Kings Camp Private Game Reserve, Timbavati Private Game Reserve, Limpopo, South Africa

Those who are familiar with the African bush say that the real king of the jungle is not the lion but the elephant. Kings Camp Private Game Reserve uses the elephant as its logo, as a classic symbol of dignity and strength. Other classic elements, such as supreme style, service and elegance, combined with gracious hospitality, are what sets Kings Camp apart from any other game reserve and make it a perfect romantic getaway.

Kings Camp’s revival of such colonial comforts as leaf tea served in bone china, scented bath salts, decanted wine and softly upholstered sofas adds a further dimension to the refined ambience of this safari lodge.

Although these touches may evoke an earlier, more genteel era, Kings Camp does not lack for modern comforts: the ten bedrooms are all equipped with air conditioning, tea and coffee facilities, a minibar fridge, as well as sweet-smelling bath and body lotions in the Victorian-style bathroom.

Taming the bush around the camp is not always easy, but there are manicured gardens and lawns into which a swimming pool has been sunk. Beyond this, in the open savanna, a waterhole is clearly visible. Kings Camp is located within the Timbavati Private Game Reserve – a beautiful stretch of land full of African game along the western edge of the Kruger National Park in Limpopo.

The monthly Kings Camp wildlife report brings the area to life with its stories: ‘Classic’ - the big elephant bull - named for his beautiful set of tusks, snapped the electric fence to come and eat sweet vegetation around the camp; a leopardess hoisted her impala kill into a tree just thirty metres from Room 10 and was seen three times that month taking a relaxed amble through the camp in full view of guests.

Such is the pace of life at Kings Camp, and, notwithstanding the odd leopard on the lawn, things carry on as usual. There is food to be prepared and tables to be set. The silver place settings are a fitting match for the artworks presented by the executive chef and his team of culinary artists.