Lalibela Game Reserve - Kichaka Lodge

When you first arrived, we were excited by the location and view of the reserve. We stayed for 3 nights with 6 game drives( morning and early evening game drives). The staff were very friendly and helpful. The meals were never-ending and had good choices and tasted delicious. The accommodation was mind-blowing with a large king-size bed, large bathroom, and patio with a plunge pool. The bed was comfortable, and we were woken by the birds in the morning. You do not need an alarm clock for the early morning game drives. The game drives are the highlight of the stay, and our ranger was very informative and left us with memories that live with us for a lifetime. To see the animals in their own environment is an amazing experience. We also did a walking game drive, which was not included but was again an amazing experience. You then learn about the small 5. Overall, I would recommend the Lalibela Lodge for an experience of a lifetime.

From the moment you arrive at the reception and are taken down to the lodge you know this is going to be very special. The lodge had sitting rooms, library area, open fires, bar area and a beautiful restaurant. When the weather improved we also ate outside on the veranda looking at the waterhole and the hippos. All very high quality and spotlessly clean. The food is exceptional and apart from very high end drinks, wine, beer and some spirits are all included. The rooms are just as pictured, all just a few minutes walk from the lodge. Giant bed, sitting area, superb bathroom and a deck with heated plunge pool. Despite all this luxury what makes this place very special are the staff. From cleaning, to waitress, to chef, everyone makes you feel so special. They are so friendly and willing to make sure you enjoy your stay. Special mention to Sam. But best of all, Woody. Woody met us as soon as we arrived at reception and explained he would be our guide on game drives. He was excellent, a fountain of knowledge about the animals in the reserve, including all the birds and flora. We also went one on a night drive with him, he's also a knowledgable astronomer. I also need to note that during our stay, one of our group had a special birthday, cake was made by the staff and all the kitchen staff came and sang happy birthday. On our last night sparkling wine was left in our rooms, bath run and candles. Sadly we didn't take advantage of this as we went on a night drive. (Cheetahs and elephants in the dark and South African night sky) A very special place that created many special memories.

Lalibela exceeded my expectations! Upon arrival we headed out on a drive with our guide Ryno. He was incredibly observant and informed. We saw so much with him in just a few hours. Ryno never hurried us. He cared about sharing the beauty of Lalibela with us. Arriving back at the lodge, Thembi and Rachida greeted us with warm towels and beverages. We had morning and afternoon drives. A nighttime drive and a walk. Each time we went out we discovered something new. Our room was lovely, cozy and quiet. Meals were fantastic. We were even treated to an impromptu performance of the Click Song. I deeply appreciate the hard work of Ryno, Rachida, Thembi, Mariska and the rest of the staff who all work together to make every guests’s experience amazing. They care about this place.