Words by KingPhewa

Safari Plains represents a story woven between the land, the people and the food – a tapestry so well-crafted that you carry it with you long after you have returned home.

Isolated, conveniently, in its own corner of Mabula, a region where bushveld stretches endlessly, Safari Plains stands as a gentle luxury — a retreat that never seeks to compete with the wilderness but rather complements it. It is here that one finds an effortless balance of indulgence, adventure, and heartfelt hospitality.

First Impressions

As you roll through the gates and onto the grounds, the giraffes greet you first. Tall and majestic with one young lady giraffe, stopping and seeming to pose for us to take photos of her. A brilliant way to be welcomed albeit unplanned.  After what seemed a game drive on its own, the lodge emerged. It is understated yet inviting, a collection of tented suites and communal spaces that blend into the environment without fanfare. The welcome, led by duty manager Promise, was warm as if we’d known each other from a lifetime ago. The check-in process was seamless, the small touches considered. Cool towels, a refreshing drink, and within minutes you feel less like a guest and more like a long-awaited friend. The arrival cocktail by barman Fanyana is nothing short of spectacular. And the secret ingredient – a syrup and that was all he was willing to say. At the heart of this establishment is the staff – confident, caring, attentive, and always with a smile that feels genuinely pleased to see you.

Luxury in the bush

The rooms are styled as luxury tents, though “tent” hardly captured what awaited us inside. Stepping through the front door we were met with a massive four poster bed. The bed is the centrepiece of the room, draped in crisp white linen. The soft furniture and wood finished ensured that you knew – I am now in the South African bush. Past the narrow passage a second room for our young son. Spacious yet cosy – perfect for the sweetest dreams. Beyond that a full bathroom, comprising a double vanity, sizeable shower and soaking tub for the ultimate bushveld treat.

It’s luxury, yes, but measured, classy with the simplicity of home. The rooms are designed to bring you closer to the wilderness without losing any of the comfort factor — a delicate balance that Safari Plains achieves with ease. Outside, a wooden deck overlooks the bush, the perfect place to sip the sherry provided in the room especially during those cold winter nights.

Delights aplenty

If the lodge captures you with its scenery, it holds your heart and stomach forever with its food. Meals here are carefully put together, pleasing even the most difficult palates

One evening, the highlight of the meal was the steak. Perfectly medium rare, it was the kind of pink, tender centre that proves the chefs know what they are doing. It was a dish that was curated by an experienced hand and a trip back  would be warranted for that alone.

On another occasion, the fried fish stole the spotlight. My partner could not get enough of it and as a pescetarian it was just what she needed. The kitchen had managed to achieve that harmony — crunch followed by delicate flesh, seasoned to perfection. Served alongside fresh vegetables, the dish was a one to remember.

Breakfasts too were a delight. Freshly baked breads, ripe fruit, rich coffee made for a pleasing entrance into the dining room. Hearty selections for those preparing for a long drive, lighter options for those content to linger by the pool. Each meal was prepared with the kind of consistency that reassures you: whether it’s the first meal of your stay or the last, it will be done with care.

Up close and personal with the wild

Mabula’s landscapes are diverse — open grasslands, a huge variety of trees and dams aplenty where animals gather. The game drives here are paced to allow true appreciation and are incredibly educational. Our guide was Thapelo, was incredibly kind but most importantly knowledgeable. He answered every question like he was hearing it for the first time. He made sure we lingered at sightings, watching behaviours and hoping for action. You linger at sightings, you watch behaviours unfold, you don’t rush. Patient and filled with enthusiasm, he truly made the trip for us.

On our final morning, as the sun rose from below the horizon low and painted the sky in hues of orange and crimson, we sat quietly watching a pride of lions going about their business – “defrosting” from what might have been an intense night of hunting. Once again Thapelo’s soft commentary stitched the scene together, reminding us that what we were witnessing was not a performance, but rather nature at its finest. .

It is moments like these that remind you: Safari Plains doesn’t just show you wildlife, it immerses you in the theatre of the bush.

In a world filled with safari lodges, Safari Plains distinguishes itself by getting the essentials right. The intrigue of camping in the bush matched by great hospitality, incredible rangers and of course great people. It is a must if you want to experience a space so calming you forget you have to leave.

KingPhewa is a South African based duo who through their love of food, travel and lifestyle curate and review relatable and enticing content. Their focus is on fine dining, luxury travel and all things beautiful. Follow them on Instagram @kingphewa