Construction is officially underway at Mpilo Safari Lodge, an exotic addition to the upcoming Club Med South Africa dual-destination experience. Nestl
Construction is officially underway at Mpilo Safari Lodge, an exotic addition to the upcoming Club Med South Africa dual-destination experience. Nestled in a pristine 18,000-hectare private game reserve near Pongola in northern KwaZulu-Natal, Mpilo Safari Lodge will deliver a tailored safari adventure to complement Club Med’s highly anticipated beach resort, both opening to international bookings in October this year.
Mpilo Safari Lodge forms part of a unique two-part holiday concept by Club Med South Africa, offering guests the ability to combine exceptional beach relaxation with an authentic Big Five safari experience that is just a short 45-minute scheduled charter flight from each other. Developed by Collins Residential, the lodge promises “a traditional safari experience with elevated elegance”, according to Chris du Toit, development manager at Collins Residential. “The interiors are locally inspired and curated to blend seamlessly with the surrounding bush it’s contemporary safari styling with a neutral palette that exudes natural elegance.”
Set against the dramatic backdrop of mountain ranges and traversed by the Mkuze River, Mpilo Safari Lodge will be situated on top of a hill with sweeping 180-degree views that will feature 75 luxury tented rooms made up of 55 family rooms and 20 adult-only rooms, with some of these interlinked to accommodate larger family groups. The lodge’s capacity will be capped at 225 guests per night to preserve the intimate and exclusive nature experience. Ultimately the emphasis will be on guests enjoying a personalised Big Five experience, with all construction undertaken being mindful of preserving the environment.
“The biodiversity is already here it’s a living, breathing reserve that’s been largely untouched”, explains Murray Collins, CEO of Collins Residential. “We’re not just building a lodge we’re protecting a legacy. From anti-poaching patrols to community training initiatives, we’re committed to a project that enriches both people and the planet. Our low footprint construction strategy is designed to preserve the natural terrain while promoting the use of local resources”.
Construction of the safari lodge will create over 220 jobs and once it is complete, 120 permanent direct positions will be appointed and sourced primarily from surrounding Zululand communities. A local contractor, renowned for sustainable lodge construction, has been appointed to ensure low environmental impact, using local stone and materials from the surrounding areas, with even the canvas tents being manufactured in the province. “Our neighbours and the community have expressed excitement about Club Med extending its footprint into this region and we are optimistic there will be significant benefits to those living and working in the area as a result of this project coming to fruition,” states du Toit.
Facilities of this luxury and exclusive private game reserve and experience will include a central reception, kids’ club, teen lounge, adult-only clubhouse and two bomas for unforgettable dining experiences under the African skies. Guests can also enjoy stargazing decks, drinks around private firepits, game drives in dedicated safari vehicles, beading workshops with the local community, and an overall immersive connection to Zululand’s rich natural heritage. These Club Med inspired activities and facilities will most certainly appeal to a range of holidaymakers, including families (with the lodge allowing children from four years old and upwards), wildlife enthusiasts, keen photographers, heritage seekers, honeymooners, active couples, corporates and more.
According to Club Med, a recent international focus group revealed that a significant percentage of overseas travellers regard South Africa as a top three destination on their travel bucket list, with the safari experience being a key driver. This insight is forming the basis of the international Club Med advertising campaign “L’aventure d’une vie’’, which translated into English means, “The Adventure of a Lifetime”. Club Med International Mpilo Safari Lodge can be booked exclusively through Club Med South Africa’s reservation system as part of their dual-destination packages with reservations opening globally in October 2025.
