Imagine Africa Facilities

Imagine Africa offers more than a safari—it’s a place of stillness, luxury, and connection to the wild. Nestled in the heart of the Olifants West Nature Reserve, part of South Africa’s Greater Kruger ecosystem, the lodge is purposefully designed to meet every moment of your day—from the warmth of early mornings to the golden hush of twilight.

Inside the Thatched Main Lodge – Refined Comfort, Seamless Hospitality

When you step into the central thatched lodge, you’re welcomed by a warm and thoughtfully designed space that feels both elegant and deeply rooted in its surroundings. This open-plan interior is perfect for winding down after a game drive or retreating during a cooler Lowveld morning.

The main lounge is spacious yet intimate, with inviting sofas, wildlife-themed décor, and wide windows that frame the landscape. It’s a place to reconnect—whether through shared stories, a journal entry, or quiet reflection.

The indoor bar, crafted from natural wood, offers a curated selection of South African wines, spirits, and classic safari cocktails. Its smart layout allows guests to enjoy drinks from both inside the lodge and outside on the viewing deck, creating a fluid and relaxed social flow.

In one part of the lounge, a charming book nook invites you to flip through wildlife field guides, travel memoirs, or a novel, all with the soundtrack of the bush in the background. A self-serve coffee and tea station is always available—essential for early risers and perfect for guests who prefer a slow, soulful start to their morning.

Even when South Africa’s power grid is down, the lodge continues to run seamlessly thanks to a reliable backup generator, which supports lighting, connectivity, and comfort throughout your stay.

Outdoor Living – Panoramic Views, African Skies & Wildlife Encounters

As the day warms, the lodge unfolds into open air. The wooden viewing deck stretches out toward the Drakensberg Mountains, providing uninterrupted views of our nearby waterhole. It’s here that wildlife regularly gathers—elephants, impala, giraffes, and even the occasional predator moving quietly along the edge of the bush. For those seeking quiet connection, the outdoor lounge spaces offer deep-cushioned seating, ideal for sundowners, birdwatching, or simply listening to the soundtrack of the bush.

The infinity pool is a tranquil place to cool off between activities, with shaded loungers positioned for sunbathing, reading, or simply watching nature pass by. Service from the bar extends to this area, so your cocktail or refreshment is never far away.

Evenings bring a shift in mood as lanterns glow and the scent of open-fire cooking drifts through the air. The boma, a traditional circular fire area, becomes the setting for open-air dining beneath the stars. Here, guests gather around the fire to enjoy hearty meals, local flavors, and rich storytelling — all maybe even with the added thrill of spotting a wild animal or two silently approaching the nearby waterhole, clearly visible from the boma and often visited after dark.

Infinity Pool with a View

Positioned just beyond the reception area, our HEATED, infinity pool offers a direct view of a natural watering hole—often visited by elephants during the heat of the day. Whether you’re cooling off in the pool or sitting nearby with a drink in hand, it’s a peaceful space to watch the landscape unfold.

A large Marula tree shades the area, and the nearby flora attracts a steady stream of birds—both resident and seasonal species. The setting is active but never rushed. With the northern Drakensberg Mountains rising in the background, it’s an ideal spot for quiet photography or simply enjoying the late afternoon light.

Thoughtfully Built, Quietly Run

At Imagine Africa, every element—from the structure of the lodge to the flow of each day—has been crafted to bring guests closer to nature without ever compromising on comfort. Whether tucked inside the warmth of the thatched lodge or outside on the deck with a view of the plains, you’ll find that luxury and wilderness live side by side.

Supporting Local with Our Curio Shop

Just inside to the lodge entrance is our Lodge Boutique, stocked with a curated range of items that support local artisans, conservation efforts, and South African small businesses. Products include:

• Beaded and wirework pieces made by local craftspeople

• Hazel’s Harvest Sausage Tree Cream, made from Kigelia Africana grown at the camp

• Godding & Godding marula and silk-based skincare

• Branded clothing and accessories for Imagine Africa guests

• Merchandise that supports organisations like Rhino Revolution, Down to the Wire, and Pangolin conservation initiatives

All items have been chosen not just as souvenirs, but for their direct links to community and conservation work.