&Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp

Miles Willis
Aug 12
5 min read

&Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp: Old-World Safari Charm in the Heart of the Sabi Sand

In the heart of South Africa’s iconic Sabi Sand Game Reserve, on a ridge overlooking the lush Sand River, lies &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp — a lodge that blends the timeless romance of a 1920s safari homestead with the luxurious service and wildlife encounters today’s discerning travellers expect.

For those who appreciate a safari that is as much about atmosphere and heritage as it is about the Big Five, Kirkman’s Kamp offers an experience where the past and present meet seamlessly. It’s a journey into another era, without sacrificing modern indulgences.

A Heritage Steeped in Safari History

The lodge is named after Harry Kirkman, a legendary warden who once lived in this gracious homestead. Built in the 1920s, the original farmhouse still stands as the heart of the property, lovingly restored to preserve its colonial charm. Wide verandas wrap around the building, polished floors gleam, and antique furnishings transport guests back to the golden age of safaris, when evenings were spent with sundowners and the day’s stories were swapped over a fire.

This sense of history is not staged; it’s genuine. Every photograph on the wall, every piece of weathered leather luggage in the décor, tells part of a real story.

Location: The Wildlife Capital of South Africa

Kirkman’s Kamp is located within the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with the Kruger National Park. This is widely regarded as one of the best places in the world to view the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — in their natural habitat.

The Sabi Sand is particularly famous for its leopard sightings, which are unrivalled anywhere else. Here, these elusive cats are not just fleeting glimpses; guests often enjoy prolonged encounters, watching them stalk, hunt, or simply lounge in a marula tree.

The lodge’s position on a hill offers sweeping views across the Sand River, a magnet for wildlife, especially in the dry season when animals congregate for water.

The Kirkman’s Experience: From Dawn to Dusk

A day at Kirkman’s follows the rhythm of the African bush. Early mornings begin with a gentle knock on your door and a tray of coffee or tea, followed by a game drive in an open 4x4 vehicle. These drives, led by expert rangers and Shangaan trackers, are never rushed — there’s time to sit quietly with a herd of elephants or follow the fresh tracks of a lion pride.

Wildlife is only part of the magic; the guides are storytellers, natural historians, and trackers rolled into one. Their deep knowledge and passion bring each sighting to life, whether it’s a martial eagle in flight or the intricate web of a golden orb spider.

After the morning adventure, a sumptuous brunch awaits back at the lodge, often served outdoors with panoramic views. The heat of the day invites a slower pace — perhaps a swim in the pool, a siesta, or a stroll around the grounds to watch nyala and vervet monkeys.

The afternoon game drive stretches into the evening, with the sky painted in shades of gold and crimson. Sundowners in the bush — your drink of choice served with gourmet snacks — are a Kirkman’s signature moment. As night falls, spotlights sweep the landscape, revealing nocturnal wonders: porcupines, bushbabies, and the gleam of a leopard’s eyes.

Accommodation: Elegance with an Authentic Touch

Kirkman’s Kamp offers 18 air-conditioned suites, each with a private veranda that overlooks the Sand River. The interiors blend old-world charm — think four-poster beds, clawfoot bathtubs, and vintage campaign furniture — with modern amenities like Wi-Fi and well-appointed bathrooms.

What sets these suites apart is their understated elegance. The design honours the lodge’s heritage without feeling dated. Large windows and verandas keep you connected to the wilderness, even while enjoying the comfort of Egyptian cotton sheets.

Dining: Gourmet Safari Cuisine

Food at Kirkman’s Kamp is a celebration of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, prepared with international flair. Mornings begin with freshly baked muffins, seasonal fruits, and hot breakfasts cooked to order. Brunches and high teas offer a creative mix of South African favourites and global classics.

Dinners are often served in atmospheric locations — under the stars in the boma, by candlelight on the lawn, or in the elegant dining room. The wine list showcases some of South Africa’s finest vintages, perfectly paired with each dish.

For those seeking something extra special, private bush dinners can be arranged, where lanterns and firelight create an unforgettable evening.

Beyond the Game Drives

While wildlife viewing is the main attraction, Kirkman’s Kamp offers other experiences that enrich your stay:

Guided Bush Walks – For an intimate look at the smaller wonders of the bush, from medicinal plants to tracking animal spoor.
Photography Safaris – Perfect for guests who want to hone their skills with guidance from professional wildlife photographers.
Community Visits – &Beyond’s deep commitment to conservation and community means guests can engage meaningfully with local cultural projects.
Massage Treatments – In-room wellness treatments let you unwind while listening to the sounds of the bush.

Conservation and Sustainability

&Beyond is renowned for its “Care of the Land, Care of the Wildlife, Care of the People” ethos, and Kirkman’s Kamp embodies this philosophy. The lodge is actively involved in anti-poaching initiatives, wildlife monitoring, and habitat restoration.

Guests can learn about these efforts firsthand, gaining a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of luxury tourism and conservation in Africa.

Getting There

For international travellers, the journey is seamless. Most guests fly into Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport, then take a direct flight to Skukuza or Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. From there, it’s a short road transfer or light aircraft hop into Sabi Sand.

&Beyond’s reservations team can arrange private charters for those who prefer to arrive in style.

When to Go

The Sabi Sand offers superb game viewing year-round. The dry winter months (May to September) make wildlife easier to spot as vegetation thins and animals congregate near water sources. The summer months (October to April) bring lush landscapes, baby animals, and excellent birdwatching — along with dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that clear to reveal brilliant sunsets.

Why &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp is Perfect for the Top-End Traveller

For the discerning traveller, luxury is not just about five-star service; it’s about authenticity, storytelling, and rare experiences that stay with you long after you’ve returned home. Kirkman’s Kamp delivers on all three: