An Update from Umkumbe in the Sabie Game Reserve

Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside is one of Sun Destinations’ most established properties in the Greater Kruger. Sitting in a prime position in the Sabie Game Reserve surrounded by the Sabi Sand, Umkumbe’s drawcard is its abundant predator viewing opportunities and affordability. We are often flooded with reports of leopard and lion sightings from Umkumbe’s passionate safari guides. And even during the summer season when the bushveld is thick, there are still noteworthy sightings. Guides Tyron and Elsabe sent us a few updates accompanied by their breathtaking images, which you’ve seen splattered across Facebook.

Here are the safari updates from Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside:

  • The local N’Weti male and female Ndzanzeni were seen mating
  • N’tsumi and her independent daughter-Sasekile-were also spotted
  • The Ubuso male, who is part of the N’waswitshaka coalition, was seen with the Kambula females
  • A leopard and her subadult were seen tucking into a warthog kill – guides couldn’t quite get an ID on the pair
  • Tyron claims that one of the major highlights of the season was spotting the rare Talamati Pride of lions soaking up the sun on Christmas morning. The pride spends most of their time in the north of the reserve, so seeing them was a real gift for the team. Tyron found the pride on the banks of the waterhole after being chased off from their buffalo kill by two hefty male lions.
  • The reserve is heaving with elephant sightings, in particular elephant calf sightings. Spotting new life in the reserve always brings a smile to guests’ faces.

 

Talamati Pride

Tawny Eagle

Lions of Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside

Hyenas of Sabi Sand

Talamati Pride of Lions

Lion Prides in Umkumbe Safari Lodge Terrain

Leopards of the Sabi Sand

Elephant Calf in Sabi Sand

Leopard in Sabi Sand

Lions of Umkumbe in Sabi Sand

If you like the sound of Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside, then here a few useful bits of information:

  • Umkumbe has a total of 10 rooms, both Standard and Superior. There are 7 Superior Suites and 3 standard rooms.
  • Some of the rooms overlook the Sand River, plains area and waterhole.
  • There is a indoor lounge with couches on which to relax, as well as a snooker table. An outdoor sitting area has views of the Sand River and a help yourself tea & coffee station.
  • There is a small splash pool surrounded by decking and deck chairs.
  • For the fitness minded, there is an on-site gym.

To find a comfortable lodge erring on the side of rustic in the Sabi Sand can be tricky, but not when you know about Umkumbe. Lining the banks of the seasonal Sand River, Umkumbe is the perfect spot for safari-goers who favour sightings and the simple way of life. You won’t find grand hallways, cascading chandeliers, and Michelin star chefs here, but you will find a sense of family, exceptional hospitality, and all the creature comforts from home. If you want Kruger authenticity combined with an unforgettable game viewing experience, then come to Umkumbe.