Extraordinary Africa>South Africa>Kruger, Sabi Sands and around>Last Word Kitara
Tucked deep within the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve – with the iconic Kruger National Park a fenceless neighbour to the east – The Last Word Kitara offers a rare combination of serenity and understated luxury all set to the bubbling soundtrack of the Klaserie River (a big five causeway).
What’s Last Word Kitara really like?
The main lodge sits beneath a high thatched roof, where natural materials are mixed with judicious pops of pattern and colour to create a warm and welcoming vibe. Deep sofas spill across the lounge, the bar is always ready with something cold and refreshing, and the terrace opens straight onto the riverbank – an idyllic spot for long, unhurried meals full of home grown flavour. A boma with a view sits just above the river, perfect for lanternālit dinners beneath the stars, with an indoor dining room providing a cosier alternative for cooler evenings (in-rooms are also available should you want to hunker down). Beside the lounge, a rimāflow pool glimmers in the sunlight, complete with oversized floating cushions and shaded loungers for lazy afternoons.
The six suites are spacious and beautifully appointed: four positioned directly along the riverbank and two set slightly back with a shared patio leading down to the lawn. Each suite has a private deck or patio, a small sitting area and minibar. The enāsuite bathrooms are particularly lovely, with double vanities, a Victorian style bath as well as both indoor and outdoor showers. In the riverfront suites, the outdoor shower is accessed via the bedroom and down a short flight of steps.
Children are warmly welcomed at Kitara, and the relaxed pace of life makes it an easy place for families to unwind, although it’s best suited to older children who are comfortable sleeping in an adjacent suite (they don’t inter-lead but are positioned in pairs).
What can I do at Last Word Kitara?
As there are fewer lodges here than the other Greater Kruger Reserves, guests are able to enjoy unhurried morning and evening game drives here with longer times at special sightings. Thoughtful touches like lanternālit gin sundowners and morning coffee on the sandbanks are very welcome. Optional bush walks offer a more intimate connection with the wilderness, while additional experiences such as scenic helicopter flights over the Blyde River Canyon, rhino deāhorning excursions and fascinating K9 conservation demonstrations add depth and meaning to a stay here.
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