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A Unique Celebration in the African Bush

Paralympian celebrates birthday in the bush. Anjali Forber-Pratt, a wheelchair racer and former world record holder in the 200 meters, celebrated her 40th birthday adventurously. She invited three close friends to join her on an African safari at Ximuwu Safari Lodge, a wheelchair-friendly lodge in the Greater Kruger area.

Journey to Ximuwu Safari Lodge

They flew in from different parts of the US and began their adventure. Despite Margaret’s flight delay, they arrived captivated by the African bush’s beauty. They enjoyed two daily game drives, spotting the Big Five and newborn animals. Highlights included a young giraffe and an elephant calf visiting the lodge’s waterhole.

Memorable Bush Dinner and Night on the Deck

Their third night was magical. They had a bush dinner at the scenic Ximuwu dam, a haven for animals during the dry season. Stephanie spent a night on the lodge’s sleep-out deck, enjoying the nocturnal bush sounds. She awoke to see Impalas drinking water, creating a serene and memorable moment.

Helicopter Ride and Relaxation

The next morning, they took an exhilarating helicopter ride over the park, viewing vast landscapes and large elephant herds. During the day’s heat, they relaxed by the lodge’s heated pool. Anjali could swim comfortably, thanks to the lodge’s pool lift. Each friend enjoyed the spa, indulging in facials and massages.

Accessibility and Comfort at Ximuwu

Anjali was impressed by the lodge’s accessibility. She could easily navigate her suite and the main building. The thoughtful design allowed her to enjoy her stay without any hindrance.

Meeting Nobu and Reflecting on the Adventure

They met Nobu, the lodge’s friendly mascot dog, who loved joining game drives. After five days of fun and countless animal sightings, they prepared to return home. They agreed the holiday exceeded their expectations and promised to share their experience with their clients.

 A Unique and Accessible Safari Experience

Ximuwu Safari Lodge offers a unique and accessible safari experience. Anjali and her friends created memories that would last a lifetime. They left with a renewed appreciation for the African wilderness.

 Learn More

For more information about Anjali Forber-Pratt and her career, visit:
– Anjali Forber-Pratt’s Official Website
– Anjali Forber-Pratt on Wikipedia

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The Latest from Instagram

  • There’s something quite special happening out at our Steendam hide.
A hyena clan has made this area their home, with a den tucked safely nearby. It’s a place full of life, where you never quite know what you’ll witness next.

Many guests already know and love the hide right in front of the lodge, but having a second hide at Steendam adds a whole new experience. A little more remote, a little more raw… and often incredibly rewarding.

Picture an afternoon settled in, your favourite drink within reach, camera ready. No rush, no noise, just the quiet rhythm of the bush. Hyenas moving in and out, other wildlife arriving at the waterhole, each moment unfolding in its own time.
  • The Sark pride decided to take a stroll right past our game viewer today… and Thulani, as usual, had the best seat in the house!

Guests often ask how close we get to the animals… well, is this close enough? 🤩
Just look at those full bellies on the youngsters! It’s wonderful to see them thriving and doing so well.
  • There’s never a dull moment on our airstrip… especially when the local “management” is on duty.

For years, this loyal pair of black-backed jackals has claimed the strip as their territory. Around here, we call them Jackie… or, when they’re feeling particularly bold, the airstrip mafia. Always alert, always watching, and very quick to investigate any hint of action nearby.

This morning’s sighting shows one of them dashing purposefully down the runway — no doubt on the way to “assist” where a predator might have made a kill. Nothing ever goes unnoticed with these two around.

Small, clever, and full of character — they’ve become part of daily life at Ximuwu, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
  • A beautiful breeding herd of buffalo gathered at Anderson Dam this morning. Wonderful to see so many youngsters among them. These big herds are always impressive to watch as they move through the reserve. A great sighting on an early game drive at Ximuwu. 🐃🌿
  • Last week we were lucky enough to spend time with one of the legendary big tuskers known to roam the Greater Kruger — a magnificent bull called Tussle. 🐘

These extraordinary elephants are famous for their immense tusks, sometimes nearly touching the ground. They move freely across the entire Greater Kruger landscape, so sightings are never guaranteed and always completely on their terms.

Seeing Tussle pass through the area around Ximuwu was a fascinating moment and a real privilege. 
What a treat. ✨
  • Today we celebrate the incredible women of Ximuwu.

From hosting to housekeeping, the kitchen, the spa and the many things that happen behind the scenes, our ladies are an essential part of everything we do. Their dedication, strength, warmth and pride in their work help create the special atmosphere our guests experience every day.

We are grateful for the passion and care they bring to Ximuwu, and we are proud to work alongside such an inspiring team of women.

Happy International Women’s Day to the wonderful women of Ximuwu. We celebrate you today and every day. 🌿
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