Just north of the Hluhluwe Game Reserve, bordering Swaziland, lies a huge expanse of water reaching up against the Lebombo Mountains and surrounded by the Pongola Game Reserves which is called Lake Jozini (also known as Pongolapoort).
Perched high up on the ridge, overlooking Lake Jozini, is Shayamoya.
Tackling tiger fish is a huge attraction at Shayamoya as these are the only waters in South Africa that are home to this ferocious fighting freshwater game fish. Besides fishing, the outdoors, wild animals, birding and family fun is available at relatively affordable prices.
There are eight bush chalets and two honeymoon chalets and all are privately positioned and elegantly furnished, have their own viewing balconies, en-suite bathrooms and outdoor showers.
The views are splendid, stretching across the reserve to the Lebombo Mountains with Lake Jozini meandering through the hills below, reflecting the uplifting sunrises and colours and moods of the expansive skies.
The lodge gardens contain over 60 species of aloes and a fantastic collection of other indigenous plants and there is constant bird activity around the chalets, central lodge or while you are relaxing at the deep swimming pool.
In winter, with the aloes in flower, you are frequently surrounded by shimmering sunbirds.
With over 360 species in the area, this is birder heaven. Duiker, bushbuck and the Shayamoya mascot, Nandi the Spotted Eagle Owl, are frequent visitors to the lodge too.
Easing quietly up the Pongola River on the game viewing boat, with abundant game on the shores, it becomes clear why some call this the Kariba of the south
There are walking trails and, if you bring your own bikes, mountain biking across the trails leading onto the lodge’s reserve.
Guides allow mums and dads some time to themselves by making life exciting for children, teaching them the wonders of nature using spoor guides, star gazing charts, and creating leaf collages.
Movies are screened in the boma under supervision. Meal times are flexible (earlier servings can be arranged) and babysitters are available to look after kids while the folks enjoy their dinner. Bunk beds and cots are available for the chalets too.
There is also a neighbouring spa where guests can enjoy a few hours of pampering.
How to get there
Situated on the road to Golela/Swaziland Border post, 2km off the N2 Highway, between the towns of Pongola and Mkuze, Shayamoya is a three-hour drive from Durban.
SPECIAL DEAL
Shayamoya is offering a family special package until the end of July for three nights for parents and two children under 12.
This includes all meals, personalised services of guides and assistants, a boat cruise and game drive and accommodation in a standard chalet. The cost is R9 000, with R3 000 deposit.
Sunday Tribune subscribers qualify for an additional 10 percent discount.To reserve your spot, call 034 435 1110. - Sunday Tribune