kapama karula safari

Kapama Karula Lodge

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With its light, airy, open spaces and views from every angle, Karula is truly the pride of Kapama Private Game Reserve as our flagship lodge. Effortlessly elegant and stylish, Karula will steal the breath of even the most seasoned traveller. This luxury safari accommodation lodge near the Kruger National Park is every discerning traveller’s perfect escape.

• Kapama Karula flourishes with twelve indistinguishable superior suites, two of these are purpose-built for families.
• The suites are wrapped by glistening glass sliding doors opening onto a private outside deck area with a full-size heated swimming pool and sun loungers for relaxation, enabling seamless views over the Klaserie River while spotting wildlife in the Game Reserve.

You should know

• Children under the age of 12 years are welcome at Kapama Karula Lodge.
• Children under 12 are permitted on safari at the sole discretion of the manager or guide. 
• Children under the age of 6 are not permitted on safari, and where possible, a kiddie’s safari will be arranged between normal safari times. 

The details

Kapama Karula has ten spacious superior villas that feature wrap-around glass sliding doors that look out onto the Klaserie River. Each villa boasts an opulent en-suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor shower, double vanity, and a bath. Other touches include a minibar, a Nespresso coffee machine, a lock-up safe, an international adaptor, Wi-Fi connection, an iPod docking station, overhead fan, air conditioning, gas-heated fireplace for those cooler evenings, a private outside deck area, full-sized heated swimming pool and sun loungers for relaxation.

There are two family villas that have an open-plan living room with a fireplace, a main en-suite bedroom and a second en-suite bedroom that leads off the living room and is accessed through an interleading door or its own entrance. The second bedroom is equipped with a flat-screen TV, selection of movies and a Wii game console.  The lodge facilities include a contemporary lounge, bar, boma, dining area, boutique shop, wine cellar, library, spa and fitness center, swimming pool, business center, and complimentary Wi-Fi. 

Kapama Karula is ideal for solo explorers, couples and families looking for a memorable safari experience.

Price includes

• Accommodation, all meals, teas and snacks, all local and select premium drinks, two daily safari activities, bush walks, complimentary use of the steam room, ice bath and therapy pool, return transfers to/from Eastgate Airport (HDS) for scheduled flights only and VAT. The Family Villas include use of a private vehicle with your guide and tracker.
• Our rates are per person sharing unless we note differently.
• Single supplements may apply.
• Request a quote or speak to one of our Agents for the best, most current rates available.

Rates & Pricing

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What our guests say about Keith

March 29, 2024

Thank you so much Keith

Thank you so much Keith! You’ve made booking our holiday and the Safari so easy. We look forward to meeting you.

March 2, 2024

Wonderful Safari...

Keith was great to work with and helped me book a wonderful safari in a great game lodge. Highly recommend.

January 10, 2024

keith is awesome

Apr 6, 2024

great service

This is to thank Leigh-Ann for her wonderful help with my safari booking. She always answers my questions quickly and provide solutions. Although I finally didn't book the trip because of a few constraints on my side, I'm sure that she is a nice person and it was enjoyable to receive her service.

Apr 4, 2024

Heleen feedback

Heleen was an absolute pleasure to deal with and is the person that has made me pass on Safari as a have to use when booking trips and putting a plan together. Heleen has been super responsive, informative and was more than happy to change things as needed throughout the process. We are a large group so nothing was simple but Heleen ensured we got accommodation together (as much as possible) and provided options for set ups too. It has been a pleasure to deal with Heleen and she is has given the company a fantastic reputation! Thank you so much again Heleen!

Apr 3, 2024

Planning was spot on

Planning was spot on. Driver/guides were always waiting as scheduled. Experience in South Africa was great. Anja helped with all the details. Ngala safari exceeded our expectations. Randal our driver/guide in Cape Town was excellent.

Quick to respond

Quick to respond, even when I changed my booking. Very helpful. Thank you

Apr 2, 2024

Leigh-Ann has been incredible…

Leigh-Ann has been incredible, I would highly recommend. First class service and response rates (even late at night with time difference). Very informative and recommended excellent hotel and tour options to make our trip unforgettable. All information was clear and easy payment links. A great way to help facilitate your trip, especially when there is SO much to choose from. Thank you again Leigh-Ann

I am very happy with the service I got…

I am very happy with the service I got from Safari.com. The booking agent was responsive and efficient, and managed to help us secure exactly the booking that we asked for.

Amazing tip from Jayson

A few years ago we had Jayson deal with a Safari tour we wanted arranged for our parents and so started our first contact with Safari.com and Jayson. Since our parents were so very pleased with their experience, we immediately thought of Jayson when my partner and myself stated planning a trip to Africa. Jayson remembered us from almost 4 years ago, which I think is rather outstanding. We booked a three night stay, on Jaysons recomendation, at the Wallow Lodge, which proved to be a wonerful experience. Apart from the lodge being everything you could possibly imagine, it was the staff that made our stay a wonderful experience. We would most certainly recommend the wallow Lodge should we hear of freinds wishing to visit the Victoria Falls. Thanks gos to safari.com, Jayson for organizing our trip and the wonderful staff of the Wallow Lodge at the Victoria Falls. Kindest Regards, Kristof

Mar 30, 2024

The on line rep I have been communicating with, Shann, is absolutely wonderful, in all respects. I threw many changes at her and she was always responsive, delivering requested information right away, and works long hours to suit clients in different time zones.

Mar 29, 2024

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Hotel review: 5-star safari at Kapama Karula (South Africa)

Wednesday newsletters  always feature a  hotel  and/or  flight  review.

I recently enjoyed a terrific holiday in South Africa. You can read my trip reports here:

• Review:  Iberia A330 Business Class from Madrid to Johannesburg
• Review: Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg
• Review: River Lodge, Lion Sands Game Reserve
• Review: Royal Malewane, Thornybush Private Game Reserve 
• Review: Kapama Karula, Kapama Private Game Reserve
• Review: Rovos train from Pretoria to Cape Town
• Review: 12 Apostles hotel, Cape Town
• Review: Cape Grace, Cape Town
• Review: Ellerman House, Cape Town
• Review: South African Airways A340 Business Class from Cape Town to Johannesburg
• Review: British Airways A380 First Class from Johannesburg to London

Today (June 14, 2017): Review of Kapama Karula (Kapama Private Game Reserve, South Africa). 

• Location:  Google Maps
• Address: Kapama Private Game Reserve, R40, Hoedspruit, 1380, South Africa
• Hotel website:  Kapama Karula

Set on the banks of the perennial Klaserie River, Kapama Karula the flagship five-star lodge of the Kapama Game Reserve, home to the Big Five. Meaning ‘place of peace’, this ultra-luxurious and prestigious lodge exudes calmness and depicts the pinnacle of elegant safari accommodation, with wraparound views of the African bush enhancing the overall sense of tranquillity. Modern whitewashed wood and vast sections of glass, complemented by a neutral colour palette, give Kapama Karula a contemporary African feel. The open-plan lounge and bar are spacious yet cosy, with skylights drawing in natural daylight and moonshine. Kapama Karula has twelve suites, each exquisitely decorated and with generous private space. Each suite has its own outside deck area, full-sized heated swimming pool and sun loungers for relaxation.

Kapama Karula features in my top 10 list of the best luxury hotels in South Africa  and the most insanely beautiful safari lodges in South Africa .

In this review (more info below the slideshow):

• Pros & things I like
• Cons & things to know
• Tips for future guests & save money
• Best time to visit
• How to get there

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PROS & THINGS I LIKE

• The lodge is located in the family owned and managed  Kapama Private Game Reserve , which occupies a vast area between South Africa’s northern Drakensberg mountains and the Greater Kruger National Park. The reserve was established in 1986, when the late Johann Roode bought a farm called Moria near Hoedspruit. Initially, he used it for cattle grazing, but as harsh conditions and predators took their toll on the cattle, he began the transformation of the vast property into an ecotourism business by acquiring new land. Today, the reserve spans 13 000 hectares of magnificent African bushveld, teeming with over 40 mammal species (including the big five) and 350 bird species.
• Adjacent to Kapama, Hoedspruit’s Eastgate Airport is ideally located to receive guests flying to Kapama on daily scheduled flights (by South African Express Airways ) from both Johannesburg and Cape Town, and on private charters. This airport is just a 10 minutes’ drive from the reserve entrance, and Kapama offers complimentary transfers in open game viewing vehicles directly to any of the four luxury game lodges on the reserve (including Kapama Karula). If you don’t like to fly (like me), the game reserve is also easily accessible by road from Johannesburg in under 5 hours via excellent roads.
• The Kapama Private Game Reserve features four establishments, each with a unique personality: Kapama River Lodge , Kapama Southern Camp , Kapama Buffalo Camp , and Kapama Karula . The latter is the flagship five-star lodge amongst the reserve’s 4 varied accommodation options and ranks among the best and most exclusive safari lodges in Southern Africa . This ultra-luxurious and prestigious lodge is clearly targeted at the discerning traveler that demands the very best.
• Kapama Karula enjoys a natural setting on the banks of the Klaserie River, which serves as a water source for the resident wildlife. Meaning ‘place of peace’, this exclusive safari lodge exudes calmness as it offers wraparound views from all of its facilities and villas of the African bush enhancing the sense of tranquillity. The layout of the property is simple but convenient : the communal areas (small lobby, boutique shop, restaurant, and lounge) are centered around a small forested courtyard, with the 12 suites located along two walkways that spread out in each direction. The property is surrounded by an electrical fence to prevent big game from entering the resorts grounds.
• The Klaserie River provides the backdrop for 12 exclusive suites , two of which are luxury family suites. I stayed in one of the latter during my visit, which must have been one of the most drop-dead gorgeous suites I have ever stayed at in my life. The enormous villa featured an open-plan living room, replete with gas fireplace , which flowed into the master bedroom. The en-suite bathroom was a highlight, with indoor and outdoor showers, his and hers basins, and a stand-alone bath. There was a second bedroom leading off the living room that could be accessed through an interleading door or its own entrance. The suite had a private outside deck, which offered terrific bush views, with sun loungers and a medium-sized heated swimming pool. The 10 superior suites are similar to the family suites, except that they only have one bedroom.
• What makes Kapama Karula so special, is that it features one of the most stylish designs of any game lodge in South Africa . The interiors of the public areas and the 12 suites are all marked by magnificent white-washed woods, neutral colour palettes and vast sections of glass that make the most of the natural light and views. The open-plan concept and wide outdoor decks match the minimalist, airy and modern interiors. If you love interior design you will be in heaven here, with contemporary furniture fused with the tactile textures of the African bush, recycled materials used in pure harmony with quality fittings, and colourful paintings contrasting with lush under-canopy vegetation.
• If you can drag yourself away from your suite in between game drives, you can always visit the open-plan lounge and bar . Spacious yet cosy, this lovely facility features the same overall stunning signature design of the lodge, with skylights drawing in natural daylight and moonshine. Alternatively, you can also enjoy the African sunshine on the lounge’s outside wooden deck, with views over the Klaserie River. Spotting one of the Big Five from here is not uncommon.
• The lodge has only one restaurant, adjacent to the lounge/bar area, which serves breakfast, a 3-course lunch, and a 3-course dinner (all included in the room rate). The chic dining room – with its colourful modern art, lovely fireplace and Phillipe Starck chairs – creates the perfect setting for the gastronomic delight that awaits you at Kapama Karula. The sumptuous food and award-winning wines rank among the best fine-dining culinary experiences that I ever enjoyed during an African safari (although some Tripadvisor reviewers are more sceptical of the lodge’s food offerings). Weather permitting, evening meals are often enjoyed seated around a roaring fire in an open air boma.
• Kapama Karula’s  multipurpose library is equipped with audio-visual equipment and two internet stations with complimentary Wi-Fi for lodge guests wanting to connect to home (although high-speed WiFi is also available in the suites). A romantic fireside dinner for two can be enjoyed in the library, with prior arrangement.
• A spa – located uphill behind the curio shop – is the newest addition to Kapama Karula. Surrounded by glass, this stunning newly built spa has an intimate connection with the bushveld scenery. Impalas can often be seen grazing beyond the glistening glass. The spa offers a range of health and beauty treatments in four deluxe treatment rooms. For a body workout, the fitness centre is equipped with state-of-the-art cardio and weight-lifting equipment, or you can run or walk on the treadmill or cycle on the Wattbike. After working up a sweat, you can visit the steam room, or relax in the pool overlooking the African bush.
• Of course, the prime reason for a visit to Kapama Karula is to observe the African wildlife. Two daily game drives, in addition to bush walks, are offered and included in the tariff. Accompanied by a skilled ranger and tracker, you can expect to encounter a diverse range of animal and bird species on game drives. Since this is a Big Five reserve, seeing lion, elephant, rhino and buffalo is possible (and almost guaranteed) during a safari in Kapama Private Game Reserve. Although leopards are present in the reserve, they are far more difficult to find, especially when compared to your chances of spotting leopards in neighboring Royal Malewane or Lion Sands . I would recommend to stay at least two nights at Kapama Karula, to increase your chance of spotting all the animals that are on your bucket list.
• 5 am: wake up call.
• 5.30 am: light breakfast (tea, coffee and rusks).
• 6 am: game drive. Halfway through the game drive, there’s a stop for hot drinks and snacks.
• 9 am: return to the lodge for full breakfast.
• 9.30-1 pm: time at your leisure.
• 1 pm: 3-course lunch.
• 2-4 pm: time at your leisure.
• 4 pm: afternoon tea.
• 4.30-7 pm: game drive. En route, you’ll stop for a sundowner drink while watching the sun set over the distant peaks of the Drakensberg mountains.
• 7pm: return to the lodge. A variety of completely different species can be seen on the night drive back to the lodge.
• 7-9 pm: 3-course dinner.
• The game drive vehicles at Kapama Karula seat only 6 guests in order to optimize each guest’s game viewing experience and comfort, affording ample space for photographic equipment (and some refreshments of course). Game drives are always accompanied by a two-man team. Besides the guide (who drives), there’s also an animal tracker sitting on the front of the vehicle. The open vehicles are perfectly safe for a safari. Wild animals do not associate open vehicles with humans or with food. Lions are naturally fearful of humans and, unless you stand up or run away, they will not see the humans in the cars as prey.
• All meals, soft drinks, spirits, wines, and game drives are included in the rates at Kapama Karula, so you can completely relax and enjoy the endless temptations available.

CONS & THINGS TO KNOW

Because of its stylish design, wonderful facilities and exceptional food, Kapama Karula is hands down one of the best safari lodges in South Africa . Yet, it does have a few shortcomings related to the wildlife experience that you need to beware of when considering a stay here:

• Although the Kapama Private Game Reserve is a great place with reliable wildlife viewings, there are some fence lines and overhead cables in certain areas of the reserve which detract from the sense of wilderness and spoil the natural beauty.
• Game viewing at the reserve is good but not as exceptional as in the private game reserves bordering the Kruger National Park with open fences like Royal Malewane or Lion Sands .   The Kapama Private Game Reserve is entirely fenced in , so the animals cannot roam freely and are confined to that specific patch of land. The good news is that the game viewing is fairly predictable (and great for a first time safari traveler), but if you have been to the bush before, you may be disappointed because it may feel like a large open zoo.
• Contrary to game drives in other private game reserves, the safaris in Kapama follow the paths , so it does not always allow for close up views of the animals.
• Because of a severe drought that is affecting South Africa, the reserve made the controversial decision to feed the animals (with large piles of hay found around the landscape) and medically intervene. Although this isn’t a bad thing and also done at other reserves (to safe their number of animals), it does detract from the feeling of seeing animals in the ‘wild’.
• Location: 7/10
• Design: 10/10
• Resort grounds: 8/10
• Rooms: 10/10
• Food: 10/10
• Breakfast: 10/10
• Service: 10/10
• Value for money: 8/10
• Overall experience: exceptional: 8,8/10

TIPS FOR FUTURE GUESTS & SAVE MONEY

• Save money : read my  tips  for getting the best deal at a luxury resort like Kapama Karula (and receive many free perks).
• All suites are similar in layout. However, some suites are a bit of a walk, so if you have an aversion to that, you have to request one close to reception.
• Read my  tips  for preparing your trip in time.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The best time to visit really depends on your personal preferences – nature has something to offer throughout the year. Incredible game viewing can be experienced at any time and there is not really a ‘best time of year for game viewing’. The region enjoys summer rains and dramatic thunder storms – temperatures soar into the 30s in the summer months. The vegetation is lush and verdant attracting incredible bird life while many new borns appear at this time of year. The winter months are drier and cooler – the vegetation is sparser resulting in improved visibility for game viewing as the animals make their way to the watering holes for hydration.

HOW TO GET THERE

Kapama Karula is easily accessible by road from Johannesburg in under 5 hours. Most guests though will prefer to travel by air, by making use of a commercial flight to one of the nearby airports (either the Hoedspruit Airport or Nelson’s Kruger Mpumulanga International Airport), or by chartering their own flights directly onto the lodge’s private airstrip.

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What a great article. This is very useful info. Thanks!

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• From £  1,037 per person, per night

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Kapama Game Reserve River Lodge Southern Camp Karula Lodge Buffalo Camp

Kapama Karula Lodge

Kapama Karula is the pride of fleet at Kapama Game Reserve . Karula also known as Kapama’s flagship lodge is simply mind-blowing, with sweeping views from every angle. Kapama Karula houses ten luxury open 1-bedroom villas and two 2-bedroom family villas which are out of this world, all featuring private decks and heated swimming pools. The Lodge boasts an elegant and stylish decor with bright open spaces and a creative design. Karula lodge features an ultra stylish bar and lounge area with a wrap-around deck, swimming pool, wellness SPA, steam room and state of the art fitness centre.

Kapama is a Big 5 private game reserve in the Kruger National Park offering exceptional 4×4 game drives, unique activities, and romantic treehouse sleep-outs under the stars. Located in the Kapama Private Game Reserve, Kapama Southern Camp promises to provide every guest with an unforgettable Big 5 African safari experience. Warm hospitality and breath-taking views complement luxurious suites for an extraordinary safari retreat. Kapama Game Reserve is home to another three luxury lodges located around the reserve namely; River Lodge , Southern Camp and Buffalo Camp .

With bushveld views from the lodge’s expansive deck and two game drives daily, guests can discover over 40 mammal species and more than 330 bird species. Expert rangers and trackers at Kapama Private Game Reserve endeavour to find the best wildlife sightings for you and optimize your experience to take great photographic images. Guests can book a photographic workshop with one of South Africa’s leading wildlife photographers, suited to both beginner and intermediate levels. Learn about the technical and artistic sides of wildlife photography. For romantics, Kapama offers an exclusive experience in an open treehouse sleep-out. The timber platform above the ground hosts 2 guests for a night secluded in the bushveld. With the treehouse illuminated by lanterns, a five-course dinner is served by a personal chef after which you can enjoy the tranquillity of nature’s sounds and glimmering African skies. Your home for the night is equipped with a bathroom which has a flush toilet, shower, and his and hers basins.

View Gallery

• Game drives
• Guided bushwalks
• Wellness Centre
• Fitness centre
• Photographic workshop
• Swimming pool
• Exceptional Big 5 game drives
• Private heated pools
• Flagship lodge

Closest airport

• Hoedspruit (HDS)

Children policy

Children of all ages. More Details Children under the age of 6 are not permitted on safari, and where possible, a kiddie’s safari will be arranged between normal safari times.

2 x Game drives per day, guided bushwalks, all meals, soft drinks, and selected alcoholic beverages.

Premium brand drinks, gate fees, spa treatments, private-use vehicles, and transfers

Peak: 20 December – 04 January

High: 01 July  December – 19 December

Low: 05 January – 30 June

Terms & conditions

• Rates are per person sharing, per night
• Single supplement of 50% applicable
• Rates displayed are valid to 05 January 2025

Accommodation Options

Superior Villa

Sleeps 2 Adults

Ten Superior Villas at Kapama Karula offer private decks with heated swimming pool overlooking the Klaserie River. Each spacious suite features wrap-around glass sliding doors, en-suite bathrooms and indoor and outdoor showers. Suites are equipped with Read more , air-conditioning, minibar, iPod docking station and international adapters. Less

Refer to seasons and T&C's above

Peak season £  1,354 per per person, per night High season £  1,121 per per person, per night Low Season £  1,037 per person, per night

Superior Family Villa

Two Superior family Villas offer expansive open plan living rooms and two luxury ensuite bedrooms. Floor to ceiling glass doors open up onto private decks with sun loungers and your own heated swimming pool and outdoor shower. Read more Suites are equipped with air-conditioning, minibar, a movies selection for the kids and international adapters. Less

Peak season £  4,655 per villa, per night High season £  3,809 per per person, per night Low Season £  3,386 per villa, per night

Best-price guarantee

Enquire at Kapama Karula Lodge

A road transfer from Johannesburg is a 6-hour journey along the N12 highway. Traveling to the reserve from Hoedspruit Airport is a short 15-minute road transfer.

Fly from major centres in South Africa to Hoedspruit Airport.

Flight Duration

• Johannesburg to Hoedspruit: 55 minutes
• Cape Town to Hoedspruit 2 hours 30 minutes

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Kapama Karula Lodge

Why this inspires us, lodge information, rates and specials, child policy, need to know, why this inspires us.

• Kapama Karula is set on the banks of the perennial Klaserie River and is one of Kapama’s most secluded and prestigious safari camps!
• Karula means “place of peace” in the native tongue, and soon after you arrive- you will know exactly why! 🙂
• This magnificent luxury flagship camp has light, airy, open spaces and views from every angle! Effortlessly elegant and stylish, Karula will steal the breath of even the most seasoned traveler.
• The best is enjoying a tantalising cocktail on the viewing deck while watching wildlife come down to drink at the flowing Klaserie River!
• Each Villa is exquisitely decorated with generous private space. It is amazing to open the floor-to-ceiling doors and step out onto your private deck,each with a private plunge pool, which could be heated (our favorite part) in the chillier months for year-round swimming!
• The lodge has award-winning on-site Karula Spa & Wellness Centre offering spa treatments in one of their deluxe rooms and a range of fitness equipment!

Lodge Information

This luxury safari lodge is every discerning travellers perfect escape and is situated near the Kruger National Park.

Karula is the pride of Kapama Private Game Reserve and is their flagship lodge, with its light airy and open spaces with views from all angles.

Elegant and stylish, Karula will take away the breath of even the most seasoned traveller.

Their friendly barman is on duty all day to tempt you with mouthwatering cocktails which you can enjoy on the lodge’s main deck which leads off from the lounge area, this is an excellent spot to do some game viewing.

If you are in the mood for a game of chess or would rather curl up on a couch with a good book to escape there is no better place than the library. Or one can simply relax in the lounge area and in the evenings you can enjoy the warm glow of the fire pit.

Kapama Karula has 10 Superior Villas each with their own wrap-around glass sliding doors that open up onto a deck that has exquisite views of the Klaserie River. Guests can indulge in some refreshing drinks from their minibar while relaxing on their deck or while unwinding in their heated pool. After a long day in the bush you have the option of showering under the stars in your own outside shower.

There are also 2 Superior Family Villas which boast open plan living rooms. The floor to ceiling doors, guests can step out onto their private deck and take a swim in their heated swimming pool or relax and take in the views. Each bedroom is spacious and offers privacy and if you are travelling with children you’ll be happy to know that the second bedroom has a flat-screen TV, a selection of movies and a Wii game console.

Air Conditioners in all the suites ensure that guests are always comfortable and there is nothing better than waking up to the smell of your favourite roast that comes from your own Nespresso coffee machine. All suites have lock-up safes for peace of mind as well as wifi and international adapters.

Breakfast and lunch is taken in their contemporary openside dining room with Kapama Karula’s enticing wine selection as the focal point.

Guests also have the option of enjoying lunch around the Kapama Karula pool on the deck.

Dinners are done in their traditional outdoor boma and you get to experience dining under the stars as their chiefs create ravishing meals in front of you.

Karula can cater to guests with Kosher needs (on request) and private romantic fireside dinners can be enjoyed in their library.

Kapama has a variety of ways for you to explore their beautiful landscapes and wildlife. Their twice-daily game drives and educational bush walks are an essential part of the Kapama experience. Budding photographers can enrol in our two-day photography workshop to snap that perfect wall-mounted lion shot.

Twice-daily game drives are included in their tariffs for all guests. Drives are led by a skilled guide and assistant guide on the same vehicle. Kapama was one of the first safari lodges to offer such a dynamic and qualified team to enhance guests’ wildlife experience. Encountering (any or all!) of the Big Five is highly probable during your Kapama stay.

There are hundreds of other species of animals to spot so the early morning and early evening game drives are the best way to start and end the day. With approximately 350 bird species recorded on the reserve, bird enthusiasts are also spoilt for choice.

South African Residents Rates And Specials

Per Person Per Night Sharing Unless Otherwise Stated

Within 21 Days of Travel Special

1 june – 19 dec ’23, per person: superior villa with plunge pool, per suite: superior family villa with plunge pool, superior villa with heated plunge pool, 5 jan – 19 dec ’23, 20 dec ’23 – 4 jan ’24, family villa with heated plunge pool, per villa (2 adults and 2 children or 3 adults), includes private vehicle with own guide & tracker, important notes:.

GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS

• All rates are based on a per person sharing per night basis unless otherwise stated
• All rates are subject to availability
• Recommended check in time is at 14h00. Rooms are vacated by 11h00

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT

• A single supplement of 100% applies to all single rooms per booking

LEVIES &/OR PARK FEES

(subject to change without prior notice)

• Conservation levy of R 250 per person per night will apply until the 19 Dec 2023
• Conservation levy of R 300 per person per night will apply from 20 Dec 2023

SPECAILS AVAILABLE: TERMS & CONDITIONS

• WITHIN 21 DAYS OF TRAVEL

-Last min special to travel anytime within the last 21 days (3 weeks) -Valid until the 19 Dec

• 5 NIGHT HONEYMOON SPECIAL

-Pay 4 and stay 5 nights special -Valid until Nov 2023 -The package includes: 5 Nights accommodation in a superior luxury villa with a private heated pool All meals plus selected local and premium beverages 2 Daily safaris on the Big Five Kapama Private Reserve A Private candlelit dinner A couples Hydro Bath Session at the award winning Karula Spa Unlimited South African sparkling wine Transfers from Hoedspruit Airport for fly-in guests Conservation levies per person per night Romantic turn down

Rate Includes

• Accommodation
• All local drinks
• A selection of wines and premium drinks,
• Teas and coffees
• Two daily game drives
• Guided Bush walks
• Complimentary use of the steam room, ice bath and therapy pool
• Return transfers to/from Eastgate Airport (HDS) for scheduled flights only
• **Family Villas include use of a private vehicle with your guide and tracker

Rates And Specials

Child policy.

• Children under the age of 12 years are welcome at Kapama Karula
• Babysitting can be arranged at the lodge at an additional charge
• Children under the age of 12 years old sharing with two adults are charged less 50% of the per person sharing rate
• Maximum occupancy for Family Villas are limited to 2 Adults and 2 children under 18 years
• Children under the age of 6 are not permitted on safari, and where possible, a kiddie’s safari will be arranged between normal safari times
• Children under 12 are permitted on safari at the sole discretion of the manager or guide
• All children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult during game drives and bush walks

Need To Know

General overview, lodge amenities, room amenities, additional services offered.

Because Safaris can be complicated, we offer other services that you might find useful. Why not take a look and if you need more information feel free to contact us!

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+27 44 004 0034 +27 82 829 7366 [email protected]

Kapama Karula

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• Excellent 640
• Very Good 35
• All languages ( 685 )
• English ( 481 )
• Portuguese ( 112 )
• French ( 31 )

" Bring a coat if you go during the months of June-August. It gets quite cold at night and in the early morning game drives. "

" The staff came out and sang to our daughter whose birthday it was. "

" Rooms are beautiful. Food is excellent. Safari trips amazing! "

" Fly into Hoedspruit which is a commercial airport with many flights. You can also charter to the private strip. "

" Bring layers and binoculars if you have them. "

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KAPAMA KARULA - Updated 2024 Prices & Hotel Reviews (Kapama Private Game Reserve, South Africa)

• [email protected]
• Plan my Safari

3 Day Kapama Karula Lodge Safari

ZAR 77760 per single traveller

ZAR 60600 per person sharing

ZAR 88600 per single traveller

• Hotel pickup included

Includes: Return transfers from Johannesburg,   accommodation , open vehicle  safari drives , meals as per itinerary, local beverages

Other Popular Tours

4 day arathusa safari lodge.

Experience an exceptional four days of safari at Arathusa Safari Lodge in the private Sabi Sand Game Reserve, the pristine wilderness sanctuary inside the Greater Kruger conservation area.

Allow yourself the excitement of game drives in open 4×4 safari vehicles and guided nature walks with an armed ranger. Back at the lodge, you will be spoiled with hearty breakfasts and mouth-watering buffet lunches on the timber deck and outstanding three-course dinners around a blazing fire in the outdoor boma.

4 Day Becks Safari Lodge

Becks Safari Lodge is set in the Karongwe Private Game Reserve on the banks of the Makhutswi River, where you stay in a safari suite bordering the river or overlooking a waterhole.

3 Day Becks Safari Lodge

The reserve offers magnificent game viewing, perfect photographic opportunities and the lush vegetation houses hundreds of different bird species. Game drives are led by qualified game rangers and Shangaan trackers who are enthusiastic to share their experience of the African Bush and may offer you a chance to view the elusive cheetah from nearby.

3 Day Sabi Sands Under Canvas Tented Safari

A 3-day safari into the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, with luxury lodging under canvas tenting at Umkumbe Bush Lodge, offers the ideal glamping opportunity.

This scenic area of the Sabie Game Reserve features a diverse habitat, from winding riverbeds and woodland to open savanna and riverine thickets. This wilderness reserve is home to the Big Five, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna to be discovered.

The Umkumbe Bush Lodge sits comfortably under a canopy of indigenous trees in the southern reaches of the Sabi Sand. This luxury tented camp, the first of its kind in the reserve, provides all of the creature comforts of home, but with a luxurious twist.

A safari stay at Umkumbe Bush Lodge includes two daily game drives. The morning safari may include a scenic coffee stop, and the afternoon drive will include a classic safari sundowner and snacks.

Accommodation

The main lodge at Umkumbe overlooks a variety of habitats, including a winding drainage line leading to the seasonal Sand River, a forested thicket, and a section of open savanna. In between activities and meals, guests can observe wildlife, relax, and enjoy the natural surroundings.

The stylish accommodation and spacious tented suites are all situated on private raised wooden decks nestled in nature and named after various indigenous trees found in the region. The beautifully designed bush lodge has 9 tented-style suites, four of which are standard, one luxury, and four superior. Each tented suite has its own private balcony and is fully equipped for a comfortable safari retreat.

A tea/coffee station, standing fan, air conditioning, hand luggage stand, hair dryer, mosquito net, safe, bathroom amenities, changeable twin/double bed configurations, and a private seating area on a raised wooden deck are among the suite amenities.

The Superior Tented Suites are completely private, with a King bed, sleeper couch, and the option of an additional single bed for children. They also have a bathtub, his and her sinks, and an outside shower. The Superior Tents can sleep two adults and up to three children.

The luxurious Leadwood Tent is completely private, with a King bed and sofa bed. There is also a bathtub, his and her sinks, and an outdoor shower. It can also accommodate one child.

The standard tents are all stylish and spacious, with private raised wooden decks nestled in nature. Bathroom with shower only and a king-size bed that can be converted to two twin beds. These tents can only accommodate two people.

Breakfast and lunch will be served alfresco on private tables at the main lodge, and dinner will be served in the boma area around a central roaring fire – depending on the weather.

Collection and Drop off

For this package, Kruger Safari Company Tours and its service providers provide affordable private transfers. Guests are picked up from any Johannesburg hotel or address between 7:00 and 7:30. Guests are dropped off at their hotel or address as arranged or at Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport around 17:00.

Remember that if you intend to fly out of OR Tambo International Airport on the final day of your safari tour, we recommend booking a domestic flight no earlier than 19:30 and an international flight no earlier than 21:00.

You might also like our 4-day Sabi Sands Under Canvas Tented Safari or 5-day Sabi Sands Under Canvas Tented Safari.

Enjoy an intimate Big 5 safari experience staying in stunning villas at the exclusive Kapama Karula Lodge. It’s the ultimate Big 5 destination with a distinctly modern safari experience. The private game reserves that make up the Greater Kruger are unfenced, and the wildlife region shares an unfenced border with the Kruger National Park. You’re guaranteed outstanding wildlife sightings while enjoying the peace and tranquility of one of the most popular Big 5 safari destinations in South Africa.

DAY 1: JOHANNESBURG – KAPAMA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Departing from the Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport Bus Terminal by 07:00am. The route to the Kruger National Park in the Mpumalanga Province takes you from the wide-open spaces of the Highveld, down the escarpment and through the scenic Lowveld region.

Arrive at Kapama Private Game Reserve mid-day, in time for a light lunch. Freshen up and relax before it’s time to depart on a late-afternoon game drive in Kapama Private Game Reserve.

Overnight at Kapama Karula Lodge. Guests dine in the lodge restaurant or at the outdoor boma.

Includes: Lunch and dinner

DAY 2: KAPAMA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Wake up early (5h30-6h00) for hot beverages and rusks before departing for a 3-hour sunrise game drive in Kapama Private Game Reserve. Return to your lodge for a late breakfast and spend the rest of the day relaxing at the pool or treating yourself to a spa session. Depart late afternoon after High Tea for a 3-hour sunset game drive in the private reserve, with a pitstop for sundowners in the bush.

Includes: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

DAY 3: KAPAMA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE – JOHANNESBURG

Head out as the sun is rising to enjoy your last game drive in Kapama Private Game Reserve. Return to your lodge for breakfast and be ready to depart mid-morning for the return trip to Johannesburg. The journey home takes you via the historic towns of Graskop and Sabie on the famous Panorama Route.

Arrive back in Johannesburg late afternoon; drop off at OR Tambo International Airport or a hotel/guest house in Johannesburg or Pretoria by special arrangement. Please confirm exact timings with your Kruger Safari Company representative before booking a connecting domestic or international flight.

Includes: Breakfast

What's Included

• Collection from the Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport Bus Terminal by 07:00
• 2 nights accommodation in Kapama Karula Lodge
• 4 x 3-hour game drives in Kapama Private Game Reserve
• Kapama entrance and conservation fees
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Daily
• Local beverages
• Drop off at the Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport Bus Terminal between 17:30 – 18:00

What's Excluded

• Scheduled flights to/from OR Tambo International Airport
• All purchases of a personal nature
• Imported alcoholic beverages
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Any other activity not specified in the itinerary
• Visa fees if required

Package Safaris:

Payment gateways, accommodation:, extra information:, contact us:.

© 2023 Krugerpark.travel | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions The Kruger Safari Co. is a destination management company (DMC) and is not an entity of the South African National Parks Board (SANparks).

3 Day Kapama Karula Lodge Safari Enquiry

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Kapama Karula

Kapama Private Game Reserve, 1380 Kapama Private Game Reserve, South Africa – Excellent location - show map

Cleanliness

Value for money

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Luxury accommodation, attentive friendly staff, game drives with highly knowledgeable ranger and tracker.

Exceptional service in an exceptional location. once you’ve done a safari in a private reserve you will never look back, and this is the best lodge in the best reserve. Made to feel very special, all the staff knew our names from the moment we arrived. Game drives all stunning, good fabulous and nothing was too much trouble. already plotting our return, and this time we will bring friends and family to share it with. Justice and Elvis were the best of hosts on the game drives.

Spent part of our honeymoon here and it was heaven on earth. The prices are high, but worth it. We hope to return one day to this paradise.

First class service! Staff were very friendly and accommodating. The safari experience was amazing.

Food excellent Spacious beautiful room had special champaigne and snacks for our anniversary

Amazing place and lovely staff. Home away from home. Can't wait to come back!

Absolutely everything ! A true even on earth. We wish we could have stayed there forever… My special thanks to our best rangers Eden and Wonder, our best waitress Lorraine, and Aruna.

The staff were friendly and efficient. It is a great location if you are seeking privacy and seclusion. The game drives are a must - we got to see the big 5 during two trips.

The privacy (our villa), the comfort in the villa, the heated pool. The food. The friendly stuff. In-room service. Our guide (Aubrey) & tracker (Wonder)!

The chef is amazing and the food was lovely for all meals. Our waiter was amazing and everybody's attention to detail to our needs was amazing and so refreshing. The ranger and tracker were very knowledgeable.

Excellent location!

Kapama Karula Reserve now

Lock in a great price for Kapama Karula - rated 9.8 by recent guests.

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Experience world-class service at Kapama Karula

Part of the Greater National Kruger Park, Kapama Karula is situated in the expansive Kapama Game Reserve. Kapama Karula arranges game drives in open safari vehicles, accompanied by experienced rangers. The luxurious suites offer views over the Klaserie River. The spacious Suites at Kapama Karula are each luxuriously decorated and boast an outside deck area with heated swimming pool and sun loungers. They feature a full private bathroom as well as an outdoor shower. There is a stocked minibar and a Nespresso coffee machine. For guest comfort and convenience, the suites also offer a telephone, an iPod docking station, an overhead fan and air conditioning. Each suite also comes with a seating area and a gas-heated fireplace. The family suites have a open plan living area, a master bedroom as well as children's bedroom. Kapama's modern lounge and bar offers an contemporary African feel. With prior arrangement, the lodge can set up a romantic dinner for two in the library. For relaxation, guests can unwind in the Karula's luxury spa, which is surrounded by glass to enhance the African bush scenery. The spa combines rustic warmth with neutral colors and a calm atmosphere. Guests can also relax in the multipurpose library, equipped with audiovisual equipment. There are 2 internet stations with complimentary WiFi for guests to use.

Couples particularly like the location — they rated it 9.9 for a two-person trip.

Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Spa and wellness centre
• Fitness centre
• Airport shuttle (free)
• Non-smoking rooms
• Room service
• Tea/coffee maker in all rooms
• Superb breakfast

Property highlights

Top location: Highly rated by recent guests (9.9)

Free private parking available on-site

Saved to 1556 lists

Availability

Select dates to see this property's availability and prices

Property practices

Categories:, see what guests loved the most:.

Property surroundings

Restaurants 1 restaurant on site.

• Open for Breakfast • Cocktail hour

Facilities of Kapama Karula Great facilities! Review score, 9.9

• Toilet paper
• Bath or shower
• Private bathroom
• Wardrobe or closet
• Outdoor fireplace
• Outdoor furniture
• Sun terrace
• Private pool
• Coffee machine
• Electric kettle
• Socket near the bed
• Clothes rack
• Walking tours
• Game drives
• Evening entertainment Additional charge
• Entertainment staff
• Seating Area
• Special diet menus (on request)
• Breakfast in the room
• Tea/Coffee maker
• Accessible parking
• Private check-in/check-out
• Luggage storage
• 24-hour front desk
• Board games/puzzles
• Babysitting/child services Additional charge
• Daily housekeeping
• Ironing service Additional charge
• Laundry Additional charge
• Business centre
• Meeting/banquet facilities Additional charge
• Smoke alarms
• 24-hour security
• Safety deposit box
• Shared lounge/TV area
• Designated smoking area
• Air conditioning
• Wake-up service
• Tile/marble floor
• Private entrance
• Soundproof rooms
• Family rooms
• Ironing facilities
• Facilities for disabled guests
• Airport shuttle
• Entire unit located on ground floor
• Open all year
• All ages welcome
• Pool with view
• Pool/beach towels
• Sun loungers or beach chairs
• Sun umbrellas
• Fitness/spa locker rooms
• Yoga classes
• Spa/wellness packages
• Spa lounge/relaxation area
• Spa facilities
• Body treatments
• Waxing services
• Facial treatments
• Beauty Services
• Massage Additional charge
• Spa and wellness centre Additional charge

See availability House rules

From 14:00 to 00:00

From 08:00 to 11:00

Cancellation/ prepayment

Cancellation and prepayment policies vary according to accommodation type. Please enter the dates of your stay and check the conditions of your required room.

Children and beds

Child policies

Children of any age are welcome.

Children 3 years and above will be charged as adults at this property.

To see correct prices and occupancy information, please add the number of children in your group and their ages to your search.

Cot and extra bed policies

Cots and extra beds are not available at this property.

No age restriction

There is no age requirement for check-in

Pets are not allowed.

Accepted payment methods

Cash is not accepted Kapama Karula accepts these cards and reserves the right to temporarily hold an amount prior to arrival.

The fine print Need-to-know information for guests at this property

Please inform Kapama Karula in advance of your expected arrival time. You can use the Special Requests box when booking, or contact the property directly with the contact details provided in your confirmation.

In response to Coronavirus (COVID-19), additional safety and sanitation measures are in effect at this property.

In accordance with government guidelines to minimise transmission of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), this property may request additional documentation from guests to validate identity, travel itinerary and other relevant information, during dates where such guidelines exist.

FAQs about Kapama Karula

What is there to do at kapama karula.

• Evening entertainment
• Swimming Pool

Does Kapama Karula have a restaurant on site?

How much does it cost to stay at kapama karula.

The prices at Kapama Karula may vary depending on your stay (e.g. dates you select, hotel's policy etc.). See the prices by entering your dates.

How far is Kapama Karula from the centre of Kapama Private Game Reserve?

Kapama Karula is 3.7 miles from the centre of Kapama Private Game Reserve. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.

What type of room can I book at Kapama Karula?

What are the check-in and check-out times at kapama karula.

Check-in at Kapama Karula is from 14:00, and check-out is until 11:00.

Does Kapama Karula have a pool?

Yes, this hotel has a pool. Find out the details about the pool and other facilities on this page.

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• Visual Hotel Review – Kapama Karula, Wild Luxury at its Finest
• By Lisa Michele Burns

Lodge: Kapama Karula, South Africa

Whisked away in a safari vehicle minutes after arriving to Hoedspruit airport we were immediately on safari. Bam, an impala, next up a Zebra…there’s no shortage of wildlife sightings and this is just during the twenty minute transfer to the lodge.

As Kapama’s flagship lodge, Karula is a total sanctuary of relaxation, offering chic suites that feel at one with their surroundings, perhaps one of the most beautifully designed properties I’ve ever seen. Wandering down the path it feels like you’re the only person there, that is except for the Nyala that spend their days happily foraging around the property. 

Upon opening the door to my suite (#9) I was struck down with “mouth open, can’t speak” syndrome as I was overcome by how spacious, stunning and absolutely breathtaking the room was. As you’ll see in my visual hotel review archives I’ve been lucky enough to photograph some insanely beautiful properties but there’s something special about the rooms at Karula, they’re just impressive in every sense of the word.

With a sun filled deck offering the ideal vantage point, you can plunge in the pool and watch as animals roam across the Klaserie river. It’s almost a given that you’ll experience one of those deep breath, oh my gosh is this real moments. 

Muted interiors blend effortlessly with the surroundings of each luxurious villa that range from 90m 2 to 170m 2 . Each villa has a bar and coffee/tea area with Nespresso machines, plush lounge area and a bathroom that will ensure you are forever disappointed when you shower anywhere else.

The furniture, high ceilings, wooden features and heck, even the coffee table books are included in a way that feels like they were always meant to be in that exact place. Snuggle in your robe, sip some wine and sit on the deck chairs under the stars each evening while listening to the sounds of wildlife in the distance.

Each morning take the opportunity to join a game drive with one of Karula’s experienced spotters and guides! Escaping the midday heat, a morning game drive offers the opportunity to cruise around in the soft morning light and watch as wildlife start about their adventures for the day. You can also repeat the adventure at sunset!

Kapama Private Game Reserve is located in the Limpopo Province, renowned for its wildlife. The reserve is home to all of Africa’s big game with over 350 bird species spreading their colourful wings over 40 mammal species

Photographers will be kept more than occupied as you sit with your camera at the ready to capture elephants, rhinos, giraffe and zebra that’ll wander close to the vehicle. A lot of people worry they won’t have the right camera or lens to photograph wildlife but surprisingly the wildlife aren’t that far away, providing ample opportunities to capture great photos with relatively standard equipment.

Ideally you’ll be travelling with a lens that covers a focal distance of between 40-150mm (80-300mm eqv) which allows you photograph the wildlife both up close, and incorporating the landscape. You can read more about the benefits of travelling with a zoom lens here . Framing the wildlife within the open scenery, using trees and natural light is such an adrenaline rush because both you and the animals are on the move. Below are two images, one taken with a 7-14mm f2.8 lens and the other with a 40-150mm f2.8 lens to showcase the potential benefit of having both on safari at Kapama Karula.

Recently named the ‘Best Small & Exclusive Property – Asia, Africa, Indian Ocean & Middle East’,at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2020, Kapama Karula is one of those special places you can’t help but fall for. The staff are not only on hand to provide services in the spa, restaurant, poolside or reception area but are always welcoming with a smile and happy to have a chat, usually sharing some of their amazing stories from wildlife encounters in Kapama.

One of the unique experiences the lodge offers is a delicious buffet dinner under the stars with a member of staff or your safari guide joining you for dinner. The opportunity to listen as they speak about the area, wildlife and encounters only adds to the anticipation and excitement for your game drive the following morning.

How to Get to Kapama Karula –

Coordinates – s24°25’45.08” e31°00’49.01”.

Located between the northern Drakensberg mountains and the Greater Kruger National Park, in the north-east of South Africa, you can fly from Cape Town or Johannesburg to Eastgate Airport, also known as Hoedspruit Airport from where you’ll be picked up and whisked off to your villa. On route you can experience a mini safari!

Alternatively, you can turn up the notch on your luxury experience and fly with Kapama Air and land at the private air strip. Taking it’s first flight in December 2017, the PC12 aircraft provides those wanting a more private and exclusive experience the opportunity to land at any time of the day or night along with access to lounge facilities.

Those self-driving and perhaps continuing on to explore Kruger National Park before or after can access Kapama Prviate Game Reserve and will find more details here .

As usual, I’ll continue the story with images, letting the photos tell the story of my experience at Kapama Karula, somewhere you should add to whatever list you keep relating to photography, luxury and relaxation. For a true South African experience this is one place you need to see to believe…

For more information and reservation details please visit kapama.com

Hello! I’m the founder and photographer behind The Wandering Lens. With 17+yrs experience as a professional travel and landscape photographer, all advice found on this site is from my personal experience on the road. I hope it’s useful for your own travels and would love to hear in the comments about your trips and experiences around the world.

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January 21, 2020 at 3:27 pm

All of the animals look so adorable <3

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The Comprehensive Guide to Moscow Nightlife

• Posted on April 14, 2018 July 26, 2018
• by Kings of Russia
• 8 minute read

Moscow’s nightlife scene is thriving, and arguably one of the best the world has to offer – top-notch Russian women, coupled with a never-ending list of venues, Moscow has a little bit of something for everyone’s taste. Moscow nightlife is not for the faint of heart – and if you’re coming, you better be ready to go Friday and Saturday night into the early morning.

This comprehensive guide to Moscow nightlife will run you through the nuts and bolts of all you need to know about Moscow’s nightclubs and give you a solid blueprint to operate with during your time in Moscow.

What you need to know before hitting Moscow nightclubs

Prices in moscow nightlife.

Before you head out and start gaming all the sexy Moscow girls , we have to talk money first. Bring plenty because in Moscow you can never bring a big enough bankroll. Remember, you’re the man so making a fuzz of not paying a drink here or there will not go down well.

Luckily most Moscow clubs don’t do cover fees. Some electro clubs will charge 15-20$, depending on their lineup. There’s the odd club with a minimum spend of 20-30$, which you’ll drop on drinks easily. By and large, you can scope out the venues for free, which is a big plus.

Bottle service is a great deal in Moscow. At top-tier clubs, it starts at 1,000$. That’ll go a long way with premium vodka at 250$, especially if you have three or four guys chipping in. Not to mention that it’s a massive status boost for getting girls, especially at high-end clubs.

Without bottle service, you should estimate a budget of 100-150$ per night. That is if you drink a lot and hit the top clubs with the hottest girls. Scale down for less alcohol and more basic places.

Dress code & Face control

Door policy in Moscow is called “face control” and it’s always the guy behind the two gorillas that gives the green light if you’re in or out.

In Moscow nightlife there’s only one rule when it comes to dress codes:

You can never be underdressed.

People dress A LOT sharper than, say, in the US and that goes for both sexes. For high-end clubs, you definitely want to roll with a sharp blazer and a pocket square, not to mention dress shoes in tip-top condition. Those are the minimum requirements to level the playing field vis a vis with other sharply dressed guys that have a lot more money than you do. Unless you plan to hit explicit electro or underground clubs, which have their own dress code, you are always on the money with that style.

Getting in a Moscow club isn’t as hard as it seems: dress sharp, speak English at the door and look like you’re in the mood to spend all that money that you supposedly have (even if you don’t). That will open almost any door in Moscow’s nightlife for you.

Types of Moscow Nightclubs

In Moscow there are four types of clubs with the accompanying female clientele:

High-end clubs:

These are often crossovers between restaurants and clubs with lots of tables and very little space to dance. Heavy accent on bottle service most of the time but you can work the room from the bar as well. The hottest and most expensive girls in Moscow go there. Bring deep pockets and lots of self-confidence and you have a shot at swooping them.

Regular Mid-level clubs:

They probably resemble more what you’re used to in a nightclub: big dancefloors, stages and more space to roam around. Bottle service will make you stand out more but you can also do well without. You can find all types of girls but most will be in the 6-8 range. Your targets should always be the girls drinking and ideally in pairs. It’s impossible not to swoop if your game is at least half-decent.

Basic clubs/dive bars:

Usually spots with very cheap booze and lax face control. If you’re dressed too sharp and speak no Russian, you might attract the wrong type of attention so be vigilant. If you know the local scene you can swoop 6s and 7s almost at will. Usually students and girls from the suburbs.

Electro/underground clubs:

Home of the hipsters and creatives. Parties there don’t mean meeting girls and getting drunk but doing pills and spacing out to the music. Lots of attractive hipster girls if that is your niche. That is its own scene with a different dress code as well.

What time to go out in Moscow

Moscow nightlife starts late. Don’t show up at bars and preparty spots before 11pm because you’ll feel fairly alone. Peak time is between 1am and 3am. That is also the time of Moscow nightlife’s biggest nuisance: concerts by artists you won’t know and who only distract your girls from drinking and being gamed. From 4am to 6am the regular clubs are emptying out but plenty of people, women included, still hit up one of the many afterparty clubs. Those last till well past 10am.

As far as days go: Fridays and Saturdays are peak days. Thursday is an OK day, all other days are fairly weak and you have to know the right venues.

The Ultimate Moscow Nightclub List

Short disclaimer: I didn’t add basic and electro clubs since you’re coming for the girls, not for the music. This list will give you more options than you’ll be able to handle on a weekend.

Preparty – start here at 11PM

Classic restaurant club with lots of tables and a smallish bar and dancefloor. Come here between 11pm and 12am when the concert is over and they start with the actual party. Even early in the night tons of sexy women here, who lean slightly older (25 and up).

The second floor of the Ugolek restaurant is an extra bar with dim lights and house music tunes. Very small and cozy with a slight hipster vibe but generally draws plenty of attractive women too. A bit slower vibe than Valenok.

Very cool, spread-out venue that has a modern library theme. Not always full with people but when it is, it’s brimming with top-tier women. Slow vibe here and better for grabbing contacts and moving on.

High-end: err on the side of being too early rather than too late because of face control.

Secret Room

Probably the top venue at the moment in Moscow . Very small but wildly popular club, which is crammed with tables but always packed. They do parties on Thursdays and Sundays as well. This club has a hip-hop/high-end theme, meaning most girls are gold diggers, IG models, and tattooed hip hop chicks. Very unfavorable logistics because there is almost no room no move inside the club but the party vibe makes it worth it. Strict face control.

Close to Secret Room and with a much more favorable and spacious three-part layout. This place attracts very hot women but also lots of ball busters and fakes that will leave you blue-balled. Come early because after 4am it starts getting empty fast. Electronic music.

A slightly kitsch restaurant club that plays Russian pop and is full of gold diggers, semi-pros, and men from the Caucasus republics. Thursday is the strongest night but that dynamic might be changing since Secret Room opened its doors. You can swoop here but it will be a struggle.

Mid-level: your sweet spot in terms of ease and attractiveness of girls for an average budget.

Started going downwards in 2018 due to lax face control and this might get even worse with the World Cup. In terms of layout one of the best Moscow nightclubs because it’s very big and bottle service gives you a good edge here. Still attracts lots of cute girls with loose morals but plenty of provincial girls (and guys) as well. Swooping is fairly easy here.

I haven’t been at this place in over a year, ever since it started becoming ground zero for drunken teenagers. Similar clientele to Icon but less chic, younger and drunker. Decent mainstream music that attracts plenty of tourists. Girls are easy here as well.

Sort of a Coyote Ugly (the real one in Moscow sucks) with party music and lots of drunken people licking each others’ faces. Very entertaining with the right amount of alcohol and very easy to pull in there. Don’t think about staying sober in here, you’ll hate it.

Artel Bessonitsa/Shakti Terrace

Electronic music club that is sort of a high-end place with an underground clientele and located between the teenager clubs Icon and Gipsy. Very good music but a bit all over the place with their vibe and their branding. You can swoop almost any type of girl here from high-heeled beauty to coked-up hipsters, provided they’re not too sober.

Afterparty: if by 5AM  you haven’t pulled, it’s time to move here.

Best afterparty spot in terms of trying to get girls. Pretty much no one is sober in there and savage gorilla game goes a long way. Lots of very hot and slutty-looking girls but it can be hard to tell apart who is looking for dick and who is just on drugs but not interested. If by 9-10am you haven’t pulled, it is probably better to surrender.

The hipster alternative for afterparties, where even more drugs are in play. Plenty of attractive girls there but you have to know how to work this type of club. A nicer atmosphere and better music but if you’re desperate to pull, you’ll probably go to Miks.

Weekday jokers: if you’re on the hunt for some sexy Russian girls during the week, here are two tips to make your life easier.

Chesterfield

Ladies night on Wednesdays means this place gets pretty packed with smashed teenagers and 6s and 7s. Don’t pull out the three-piece suit in here because it’s a “simpler” crowd. Definitely your best shot on Wednesdays.

If you haven’t pulled at Chesterfield, you can throw a Hail Mary and hit up Garage’s Black Music Wednesdays. Fills up really late but there are some cute Black Music groupies in here. Very small club. Thursday through Saturday they do afterparties and you have an excellent shot and swooping girls that are probably high.

Shishas Sferum

This is pretty much your only shot on Mondays and Tuesdays because they offer free or almost free drinks for women. A fairly low-class club where you should watch your drinks. As always the case in Moscow, there will be cute girls here on any day of the week but it’s nowhere near as good as on the weekend.

In a nutshell, that is all you need to know about where to meet Moscow girls in nightlife. There are tons of options, and it all depends on what best fits your style, based on the type of girls that you’re looking for.

Related Topics

• moscow girls
• moscow nightlife

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• International

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March 24 Moscow concert hall attack

By Heather Chen , Andrew Raine , Catherine Nicholls, Antoinette Radford, Maureen Chowdhury and Kathleen Magramo , CNN

Our live coverage of the Moscow concert hall attack has moved here.

Suspects in deadly concert hall attack facing life imprisonment. Here's what we know

From CNN staff

All four suspects in the Crocus City concert hall attack case have been remanded into pre-trial detention until May 22.  

They are charged with committing a terrorist act, according to the courts of general jurisdiction of the city of Moscow, which under the Russian Criminal Code is punishable by up to life imprisonment.

Three of the defendants pled guilty to all charges, according to state media news agency TASS.

All four are from Tajikistan, a former Soviet republic, and had been in Russia on either temporary or expired visas.

Friday's attack left at least 137 people dead. The attack is Russia's deadliest in two decades .

Catch up on the latest developments:

• Day of mourning: Russian President Vladimir Putin declared Sunday a day of national mourning for the 137 victims in Friday's attack .
• Authorities work to identify victims: Procedures to identify those killed in the attack have begun, the city’s Department of Health said, according to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti. The Russian Investigative Committee said 62 bodies had been identified so far, adding that "for the remaining victims, genetic examinations are being carried out to establish their identities."
• Fighting terrorism in Syria and Turkey: Putin held separate calls with his Turkish and Syrian counterparts, Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Bashar al-Assad, on Saturday and promised closer cooperation in fighting terrorism following the attack, according to a Kremlin readout.
• Russian Embassy says no warnings from US: The Russian Embassy in Washington says it did not receive any warnings about a potential attack in Moscow from the US. Last week, Putin dismissed warnings by the US embassy in Russia that there could be attacks on large groups.
• Putin links attack to Ukraine: Putin said the main suspects arrested planned to flee into Ukraine. Ukraine has denied any connection. The UK warned that Russia was creating a "smokescreen of propaganda."
• Terror alert: France has lifted its terror alert to its highest level following the deadly attack in Moscow, French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal said Sunday.

Here's what we know about the four suspects in the Moscow concert hall attack

From CNN’s Masha Angelova and Josh Pennington

Each of the four defendants charged with committing a terrorist act in the Crocus City concert hall attack was brought to court individually in Moscow on Sunday.

They are accused of committing a crime under part 3, provision “b” of article 205 of the Russian Criminal Code (terrorist act), which the Russian Criminal Code states is punishable with up to life imprisonment.

Three pled guilty to all charges, according to state media news agency TASS .

Here's what we know about the accused:

• Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev: The 32-year-old was the first defendant brought to court. Mirzoyev, from Tajikistan, had a temporary registration for three months in the southern Russian city of Novosibirsk in Siberia, but it expired, according to RIA Novosti.
• Saidakrami Rachabalizoda: He appeared as the second defendant, and told the the court that he had Russian registration documents but couldn't remember where they were. He communicated through an interpreter, according to state media RIA Novosti. Rachabalizoda was reportedly born in 1994.
• Shamsidin Fariduni: He was born in 1998 in Tajikistan and is a citizen of the Central Asian country. Fariduni was officially employed at a factory in the Russian city of Podolsk and was registered in the city of Krasnogorsk, according to state media RIA Novosti.
• Muhammadsober Faizov: The fourth defendant appeared nonresponsive in a wheelchair and was accompanied by a doctor to his court appearance, as seen in Moscow City Court’s video shared on Telegram. Faizov was temporarily unemployed, before which he worked in a barber shop in Ivanovo, a city northeast of Moscow, and is registered in that city, according to state media RIA Novosti. He was reportedly born in 2004.

This post has been updated with more information on the charges against the suspects.

Moscow court orders preventive detention for all four defendants in concert hall attack case

The Basmanny District Court of Moscow on Sunday granted the investigators’ motion for detention, as the chosen preventative measure, for all four defendants in the Crocus City Hall attack case.

All four men have been remanded into pre-trial detention until May 22, stated Moscow City Court via Telegram.  

They are all charged with committing a terrorist act, according to the courts of general jurisdiction of the city of Moscow, which under the Russian Criminal Code is punishable up to life imprisonment.

Each of the four defendants was brought to court individually on Sunday.

Three pled guilty to all charges, according to state media news agency TASS. 

The names of the four accused in the case are Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, Saidakrami Rachabalizoda, Shamsidin Fariduni and Mukhammadsobir Faizov, Moscow City Courts announced via Telegram.

All four are from Tajikistan, a former Soviet republic, and have been in Russia on either temporary or expired visas.  

The court held closed hearings for each of the accused with no members of the public allowed, TASS reported, citing the court’s press service. 

2 defendants identified in Crocus City Hall attack

From CNN’s Masha Angelova, Michael Bodenhorst and Josh Pennington

The first defendant in the Crocus City concert hall attack case, Dalerdzhon Mirzoyev, has pleaded guilty on all counts, the press service of Moscow City Court told state media RIA Novosti.

He will be held in preventive custody at least through May 22. 

Mirzoyev is one of two defendants implicated in the attack who are facing possible life imprisonment, as reported by state media.

The suspects — Mirzoyev and Saidakrami Rachabalizoda — appeared in a Moscow court on Sunday on charges related to the attack.

Both individuals are accused of committing a terrorist act and could be sentenced to life imprisonment, according to state media outlet RIA Novosti. The prosecution has requested detention as a precautionary measure for both defendants.

Authorities have petitioned the court to conduct Mirzoyev's hearing behind closed doors to safeguard the integrity of the proceedings, state media news agency TASS reported. 

First suspect apprehended in the Crocus City Hall attack arrives in court

From CNN’s Masha Angelova

The first suspect apprehended after the attack on Crocus City Hall that killed at least 137 people has arrived in court at the Basmanny Court of Moscow. 

Crocus City Hall killings are deadliest since Beslan school siege — these are some other recent attacks in Russia

From CNN Staff

The attack on Moscow's popular Crocus City Hall that left at least 133 dead has become the deadliest attack in Russia since the Beslan school siege in 2004.

Some other recent attacks include:

• September 26, 2022 : Eleven children and four adults were killed when a gunman wearing Nazi symbols opened fire at a school in the western Russian city of Izhevsk. The shooter, who was reportedly wearing a black T-shirt with Nazi insignia and a helmet, died by suicide following the attack.
• April 3, 2017 : At least 11 people were killed in a blast on the St. Petersburg metro. The explosion tore through a train as it was traveling between two stations in Russia’s second-largest city.
• October 31, 2015 : A Russian passenger jet, Metrojet Flight 9268 crashed  on October 31 after departing from the Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh,  killing all 224 people  on board. US intelligence analysis suggested that ISIS or its affiliates  planted a bomb on the plane .
• December 30, 2013 : A massive explosion at a train station in the Russian city of Volgograd killed at least 16 people, including one police officer, the Investigative Committee of Russia said.
• January 25, 2011 : A suicide bomber attacked Domodedovo Airport , Moscow's busiest airport, killing 35 people and wounding about 100, authorities and state television said.
• March 29, 2010 : Two explosions rocked the subway stations in central  Moscow during rush hour, killing at least 38 people and wounding more than 60 others, spawning widespread public outrage. A website associated with Chechen separatists, who have long fought for independence from Russia, claimed responsibility for the attacks.

Rescuers, robotic systems and canine teams are currently on site of Crocus City concert hall

From CNN’s Darya Tarasova and Eve Brennan

More than 300 “specialists” and 154 pieces of equipment are currently on site at the Crocus City concert hall in Krasnogorsk, Moscow region, where a deadly attack took place Friday , Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations said on Telegram on Sunday.

The ministry said more than 400 cubic meters of structures had been dismantled by rescuers while specialized robotic systems, canine teams and psychologists from the ministry continue to work.

More than 1,600 calls have already been received on the department’s hotline, the ministry added.

The post was accompanied by a video showing dozens of emergency workers digging through the rubble of the partially burned-down concert hall.

Remember : At least 137 people died on Friday after attackers opened fire on civilians at the Crocus City concert hall, and set the building ablaze. The Islamic State group, also known as ISIS, has claimed the attack and  released graphic footage  purporting to show the incident. 

Putin lit a candle in memory of victims of the concert hall attack

From CNN's Eve Brennan and Anna Chernova

Russian President Vladimir Putin lit a candle Sunday in memory of victims of the deadly attack at the Crocus City concert hall in Moscow region on Friday.

Putin also expressed deep condolences following the Moscow shooting, calling it a "barbaric terrorist act" in a video statement released Saturday.

More background: The deadly attack comes barely a week after Putin secured his fifth presidential term. The large-scale attack is damaging for a leader who portrays himself as someone able to guarantee order.

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