River Lodge is situated on the banks of the majestic Olifants River, largest of the lowveld rivers, with massive riverine trees, hippos, elephants and crocodiles. The magnificent Olifants River, largest of all of the lowveld rivers, flows through the northern area of Ezulwini, and it is here in the riverine forest where this luxury lodge is located. Two of the largest trees in South Africa, a sycamore fig (Ficus Sycamorus) with a diameter in excess of five meters and a leadwood tree (Combretum Imberbe) in excess of two metres in diameter, grow in our riverine forest. This region is home to Hippos, Crocodiles, Elephants and massive Riverine Trees and is an excellent venue for the avid bird watcher.

River Lodge has an exquisite entertainment area comprising a lounge, bar and perfect swimming pool, all under a large thatched roof. Relax here in welcoming deep sofas and marvel at magnificent leadwood sculptures. River Lodge offers an enormous wooden dining deck set in the riverine vegetation, which looks out over the Olifants River. We also have an elevated thatched viewing deck overlooking a massive dam frequented by elephant and other game. Superb cuisine and skilled rangers will enhance your safari and leave you with an experience of Africa which you will remember forever. River Lodge offers 6 Chalets as well as the VIP Spelati Suite The Spelati Suite has a spacious lounge, an outdoor bathroom and private deck, in addition to a king sized bed. Luxury, thatched, twin or king bed chalets, with en-suite bathrooms, accommodating a maximum of 14 guests gives a charm that only a small camp can possess.

The Spelati Suite
The luxurious Spelati Suite also has a spacious lounge, an outdoor shower and bath and private deck in addition to all the standard room facilities.

Activities at River Lodge
A day at Ezulwini's River lodge typically begins with an early morning game drive, in search of Africa's exciting fauna, followed by a sumptuous breakfast. You can then go on a ranger-guided walk through the bush and learn about game tracks and all of the little creatures. Discover how the local people use trees to make toothbrushes and toothpaste, tea and coffee, poultices, etc. Alternatively relax on a cozy leather couch, enjoying the animals at the water, and the ever present bird life in one of the top birding areas in South Africa. After a light lunch, relax on a pool lounger with a selection of wildlife books or cool off in the pool.

You then head off for the afternoon game drive which will take you deep into the bush while the rangers look for tracks. Your guide will stop for sundowners, where you can watch the sunset, sipping your favourite drink, while you wait for the nocturnal species to awaken. Once the sun has set your guides will take you into the world of the night creatures, wanting to show you the elusive as well as common species.

End the evening by tantalizing your tongue with a glass of wine whilst sitting around the camp fire, followed by a typical African Boma fire barbeque buffet dinner. And then listen carefully - when the sky is brilliant with stars and the night time sounds of wild Africa fill the air.

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