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Imagine being able to experience the sights, smells, sounds and excitement of the African veld?


Pakamisa – the name in the language of the Zulu means “to lift up” and we assure our guests that their spirits will soar in this African Shangri-La.


Pakamisa is also home to a collection of magnificent Arabian Horses all superbly trained by the owner. There are few greater thrills than exploring the wild African Bush on horseback.

Pakamisa is predator & malaria free, creating a safe environment for a range of activities for adults and children not usually available in BIG 5 Reserves.

We offer discerning visitors luxury, comfort and great hospitality with excellent gourmet cuisine amidst the pristine African wilderness.


Pakamisa is a perfect base for those wishing to explore Northern Zululand and is conveniently situated on the main route from Kruger Park to Durban.

Pakamisa is a private, exclusive reserve open to residential guests only. Majestically perched on the high plateau of the Pakamisa Mountain, the lodge has breath-taking views of the evergreen valleys and plains of the Pongola River to the east and the rolling hills of natural bush of the Reserve in the west.

Limited to a maximum of 16 guests, the lodge offers a unique Spanish architecture, blended with the finest African ambience.


The eight meter high ceilings, legendary of tropical hotels in bygone days, create a pleasant, cool atmosphere. The impressive Main House, with its eclectic mix of African and European art and antiques, offers an ideal place for quiet relaxation or pre-dinner socializing; alternatively slip into the intimate atmosphere of the Hunter’s Bar for a cocktail.

The extensive library contains many treasures to delight the most discerning bibliophile in a variety of languages.

Relax around the large pool, take in the spectacular views, enjoy light snacks and exotic drinks after a refreshing swim around the pool.

8 Luxury Safari Suites

A room with more than a view awaits you! Wake up to the most spectacular views of Pakamisa Private Game Reserve.The substantial accommodation consists of a bedroom, deluxe bathroom, a garderobe and cosy sunken lounge leading onto a spacious veranda.


Conveniently located away from the main facilities, in landscaped indigenous gardens, the accommodation offers the highest standards of comfort and seclusion. The deluxe suites are individually styled and themed after an animal depicted in valuable paintings and local artefacts.

The suites are deliberately techno-free with no telephone or television. Internet access is available at the reception area of the Main House – for those who simply cannot let go of the outside world. Excellent cell phone reception is available in most areas of the Pakamisa Lodge.


All rooms offer the following:

  • En-suite bathrooms with separate bath and shower

  • In-room safe

  • Well stocked mini-bar

  • Luxury bed linen

  • Soothing and pampering private-label toiletries

  • Bathrobes

  • Tea and coffee unit with home baked biscuits

  • Discreet housekeeping twice daily

  • All rooms are non-smoking

Horseback Safaris

If the noise of an engine bothers you, try a horse back safari, with its gentle pace and proximity to nature. This is a spectacular way to view game, and Pakamisa welcomes both beginners and advanced riders.


This unique experience combines the pleasure of riding with the thrill of an African safari. Delight in an adventure that allows you to experience African wildlife, scenery and culture at close quarters. Horse and rider become one with the environment – sharing the same sights, scents, sounds and excitement of the African wilderness. No horse lover coming to South Africa should miss this opportunity!


Pakamisa specialises in pleasure riding holidays for families, groups and individuals.


Each trail ride offers incredible game viewing from the meandering plains or the challenging hilly ascents. There is nothing more exciting than riding into a herd of impala, giraffe, wildebeest and warthogs, and getting close to them, before they trot off.


A professional guide will take you through Pakamisa’s unspoilt wilderness areas, introduce you to the African fauna & flora and share the exhilaration of a Horseback safari.


Riding schedules are tailored to the requirements of each group, starting from a beginner’s lesson of half an hour, to a daily ride of up to five hours, breaking for a romantic Bush breakfast or picnic.

Great emphasis is placed on the care of the horses, which are Pure Arabians and Cross-breeds with the indigenous South African “Boerperd”.


Tack is kept in excellent condition using english or endurance saddles.


Every effort is made to match the guest to ‘his/her’ perfect horse.


For safety reasons groups are limited to six riders. Only children over 10 years are permitted, unless a prior arrangement is made. Weight limit is 90kgs.


For visitors who would like to experience Pakamisa on two legs, rather than four, there are numerous walks and trails through the valleys, along the river banks, or climb the Pakamisa mountain for the most rewarding panoramic view of 360 degrees.


Weather: Summer months from September to April. January and February are the hottest months, with temperature varying between 15 degrees C and 30 degrees. The rainy season starts in October and is usually limited to short thunder storms. Winter is May to the end of August and no rains are expected. Evening and early mornings are cool, with temperatures between 10 degrees C and 25 degrees C.


The cooler winter months allow day long riding.


Come & visit us at Pakamisa, we would love to meet you!


Contact Us

Tel: +27 (0) 83 229 1811

Fax: +27 (0) 866 229 403

Cellphone: +27 (0) 83 229 2116

Reservations: res@pakamisa.co.za




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