresh flavours. Each delicious course was paired with prestigious wines that are hand-picked by the team to compliment the fine dining experience.

On game drives, the snacks were always gourmet, well presented and delicious.

What stood out in terms of … unique activities?

The elephants at Camp Jabulani are amazing!

Camp Jabulani received its name from an orphaned baby elephant that was found stuck in the mud at a local dam. It was brought to the owners for rehabilitation; they adopted the little elephant – along with 22 other orphaned elephants from Zimbabwe – and the lodge was built as a sanctuary for them. They are free to roam the bush around the lodge. Camp Jabulani’s focus on conservation is great!

Game drives at Camp Jabulani are exceptional

With a focus on conservation, visitors have the opportunity to learn more about the elephant’s behaviour, character traits and their incredible story. This was a unique experience that I will remember forever!

 

What was your favourite game viewing experience?

We were treated to a surprise encounter with a pangolin! We watched this rare and fascinating creature for over 20 minutes which was a first for everyone in our group!

Some of the animals that Liz saw on her game drives

What was the one magical moment that stood out to you?

I met the famous elephant Sebakye who was in the Amarula TV advert!

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