Written by: Mapaseka Sekgala
There’s something special about the moment when the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg fades away, and you realize you’ve arrived in a serene, peaceful retreat. Sibani Lodge, nestled inside Mount Savannah in the tranquil upland area of Farm Danielsrust, offers just that—an oasis of calm amidst stunning natural landscapes.
A Warm Welcome
Upon arrival, we were greeted with warm smiles from the friendly staff, who gave us a brief tour of the lodge before guiding us to our rooms. The lodge’s design is a perfect blend of modern luxury and vintage charm, with a carefully curated mix of mahogany furniture, vintage leather suitcases, and animal skin carpets. Every corner of the lodge exudes elegance, while the surrounding views of the mountains and wildlife are simply breathtaking.
The Lodge and Accommodations
The main lodge features a beautiful master bedroom with a private deck, which quickly became my favorite room. Designed to capture sunlight from every angle, this room offers an uninterrupted view that stretches across the landscape. The interior is a perfect balance of modern and vintage, with luxurious mahogany furniture and the warm texture of animal skin carpets. The bathtub, strategically positioned to capture the sunset, and an indoor shower that leads to an outdoor shower, make this room feel like a personal sanctuary. The deck overlooks the grounds, where rabbits and other small animals often make an appearance, adding a touch of nature to the experience.
The second room is equally charming, featuring two double beds with a spacious bath, shower, and another deck offering expansive views of the property.
For a more private experience, the royal cottages are located a bit further from the main lodge. These cottages come with their own fireplace, a bathtub, shower, an open lounge, and an extended open deck—perfect for those seeking a secluded getaway.
Dining at Sibani Lodge
The dining experience at Sibani Lodge is a special one, marked by a tradition of communal meals. After settling in, guests gather around a large vintage barn-board dining table for dinner. At first, the idea of dining with strangers felt unusual, but it quickly turned into a highlight of my stay. It was enjoyable exchanging stories with fellow guests while savoring the evening’s meal.
Our starters were a creamy vegetable soup served with toasted ricotta bread—smooth and comforting. For the main course, we were treated to a hearty dish of oxtail, which was perfectly cooked—tender, succulent, and falling off the bone. To end the meal, we had homemade custard with malva cake, one of my all-time favorites. The wine flowed freely as we sat around the fire, enjoying each other’s company.
A Day at Sibani Lodge
The next day, I had been looking forward to swimming, but unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate. Sibani Lodge, situated in the uplands, was quite chilly and windy, though it was warmer just outside the property. On days like these, when the weather limits outdoor activities, the lodge offers a cozy escape. I opted to curl up with a glass of wine and take in the pastoral scenery, later retreating to my room to catch up on my favorite series.
However, my last day at Sibani Lodge turned out to be one of my most memorable moments. The weather was perfect—sunny and warm. I quickly changed into my bikini, grabbed a bottle of sparkling non-alcoholic wine, and headed to the pool. The poolside offered magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife, creating the perfect backdrop for relaxation. I spent about an hour soaking in the sunshine before heading out for an exciting game drive.
Game Drive Adventure
At around 5:00 p.m., we embarked on the game drive with Simon, our knowledgeable game ranger. This was my first time on a game drive, and I was excited to see the wildlife up close. We encountered a variety of animals, including wildebeest, giraffes, ostriches, antelopes, and zebras. It was an incredible experience, and Simon’s insights about Mount Savannah and its wildlife added a deeper appreciation for the area.
After the game drive, we visited the Sibani Lodge campsite, which offers outdoor accommodation in permanent tents. There are four tents in total: the Boma, which includes a king-size bed, open lounge, and an indoor fireplace; smaller tents for two people, each with modern interiors and outdoor furniture; and B&B (bed and breakfast) options. The tents are fully equipped for comfort, with beds instead of sleeping bags, making it a unique and cozy way to enjoy the outdoors.
Sunset Picnic and Final Dinner
As the sun began to set, we made our way to a cliff overlooking the breathtaking landscape for a small picnic. The picnic basket was filled with my favorite treats: biltong, peanuts, raisins, crackers, cheese, and a bottle of wine. It was the perfect way to unwind, taking in the stunning views as the sun dipped below the horizon.
By the time we returned to the lodge, it was dinner time. That evening, we enjoyed vegetable soup once more—though it wasn’t quite as memorable as the first time. However, the oxtail again stole the show. Paired with malva pudding, homemade custard, and wine, it was a satisfying conclusion to our stay.
A Hidden Gem
Sibani Lodge, located in the peaceful uplands of Farm Danielsrust, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to escape the busy city life of Johannesburg, enjoy a game drive, or simply relax in the lap of nature, Sibani Lodge provides the perfect getaway. With its stunning landscapes, luxurious accommodations, and warm, attentive staff, this hidden gem in Gauteng will surely leave you longing for your next visit.
