Karongwe Portfolio- Shiduli Private Game Lodge

We had a truly wonderful three night stay at Shiduli Lodge! We did five game drives where we saw the Big 5 and so many other animals! We saw leopards four times! I highly recommend Gilbert and Johnson for your guide and tracker. All the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. There was a wide variety of food, including gluten free options. The grounds are impeccably kept and everything was very clean. I highly recommend this lodge!

Lodge offered a beautiful, peaceful setting with thoughtful décor, charming side rooms, and spacious patios, allowing guests to spread out. The grounds are well-kept and perfect for unwinding between game drives. While our room was clean and had a large shower, it was dated and on the smaller side especially for two adults. Meals were excellent every day. Food was fresh and varied, with themed braais and great menu diversity. The chef was present at every meal, ensuring everything ran smoothly. However, the dining room staff could have been more attentive offering drinks, etc. Maybe they can use all hands on deck with the lodge is full. The highlight of our stay was the game drives. Our guides, Gilbert and Johnson, were fantastic—friendly, skilled, and always enthusiastic. We had amazing encounters, including walking alongside cheetahs and observing the lions and rhinos up close. Drives were made even better with thoughtful extras like tea, snacks, and beautifully arranged sun risers (coffee) and sundowners (happy hour) inside the reserve daily. We had tea time before the afternoon safaris and were welcomed back with a warm towel and a drink after evening safaris. Highly recommended for those seeking a well-rounded, memorable safari! Tips: • Wi‑Fi is patchy—use the time to unplug! • Game drives start early—be ready to rise before dawn. •. Read on what’s appropriate to wear. •. Sudden temperature changes, dress in layers. •. Your day is very structured.

We saw the Big Five everyday as a result of Peter and Charlie's tracking and communication. They would start the day with a plan but always ask if there were animals that we wanted to see. They always made it happen. The proximity to the animals was astounding, but they both made safety a priority. The blankets and hot water bottles allowed us to stay cozy during early morning game drives. The sunrise, sunset, bush bar, and animal observations made for the best safari. But the lodge offers so much more. The customer service goal is clear "Are you happy as our guest?" I won't spoil all of the little touches the staff provided through every hour of the day. But some noteworthy extras include change of tablescape for each meal, well marked food options for gluten free, dairy free, & vegan, as well as very affordable laundry service. Conrad, the manager, was present to ensure that each guest was taken care of. Staff always shared excitement when safari guests would share their photos - though they probably have seen thousands. This professional, intimate, VIP lodge is worthy of a return visit.

The experience was great until it wasn’t. The safari was great but unfortunately on our last night there…money was STOLEN from our safety deposit box. We brought our concern to the managers and they were NOT helpful at all. The blame was placed on us. Unfortunately this incident made our experience horrible. There is little you can do when you are in the middle of nowhere. I would not go back to this reserve again! Be careful with your belongings and money!

I recommend this place, everything is exceptional and they have marvelous service. I will definitely be coming back soon again

The Shiduli Private Game Lodge did not disappoint. It was recommended by our travel agent and she was spot on. Everyone was friendly and helpful and made us feel like home. The game drives were amazing and we saw the Big 5 all in one afternoon drive in less than 2 hours. Unbelievable! Highly recommend.