Leopard Hills Experience Review

                                                        African Safari Adventure: Luxury Meets Wild at Leopard Hills

Are you dreaming of embarking on an African Safari but felt overwhelmed by the planning process? We’ve been there too! Questions like “Is it safe?”, “How comfortable can it be in the middle of the bush?”, and “What about the food?” might be swirling in your mind. As travel agents and adventure enthusiasts, we decided to experience it firsthand. Let us take you through our unforgettable journey at Leopard Hills in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve and address those common concerns.

Why Sabi Sands?

 

After attending the Indaba Convention about Africa as a destination, we chose Sabi Sands Game Reserve for our first safari experience. Spanning an impressive 62,308 hectares, Sabi Sands boasts one of South Africa’s richest game populations. It’s a wildlife lover’s paradise, offering unparalleled opportunities for close encounters with Africa’s most iconic animals.

 

Getting There

Accessibility is often a concern for first-time safari-goers. Thankfully, there are several options to reach Leopard Hills:

  1. Fly to Skukuza Airport (1.5-hour drive to the lodge)
  2. Land at Nelspruit/Kruger Mpumalanga Airport (2-hour drive)
  3. Arrive at Hoedspruit Airport (2.5-hour drive)

For those prioritizing time, Federal Airlines offers two daily shuttle flights from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport directly to Leopard Hills. We opted for a flight to Nelspruit and a transfer with Amazing Africa, our trusted travel partner, who provided a smooth and comfortable journey to the lodge.

Luxury in the Wild

One of the biggest surprises for first-time safari-goers is the level of luxury available. Leopard Hills completely changed our perspective on bush accommodations. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warmth and professionalism that set the tone for our entire stay.

Our suite was a stunning glass-fronted room with a private plunge pool and breathtaking views of the African bush. The amenities were top-notch, far exceeding what we expected from a safari lodge. With only eight suites, Leopard Hills ensures an exclusive and intimate experience for all guests.

 

Each suite features:

  • Air conditioning
  • Private viewing deck and plunge pool
  • Indoor and outdoor showers
  • Mini-bar and Nespresso machine
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Wildlife Encounters

 

At Leopard Hills, the wildlife viewing was nothing short of spectacular. Thanks to our knowledgeable guide, Stuart, and tracker, we spotted all of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) during our stay. The highlight was a rare sighting of a leopard, which this location is particularly known for. They almost guarantee seeing the Big 5 if you stay at least 3 nights. But we only stayed for 2 nights and 3 days. Despite this, we had incredible sightings. However, we do feel that it wasn’t quite enough time. We wished we had an extra day or two to relax, enjoy more of the amenities such as the massage area and pool, and go on additional game drives.

 

 

A Typical Day on Safari:

  • Early morning wake-up call
  • Light breakfast before the morning game drive
  • 3-4 hour morning game drive
  • Return for a full breakfast/brunch
  • Leisure time (perfect for relaxing by the pool or enjoying a spa treatment)
  • Afternoon tea before the evening game drive
  • 3-4 hour evening game drive with sundowners in the bush
  • Return for dinner

Gourmet Dining in the Bush

Food is often a concern for travelers venturing into remote areas. At Leopard Hills, you can put those worries to rest. The culinary team delivers gourmet meals that are nothing short of exceptional. From surprise bush breakfasts to elegant dinners under the stars, every meal was a delightful experience.

They cater to all dietary requirements, including vegan, vegetarian, and specific food allergies. As travel agents, we always recommend informing the property in advance about any dietary needs to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay.

A highlight of our culinary experience was the Boma dinner. A boma is a candlelit, open-air gathering place designed for communal dining. The word “boma” is Swahili for “enclosure” and refers to the wall or fence that surrounds the dining area. Here, you can try local African dishes and, if you’re feeling adventurous, even sample exotic meats like crocodile!

Safety in the Wild

Safety is understandably a major concern for anyone considering a safari. At Leopard Hills, we always felt secure. The guides prioritize guest safety while ensuring an exciting experience. Their extensive knowledge of the land and animal behavior allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of the African bush without worry.

After dark, staff members escort guests between their suites and the common areas. While the property is unfenced, its elevated position on a hill provides natural protection. The lodge also overlooks a waterhole, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing right from the comfort of the property.

Who is Leopard Hills For?

Leopard Hills welcomes children 10 years and older, making it suitable for families with older children, couples, and groups of friends. It’s perfect for those seeking a blend of luxury and adventure. Some guests enjoy participating in all the safari activities, while others prefer to relax at the lodge and enjoy the amenities. The beauty of Leopard Hills is that you can tailor your experience to your preferences.

 

Summary

Based on our incredible experience at Leopard Hills, we can confidently say that an African safari can offer the perfect blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and luxurious comfort. It’s an adventure that caters to both the explorer and the comfort-seeker in you.

Want to Know More?

We’ve created a detailed video blog about our entire experience at Leopard Hills. Check it out on our YouTube channel for a visual journey through this amazing property.

Ready for Your Own Safari Adventure?

If you’re ready to plan your own African safari adventure, we’d love to help! As experienced travel agents with firsthand knowledge of Leopard Hills and other top African destinations, we can create a custom itinerary tailored to your dreams and preferences.

Reach out to us and let’s start planning your unforgettable journey into the heart of the African bush!

Until our next adventure,

Victor and MJ.