From the moment we drove in to camp to the second when we left, we were treated like family. I cannot say how attentive Nicole (our camp manager) and the rest of the staff were. Our room was just perfect, and it was so nice for the staff to place us next to the main camp as I was the only female guest at camp during our stay. Our game drives were just unforgettable experiences. I cannot praise our ranger Byron any more than I will now. He was extremely knowledgeable and never bored with our questions. Massively attentive at all times and always making us feel safe even when lions were feet away. He always showed this incredible confidence that made me, the only woman in the vehicle, feel extremely safe and well taken care of at all times. Though way younger than we are, his demeanor makes one feel as if he has been doing this for years. Oh, and always so chivalrous... he always applies the "ladies first" rule. Judas was also a fantastic tracker, and thanks to him (and Byron as well), we had great, AMAZING, sightings all the way to the last game drive we did... ahhh that leopard sighting... unforgettable. All sightings, indeed, unique and memorable.
June 2010
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What had started very badly, us being stranded for 2 hours in the smallest most boring Skukuza airport because of tons of rain preventing us to land closer, transformed itself into a lifetime (I hope not as we will be back) experience. Thank you for the most fabulous stay, for the granite suite upgrade, the wine tasting, the treehouse lunch, and for giving us the best ranger and tracker ever!
We still have tears in our eyes when we think about those 4 incredible days and nights we spent with you, those 8 or 9 safaris filled with sun and rain, laughter and excitement. Congratulations to you for having such a good team of wonderful people whose smiles we kept in our hearts.
May 2010
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hello from Toronto, Canada. My wife Donna and I, part of a group of 12, had the pleasure of recently spending 4 days at Founders Camp. The long travel from Canada was arduous. The staff at Londolozi excelled in their mission and exceeded our expectations by a wide margin. The facilites were first rate. Everyone, without exception, at the Camp was extremely knowledgable and unfailingly polite. No task was too trivial for the staff, and --always a smile. The experience begins the moment the aircraft opens the door upon landing, and never stops throughout the stay. Special thanks to Rory for his courtesy, kindness and management skills. He constantly made us feel at home, halfway around the world from our home. There is no task or request too trivial or small for him. Our hats go off to our guide Richard, who made the trip very worthwhile. His vast knowledge of the flora and fauna, and his patience and persistence in seeking out game and created one fabulous experience after another for our group during the entire duration. Our tracker Oxide continuously surprised us with his ability to locate wildlife, seemingly out of thin air. Every turn in the road, held promises of a new adventure. It was as if these gentlemen were on first name terms with the animals! Both of the guides Richard and Michael had the persistence, patience and worked hard to ensure that we had the background knowledge, perspective (and the photos) to truly appreciate and remember the trip by. If it was not for those photos nobody here would believe our tales from the wilderness! Londolozi should be particularly proud of it's people. We would have no hesitation recommending Londolozi to all of our friends, and, despite the 20 hours of flying time from Toronto, would not hesitate to visit again.
April 2010
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My trip was wonderful. Tree Camp was fantastic - the suite was lovely and the food was superb. Callie and her staff really looked after us. Nothing was too much trouble. And the game drives were totally amazing. Adam and James worked so hard to make sure we saw as much wildlife as possible. Adam told wonderful stories and could answer any question about the animals and plants (plus tell us all about the stars and planets) and James seemed to conjure elephants and lions out of thin air. They make a great team. And I think we were usually first out and last back on the drives so they really put in the hours. Sorry about the excess of superlatives but it was such a great experience. Nothing could beat a stay at Londolozi. Great memories and photos. It was a wonderful trip - I will be back.
March 2010
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When our plane landed on the Londolozi airstrip we were immediately greeted by a big handsome man who called himself Thomas and said that we would be our guide for the next three days. The short drive to the Granite Camp was a surprise since the drive at our last two camps took over 45 minutes. As we pulled into the lodge entrance we were welcomed by a beautiful, smiling young woman named Jacqui. No sooner where we out of the vehicle and a cool towel and a refreshing drink were placed in our hands by a handsome young man named Cry and all this in less than 10 minutes after landing. Room 2 is a shock to the human senses. The setting is by far one of the most spectacular ones we have experienced in Africa. I went out onto the rocks with only a white bath towel on after my shower to take in the vista. To my left I noticed a large Elephant grazing it the tall reeds across from the main deck at Granite Lodge. Pat and I want to personally praise all of the Londolozi Granite Lodge team that took care of us during our stay. In particular Thomas Imrie - Our Guide extraordinary Jacqui Hemphil- Our Hostess without compare Jerry- Our Tracker who could find any leopard Cry- Our waiter that told great care of us Eric and Shorty- Chefs beyond compare And all the people behind the scenes that did their jobs perfectly and were literally invisible. Pat and I will recommend Londolozi to anyone that asks what we think is the best place to stay in South Africa. We miss all those wonderful new friends we made at Londolozi. It was like leaving family!
February 2010
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The extraordinary effectiveness of Chris and Jeremiah at locating the positions of the wild game is tremendous. Both of them have an amazing breadth/depth of knowledge of animals (big and small), birds, plants, trees, grasses as well as a great sense of humour. They made this a memory bank experience.
January 2010
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Everything from start to finish was exceptional. Everyone was so friendly and anticipated every possible need. They listened to everything we said in passing and then took our comments and created amazing experiences for us. Our honeymoon was the most wonderful experience we could imagine and that is largely due to your amazing staff. Thank you so much for everything.
December 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I cannot rate Byron and Judas highly enough. There knowledge, friendliness and hospitality was outstanding. The calmness and closeness to nature has been a real pleasure I will never forget. November 2009 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We had the MOST amazing trip. It really was one of the best adventures that I have ever had and I have been lucky enough to be all over the world. Londolozi was so great and all of the staff were so helpful and friendly. We saw the big 5 + 2. The cheetah and wild dogs sightings were amazing, but I actually loved the hippos the most!! October 2009 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We can’t stop thinking about it, and most particularly our time at Londolozi. Carl and I have decided that it’s much like the experience of falling in love and being separated from the new object of your affection. We look at the time here and make the mental conversion to S. African time, and wonder what everyone is doing (“Oh, they’re going on afternoon game drive RIGHT NOW”). We can’t stop talking about it to anyone who will listen. We keep looking at the pictures. It was truly a transformative trip for us, and I can’t thank you enough for making it run so smoothly. September 2009
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We were just over Londolozi at Founders Camp room 2; and have to tell you those were the best vacations ever. Rory is excellent, Byron the best ranger and Sandros is also great. We could only stay with you for 3 days, cause you were all booked, so we moved to another reserve, but Londolozi is for sure the best. I cried when we had to go and still do everytime I think of Londolozi and the nice staff. Congrats from the crazy Mexicans, we will be visiting you again in 2011.
Mariana Corona (Mexico) August 2009
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Our Londolozi visit has come and gone, but amazing memories will be with us for ever.We loved every minute of it and slotted back into the comfort and natural beauty we'd so enjoyed the last time we were there.
For the boys, it was simply bliss. The entire team have imprinted memories that will be with them for a life time. Graeme, Like, Jess, Rory and Edward (and the important, invisible others) were simply wonderful people and went out of their way to make things very special. They all contributed to making reaffirming Londolozi as a unique and simply outstanding experience.
Andries Breytenbach July 2009
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Londolozi to me is one of, if not the, best lodges in the Sabi Sands. It has a great atmosphere, history and the animal experience is strong. Food at Tree Camp was excellent and the service standard high. As you may recall the guiding experience during my stay was exceptional (Richard/Judas). We did the accommodation tour across the whole property and in that flash I was impressed with all your offerings
Mike Ross June 2009
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Londolozi was wonderful, the ranger went out of his way to be helpful, doing over and above and taking us out on a drive when we arrived to see a leopard and her two cubs. We were upgraded to Granite Lodge and we had a really super time - will definitely return here but for longer, 1 night was far too short!
Ms Greenspan June 2009
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"My wife Jan & I have just returned to Melbourne after spending three weeks in South Africa. We visited several other game reserves during our trip, but without a doubt the highlight of our trip was the time we spent in Tree Camp at Londolozi.
All of the staff there were great and we felt very special being there.We were particularly impressed with the Safari team of James Kydd as guide and Freddy as tracker, not only did they share with us the delights of the reserve but they took the time to be still and let the beauty and serenity of the bush surround us.
After a morning game drive James said, after dropping off a couple that were departing, that he thought something was developing with a pride of lions we had been watching so he and Freddy took us back out to see what was happening.Later that day we saw the pride stalk and kill a Warthog. What an amazing experience which would not have been possible without the knowledge and willingness of your team to put in the extra effort.
We will long remember the wonderful experience and will certainly tell our friends and acquaintances how great the Londolozi experience is.
Best regards until we visit again,
Ian & Jan Biram" Australia, May 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tree Camp. Wow! What an experience. The development of Tree Camp goes beyond bricks and mortar since my last lucky visit to Londolozi. It shines through in all of your enthusiasm, sincerity and above all, professionalism. We had an absolutely marvellous time and I certainly will take back some happy memories and photos for clients and like to share. The difference is in the detail – all of you.
Whether it be Kerrin's interest, Sersant’s omnipresence, Jeremiah’s uncanny abilities or Chris’ knowledge and involvement the common thread is that each individual brings their own “uniqueness” to the client. That is the difference and now that I’ve felt it, I think it will be that much easier to convert – especially in times where travel budgets are more closely scrutinized.
Lianne Sowdon May 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hi Londolozi Family
We could not let another day go by without saying thank you so much for giving us the most incredible holiday we could ever have imagined. Everything happened so seamlessly - from being met at the parking lot by the ever friendly and welcoming staff, the non-stop food (especially the homemade lemonade and all the vegetarian food) served by knowledgeable and bubbly chefs, the superb rangers and trackers (Sandros & James and all the exciting bundu bashing and fantastic game viewing) as well as the wonderful room. We can't forget the ever-attentive waiters who were always there but never pushy as well as the housekeeping staff whom we never saw, but who kept our room in immaculate condition. We're also aware of the behind the scenes people like the chefs, dishwashers and gardeners without whom things couldn't run as effortlessly as they did. We were amazed at how the staff remembered our names - how did they do it, we can't! Our photos and video are amazing and will be shown to anyone who will watch - and we'll watch them go green with envy! Thanks to Kate and Witness, Dave & Shan and all the staff who made this such an unforgettable experience.
Gill, Nic & Jacky Hannants May 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Everyone fell in love with your lodge and was a real highlight for the whole group. The things that came through were your excellent service and sense of fun, a warm family atmosphere, superb guides, delicious food and divine accommodation. One of the agents has already given us a request for the Granite Suites! So a big hit!
We loved the game viewing too and we were so lucky to see your favourite leopards, that was a real treat. A stunning place with stunning people so a big thank you again for a wonderful and memorable stay.
ALLY BURNETT May 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We had the most wonderful time in Londolozi two weeks ago. Whilst all our trips have always been wonderful, somehow this experience surpassed all those for a number of reasons. Namely the experiences we had on our game rides, Richard, our Game Ranger, the green vegetation, the incredible three experiences eating in the boma, bush and the last one in the camp. Need we say that the staff were as friendly, helpful and very efficient as always.
The excitement and experience at Londolozi never wanes no matter how many times you visit! We look forward to our next visit in September.
Leon and Beverley Cohen South Africa, May 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To everyone at Granite and everywhere else – we had the most wonderful thoroughly spoiling time – a huge thank you to you all. We quite forgot to fill in our feedback, but if we can give about 1000% to Jacquie, Cry, Thoko. Nomsa, Jaco, Sandros and Richard that’s what we’d like to do!
Bruce & Pippa Steele-Gray South Africa, March 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We would just like to thank you sincerely for a most amazing stay at Londolozi this weekend. It was just simply beyond expectation and we cannot extend enough gratitude for the way in which we were received and treated. It was definitely one of our most memorable weekends ever. Everyone went completely out of their way to make us feel comfortable and not want for anything – in fact we certainly got much much more!!
Londolozi has really come to the fore since being placed back in your personal care. The lodge is shining, the staff are happy as can be and the service delivery is exceptional. We loved the décor and the feel of all the lodges and honestly believe that Londolozi is once again a leader. Everything was special – the food, rooms, game drives and the staff.
Please extend our thanks to all concerned and we wish you all much love, joy and happiness.
Warmest regards
Steve Ellis March 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just a short note to say what a wonderful time I had at your beautiful property. Not only were all the camp accommodations stunning but, I found the game drives were certainly the most informative and enjoyable (James & Freddy, what a great team! I learned more in the first 5 mins of their drive than in all the others put together).
Your staff were delightful, welcoming and made me feel like part of the family. As someone who travels considerably, this was a very welcome change from other resort/hotel experiences.
What impressed me the most, however, was your vision for conservation and community development/enrichment. I truly believe that your model is the new standard for high-end travel and hope others will follow your inspiring lead. I have been singing your praises upon my arrival home and will certainly recommend your property & lifestyle to our incentive clients.
As an aside, I will definitely make a point of returning myself!
Allison Frame March 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"This was the best game reserve we have visited. It has a wonderful conservation philosophy. It was a Garden of Eden - the range and quantity of animals, birds, butterflies and flora was superb - we felt spiritually restored. The game drives were well managed with skilled and knowledgeable rangers and trackers, and there were never more than 2 vehicles at any sighting. We saw leopards every day. Food and accommodation were excellent. "
March 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Once upon a time I visited paradise.....the people were genuine....the animals wild.....the trees talked.....Londolozi the place of peace with a guarantee to recharge your soul within 4 hours! You rock! From your forever fan.
Jane Willis-Schoeman SA, March 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Dear all,
Thank you all for allowing us to join you on Monday for the wonderful leopard & lunch.
It was very kind of you to allow us to bring Olivia & Hannah…
For Olivia to see that beautiful leopard was a real milestone! It is something I have dreamed of doing.
The first mammal that Olivia & Hannah have seen at Londolozi is the biggest male leopard that I have ever seen!
Thank you again
With lots of love from Olivia, Hannah, Linda & Pete" March 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I just wanted to take a brief moment to again say thanks to both Chris and Jeremiah for making our trip to Londolozi such a special one. It was our 4th trip and we have never enjoyed the guest/ranger experience as much as we did this time. Whether it was taking us into the bush, helping Tracy with her photography, or avoiding the spiders for Sam, you were always willing to go the extra mile. We loved it all and hope we will see you again on our 5th trip!
Graham Hampton February 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just a short note to say thank you so much for arranging my trip to Londolozi! It was absolutely outstanding in every way. Firstly my clients just loved Tree Camp as they always do. Tom their guide greeted Lily like a long lost friend as he had guided them a few years ago and she was blown away and so enjoyed their time with him. Apart from the monkeys at the pool giving them some grief they were absolutely happy with everything and Kerrin was fantastic.
All the lodges are looking fabulous and each has its own special feel. I am so glad I went as it’s been a long time since I was there and it helps so much to see all the different lodges you have. I think the most amazing thing for me was the absolute amazing energy at Londolozi, you can feel it everywhere. I have not stopped talking about it and have chatted to a few of our agents who were most interested to hear my comments, and some loved the Yoga idea - which I think is great!
The rooms at Granite are wonderful; it was such a pleasure to stay there with my own private pool as it was so hot!! The food was outstanding, light and tasty for lunch and dinner a real treat!
Will always recommend Londolozi now and thanks to everyone!
Tessa Redman February 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It truly was a very memorable visit and we really loved the feeling and warmth of Londolozi.
From the moment that we arrived meeting up with Julius who had been my ranger a few years back at Lebombo, then Jackie, Cry and Like, we felt at home and felt very special. We saw much better game at Londolozi than at the other lodge we visited.
So, thanks so much for your great hospitality
Avril Bransky California, February 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What an incredible experience for my family! You and your extended family treated our family much the same and we will always be grateful for your staff’s service, hospitality, and always-wanting-to-please attitude. With efforts like yours and those of your team members, your family business will no doubt extend to the fifth generation.
Jack Haddad NYC, January 2009
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
