About This Experience
This reimagined railway experience spans the original Selati Bridge, offering breathtaking views over one of Africa’s most iconic rivers. Once used to transport explorers and goods through the heart of the bush, the bridge now serves as a base for meaningful safari journeys and luxurious relaxation.
The accommodation includes 31 beautifully appointed rooms, including 24 Carriage Suites and 7 Bridge House Suites. Each is designed to offer deep immersion in the surrounding nature while echoing the train’s historic past. You’ll fall asleep to the sounds of the African night, surrounded by stories of the land and its people—both past and present.
The Suites
Carriage Suites
Suspended above the river, these suites offer a front-row seat to Kruger’s theatre of wildlife. With panoramic views of the Sabie below, expect sightings of crocodiles, hippos, buffalo, and elephants from your window or private deck. Design elements draw on local artistry and materials, creating a cocoon of earth-toned luxury with a distinctly African identity.
Bridge House Suites
Set on the land-based side of the bridge, these expansive suites offer additional space and privacy, ideal for honeymooners or small families. Each suite opens onto the river and is designed with layers of warmth and texture, embracing both luxury and intimacy in equal measure.
A serene pool deck overlooking the river completes the experience, creating a tranquil vantage point to watch wildlife pass below or to simply soak in the energy of the bush.
Safari Adventures
Daily game drives are led by expert rangers with an unparalleled knowledge of the Kruger landscape. Guests venture into the park’s vast and varied terrain in open safari vehicles, seeking out Africa’s most iconic wildlife, from big cats and elephants to lesser-seen species like honey badgers and civets. Each drive is shaped by the rhythms of nature and the stories told by your guide—ensuring every outing is uniquely unforgettable.
What's Included
Luxury accommodation aboard the train or in the Bridge House
All meals prepared with local flair and seasonal ingredients
Daily soft drinks, house wines, local spirits and beers
Morning and evening game drives with experienced rangers
Return road transfers between Skukuza Airport and the lodge
Teas, coffees, and curated in-suite amenities for comfort and discovery
Highlights
A truly unique stay aboard a reimagined train on a historic bridge
Elevated views of the Sabie River and surrounding wildlife
Deeply immersive, design-led suites that tell a local story
Two daily safari drives through the world-renowned Kruger National Park
Exceptional culinary experiences inspired by the region’s natural abundance
Seamless transfers and warm, intuitive hospitality at every turn
Best Time to Visit
The best months to visit are May to September, when the dry season brings clearer visibility for game viewing and milder temperatures. However, each season offers its own magic—from verdant summer rains to golden autumn light.
Who This is For
Perfect for curious travellers, safari lovers, history buffs, and design aficionados alike, this experience is made for those who seek more than just a luxury getaway. It’s for individuals who want to connect deeply—with the land, with the past, and with the untamed beauty of Africa.
Why We Chose This Experience for You
"We were captivated by how this lodge merges history, innovation, and raw natural beauty into one cohesive, unforgettable offering. It’s not just a place to sleep—it’s a place to feel, reflect, and truly reconnect with the essence of Africa." – Sybarite Team
An Example Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival
Touch down at Skukuza Airport, where a private transfer brings you to your one-of-a-kind railway retreat. Settle into your suite and enjoy sundowners on the deck as wildlife gathers at the river below. Dinner is a beautifully plated introduction to regional flavours.
Day 2 – Safari and Stillness
Rise early for your first game drive, chasing golden light and tracking leopard prints in the sand. Return for a hearty brunch, followed by a peaceful swim or a spa treatment. Later, embark on an evening safari before ending your day with dinner under the stars.
Day 3 – Cultural Connections
Spend the morning at leisure, or request a behind-the-scenes insight into the stories behind the train’s restoration and the people who brought it to life. Afternoon game drive and riverside aperitifs cap off another day of discovery.
Day 4 – One Last Look
Enjoy a final sunrise over the Sabie River and an early morning safari before transferring back to the airport. Depart with memories carved into your heart—and a new story to tell.
