CAMP JABULANI – AFRICA’S ONLY ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE SAFARI
How an Elephant Inspired the Creation of a Safari Lodge - Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre

LIMPOPO PROVINCE, SOUTH AFRICA…..LOCATED 280 MILES NORTH OF JOHANNESBURG IN THE KAPAMAN GAME RESERVE, CAMP JABULANI IS THE ONLY SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA THAT CAN BE EXPERIENCED ON ELEPHANT BACK. Located on a 32,000 acre Big-Five game reserve, you will see and experience the African bush in a way that no other safari in South Africa can duplicate. Ride one of 13 trained gentle African elephants positioned behind an experienced handler. From this vantage point you will view game from close proximity as they move silently in single file through the African bush and trek where absolutely no motorized conveyance can bring you. Game rangers accompany the handlers and you will experience both early morning or a uniquely unforgettable night time wildlife experience.

The distinctive aspect of Camp Jabulani doesn’t stop with the wildlife. One of six luxurious accommodations – each a private suite - boasts a private plunge pool, deck with lounge chairs, a fireplace, and glass encased shower as well as a deep soaking tub. The stylish furnishings and architecture reflect the rich textures of Africa. In addition to opulent surroundings, the camp offers an exclusive La Prairie spa. From lavish breakfasts and gourmet picnics, to formal plated or riverbed dinners, you will embark on the experience of a lifetime and in the process gain an elephant as a trusted friend.

The Story of Jabulani – the Inspiration for the Camp
In June 1997, a baby elephant was abandoned by his herd when he became stuck in a silt dam when he was just three months old. Lente Roode, owner or of Camp Jabulani and founder of the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Center, discovered the exhausted, malnourished and very frightened calf. He was hauled out of the mud by Lente and her team and offered sanctuary at the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre. He was named Jabulani the isiZulu word meaning happiness or rejoice.
Lente did not know much about raising elephants but consulted experts around the country. There was little hope for his survival but under the supervision of an expert staff, he was nurtured back to health. As elephants bond very strongly with their caretakers he was raised by many people with much love and patience. After a time, extraordinary efforts were made to reintroduce Jabulani back to the wild, but all attempts were unsuccessful. Everyone knew Jabulani needed to be around his own kind – but were at a loss for a solution.

A unique opportunity arose for Jabulani to have a family of his own when Lente learned about a special herd of twelve elephants in Zimbabwe whose lives were in danger. The game farm on which they were located had been invaded by war veterans and their lives as well as those of their handlers and owners were at stake. A massive rescue mission was launched and was successfully completed two days before the election. All elephants were purchased by Lente and together with their keepers and their families, were relocated to the Kapama Private Game Reserve in South Africa. Everyone was a bit anxious the day Jabulani was introduced to the herd. To everyone’s great relief the matriarch Tokwe immediately adopted Jabulani as her own. He became a part of this close family. Today the herd consists of 13 full-grown elephants accommodated at Camp Jabulani and is used for the elephant back safari.

Jabulani has entertained numerous tourists with his antics, he has stood quietly and listened intently to what royal guests have whispered in his ear and he has become a much sought-after media celebrity. Above all, he was the inspiration for Camp Jabulani which was named after him as a tribute to his perseverance in the face of adversity. The kinship between him and his savior, Lente Roode, is evident to all who know and spend time with him.

A minimum two night stay is required and rates being at R6000 sharing or R9000 single occupancy per night (915 USD or 1,375 respectively). Tariff includes luxury accommodation in air-conditioned suites; a personal butler and laundry service; three meals per day; snacks, beverages and local branded alcoholic drinks; all activities including elephant excursions and game drives; a visit to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre; return road transfers between the camp and the Eastgate Airport.

Camp Jabulani, South Africa