Esiweni Lodge South Africa

Situated in the stunning Nambiti Reserve, between Johannesburg and Durban, in the heart of Zulu land, this luxurious African lodge hosts ten to fifteen guests in unrivalled comfort, style and proximity to raw, unharnessed nature.
For a family reunion or celebration, Esiweni Lodge offers a little slice of magic, in the heart of one of South Africa’s finest resorts. With capacity for five children, a total of 15 guests can be welcomed, with warm, Zulu hospitality, impeccable services and chic living spaces, blending the best of private suites together with convivial spaces.
Perched on a dramatic clifftop, this chic retreat blends local Zulu flavour, a thrilling safari experience and dazzling cuisine, with exclusivity woven into its fabric.
When authentic meets lavish, against the mystical beauty of the Drakensburg, something magical happens. Impeccable service, ethically-sourced cuisine and personal rangers that are industry experts offer guests a seamless experience.
The eco-tourists’ choice, the lodge is committed to the conversation of the region’s wildlife, flora and fauna. With only five stylish suites, this retreat strikes the right note between seclusion and conviviality, there is no “off-road” safari, to protect the reserve’s biodiversity, and it has its own butchery, for sustainable and ethical meat preparation.
All the hallmarks of luxury, together with the details that make a place extra-special are in place. The indoors and outdoors interplay delightfully – sit back in bed and take in the views. Enjoy a massage after a day out, or dine under the stars. Strolling out to the terrace for a glass of South African wine as the sun sets will be about as good as it gets, and each suite offers the unique experience of either a bath or shower outdoors!
Sophisticated, yet earthy – this idyll gets it right. Think stone hearths with a colonial safari vibe, refined with crisp linens and sleek finishes. Gallic elegance meets African panache with much-regaled dining – eating here is a sensory journey.
A host of ultra-luxe extras, including arrival by private jet and hot air balloon rides take it up a level. With proximity to the UNESCO status Drackensberg Park, Durban, Cape Town and Mozambique, the Lodge can be part of a wider experience, and in addition to the over 40 species and circa 280 birds, guests can enjoy a host of other activities.
The five stunning suites overlook the Sunday River and offer spectacular views of the savannah and the bush as well as several communal areas; the “boma”, the bar, the beautiful terrace, the patio and the infinity pool.
At the end of a day spent in the hands of experts on safari, the lodge offers guests true warmth, delectable cooking and an elegant touch of French “art de vivre” fused with extraordinary African experiences.Nestled in the heart of the Nambiti Reserve, between Johannesburg and Durban, in the heart of Zulu land, Esiweni offers unparalleled access to nature and wildlife.
Twenty-five minutes from the local town of Ladysmith, in the northwest of the KwaZulu-Natal province, Nambiti is the region’s only reserve which, in addition to the “big five” has more than 40 other animal species including black rhinoceros and cheetahs, and on top of this there are some 280 species of birds. Ladysmith itself has a wealth of historical interest, with a Siege Museum and battlefield memorials to visit.
The Drakensberg mountain range (translating as “dragon” mountains), is more than 200 kilometres long and combines craggy peaks with luscious valleys and strikingly rugged silhouettes, creating a natural border between the kingdom of Lesotho and the province of KwaZulu-Natal. Heading into the UNESCO status park, visitors can enjoy hiking, rafting, horseback riding, biking, 4 x 4, fly fishing and boating.
For something a little extra special, a hot air balloon ride can be arranged – what a magnificent way to enjoy the unrivalled beauty of the region!
With fine dining, a stunning infinity pool, communal areas and pampering massages, heading back to the lodge after a day out in the wild will be a pleasure, or sinking into the infinity pool followed by a sumptuous meal under the stars!
One of Africa’s most exclusive private reserves, Esiweni Lodge is a mystical setting offering an extraordinary up-close encounter with the animals of the savannah, including lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes and zebras prowling their natural habitat.At Excellence Luxury Villas we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the
concierge request form or contact Excellence Luxury Villas Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
– Maid service/extra cleaning- Safaris- In-room massages- Local day-trips or tours- Airport transfers- Excursions
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!