As another year comes to a close in the Klaserie, we find ourselves reflecting on an extraordinary 2025, a year marked by meaningful guest connections, dedicated teamwork, evolving seasons, and a milestone achievement that will forever stand out in our journey as a luxury safari lodge. Tulela’s story has always been shaped by people and place, and this year reminded us once again why the combination of both is so powerful.
A Defining Moment: Our 2025 Awards
The highlight of our year, and a moment of real pride for every member of our team, came with our recognition at the World Luxury Travel Awards 2025. Tulela Safari Lodge was honoured as:
- Best Private Lodge in Africa
- Best Luxury Safari Lodge in South Africa
These awards go beyond the trophies themselves. They are a reflection of years of dedication, a belief in doing things differently, and a commitment to hospitality that feels personal rather than transactional.
Our exclusive-use model, our passion for creating tailored experiences, and our focus on privacy and connection were recognised on a global stage, an achievement that belongs to every staff member who shows up with care and commitment each day.
For a small, intimate lodge on a bend of the N’tsiri River, being acknowledged among Africa’s finest is something we hold with immense gratitude.
A year of exceptional sightings
This year brought an exceptional range of animal sightings, many of them unfolding right in front of the lodge. Our waterhole continued to be a reliable gathering point for large elephant herds, often visiting daily through the dry months. Predators were also active throughout the year, with frequent lion and leopard sightings.
Guests enjoyed memorable encounters with buffalo, hyena, wild dog packs moving through the reserve, and seasonal birdlife returning with the summer rains. Whether on game drives or simply relaxing on the deck, 2025 offered guests a remarkable window into the rhythms and wildlife of the Klaserie Nature Reserve.
Meaningful Guest Connections
One of the constants throughout 2025 was the sense of community that formed with the guests who chose Tulela for their holidays, celebrations, and special moments. We welcomed returning families we’ve known for years, first-time visitors who quickly became friends, and travellers who arrived as strangers and left feeling like part of the Tulela story.
To our guests, thank you.
Thank you for choosing to spend meaningful time in our wilderness. Thank you for your conversations around the fire, your laughter at the boma dinners, your excitement on game drives, and the countless moments of joy and connection shared with our team.
The People Behind the Magic
Awards and beautiful moments mean little without the people who make them possible. This year was another reminder of the strength, passion, and professionalism of the Tulela team.
To our entire team, from our guides and trackers to our chefs, housekeeping, operations, maintenance, and management, thank you for your dedication, professionalism, and genuine care. Your combined efforts are the heart of Tulela and the reason each guest experience is so memorable.
These 2025 awards are as much yours as they are the lodge’s.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we wrap up the year, we look forward with anticipation. In 2026, we aim to deepen our connection to the land, introduce new conservation-minded offerings, and continue refining an exclusive-use experience that feels more like home than a hotel stay. Our goal remains simple: to offer guests meaningful time in nature, surrounded by people who care deeply.
Thank you for being part of Tulela’s journey. We cannot wait to welcome you back in the new year.
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