We swapped the hustle and bustle of town for a night in the wild. Our destination? Yembeni Bush Lodge, located just outside Ballito.
The North Coast is best known for its beautiful beaches – and for good reason. But, if you’re willing to travel a little off the beaten track, there are other gems to be found. One such place is Yembeni Bush Lodge. With luxurious accommodation and beautiful scenery, it’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge without having to travel too far from town.
EXPLORING THE WILD
Upon arrival at the lodge, we were struck immediately by the peaceful location. Yembeni is about a 30-minute drive from Ballito, and nestled within Rain Farm Game Lodge, an expansive 300-hectare property. We made ourselves at home in the beautifully-appointed units – each one has been tastefully designed and boasts stunning views of the surrounding bushveld. After settling in, we set off for a game drive, which took us through a picturesque valley, into indigenous forest and onto the surrounding hills. We were treated to close-up sightings of giraffe, wildebeest and zebras, as well as warthogs, waterbuck, kudu and nyala. The game farm is a particularly good spot for twitchers, as it’s home to 450 species of birds.
EVENING UNDER THE STARS
Back at the lodge, we gathered around a crackling fire pit for a glass of wine. Here, we shared stories and laughter with nothing but the sounds of the bush as a backdrop. The lodge chef prepared a delicious braai feast, which we enjoyed in the communal dining room. While the lodge is fully equipped for self-catering, it’s possible to hire a chef to prepare your meals – simply bring along the ingredients and they’ll do the rest.
SIMPLE PLEASURES
The following morning, we woke to a stunning view of the sunrise and enjoyed a quiet moment on the deck, sipping coffee and watching a lone giraffe wander past – the perfect start to the day. After a slow start, we gathered around the table for a leisurely breakfast and soaked up the sights and sounds of the bush around us. Although our visit was brief, our trip to Yembeni Bush Lodge was the perfect staycation and a reminder of nature’s beauty right on our doorstep.
WHAT TO EXPECT
• Yembeni Bush Lodge has three self-catering units, each of which sleeps two people.
• Each unit costs R1350 per adult per night; R950 per child (3-12 years old).
• It’s possible to book the whole lodge out for R8000 per night (sleeps six people).
• Outdoor features include a boma, fire pit, braai area, swimming pool and viewing deck.
• Game drives, spa treatments and picnics can all be arranged as optional extras.
Details: www.rainfarm.co.za/yembeni-bush-lodge; 032 815 1050; WhatsApp: 083 352 6830; info@rainfarm.co.za; IG: @yembenibushlodge
Images: Les Weaver
Text: Jennifer Campbell
