Overview
Leopard country
Inside the Sabi Sand Reserve and sharing an unfenced border with the Kruger National Park, Arathusa is set in one of the world’s most abundant natural wilderness areas where hundreds of animal species roam free.
There are twelve cottage suites, eight of which face the waterhole in front of the lodge where elephant herds gather to drink. The other four suites are tucked away in the surrounding bush, a little more private and each with their own plunge pools.
A refreshing infinity pool, safari spa, open dining areas, a welcoming bar and fire-warmed lounge can be found in the heart of the lodge looking over the water hole.
Facts
At a glance
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12 suites including four bush suites with plunge pools
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Infinity pool
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Three
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Spa
Experiences
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![Arathusa lodge wildlife 2]()
Game drives
Join experienced and personable rangers paired with local trackers on early morning and late afternoon game drives. Lions, rhinos, elephants and buffalos are often spotted on a single drive while leopards are a particular highlight of the area. Other predators include cheetahs and African wild dog. Giraffe, zebra, warthog, impala and more ‘lowveld’ species are here in abundance too.
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![Arathusa lodge wildlife 1]()
Bush walks
Guided walks are usually arranged in the early hours during the summer months, when temperatures are more moderate. Being on foot affords a unique and altogether different view of the bush.
Community & Culture
The name ‘Arathusa‘ is derived from the North Sotho word ‘reathusa’, which means, ‘we are helping’.
Arathusa Safari Lodge has been dedicated to the upliftment of local people. Through direct employment and skill development, forty staff members are from the local community and when positions become available, Arathusa has committed to approaching the local villages for suitably skilled personnel first. Where possible, Arathusa has provided training for unskilled people and subsequently provided employment opportunities. Supplies too are locally sourced where possible.
Funds are donated to the Buffelshoek Trust, which is allocated to schools, soccer teams, school holiday initiatives, and general upliftment programmes for the local communities.
Arathusa Safari Lodge also supports Hananani Primary School in the local community of Dixie and clients can directly help through Pack for a Purpose, an initiative that allows travellers to make a lasting impact in the community at their travel destinations.
Conservation
Arathusa subscribes to sound conservation management of its land and natural inhabitants. This includes a strict vehicle per hectare and vehicle per sighting ratio control.
As a lodge within the Sabi Sand Wildtuin, it also invests resources of both money and time towards rhino poaching awareness and prevention.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
