066 512 3093
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Jembisa Bush Home is an exclusive, family-owned safari retreat set within its own private wildlife reserve in the breathtaking Waterberg region of South Africa’s Limpopo province. Overlooking the serene Palala River and nestled in pristine wilderness, this intimate lodge offers the perfect balance of adventure and luxury. Just a few hours’ drive from Johannesburg and completely malaria-free, it’s an ideal destination for families, couples, and groups seeking an authentic African safari experience tailored to all ages and interests.
Located within the UNESCO-listed Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, Jembisa’s private land boasts a spectacular mix of habitats – from open savannahs and riverine forests to dramatic cliffs, rocky outcrops, floodplains, and tranquil syringa woodlands. The meandering 7 km stretch of the Palala River brings a constant flow of wildlife to the reserve, creating exceptional opportunities for photography, birding, and up-close wildlife encounters.
Guests can expect to see a wide variety of animals, including giraffe, zebra, leopard, gemsbok, red hartebeest, wildebeest, kudu, bushbuck, and hippo. Night drives often reveal rare and fascinating nocturnal species such as aardvark, civet cats, brown hyena, bushbabies, porcupines, and even the elusive aardwolf. The rich diversity of flora and fauna makes every game drive and bush walk an adventure.
Originally built as a private family home, Jembisa retains a warm, welcoming atmosphere that sets it apart from more commercial lodges. Personal touches are everywhere – from the curated library and games room to the thoughtful hospitality of the resident hosts. Guests often remark that staying here feels like being welcomed into a friend’s luxury home in the bush, complete with a relaxed sense of belonging.
Whether you’re unwinding beside the heated swimming pool, playing tennis on the floodlit court, enjoying an aromatherapy massage on the sundeck, or embarking on a guided night safari, your stay at Jembisa can be as tranquil or adventurous as you wish. Activities are highly flexible and designed to cater to your personal interests, from bushman rock art excursions to photography safaris, astronomy evenings, and family-friendly campouts under the stars.
Twice-daily game drives with experienced guides
Night safaris for rare nocturnal sightings
Guided walking safaris and river walks
Bush dining experiences in spectacular locations
Birdwatching with over 250 recorded species
Mountain biking through game-rich terrain
Photography safaris for all skill levels
Ranger shadowing and conservation learning
Astronomy safaris under the pristine Waterberg skies
Campouts for adventurous spirits
Bushman rock art site visits
Aromatherapy and essential oils massages
A dedicated children’s safari program
At Jembisa Bush Home, every day offers new possibilities – whether you’re tracking wildlife on foot, sharing stories around the boma fire, or stargazing to the soundtrack of the African night. This is more than a safari lodge; it’s a place where luxury meets wilderness, and where lifelong memories are made.
Jembisa stands out as a truly family-friendly safari destination, dedicated to creating unforgettable adventures for guests of all ages. Specializing in tailor-made family safaris, the lodge offers an exceptional variety of engaging activities designed to immerse every member of the family in the wonders of the African bush. From thrilling game drives and guided bush walks to hands-on wildlife tracking and stargazing under the African night sky, each experience is carefully crafted to inspire curiosity, connection, and joy.
As an exclusive, small-scale safari lodge, Jembisa is able to offer unmatched flexibility in planning daily itineraries, adapting every safari experience to suit the ages, pace, and interests of each group. Whether you are introducing children to their first wildlife encounters, embarking on photographic safaris, or enjoying cultural experiences with local communities, every detail is personalized.
This warm, intimate approach—combined with the lodge’s pristine wilderness setting in the Waterberg Biosphere—ensures that families and friends alike can enjoy an authentic, enriching, and truly all-encompassing safari journey.
Jembisa Bush Home is ideal if you’re travelling with children or grandparents. The lodge’s family-focused approach means tailored activities for all ages, from junior ranger programs to guided bush walks.
Include neutral-coloured clothing for game drives, a warm layer for cool mornings, a swimsuit for the lodge pool, and sturdy shoes for walking safaris. Don’t forget binoculars – wildlife sightings here are exceptional.
Unlike larger lodges, Jembisa offers a personalised safari program. Speak to your guide about your interests, whether that’s tracking wildlife, birdwatching, photography, or cultural experiences with the local community.
Try stargazing evenings, mountain biking through the reserve, or a picnic breakfast in the bush. These special touches make Jembisa different from a standard safari lodge.
With so many diverse activities and the relaxed, homely atmosphere, staying at least 3–4 nights ensures you can fully enjoy the lodge, wildlife, and surrounding wilderness.
Families with kids should take advantage of the lodge’s educational and fun bush activities designed to inspire young explorers and keep them engaged.
While there is Wi-Fi, consider minimising screen time to fully immerse yourself in the sounds, sights, and tranquillity of the African bush.
