Imbali Safari Lodge

Imbali is one of three lodges and is sister to Hamilton’s Tented Camp and Hoyo Hoyo. All three of the lodges offer something special. Hamilton’s is very colonial. Hoyo Hoyo is African with its layout and Imbali has a more modern feel and set up. All reside on the same concession, so game viewing is good from any of the camps. Our stay at Imbali was a mid week break with really good weather, if not a tad chilly on the early morning game drives. The rooms are spacious enough and the beds are divine to sleep in being so comfy. The staff are very friendly and attentive and nothing is too big to do or a problem. Smiles all around. The food is plentiful and of a very high standard. You won’t go hungry or want for anything. Pile on those kilo’s and worry about the diet after your vacation. The game drives and the Rangers are fun, educational and worth every minute. The Rangers knowledge is so diverse and they answer all your questions without any hesitation. Note, the one game drive you don’t go on, is the one where you miss your favourite animal. Ursula is the GM and is always about should you need her. She is very approachable, friendly and loves to chat. She also runs a tight ship, which shows in the overall experience whichever of the lodges you stay in. We have been going to Hamilton’s and Co for over 10 years and have never been dissatisfied. Such a pleasure to go there.

Safari guide Charl made this stay memorable! Charl is an experienced guide who shares comprehensive knowledge of flora, fauna and all wildlife seamlessly with a sense of humour, adventure and energy! Photo credit John Arthur Little @ infineartimages

Just left the Imbali Lodge today and felt compelled to write a review right away. We had a memorable stay, met some wonderful guests at the lodge and were extremely well looked after by the amazing staff. The meals at the lodge were very indulgent, well prepared and beautifully served. The game drives were the highlight of our stay. We went out on these adventures twice a day with an incredibly knowledgeable and energetic young man named Jayden. His instinct was as sharp as his knowledge. The drives were really enjoyable. We saw some breathtaking sun rises and sunsets, driving in an open safari jeep in the crisp, chilly, mornings and evenings. Would love to return to Imbali some day.

My family and I traveled to the Kruger National Park game reserve in July and spent several nights at Imbali. I was born in South Africa and grew up going to Kruger, but I had never stayed at Imbali. Well, without question, I’ll be back! The lodge and accommodations were wonderful - you feel immersed in the park, but enjoy great luxury and comfort. What most stood out about our experience were the people. First, our guide, Charl, took us on multiple safari drives a day, and he was exceptional. His passion and enthusiasm for his work was infectious and the way he engaged with us throughout our time there made for a very special experience. But it was all the staff, including the chef, Matilda, who went above and beyond to always make us feel welcome and to accommodate any special dietary needs. I have always known there is something remarkably special about Kruger, and now, having stayed at Imbali, I can say, it is a perfect compliment to this experience.