Lodge of the Week - Kichaka Luxury Game Lodge

Brilliantly Boutique

Kichaka is a five star boutique-style lodge set on the edge of a large waterhole in the Assegai Bush Valley in the Lalibela Game Reserve. The focus here is first rate luxury and service with every whim attended to as you laze about the lodge. Staff will go out of their way to ensure that guests are guaranteed a special stay. The ten lavish suites are spacious, tastefully decorated and furnished with a vast array of accessories. Each suite has its own private heated plunge pool overlooking the waterhole which is regularly visited by wildlife including the local favourite ‘Harry’ the hippo. The main lodge is made up of stone and thatch elements (blending it seamlessly into the natural environment) and consists of a number of lounges, bar and an upstairs library all with a view of the waterhole. The bar and main lounge area is very sociable and guests will find themselves sitting around a warm fire in the evenings, discussing the days’ highlights. The fine dining offers an impressive menu and excellent food, complimented with decent wine (Kichaka has an excellent selection) and good company – one rounds off the day quite nicely. Spa services are offered for those looking for alternative healing and pampering and guests have the option of having treatments done in the privacy of their own rooms.

Kichaka Luxury Game Lodge is found in the malaria-free and Big 5 Lalibela Game Reserve. Game viewing in open Land Cruisers is typically brilliant as experienced guides traverse the 7500 hectare reserve in search of the abundant wildlife and famous 5. For those who enjoy being out in the open, walking trails are offered on the adjacent reserve as well as fishing and horse riding on other nearby properties. After evening meals guests are often treated to star gazing (weather permitting) with the knowledgeable guides and state of the art telescope – a humbling experience for anyone who sees the vast expanse of the solar system. Lalibela Game Reserve is one of the older additions to the Eastern Capes’ reserve canon and like many private reserves in the area, lies on reclaimed farm land. In certain areas, evidence of previous farming activity can be seen and the occasional exotic trees and plants still persist, although measures are being taken to eradicate these invasive species and restore Lalibela to what it once looked like.

With Kichaka’s exclusivity and outstanding service the lodge is the perfect destination for couples and honeymooners. Children are allowed at the lodge but only those over eight years making it a suitable getaway for families and for anyone else looking for a luxurious bush safari

RATINGS BREAKDOWN
Core Ratings:	Sun Rays
Lodge and Camp	7.6
Safari Experience	6.4
Service	9.3
Facilities	6.2
Unique Rating	4.4
Conservation	1.9
Social involvement	1.5
OVERALL RATING:	7.5

Read more about Kichaka Game Lodge on The Game Lodge Index