Lentaba Safari Lodge in Lalibela Game Reserve has reopened after undergoing a major rebuild and refurbishment.
Two new rooms have been added, bringing the total offering to 10 secluded thatched chalets – five classic and five luxury. The five classic chalets have en-suite bathrooms with shower only, while the luxury chalets have en-suite bathrooms with baths and showers. All rooms have been enlarged with emphasis on views of the lush valley.
The 1902 farmhouse is also being transformed into an exclusive-use villa. Mills Manor will be a grand Edwardian luxury retreat sleeping 10 guests in five rooms when it opens on December 3. The villa comes with a private game ranger and vehicle, chef and housekeeper. Facilities include a bar, lounge and dining room. Outside there is a swimming pool and sun deck, and large fire pit and barbecue area.
A major effort is under way on the reserve to remove the black wattle trees and replace them with indigenous vegetation. Significant new tracts of land have also been purchased by the new owners. Lalibela now comprises 10 500 hectares, 7 500 of which is Big 5 country with the remaining land being used as breeding areas for non-dangerous game such as giraffe, zebra, kudu and blesbok.
Waste water plants have been installed at each lodge where grey water and sewage is processed and turned into clear, drinking quality water for the animals in nearby waterholes.
