Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge, SOUTH AFRICA
Airing Date: Jul 24th, 2006
Safari lodges in South Africa are widespread but what sets Buffalo Ridge Safari lodge apart is that it is South Africa's only community owned and operated safari lodge.
When apartheid ended, the local Balete people were given lease rights to a prime site in the Madikwe Game Reserve, one of the largest reserves in South Africa. They live in the nearby village of Lekgophung and work on the property. Madikwe Game Reserve is one of the few reserves in southern Africa, which is malaria free. Located in South Africa along the Botswana border and 20 km from Gaberone (the capital of Botswana), the reserve lies within a transition region between Lowveld Bushveld and the Kalahari Thornveld.
As a result, the region plays host to an incredible diversity of species from both ecosystems. Geographically, the region has enormous volcanic intrusions known as Inselbergs, which are prominent throughout the reserve and serve as a spectacular backdrop. Buffalo Ridge Safari Lodge is the first wholly owned Community based Safari Lodge to be developed in South Africa. The lodge is a pure ecotourism partnership between North-West Parks, the Balete Ba Lekgophung Community and the operator "The Nature Workshop". This concept is unique in South Africa in that the community owns the development with substantial benefits accruing back to the community itself.
The main lodge is spectacularly located on two tiers of the ridge, accessed via a wooden bridge that crosses a ravine surrounded by rock figs. Each of the living areas has its own character, mood and style providing guests with a choice of breathtaking views and tranquil spaces. Whether you're relaxing in the lounge, the lower or upper deck areas or at the pool, you'll find a space that suits your mood. The lodge has 8 suites each with their own viewing deck, decorated in natural hews of colour and texture, offering a very private and luxurious experience.
The thatched suites, with sliding doors from each room and shower allow the guest to experience a oneness with the bushveld and displays the lodges commitment to eco-tourism. Madikwe is home to a tremendous diversity of fauna and flora, including both the black and white rhino, buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah and wild dog. The lodge is a superb walking and open-vehicle safari destination where guests are accompanied by well-trained and informative rangers who are able to interpret the many encounters whilst on safari.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Qantas return to Johannesburg from
$2315 ex Sydney
$2386 ex Adelaide
$2398 ex Brisbane
$2404 ex Melbourne
Prices available online and include surcharges, fees & taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
www.qantas.com
Prices correct at 28/6/06
One night package from $395 a person twin share. Price includes taxes. Subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply. Includes all meals, all safari activities & return transfers.
reservations@buffaloridgesafari.com
www.buffaloridgesafari.com
Prices correct at 24/7/06
South African Tourism
www.southafrica.net - PH Toll Free: 1800 238 643
