Camp Jabulani

Camp Jabulani

Description

Camp Jabulani is a sublime experience. A perfect translation of the African bush, reduced to a classic and elegant environment fit for princes and kings – but warm enough to make the most “down-to-earth” feel completely at home.

Rich textures of organic elements create a harmonious and pleasing balance between “designer” and “authentic”. An open flow of light and air allow for a communion with the African bush without forsaking optimum comfort. Rich woods, crystal glasses, silver service somehow seamlessly blend into an experience of genuine hospitality and sensory indulgence.

The camp is built along the bank of a seasonal stream in the protective shade of impressive leadwood trees. Six luxurious suites afford the ultimate exclusivity. An open air spa promises the finest products in the midst of nature in its’ purest form.

The sole objective of the team of professionally skilled and personable staff is to meet the needs of their valued guests. To indulge, spoil, pamper and entertain. But most importantly - to share with them the story and the experience of the elephants.

Climate

Summer
Expect intense heat in the daytime with occasional thunderstorms in the afternoon. Vegetation is dense and lush because of summer rains, and the bush teems with newborn animals. A very good time for bird watching.

Autumn
At the end of the summer rains the water holes are full. Temperatures begin to drop at night and the vegetation starts to change colour.

Winter
Daytime temperatures are pleasant and nights are cold. Visibility in the bush is very good, making winter an excellent time for game viewing.

Spring
The dull bush changes to lively green vegetation at the start of the rainy season. Temperatures are pleasant.

What to bring:

Light clothing for daylight hours, especially during summer
Light sweater for winter days
Very warm clothing for winter evenings (windbreaker, “beanie” and gloves will be appreciated during evening game drives!)
Sun hat
Sunscreen
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimming costume
Camera and plenty of memory space or film.

Drinking water:

The tap (faucet) water in the camp is purified to the highest standards and is perfectly safe to drink. Ample stocks of still and sparking mineral water are also available.

Malaria:

Kapama Game Reserve forms part of a low risk malaria area. However, anti-Malarial prophylaxis are recommended. Please consult your general practitioner regarding which brand is best suited to you.

Currency:

The South African Rand (ZAR) is the local currency. There are 100c to every rand. Foreign exchange may be arranged at the airports, or in major centres / cities. It is not recommended that travellers carry large sums of cash. Rather keep a reasonable amount on hand, and primarily use credit cards. Travellers cheques are also welcome.

There are many road-side vendors along the major routes in the country selling local hand-crafted products. These vendors trade in cash only.
It is highly recommended that you do not stop in informal settlements along your journey.

Credit Cards:

All major credit cards are accepted as a valid form of payment at Camp Jabulani.

Dietary requirements:

So that we may tailor the perfect culinary experience for you, please do advise us of any specific dietary requirements you may have. Our chef is a genius when it comes to preparing specially designed meals to suit every taste.

Direct dial telephones:

Each of the suites at Camp Jabulani have direct-dial telephones with international coverage. Calls are charged for per minute – the total cost is added to the extras bill payable on departure.

Similarly, laptop computers may be connected to the internet via telephone lines in each of the rooms.

Cellular reception is limited and not of a very good quality.

Dress code:

Safari casual. Your comfort is our only concern!
We request that guests do not wear shorts for dinner in the evenings.

Laundry and valet services:

We regret that we do not have the capacity to handle large loads of laundry. Large laundry loads (in excess of 10 items per person) will be sent to an external facility which stipulates a 72-hour turnaround time.

Exclusive Use of a Safari Vehicle

We are able to arrange for an exclusive safari vehicle, should guests require (subject to availability). The fee per day is ZAR 2,800.00 per vehicle.

Travel Insurance

We highly recommend that all visitors are covered by a comprehensive travel insurance policy to protect them in the event of unforeseen cancellation. Such insurance should also cover emergency medical care requirements and evacuation.

Visas and Passports

Visa requirements are the responsibility of the guest.

Please note, all visitors to South Africa are required by law to have two blank pages in their passport to enable the entry visa to be issued. If there is insufficient space in the passport, entry will be denied.

Packages

Harley on Safari - The Diamond Collection

Embark on the safari of a lifetime. For the “Adrenalin Junkie” who prefers to travel on the back of the world’s most sought-after bike, wind whipping through the hair – this is the perfect journey. Combining a collection of South Africa’s finest properties, this tour is for the client who seeks the very best of the best.

Special Honeymoon Package:

The Camp Jabulani Wedding Experience

THE CAMP JABULANI AND STEENBERG HOTEL PLATINUM HERITAGE PACKAGE

Camp features:

• 6 ultra-luxurious air-conditioned suites
• En-suite facilities
• Hot beverage facilities and mini bar fridge
• Private plunge pools
• Curio shop
• Spa & Sauna
• Safari gym

 Accommodation

Elegant adj 1: refined and tasteful in appearance or behaviour or style; 2: suggesting taste, ease, and wealth [syn: graceful, refined] 3: of seemingly effortless beauty in form or proportion 4: refined or imposing in manner or appearance; befitting a royal court; "a courtly gentleman"

Each of the six luxury suites are remote and private. With every creature comfort met, the suites offer the optimum environment in which to relax and recharge. Massive wooden sliding doors present interiors which are a pure translation of style, comfort, elegance and appreciation of the environment.

Pure cotton sheets, massive bath-tubs, an outdoor glass-enclosed shower, a fire-place with a separate lounge area, and a private plunge pool complement each of the rooms. Suites are also equipped with a mini-bar, safe, hairdryer and electric blanket. Comfort is ensured by the 24 hour temperature control and overhead ceiling fan.

A dedicated butler completes the experience by personally responding to the needs of the guest.

During the day the “walls” of the suites are rolled away to bring the bush just that bit closer. In the evenings, cozy lighting, a blazing fire and a welcoming bed draw to a perfect close another day in Africa.

THE ALL-NEW ZINDOGA PRESIDENTIAL SUITE....

In response to the ever-growing global demand for family travel, Camp Jabulani will be launching a brand new and exclusive unit in September 2009. Aptly named The Zindoga Suite, this unit is named after the first male born to the herd in 2007, and means "On Its Own".  

Designed to blend with the surrounding bush in the same manner as the existing camp, the two luxury units will be specifically tailored to appeal to smaller groups, and families with children of all ages. The Zindoga Suite will be sold as an exclusive unit (maximum capacity is 6, with 2 adults in one of the luxury units, and 2 adults with 2 children in the other). A dedicated chef and team of staff will be on hand to ensure that each member of the party enjoys their safari experience in optimum comfort and luxury.

These units will be constructed a fair distance from the current site, and will therefore not have any impact on those travelers staying within the main facility.

Attractions

ex·hil·a·rate: v: 1. T o cause to feel happily refreshed and energetic; 2. elate; 3. stimulate

You will not find a daily itinerary on this site. This is because we structure your days at Camp Jabulani based on your preference. We will liaise with you in terms of your options, and will tailor your experience with us accordingly.

We aim to provide as much variety as possible to give you a well rounded and memorable experience.

We try to remove the concept of time from your days spent with us.

Activities on offer include:

Elephant back safaris

Nothing quite tops the first introduction to the Camp Jabulani elephants! Their sheer size and presence is humbling.

Paul bridges the gap between man and giant with an informative introduction and orientation into the personalities of the elephants – providing useful information that will no doubt both entertain and educate.

And so begins the elephant safari. Each particpant is partnered with an elephant based on temperament. Guests mount their elephant via a specially constructed ramp.

Atop their mighty spines, guests soon become lulled by the step by step amble – the gentle “side to side” rocking motion. Moving in single file (with Jabulani in the lead), silence reigns. A silence with no words – but with beautiful harmonious communication of the bush and its inhabitants.

Share in the ultimate African experience. View tree tops, birds nests, and giraffes almost face to face. Sail high above the bush veld and feel part of the environment, instead of being just a passive observer. On elephant back, one is truly an integral part of the experience.

Afternoon safaris are conducted just before the sun sets – the elephants ultimately converge on the romantic setting of lanterns, a white linen table adorned with a selection of beverages, crystal glasses, fresh flowers and delectable canapés specially prepared by the chef.

It is not hard to feel that “Life is good” as a sundowner sees the end of another day at Camp Jabulani, and allows for quiet reflection of the effect that a walk with elephants has instilled on even the most hardened soul.

Camp Jabulani offers the only night safari on elephant back in the world! Under the stars amidst the night sounds and dwellers, each guest is able to create their own experience as the sole proprietors of potent battery-powered spotlights. They may choose between swaying through the inky dark; finding millions of glittering eyes in the surrounding bush; or observing the planetarium-like splendor of the milky-way above.

Guests have the opportunity of “tucking” the elephants into their stables for the evening ahead, and of witnessing first hand the mutual respect and genuine fondness between the elephants and their tenders.

In summer, of great delight is witnessing the elephants as they frolick in the nearby dam on Kapama for a mid-day swim. Truly spectacular is the sight of elephants at play – especially in water or in mud-baths. Cameras are a necessity!

One thing is certain – one cannot help but be changed forever after sharing an experience with the Camp Jabulani elephants.

Game Drives 

Guests are able to join experienced rangers in open safari vehicles as they head out in search of The Big 5, and the smaller (but no less significant) creatures that are part of an African Safari. Identify the call of a bird; follow the bark of a baboon or the roar of a lion in the midst of their natural environment.

Safaris may be arranged at any time of the day. A word of warning though…. the summer months are incredibly hot in the middle of the day! This time is best enjoyed around the cool respite of a private plunge pool with a chilled G & T in hand.

For further insight into the safari experience, click on the following link (Wildlife).

Relaxation Pure and Simple

A perfect complement to the elephant experience is a treatment or massage in the spa. Click on the following link for further information and images (wellness).

A trip to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre

Camp Jabulani guests are treated to a visit to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (about a 30 minute drive via open safari vehicle).

Founded by Lente Roode, the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre has established itself as one of the leading private research and breeding facilities for endangered species in the country.

Governed by a progressive and modern management approach, it concerns itself with the breeding and maintenance of several endangered indigenous wildlife species of Southern Africa. The Centre places particular emphasis on the breeding and maintenance of cheetah in captivity. The excellent condition of these animals and the premises on which they are maintained, reflect the attention to detail which has become the hallmark of this facility.

Visitors are able to witness feeding sessions of various rare African vultures, to touch cheetahs (providing a rare photographic opportunity) and to witness the projects undertaken by the centre’s veterinary staff who operate an animal hospital where injured or abandoned animals are cared for and eventually released back into the wild.

Elephants are renowned for their ability to follow a scent and are the only creatures who are able to maintain this sense through water. They are therefore often used in tracking - particularly of poachers. Guests spending more than three nights at Camp Jabulani are able to experience this extraordinary skill first hand. Guests on elephant back are split into two groups. The first departs from the camp with guides on foot. The second group depart a short while later. The elephants are given the scent of one of the members of Group 1. They then begin to track that scent .... Somapane is our very best! Test her skills first hand. This is a thrilling experience and guaranteed to amaze.

Hot air balloon flights over the African wilderness.

Experience the magic of lighter-than-air flight over the private reserve.

Meet before sunrise and enjoy a piping-hot coffee while you watch your eight-storey balloon being inflated and prepared for flight.   

After a safety briefing, become airborne in time to witness the sunrise. A change in altitude in search of a favourable wind which enables a gentle drift over the landscape.  Whilst game viewing cannot be guaranteed, on most flights giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, nyala, impala, bushbuck, waterbuck, duiker and warthog are seen.  Rhino, buffalo, elephant and lion are more difficult to find, but there is always a good chance. 

The flight is approximately one hour in duration. Passengers don't have to be physically fit, but must be prepared to stand in the basket for at least an hour.  Youngsters are welcome, but should be at least 1.2m (4 foot) tall, so they are able to see over the rim of the basket.  

Sparkling wine and fruit juice are served after the flight.

Rate: R2100.00 per person
Children under 45kgs receive a 50% discount

Facilities

Camp Jabulani's facilities include:

• A wooden deck area overlooking the dry river bed, in the shade of a massive Jackalberry tree. The perfect spot from which to enjoy lunch!
• An open-plan lounge area, with laptop computer with WI-FI Connectivity.
• An open-plan dining room, for evening meals or rainy days.
• A Therapy-Lapa (or Tsala/ bush spa).
• A bush gymnasium.
• A fully stocked curio shop with a range of clothing, jewellery, accessories etc (click here to view our online boutique).

Directions