Kirkmans Kamp - The Details
In the South Eastern corner of the
Sabi Sand Game Reserve; &Beyond Kirkmans Kamp is a historic lodge built around Harry Kirkman's original 1920's homestead. It is one of &Beyond's best value lodges, especially with the prolific game viewing that is on offer here.
Overlooking the Sand River, Kirkmans is a charming and historic destination where guests take a step back in time and are reminded of a time gone by through the inclusion of the many mementoes scattered around the house. In the main guest area there is a beautiful library and fantastic bar area where guests compare notes after game drives with some friendly competition. In the winter months a fire roars from the fireplace and guests can sink into one of the many leather sofas in a relaxed and social atmosphere.
Twelve cottages are spread out along the bank with views into the valley of the river. Their recently refurbished interiors are simple yet contain everything you would need on safari. The essence of safari certainly is not lost yet mod-cons such as air-conditioning are still apparent. With a number of rooms being in close proximity to each other, Kirkmans sets itself up as a perfect destination for a family safari. This is reiterated by &Beyond welcoming children of all ages, however parties with children under six years of age would require a private vehicle for game drive.
There is a large infinity pool with great views and lovely open gardens where bushbuck, impala and warthogs are often found feeding. For the active guests there is also a tennis court to blow off some steam in between game drives and a curio shop stocked with every souvenier one could wish for.
The guest sitting and dining areas are spacious and overlook the Sand River. The veranda is the perfect place to watch the sunrise with a hot coffee and rusk whilst listening to the morning calls of lions, hyenas and guineafowl.
Game viewing here is famous for its leopard sightings and other members of the Big 5. Cheetahs, wild dogs and endangered birds such as the ground hornbill are also regularly seen on game drive. The best time to visit is during the dry season (between June and October) when water scarcity results in large congregations of animals around the Sand River and when the bush is at its thinnest and lowest.
Kirkmans combines brilliantly with the family friendly
Ngala Safari Lodge in the Timbavati or
Phinda Mountain Lodge. The diversity of habitat makes game viewing varied and the high standards set by &Beyond ensure you have an unforgettable stay.
If you are going to combine Kirkmans with Phinda, then direct flights are available and only take a couple of hours.
If however you feel that you need some rest in between your two safari destinations, stopping off in
Cape Town for three or four nights is certainly no bad thing. With beautiful natural surroundings, this energetic city has everything one could wish for. From high-end shops to incredible marine wildlife, whether you are on honeymoon, with a group of friends or with family, there is something for everyone.
