Kubili House
Africa’s most exclusive private residence just outside the Kruger.
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Safari Lodge
OVERVIEW
A PRIVE LUXURY THORNYBUSH SAFARI LODGE
Arguably Africa’s most exclusive private safari residence, Kubili House redefines bush living from the wildlife-rich savannah plains of Thornybush Private Game Reserve in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park.
Kubili House is a stunning example of modern architectural design, flawlessly blending natural elements with sleek, contemporary lines. Situated in the heart of the Cape Winelands, this luxurious property offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains and lush vineyards. From the moment you step inside, you are enveloped in an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility, with every detail carefully crafted to ensure the ultimate comfort and indulgence.
Nestled in the heart of the Thornybush Game Reserve lies the majestic Kubili House, a true African masterpiece. This luxurious private villa is the epitome of sophistication and offers an experience that is second to none. Boasting four elegantly designed suites, a private swimming pool, and breathtaking views of the surrounding bushveld, Kubili House offers the ultimate exclusive getaway for discerning travelers.
The house is a contrast of the monolithic and the weightless, the open and enclosed, the ancient and modern, the north and the south, water and drought. These contrasts create an aura of mystery, much like the landscape itself and the ruins that inspired the house. The space is divided into two parts: an open pergola with a floating roof, and a weighty, rocky, monolithic counterpart. The pergola is made of smooth finishes and low-to-the-ground furniture, designed to immerse the guests in the Kruger landscape. The monolithic counterpart is made of antique wooden beams and reclaimed wood floors, giving it a sense of age and human time. There is also a subtle nod to the Japanese Wabi aesthetic, the belief that there is perfection in imperfection. This is evidenced in the handmade African clay tiles with their almost imperceptible gold-leaf flaws.
You can indulge in a range of activities, including game drives and bush walks led by experienced guides, archery, photography or simply taking in the beautiful vistas from the privacy of your villa and unwinding under the African sun. With every last detail taken care of, this is an experience that is sure to exceed your expectations.
HIGHLIGHTS
PRIVATE VEHICLE & GUIDE
Guests at Kubili House can enjoy a variety of safari activities, including game drives, guided walks, bush breakfasts, sundowners, spa treatments, swimming, fishing, bird watching, night drives, cultural experiences, and activities for children.
PERSONAL CHEF
A Private chef and sous chef are included in your stay and will design your daily menus according to your preferences. This means that you will have the opportunity to enjoy delicious, freshly prepared meals that are tailored to your individual preferences. The chefs are experts in South African cuisine and can create a variety of dishes to suit your taste.
CHILDMINDING
Kubili House offers a variety of childminding services for families with children of all ages. The lodge has a team of experienced and qualified nannies who are dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children.
Cozy Bush Life Meets Sophistication
OUR INSIGHTS
THOUGHTS FOROM A TRAVEL DESIGNER
“Kubili House offers a luxurious, private, and unforgettable safari experience. This exclusive property caters to families and provides exceptional opportunities for game viewing, ensuring an intimate and personalized adventure for all ages.”
FAMILIES
Being in the heart of the Delta offers unparalleled access to one of Africa's most iconic wildlife destinations, renowned for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife.
GAME VIEWING
The camp's position on a permanent water body provides opportunities for unique water-based activities like mokoro rides and boat safaris, and stunning views.
EXCLUSIVITY
The quick helicopter transfer from Maun makes it convenient for travelers. Which means they can speand time having authentic safari experience instead of traveling.
FAMILIES
Being in the heart of the Delta offers unparalleled access to one of Africa's most iconic wildlife destinations, renowned for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife.
OUR THOUGHTS
WHY WE RECOMMEND KUBILI HOUSE
GAME VIEWING
The camp's position on a permanent water body provides opportunities for unique water-based activities like mokoro rides and boat safaris, and stunning views.
EXCLUSIVITY
The quick helicopter transfer from Maun makes it convenient for travelers. Which means they can speand time having authentic safari experience instead of traveling.
ACTIVITIES
OUR GUIDE TO ACTIVITES
Things to Do at Kubili House
Nestled in the heart of Thornybush Game Reserve, Kubili House offers an unparalleled African safari experience. Embark on thrilling game drives, witness the majesty of the "Big Five," and be captivated by the diverse wildlife that frequents the nearby watering hole. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature with guided bush walks or bird watching excursions. Indulge in stargazing under the vast African sky, unwind with a rejuvenating massage, or savor a gourmet meal prepared by your private chef. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or an intimate connection with nature, Kubili House provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable escape.
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Fly camping is a type of camping that involves setting up camp in a temporary location. At Kubili House, fly camping is offered as an add-on to a traditional safari. This means that you can enjoy the luxury of Kubili House, such as the comfortable accommodations, delicious food, and attentive staff, while also experiencing the thrill of camping temporarily in the bush.
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Walking safaris are a great way to experience the African bush up close and personal. You'll get to see animals in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior from experienced guides.
Walking safaris at Kubili House are led by armed guides who know the bush well and can help you spot animals. You'll walk at a leisurely pace, so you can take your time and enjoy the scenery.
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A Segway safari is a type of safari that uses Segway Personal Transporters (PTs) to explore the African bush. Segways are two-wheeled, self-balancing vehicles that are powered by electricity.
Segway safaris offer a number of advantages over traditional safaris. They are more environmentally friendly, as they produce zero emissions. They are also more quiet, which allows you to get closer to the animals without disturbing them.
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Birdwatching at Kubili House is an absolute delight for any enthusiast. The diverse habitats surrounding the lodge attract a wide variety of bird species, making every outing a potential treasure trove of sightings. From vibrant kingfishers and bee-eaters to majestic eagles and vultures, the avian life here is truly captivating.
The experienced guides at Kubili House are not only knowledgeable about the local birds but are also passionate about sharing their expertise with guests. They will lead you on guided walks or game drives, pointing out the unique characteristics and behaviors of different species.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Kubili House FAQs
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Thornybush Game Reserve is a privately owned game reserve in South Africa that is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, rhinoceros, and buffalo). Game drives in Thornybush are a great way to see these animals in their natural habitat.
Game drives at Kubili House are conducted in open-topped vehicles, which gives you the best possible view of the animals. The vehicles are also equipped with a tracker, who uses their knowledge of the bush to find the animals. Bookings for 6 guests and under will have use of one private vehicle. Bookings for 7-10 guests will have 2 vehicles at disposal.
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Kubili House is located in the Thornybush Game Reserve, which is home to a wide variety of game animals, including the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, rhinoceros, and buffalo). Other animals that can be seen on safari at Kubili House include: cheetah, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, hippopotamus, crocodile, and birdlife
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Julian and Aida Koski live in New York City with their two children. They are passionate about Africa and safari adventures and are fastidiously detailed — always wanting to ensure that their guests have an authentic African Safari Experience. Aida is a renowned chef in New York and is responsible for making sure that the lodge’s food is a world class affair. Julian, aside from being a successful business person, is passionate about design and architecture.
The architecture of the house reflects Julian’s design sense and his ability to blend the home seamlessly into its surroundings.
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When you stay at Kubili House, you are not just enjoying a luxurious safari experience. You are also helping to create positive social change in Africa. Kubili House is committed to responsible tourism, which means using the power of tourism to improve the lives of local people and protect the environment.
One of the ways that Kubili House does this is by having a no-tipping policy. Instead, 10% of the published gross rate is pooled and shared equally among all staff members. This ensures that everyone who works at Kubili House is fairly compensated, regardless of their position. It also removes the incentive to provide the "information" or "services" that may be offered in exchange for tips.
Kubili House also invests in the local community through its Community Development Fund. This fund supports a variety of projects, such as building schools and clinics, providing clean water, and promoting sustainable agriculture.
By staying at Kubili House, you can be sure that your money is going to make a difference. You are not just enjoying a luxurious safari experience. You are also helping to create a better future for Africa.
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One of the greatest driving forces around the building of Kubili House was the owner’s twin children. Long ago before they were born the owners wanted to make sure that their children’s upbringing was counterbalanced with the privileges of growing up in New York City.
Kubili House has created an array of enriching and engaging activities for children which include:
• Pottery with the use of a pottery wheel and kiln
• Painting and art with state-of-the-art equipment and easels
• Segway rides (Back of house, not in the reserve)
• Swimming in the heated pools
• Baking with Thulani our master baker
• Star gazing
• Movies, games and puzzles
• Making animal track molds
• Archery
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Yes, Kubili House offers a variety of photography equipment for guests to use, including:
DSLR cameras with Telephoto lenses, Tripods, etc.
The equipment is available to rent, and the staff can provide assistance with using the equipment. Kubili House also offers a photography workshop for guests who want to learn more about taking great safari photos.
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Helicopter Tours: See the African bush from a different perspective with a helicopter tour.
Blyde River Canyon Tour: Visit one of South Africa's most beautiful natural wonders.
Local Community Tour: Learn about the local people and culture.
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Scheduled flights to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport happen twice daily from Johannesburg and Cape Town. From there it’s a quick 40-minute road transfer to Kubili House.
Charter flights direct to the Thornybush or Jackalberry Airstrip, where you are collected in an open game viewing vehicle and transferred to Kubili House.
