Kuname Safari Lodge

The game drives made our stay at Karongwe. In two nights we joined four included safaris, with very small groups and excellent visibility. Coordination between the guides meant we saw an exceptional range of wildlife: the Big Five, including a leopard close up, plus elephants, impressive rhinoceros encounters, lions, hippos, and many other species. Each drive stood out for its depth and the natural conversations with the guides. Charlie and Peter were our two guides, with James tracking throughout. All three were outstanding. Charlie communicated clearly, knew the terrain well, and enjoyed sharing what he knew. James was remarkable at reading tracks and the ground, guiding with precision and stepping into the bush when needed. Peter’s enthusiasm and commitment made a particular impression on us. He was always smiling and focused not just on finding animals, but on helping us understand their behaviour, their environment, and their place in the ecosystem. He was genuinely delighted when we saw what we hoped to see, and generous with his knowledge. A very touching encounter. The setting is peaceful, with open savannah views and a small river below. Animals sometimes pass close to the rooms, adding to the feeling of being immersed in nature. Coming back from a safari to refreshments and cool towels was a thoughtful touch. Karongwe is in the Greater Kruger, at the heart of a private reserve, and has relatively few rooms, which helps create an intimate safari experience. The management showed genuine goodwill and a sincere desire to do things well. Glenn was consistently available and did everything he could to respond to requests with care and authenticity. His colleague and Chantel welcomed us warmly, and the whole team remained attentive and involved throughout. With the wildlife, guides, tracker, and intimate feel of the lodge, this was a memorable stay. We wholeheartedly recommend Karongwe to anyone looking for high-quality safaris in a privileged setting.