Private game reserve which means no crowds at sightings and no park restrictions.
Far from highway and city, a true African Bush Experience.
Well stocked Big 5 game reserve.
Diversity of terrain and safari options.
Powerful brand image and brand promise – the promise that you will be treated like royalty in an extraordinary destination where relaxed luxury and undivided attention is a part of each day.
Friendly staff and gracious Zulu hospitality – ensuring that you arrive as guests and leave as friends.
Voted #1 by Tripadvisor in the area, awarded Excellent Widget from Tripadvisor for 8 years.
Award-winning lodge – Top 100 Hospitality Award winner 2025, Haute Grandeur winner 2024 as well as a Good Safari nominee and finalist, World Luxury Award winner (both Global and Regional) for numerous years, and a consecutive Provincial Lilizela Award winner for several years.
Affordable rates – full board, including game drives.
Amakhosi River Spa – a luxurious retreat where tranquillity meets indulgence, with treatments using the premium Africology spa range.
A central lodge pool for family fun and a secluded rim-flow pool overlooking the Mkuze River offering a tranquil space perfect for rest and relaxation.
Exceptional Cuisine that blends gourmet creativity with authentic South African flavours created from locally sourced ingredients.
Our biggest asset is our incredible team at the lodge.
Amakhosi Lodge
Amakhosi Safari Lodge is located in the biodiverse Amakhosi Private Game Reserve in Zululand. The reserve, with its vast areas of savannah, wetlands and mountains, as well as about 12km of Mkuze River frontage, ensures continuously changing views and spectacular landscapes.
The Safari Lodge is positioned along a broad stretch of the river, its gentle flow a tranquil soundtrack punctuated by the call of the fish eagle, the twittering of birdsong and the rustle of the wind through the trees. Watch the comings and goings of game from the privacy of your deck or cool off in the rock-fringed lodge swimming pool, where the flash of the lilac-breasted roller or malachite kingfisher catches the eye. And when darkness falls, listen out for call of the fiery-necked nightjar, and the distant roar of lions.
A Perfect Blend
Authentic décor that creates a strong sense of place, combined with African fusion cuisine and prompt, attentive service, makes Amakhosi a bush lodge that’s hard to match anywhere else in Southern Africa.
Convenient Location
Located in the heart of the Zulu Kingdom, Amakhosi Safari Lodge is ideally located to incorporate a Zululand cultural experience into your itinerary – the Zulu Royal palaces are located in nearby Nongoma, making this a significantly rich cultural area.
Additionally, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, St Lucia and Sodwana Bay are a mere 2.5 hours away from the lodge and are well worth incorporating into your itinerary. The idyllic beaches of Mozambique are a few hours drive away, and Eswatini, with its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is in close proximity. Amakhosi is an ideal halfway stop between Johannesburg and Durban, and a convenient bush break enroute to the Kruger National Park and Mpumalanga.
Personal Attention
Amakhosi Safari Lodge gives new meaning to a ‘royal’ bush experience, where warm smiles and personal attention take centre stage. From the welcoming handtowels, sherry and smiles that greet guests, to the relaxed luxury of the six well-appointed chalets and two private Honeymoon Suites nestled alongside along the Mkuze River, each detail is thoughtfully designed with you in mind.
Privacy and Luxury
Each Honeymoon Suite is angled for the ultimate privacy and has a separate lounge, a luxuriously appointed bathroom and a bedroom opening onto a viewing deck overlooking the river, and with a personal plunge pool. The Private House is an exclusive use home away from home that’s located a short distance away from the main lodge. This two-bedroomed hidden gem offers luxury and privacy, in your own piece of paradise.
Relaxing at the River Spa
Unwind, revitalize and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul in the unique African surrounding of the Amakhosi River Spa. Here guests can enjoy holistic beauty rituals; rejuvenating massages and soothing treatments by Africology, designed to relax the body and bring harmony to the soul while preserving youthfulness and enhancing health and vitality.
The Big 5 and their Smaller Friends
This is Big 5 territory and what you don’t view from your deck, expert guides invariably will deliver on dawn and dusk game drives. Conversation around the fire at night is of close encounters with lionesses and playful cubs, sand-bathing elephants and streaking cheetah. But equally engrossing are the adventurous encounters with smaller creatures, from delicate bark spiders to glossy dung beetles, and your guide’s anecdotes about the trees and medicinal plants of the reserve.
Depending on the season, other activities you can choose from include bush walks, frogging safaris as well as fishing and cultural excursions.
5-Star Cuisine
Most evenings centre on the beautifully plated, delicious bush dinners created in the Amakhosi kitchen. Start the evening with pre-dinner drinks around the fire, be entertained by traditional Zulu dance and melodious song and listen to the sounds of the night. Guests linger contentedly on the expansive lodge deck and reconnect with nature through the sounds of the bush, enjoy friendly banter around the bar, or relax contentedly around the fire pit.
Amakhosi Lodge
Amakhosi is located in a blend of savannah, wetlands and mountains. The Safari Lodge is situated on the banks of Zululand’s Mkuze River in Amakhosi private game reserve.
A Perfect Blend
Artistic décor, African fusion cuisine and prompt attentive service, makes Amakhosi a bush lodge difficult to match elsewhere in Southern Africa.
Quite a Neighbourhood
St. Lucia Wetlands and Sodwana Bay are a mere 2.5 hours away from the lodge and are well worth incorporating into your itinerary. Mozambique and Swaziland is also in close proximity.
Rediscover yourself and the richness of life in ‘The Place of Kings’. Situated past Pongola on the road to Nongoma, where King Goodwill Zwelethini has his palaces,
Personal Attention Rules
Amakhosi Safari Lodge gives majestic new meaning to a royal bush experience and welcome. Personal attention rules, from the warm hand-towels, sherry and smiles that greet guests, to the plush comfort of the six palatial thatched chalets and two Umntwana Honeymoon Suites strung along the Mkuze River.
Privacy and Luxury
Each Honeymoon Suite is angled for the ultimate privacy and has a separate lounge, a seductive step-up double bath with candles, and a bedroom opening onto a viewing deck overlooking the river, some set with a personal plunge pool. “IsiGodlo” (meaning “chiefs residence) This private home is Exclusive and located a leopard’s leap away from the main lodge, this hidden gem accommodates four deserving guests and offers you a share of paradise.
Relaxing at the River Spa
Relax in your suite or in a rock-fringed lodge swimming pool and watch the flash of the Lilac-breasted Roller or Malachite Kingfisher, but when darkness falls, listen for the roar of the lions . . . You can also unwind, revitalize and rejuvenate your body, mind and soul in the unique African surrounding of our new Amakhosi river SPA, here guests can enjoy holistic body, skin and beauty rituals; rejuvenating massages and soothing treatments by Africology, these are designed to relax the body and bring harmony to the spirit while preserving youthfulness and enhancing health and vitality.
The Big 5 and Their Smaller Friends
This is Big 5 territory and what you don’t view from your deck, expert guides invariably will deliver on dawn and dusk game drives. Conversation around the fire at night is of close encounters with lionesses and playful cubs, sand-bathing elephants and streaking cheetah. But equally engrossing are the adventurous guide’s encounters with smaller creatures, from delicate bark spiders to glossy dung beetles; and anecdotes about the trees and medicinal plants of the reserve.
Depending on the season, you can choose from fishing, walking, cultural and frogging safaris.
5 Star Cuisine
Most evenings, centre on the 5 Star plated bush dinners produced in the Amakhosi kitchen. Guests linger contentedly on the expansive lodge deck and reconnect themselves with nature through the sounds of the bush, then retire to the friendliness of the bar, or doze around a fire pit, where traditional Zulus and later, fireflies dance.
General Information
A Unique Location
This biodiverse paradise is positioned in the heart of northern Zululand within the Amakhosi Private Game Reserve..
Located near the Swaziland border, 40km west of Pongola.
Approximately five hours by road from Johannesburg and four hours by road from Durban.
Relaxed Luxury
Be enthralled by warm smiles, fragrant hand towels, and undivided attention where gracious Zulu hospitality and relaxed luxury is an everyday reality.
Accommodating 16 adults in understated elegance.
Children of all ages welcome, however children under 6 are not allowed on game drives unless prior arrangement is made, and a private vehicle is booked (extra charge) and only subject to availability.
Please note due to safety reasons no children under 3 will be allowed on any game drive, even if private vehicle is available.
Accommodation
Welcome to our magical slice of Zululand, where relaxed luxury, friendly staff and gracious Zulu hospitality ensure that you’re treated like royalty throughout your stay.
River Suites
Six luxury suites, of which two have an interchangeable lounge which can be transformed into a second bedroom to accommodate children.
Floor-to-ceiling windows, private viewing deck with open views across the Mkuze River.
Air-conditioned lounge and bedroom, bathroom with bath, shower, double vanity and luxurious amenities and bathrobes, plus a separate toilet.
A safe, fully stocked mini-bar and tea/coffee making facilities.
Outside shower
Honeymoon Suites
Two honeymoon suites.
High ceilings, glass walls, and open-plan design with spacious deck, private splash pool and hammock.
A safe, fully stocked mini-bar and tea/coffee making facilities.
Private House
2 Bedroom Private House
High thatched ceilings and open-plan design with spacious deck, private swimming pool and outside entertainment area.
Spectacular views from the elevated deck.
Air-conditioned lounge, 2 bedroom and bathroom with separate shower, toilet, bathrobes and luxurious amenities.
Spacious open-plan lounge and dining room area.
Coffee/team making facilities.
Mini bar.
Cuisine
Where flavours offer a combination of an African fusion style with European flair.
Brunch
Buffet style comprising a hot and cold smorgasbord, with only the freshest ingredients.
High Tea
Traditionally served on the veranda with platters of delectable finger foods, hearty salads, delicious dips, and of course scrumptious mini desserts. Along with chilled homemade lemonade and iced tea.
Dinner
An elegant candle-lit, multi-course menu accompanied by a selection of South African wines. On alternative evenings and (weather permitting) a traditional dinner may also be enjoyed in the open-air under the stars.
Lodge Facilities
Feel the touch of Amakhosi’s gracious Zulu hospitality with the splendour of the bush.
Dining room.
Inside lounge.
Bar.
Swimming pool with comfortable deckchairs.
Library.
Curio shop corner.
Satellite television.
Central e-mail facilities (additional cost).
Phone facilities (additional cost).
Wi-Fi.
Amakhosi River Spa
Relax the body and soul and bring harmony to the spirit.
Couples treatment room.
Africology range.
Snack bar.
Fully equipped fitness room.
Tranquility area, adults only.
Infinity pool.
Sun garden.
Showers and change room.
Activities
Life in the bush offers an exhilarating, adventurous and memorable experience, interspersed with well-deserved moments of relaxation.
Game Drives
The option of two safari game drives, one in the early morning and the other late afternoon, allows guests the opportunity to watch the sun rise over the Zululand hills and to appreciate the reserve’s wildlife, from the Big 5 to antelopes, zebra, giraffe and a myriad of birds. To learn about the region’s plants and local Zulu traditions, to sip G&Ts as the sun sets and to search for shy nocturnal animals. If required, guests can book a private vehicle at an additional cost.
Bush Walks
Another way to appreciate the fauna and flora of the reserve in a more up-close and personal way is on a bush walk. This includes a combination of bush walking and game viewing and are offered after your morning game drive. The duration and distance of the walk will vary depending on your fitness level. This activity is at an additional charge.
Seasonal Frogging Safaris (Nov – Feb)
This activity is very depended on our rainy season. Set out as night descends to wade through the knee-deep water of dams and waterholes in search of 33 different species of frogs that hide amongst the reeds. With headlamp and gum boots, as many as 15 to 20 of these little amphibians may be found in an outing. This activity needs to be pre-booked and is at an additional charge.
Rates Include:
Rates are subject to change without prior notice and are quoted pppn sharing. Most major credit cards are accepted; however no cheque payments are acceptable.
Accommodation.
Brunch, High Tea, Dinner.
2 game drives per day.
Transfers from the private landing airstrip to the Lodge.
Rates Exclude:
Amakhosi Private Game Reserve conservation levies, charged on behalf of the reserve at R300.00 per room per night, Transport to and from Amakhosi Safari Lodge, Gratuities, items of a personal nature, telephone, drinks, laundry and additional activities.
General
From the moment you arrive, feel the touch of Amakhosi’s gracious Zulu hospitality with the splendour of the bush.
VOLTAGE: 220V SA.
SEASONS: Summer: October to April. | Winter: May to September.
HEALTH: Amakhosi is situated in a low risk malaria area; however, please consult your doctor for further advice.
What to Bring
We suggest a warm jersey or windbreaker for early morning game drives, suntan lotion (preferably SPF 30 or higher), a cap or hat, binoculars and camera.
Warm jersey or windbreaker
A cap or hat
Suntan lotion
Binoculars
Camera
Amakhosi is situated in a low-risk Malaria area; however, please consult your doctor for advice. Basic first aid can be administered by a staff member at the lodge.
How to get to Amakhosi
PLEASE DO NOT FOLLOW YOUR GPS DIRECTIONS WHEN DRIVING TO AMAKHOSI; INSTEAD FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS BELOW TO GET TO THE LODGE.
From Johannesburg (5 1/2 hours)
Exit from Johannesburg on the Witbank N4
Take the Middelburg exit to Hendrina
Continue towards Ermelo on the N11
Continue towards Piet Retief on the N2
Stay on the N2 North until you reach Pongola
From Durban (4 hours)
Exit from Durban to Stanger on the N2 North
Staying on the N2 North, continue past Empangeni, past Mkuze to Pongola
DO NOT Take the R69 Candover turnoff from the N2, continue all the way to Pongola
From Johannesburg (6 – 7 hours)
From Johannesburg take the N4 towards Witbank
Take the Middelburg exit to Hendrina, continue towards Ermelo on the N11
Continue through Piet Retief on the N2 to Pongola
Once you get to Pongola
In Pongola take the R66 towards Nongoma, continue for approx 20kms
Turn right onto the R69 to Vryheid/Louwersburg, continue for 2 kms, turn left onto a dirt road at the brown signboard “Amakhosi Safari Lodge”.
Arrive at a guarded security gate, and once signed in, follow the dirt road through the reserve for approx. 16km – you will go through two further electric sliding gates where all you need do is to push the button to open the gate. Amakhosi signage is well displayed along the route to the lodge.
Or Fly in Comfort & Style
Why drive when you can fly? Make your journey to Amakhosi Safari Lodge as extraordinary as your stay by flying to the Pongola Airstrip, conveniently located near the lodge (approx. 40km). Our team will collect you from the airstrip, ensuring a seamless and stress-free transfer.
Flight Options:
Fly from Johannesburg, Durban, or Cape Town to Pongola airstrip.
Or for an extra touch of luxury, arrive in style with a private helicopter transfer, directly to Amakhosi Safari Lodge Helipad – there is nothing like the view of the stunning Zululand landscape when flying in!
With flight options available, you’ll spend less time traveling and more time soaking up the magic of Amakhosi Safari Lodge.
Contact us for more information, pricing, or to book your flight-inclusive package.
Terms & Conditions
Rates
All published rates are quoted per adult or child per night inclusive of Value Added Tax (VAT) in South African Rands.
Amakhosi Safari Lodge reserves the right to amend any advertised rates without any prior consent or notice.
Reservations
All reservation requests, amendments and cancellations must be made in writing to Amakhosi Safari Lodge by e-mail (res@amakhosi.com).
Deposits
Deposit of 10% required on booking full payment before arrival. T & C’s apply.
Payments can be made using any of the following methods:DIRECT BANKING – NEDBANK
NEDBANK STELLENBOSCH BRANCH CODE 149 821 ACCOUNT NO. 1498070515 SWIFT CODE NED SZ AJJ BOOKING NUMBER TO BE USED AS REFERENCE
Please email the deposit slip with the booking number as reference to: res@amakhosi.com. The payment needs to clear before arrival.
CREDIT CARD PAYMENT
We welcome Visa and Master cards, Reservations will send a credit card authorization form to be faxed back to the Lodge on fax no. +27 (0)34 414 1172.
Child Policy
Children 0 – 5 years free of charge
Children 6 – 12 years 50% of the sharing adult rate, if sharing with adults
Children 13 years and above, full adult rate accommodated in a separate suite
Children under 6 are not allowed on game drives unless a private vehicle is booked at an additional cost quoted on request and subject to availability please note (no children under the age of 3 are allowed for safety reasons even if private vehicle is booked)
Babysitting facilities are available should you wish to make use of them, at R85 per hour
Full T&C are available on request
Cancellation Policy
30 – 15 Days before arrival, 50% cancellation fee
14 – 8 Days before arrival, 75% cancellation fee
7 – 0 days before arrival, 100%
All cancellations must be done in writing
Tour Leaders or drivers
Tour guides or drivers accompanying their guests can be accommodated in our driver/guide accommodation facilities – please enquire at our reservations (email: res@amakhosi.com / tel. +27 (0)34 414 1157) for a quote on this facility.
Please do not hesitate to contact us for any further information or enquiries
