Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, where the golden sun stretches its warm embrace across the vast savannah, there lies a hidden gem that breathes life into the wildest of dreams. A place where the whispers of adventure and the call of the wild unite to create an enchanting symphony of nature’s wonders. This magical realm is none other than Wilderness Little Makalolo, nestled deep in the heart of Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve. Here, you step into a world of unparalleled beauty and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring wonders of the African wilderness, as you embark on a journey that will forever be etched in the annals of your memory.
The camp is a testament to the wilderness it inhabits, the natural surroundings that truly make Wilderness Little Makalolo special. Situated in a remote area of the park, it is away from the hustle and bustle of civilization. The sounds of the bush are ever-present, with the calls of birds and animals providing a constant reminder of the wild world that lies just beyond the camp. A gem for those seeking a true African adventure that is authentic and traditional.
Wilderness Little Makalolo offers unparalleled opportunities for game drives and wildlife encounters. As you venture into the untamed expanse of the savannah, you bear witness to the breathtaking spectacle of nature’s greatest show. With each passing moment, you are enveloped further into the intricate dance of life that unfolds before your very eyes, from the thundering hooves of the mighty elephant herds to the stealthy prowl of the elusive leopard. Early morning game drives are a highlight of any stay at Wilderness Little Makalolo. As the sun rises over the park, the animals begin to stir. The air is crisp and cool, and the landscape is bathed in soft golden light. It’s the perfect time to spot wildlife, as the animals are most active in the early morning hours. On one such drive, we were lucky enough to spot a leopard resting in a tree. The big cat looked down at us with sleepy eyes, seemingly unperturbed by our presence. It was a truly magical moment, one that we will never forget.
But it’s not just the big cats that make Wilderness Little Makalolo special, one of the most enchanting experiences at Wilderness Little Makalolo for me was the opportunity to enjoy breakfast overlooking the vast plains, sipping on my morning coffee while being serenaded by a chorus of birdsong and the distant trumpeting of elephants, the very essence of Africa distilled into a single, unforgettable moment. The afternoons were just as enchanting as the mornings. After a very delicious lunch, we would relax in the shade of our tent or take a dip in the camp’s refreshing pool. As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we would head out on another game drive, watching as the animals prepared for their evening activities. The leopards, in particular, were a sight to behold. We saw them lazing in the shade, their spotted coats shining in the fading light. It was clear that they were getting ready for their nocturnal hunts, and we felt privileged to have witnessed them in their afternoon slumber.
The evenings at Wilderness Little Makalolo were just as memorable as the days. After a delicious dinner, we would gather around the fire, swapping stories and sharing our experiences of the day. The night sky was a blanket of stars, and the sounds of the bush provided a soothing soundtrack to our conversations. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with our fellow guests and to reflect on the incredible experiences we had enjoyed during our stay.
The Rooms
Wilderness Little Makalolo is an intimate camp and exclusive camp designed to blend into its natural surroundings. The 6 tents provide a true sense of being out in the wild, constructed from canvas and wood, with thatched roofs that provide shade and keep the interiors cool.
The interior decor of the tents is inspired by the natural beauty of the park. The colour palette is earthy and warm, with shades of brown, beige, and green dominating the decor. The furniture is made from natural materials such as wood and wicker, and the walls are adorned with artwork that celebrates the flora and fauna of the park. The result is a space that is both comfortable and inviting, providing a true sense of being at home in the wild.
One of the standout features of the tents is the outdoor shower. Each tent has a private en-suite bathroom, complete with a hot water shower and flush toilet. But the real treat is the outdoor shower, which is located just outside the tent. The shower is enclosed by a canvas wall for privacy, but the top is open to the sky, allowing guests to shower under the stars. It’s a truly magical experience.
Wilderness Little Makalolo also offers spacious family tents that provide a comfortable and secure environment for families. These tents are designed to accommodate parents and their children, with separate sleeping areas and en-suite facilities. The camp also offers the option to combine two tents with an interconnecting walkway, creating a larger family unit for those who require extra space.
Compared to Wilderness’ other camp in Hwange – Wilderness Linkwasha, Wilderness Little Makalolo offers a more rustic and intimate experience. Wilderness Linkwasha is a larger camp, with 10 tents, and it’s designed to be more luxurious and contemporary. The decor is more modern, with clean lines and a neutral colour palette, and the tents are larger and more spacious. The emphasis is on comfort and luxury, with amenities such as a spa, a gym, and a swimming pool.
A haven for famillies
This camp’s family-friendly approach makes it an ideal getaway for families. The camp ensures that every member, regardless of their age, can have an unforgettable experience. With the understanding of engaging children in age-appropriate activities, they have designed a “Bush Buddy” program tailored for young adventurers. This program offers a variety of fun and educational activities allowing children to learn about the wildlife, flora, and local culture in a safe and interactive way. Some of the activities include:
– Junior Ranger Training: Children can participate in guided bush walks, learning to identify animal tracks, plants, and bird calls. They will also learn about the importance of conservation and the role they can play in preserving the environment.
– Wildlife Tracking: Under the supervision of experienced guides, children can engage in wildlife tracking activities, learning to read the signs of the bush and understand animal behavior.
– Arts and Crafts: These are arts and crafts sessions where children can create their safari-inspired masterpieces using natural materials found in the area.
– Storytelling: Local storytelling sessions provide children with a chance to learn about the history and culture of the region, promoting a deeper understanding of the people and environment they are exploring.
We Are Wilderness
What really sets Wilderness Little Makalolo apart for me is the values of Wilderness, the company that owns and operates the camp. The company is committed to sustainable tourism, working closely with local communities to ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared fairly. They also place a strong emphasis on conservation, working tirelessly to protect the natural world that we all love and cherish. It was heartening to know that our stay at Wilderness Little Makalolo was not only an incredible experience for us but also an opportunity to support a company that prioritizes responsible tourism. Their passion and expertise bring to life the intricate tapestry of the Hwange ecosystem, weaving a spellbinding narrative that enriches your understanding of the natural world.
The warm and attentive staff at Wilderness Little Makalolo are the very embodiment of Zimbabwean hospitality. They cater to your every need with genuine care and affection, ensuring that your time at the camp is filled with unforgettable moments of magic and delight. From the warm smiles that greet you each morning to the thoughtful touches that make your stay truly exceptional, their presence adds a layer of warmth and sincerity that makes Wilderness Little Makalolo feel like a home away from home.
As you bid farewell to this enchanted realm and embark on the journey back to civilization, you carry with you the memories of a lifetime, etched in your heart and soul. Wilderness Little Makalolo leaves an indelible mark on your spirit, a reminder that the beauty and wonder of the natural world are within our reach if only we dare to venture beyond the confines of our everyday lives. In a world that often feels disconnected and disenchanted, Wilderness Little Makalolo offers a respite, a place where we can reconnect with the elemental forces that shape our world and our lives. It is a place where we can rediscover the magic of the present moment and revel in the simple joys of existence.
So, if you find yourself yearning for adventure and the call of the wild, look no further than Wilderness Little Makalolo. Let this hidden gem be your gateway to the wonders of Africa, and let the wilderness be your guide as you embark on a journey of self-discovery and wonder.
To Book:
W: https://www.wildernessdestinations.com/
T: +27 11 257 5000