Clinton Dean embarks on a safari in Hluhluwe and comes face to face with a cheetah.
Anyone who knows me knows that I am a safari enthusiast. A few days in the bush and I am one happy chap.
I had visited Emdoneni Lodge before, at the height of the pandemic, but felt giddy with excitement exploring this hidden gem, this time without a mask.
We set off around midday, maneuvering through the traffic and taking in the scenery along the route. KZN’s rugged coastline offers a glorious view; however, I’d recommend that you focus on the road if you’re driving as the potholes are plentiful.
Check-in
We arrived a few hours later. I stepped out of the car and was met by the team with fresh hand towels and a refreshing welcome drink.
One of the staff members escorted us to our chalet for the next two nights. The chalet is located close to the pool, perfect for those dips during the blistering, humid weather.
Our 4-sleeper chalet boasts 2 rooms, one with a king-sized bed and the other with twin beds. There is a lounge and seating area with tea and coffee-making facilities and a dining area.
There is a separate bathroom, and my favourite, an outside shower. I particularly enjoyed the hammock for lazy days with a book or an afternoon nap.
I won’t lie; as we are here for a summer break, I was apprehensive in case any snakes fell from the tree.
World-class Cuisine
After a quick change, we headed for dinner. Tonight’s dinner was a 3-course feast set in the garden. The garden was decorated with lights wrapped around the trees and candles. Our waiter took our order and brought our meals promptly.
The food at Emdoneni is delicious. On my first trip here in 2020, the chef prepared some of the best pizzas I’ve eaten. My sister still raves about it to this day.
Tonight’s menu didn’t feature pizza, but a creamy butternut soup, kingklip served with fondant potato, veggies, and a lemon buttery sauce, and apple tart for dessert.
All meals were delicious. We enjoyed some hot chocolate under the summer sky before retiring for the evening.
The next night, we indulged in the indoor buffet, filled with Zulu performances that livened the mood.
Emdoneni Lodge staff are very attentive to your dietary requirements, ensuring that there are pescatarian options available.
Nature’s Calling
After breakfast the next day, I worked off the extra calories taking a scenic walk around the property. There are many walking trails that you can enjoy, offering grand views of towering fig trees, shy nyala, and singing birds. I recommend taking a few images during the walk as there are plenty of backdrops.
I spent the next two hours on the hammock devouring a New York Times Best Seller before our cheetah conservation tour.
Meet Moya
Emdoneni Lodge’s Cat Conservation Project aims to educate visitors about the cat species and is trying to rehabilitate as many cheetahs, caracals, servals, and African Wildcats as possible.
Visitors have the opportunity to walk into a cheetah enclosure where they will meet a male cheetah named Moya.
Unfortunately, his friend Juba passed away recently. Moya, who cannot survive in the wild, loves the camera and doesn’t mind posing for a few pictures with guests, all within a safe distance. No TOUCHING or PETTING is allowed. All guests need to keep a two-meter distance from the cat.
I recreated the picture I took four years ago, and Moya was on his best behavior.
Our tour was in time for feeding. We got to see the animals in action as they jumped up for their meal.
The tour is informative; the staff are respectful to the animals, and the lodge is doing fantastic work to rehabilitate.
Unfortunately, no one under the age of 16 is allowed to enter the enclosure.
This tour (I did one two years ago) is informative; the staff are respectful to the animals, and the lodge is doing fantastic work to rehabilitate the Big Cats.
Taking Time for Yourself
In between the delicious food and animal conservation tours, Emdoneni is the perfect place to reconnect with yourself, even if you are joined by company.
Spend time at the pool, find a quiet spot in the garden, or lounge around in the guest area. There’s so much to do. Oh, and naps are mandatory.
Unique
There’s something unique about this safari lodge that has made me fall in love with it all over again. I don’t say this lightly, but it’s the genuineness of the staff, mixed with the culture and history of KwaZulu-Natal, that truly sets it apart. As for the price, it’s a steal.
✈️that south african traveller 🇿🇦 