One of the most exciting features since Bushscapes was formed has been the emergence of quite a large number of new lodges in the Klaserie reserve. Yet for many South Africans, the Klaserie remains one of the least well known of the private reserves that fringe the western border of the Kruger Park (certainly compared to the prominent status enjoyed by the Sabi Sand and Timbavati reserves in particular). That’s more than a little ironic, especially given that literally the only thing separating the Klaserie from the Timbavati is a tar road: as you enter the main Timbavati gate and drive into the reserve, the Timbavati lies on the right of the road and the Klaserie lies on your left – there is no fence separating the 2 and game is able to freely roam between them.

So why then is the Klaserie so little known by comparison with its neighbour? The answer basically lies in the differing history of the 2 reserves when it comes to commercial game lodges – you see, whilst the Timbavati has boasted quite a large number of commercial game lodges for a number of decades now (and was also originally popularised by the famous book by Chris MacBride “The White Lions of the Timbavati” published back in the late 1970’s), the Klaserie on the other hand consisted almost exclusively of private camps only utilised by the land owners and their personal guests. As such the reserve saw very little promotion to the general public and hence the lack of awareness.

In recent years though, there has been an accelerating trend for many of these old private camps to be refurbished and re-launched as commercial operations now welcoming paying guests. What remains generally true though, is that the number of lodges in the Klaserie is still pretty limited compared to the private reserves to the south, which presents both advantages and disadvantages – the lower density of lodges means that you tend to encounter less game vehicles whilst out on game drive, which often means that sightings are less rushed than at other busier reserves where other vehicles also want to share good sightings; on the other hand, having less traffic and hence searching eyes out on game drive means that less sightings are being called in, so tracker and ranger teams often have to work harder for their sightings in the Klaserie.

The old quantity versus quality relationship is similarly visible with The Last Word Kitara lodge in some ways – in this case you have a small, intimate lodge of just 6 rooms which lends itself perfectly to the provision of a truly quality game experience for the few lucky guests staying here! Kitara is one of the old Klaserie camps referred to earlier, but in late 2019 it received a comprehensive renovation and upgrade and re-launched itself as part of The Last Word collection – a group of small, high quality boutique hotels otherwise found in the Western Cape.

The lodge and its 6 spacious suites are located on the banks of the Klaserie river in the far north-western corner of the reserve, fairly close to the mighty Olifants river. The Klaserie is a seasonal river, but even in the dry summer months you’ll often find elephants digging in the mineral rich sands of the riverbed in their search for water.

One of the things that stands out about Kitara is that it’s mostly built of beautiful stone work which gives it an appealingly traditional feel which has been wonderfully complemented by the understated furnishing and fabrics in both the suites as well as the public areas. If you’re looking for one of those flashy new safari lodges with ultra-contemporary design and décor that have been launched increasingly in recent years, then this isn’t the place for you – instead the more muted and neutral tones of sand, grey and soft green, quality fabrics and classic furniture choices create a distinctly classy and subtle ambience at Kitara.

The 6 suites at Kitara are styled to mirror this classic ambience with features like Victorian bathtubs, yet they also possess all the modern comforts demanded by discerning guests – they’re are all air conditioned for example, with en-suite bathrooms with double vanities, a walk in shower and an outdoor shower. They also boast private patios, ceiling fans, a fully stocked mini bar, mosquito nets and repellent, hairdryers, umbrellas, an in-room safe and tea/coffee making facilities.

The guest areas at Kitara are similarly appealing including 2 lovely lounge areas, a viewing deck and an infinity-edge swimming pool, all of which overlook the Klaserie river below. There is also a library, bar, dining room and a boma for dining outdoors around the firepit in the evening.

Of course, guests have come to this area primarily for the experience of seeing big game and the Klaserie delivers in its understated way. With no fences between the reserve and Kruger, the Big 5 are all present and correct as well as such rarities as wild dog – you may not see the sheer volume of animals as in the Sabi Sands for example, but it’s a more unrushed and exclusive experience that delivers quality wildlife sightings to guests on the twice daily 4x4 game drives in search of the many animals that call this region their home. Or perhaps you would prefer to even get closer to nature on a walking safari with a specialist guide - here you can learn about animal tracks and scat as well the flora of the region. And believe us - there is nothing more exhilarating than coming across wild animals on foot!