Simply Abu Dhabi XXXIV

1 7 1 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I K arkloof Safari Villas is situated just 30 minutes from Pietermaritzburg and nestled in a place of spectacular beauty on a 3,000-hectare reserve, surrounded by picturesque waterfalls and rivers. From the aroma of naturally hydrated greenery and gentle sounds of wildlife to culinary excellence and blissful spa relaxation, all senses are sure to be tantalised for in a truly memorable experience. Through their philosophy of ‘development with a gentle hand’, guests are revitalised and pampered whilst being enveloped by the untamed beauty on their doorstep that is left well cared for yet undisturbed. Wild animals are treated kindly and considerately by their two- legged neighbours, with whom they have adopted a trusting and almost tame-like nature. The wider residing area of Karkloof Safari Villas, once known as Ihlanze Game Reserve, was established in the 1850s when colonial settlement took place in the area. The region has always played host to an abundance of wildlife including buffalo, lion, hyena, African birds, hippo and even packs of wild dogs that used to roam the land. Around this period, larger game animals and predators were hunted to extinction, as was the case in many parts of South Africa. It is only in the last 15 to 20 years that these magnificent creatures have been sighted again and they are now recognised as an asset, not a liability. The most significant change occurred in 2002 with the establishment of the present Ihlanze Game Reserve, leading to the consolidation of the Karkloof Valley, the Umgeni Valley and Malden-Saxony properties. Ihlanze is now considered a viable area for the conservation of biodiversity and in it is set to be the core of a large UNESCO-approved biosphere reserve under the Biodiversity Stewardship Programme, the first of its kind in KwaZulu-Natal. The region still plays host to a range of diverse and rare plant and animal species which it is committed to sustaining. Intothewild Earning the reputation for being South Africa’s most eco-friendly luxury lodge and spa, Karkloof Safari Villas provides a unique and sensational safari experience combining ultimate comfort with conservation and respect for the surrounding nature. b y J u l i a Z a l t z m a n