“Whether your interests lie in game viewing, birding, fishing or even just chilling – sipping at your wine, counting the warthogs as they trot in and out of the lodge waterhole, your every need will be fulfilled, your inner soul rejuvenated during your stay at this unique destination in northern Zululand.”
Esikhotheni forms part of Pongola Game Reserve South, bordering on the famous Jozini Lake where the infamous tiger fish has eluded countless fishermen. The western boundary of the 2000ha farm extends into the Rooirante where trophy nyala, kudu, waterbuck and impala walk in carefree abundance.
For avid bird-watchers, this is paradise, as the vast ecological diversity lends itself to a broad spectrum of bird species. At the Esikhotheni Private Camp alone, over 140 species have been noted, including the gorgeous bushshrike and a giant eagle owl.
Esikhotheni is home to four of the big five, along with a range of other game. On occasion, guests have been lucky enough to witness elephant at the waterhole 100m from the Private Camp.
Esikhotheni boasts two unique lodging facilities:
Esikhotheni Private Camp: Consists of a large elevated deck, situated on the Mpeti Stream, able to comfortably accommodate six people (either sleeping inside the wood cabin or on the deck – an experience not to be missed). The open rondavel (round hut)kitchen is fully fitted for the self-catering guest and is serviced during the day. Firewood is supplied.
Whilst the very unique bathroom, situated away from the deck and partially surrounded by bush, boasts five star facilities, the sense of ‘bush belonging’ is overwhelming with the huge windows allowing one to observe (or be observed by the resident sunbirds), transforming the most mundane of activities into an unforgettable experience.
Esikhotheni Private Camp is ideal for those who want to be left alone to ‘vegetate and recharge’, and yet guests will not be abandoned.
Esikhotheni Luxury Lodge: Is nestled in the unspoilt foothills of the Rooirante, offering unmatched exclusivity. It boasts seven luxury chalets each appointed with en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, mini-bar and deck with awesome views. All chalets are situated in a position guaranteeing full privacy to guests.
The main deck consists of a tastefully decorated lounge, dining area and Tusker’s Bar where ice-cold drinks are always available. The exterior deck constructed around the enormous shady Marula tree, makes for perfect afternoon relaxation. Guests may also choose to laze around in the unique rock swimming pool. Both the deck and pool areas offer spectacular views of the lake and the Lebombo Mountains beyond adorned with a spectrum of colours by the setting sun.
Within the boundaries of Esikhotheni are numerous activities to keep visitors occupied. For more information. Small intimate functions such as weddings, conferences or teambuilding exercises can be catered for – simply make enquiries as every effort is made to accommodate needs.
Activities at Esikhotheni:
- Game drives: Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and home-made rusks while the Heuglin Robin serenades the earth awake, or sip your sundowner overlooking the Mpeti river bed – hoping to catch a glimpse of the resident elusive leopard;
- Game-viewing on horseback: A must for those wanting to experience game viewing with a difference;
- Boat cruises: Along the edge of the third largest freshwater lake in South Africa or down the picturesque gorge;
- Fishing: Tiger, bass and carp are in abundance in the lake;
- Walking trails: Guided or unguided, easy or stringent; and
- Bush breakfasts: Picnic brunches at the lake can be arranged.
Within the boundaries of Pongola Game Reserve South are elephant and rhino viewing opportunities and luxury boat cruises. Within close proximity are Mkuze Game Reserve, Thembe Elephant Park and Sodwana Bay.
