Jabulani

Jabulani

The story of Jabulani began with a baby orphaned elephant. Left at just 4 months by the rest of his herd. The tiny creature was on death's door when found (stuck in a silt dam). He was sent to wildlife visionary, Lente Roode, to be nurtured back to health. This process took almost a year. By the time he was ready to be re-introduced to the bush, he had become firmly entrenched as a member of his human family. Their attempts to send him back to the wild failed.

 

News then reached Lente Roode of 12 Zimbabwean elephants whose landowner's farm was earmarked for expropriation. Their future looked very bleak. So began the rescue operation to bring these massive creatures to safety in South Africa - a mission which took all of 3 weeks to execute. It was with amazement that Lente stood back and witnessed the near-miraculous meeting of Jabulani with the herd – he was almost immediately adopted by Tokwe (the matriarch) and had finally found “his kin”. But what now? Taking care of 12 elephants is no easy feat (mentioning nothing of the costs). Left with the responsibility and custody of these magnificent but overwhelming creatures, the next logical step was in the creation of a camp to support them. But no ordinary camp would do…. This camp would have to be the very best of the best – 5 star luxury, superior service, magnificent cuisine, very intimate – all harmoniously blending with the African bush. And so Jabulani was born.

 

The safari camp boasts six ultra-luxurious and spacious suites, each with a private deck, plunge pool, fireplace, well-stocked private bar and air-conditioning. En-suite facilities include a large free-standing stone bath, double vanity and glass-enclosed shower with a view over the adjacent natural environment. Suites are structured to ensure absolute privacy and exclusivity. The Zindoga Villa is Jabulani’s most recent addition. It has been designed for guests who prefer the more exclusive touch, for smaller groups, or for families travelling with younger children. A completely self-contained facility, the Zindoga Villa is a palatial replica of Jabulani’s style and elemental premise.

 

Elephant-back safaris make for an exciting and novel way of game viewing. Seated on comfortable canvas-covered saddles behind an experienced handler, guests are able to view the animals from close proximity as the gentle giants move silently and in single file through the bush. Game viewing can also be enjoyed in open vehicles and at sunset include sundowners in the bush. Meal times are a sensory feast. Served in style, all dishes are a work of art and combine sublime flavors and textures. From lavish breakfasts and gourmet picnics to formal-plated or riverbed dinners, meals are truly a delight. Situated on a reserve that is home to the Big Five and a myriad of other animals and plants, there are unequaled opportunities to experience the tranquility of the African bush.