Private Big Five Concession in Central Kruger
Set within the 10,000-hectare Mluwati Concession, Imbali offers classic Big Five safaris in central Kruger National Park. Guests enjoy twice-daily game drives, guided bush walks (conditions permitting), and quiet time on private decks with plunge pools. The concession is shared with sister camps Hamilton’s Tented Camp and Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge and lies adjacent to the predator-rich Sabi Sand.
Price Per Person Sharing From:
From: POA
Rating | Personal and Comfortable
Highlights & What to Expect
- Twice-daily game drives led by experienced rangers and Shangaan trackers.
- Exclusive traversing on a 10,000-hectare (≈100 km²) private Kruger concession.
- Consistent Big Five viewing with notably strong lion and leopard encounters.
- Guided bush walks with an armed ranger, subject to weather and safety protocols.
- Private suite decks with plunge pools for relaxed wildlife watching between drives.
Location & Setting
Imbali Safari Lodge is set along the Nwaswitsontso River in the private Mluwati Concession, a 10,000-hectare sanctuary within central Kruger National Park. This region is characterized by mixed woodland and open grassland, offering both riverine tranquility and excellent wildlife movement year-round. The lodge is surrounded by large marula, leadwood, and bushwillow trees that attract elephant and antelope to the riverbanks below. Access is typically via Hoedspruit or Skukuza airports, with road transfers of about 2½ hours to the concession gate. Guests arriving by road must observe SANParks entry times and may encounter rewarding game sightings en route to the lodge.
Rooms
Each of the twelve luxury suites is individually appointed with elegant furnishings that combine colonial-style charm and modern comfort. The en-suite bathrooms feature an antique bath and a spacious shower, complemented by high-quality toiletries and fine linens. Suites are air-conditioned and include mosquito netting, an electronic safe, and tea and coffee facilities. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto private timber decks with plunge pools overlooking the surrounding wilderness, offering serene opportunities to watch passing wildlife in complete privacy. Thoughtful design and natural materials ensure the suites remain cool in summer and cozy during the cooler winter months.
Facilities
The main lodge centers around an inviting lounge and dining area that open onto a broad deck shaded by leadwood trees, overlooking a waterhole frequently visited by elephant and other game. Guests can relax by the swimming pool, enjoy fireside dinners in the open-air boma, or savor candlelit meals indoors on cooler evenings. Skilled in-house chefs prepare a variety of African-inspired dishes and international favorites, paired with South African wines. A small curio corner and reading area add to the homely feel, while complimentary Wi-Fi is generally available in communal spaces. The lodge’s atmosphere encourages unhurried connection with the natural surroundings and personalized service throughout the stay.
Amenities
Bar & Lounge
Restaurant
Swimming Pool
Private Plunge Pool
Air Conditioning
Wi-Fi
In-suite Massage
Boma / Fire Pit
Viewing Deck
Minibar
Tea & Coffee
Mosquito Net
Hair Dryer
Private Deck
Activities
Game Drives
Guided Bush Walks
Birdwatching