Touching Immortality
south Africa is a land of pioneers, whose tales have been brought to life by storytellers over many ages. Few of these raconteurs prickle the imagination as enticingly as pioneer politician and author, sir Percy Fitzpatrick, who, together with his dog, the equally famous Jock, travelled the area between the current Pilgrim’s Rest and the then Delagoa Bay (now Maputo) in search of the next great adventure.
situated in the heart of the world famous Kruger National Park, the iconic Jock safari lodge has permanent links with the intrepid explorer and his canine companion. Rich in abundant wildlife, particularly the Big Five, this concession is the exact profile of Jock as he was immortalised in Fitzpatrick’s legendary tale, Jock of the Bushveld.
Their exploits in the 1880s were captured in Fitzpatrick’s best-selling book, which was first published in 1907 and has seen almost 100 impressions, in addition to being translated into five languages apart from English.
Recounting life in the wild Africa of the 19th century, a continent at its most essential – the vast expanse of wilderness that stretches across the plains of the Kruger National Park – Fitzpatrick’s tales still beckon south Africans from all walks of life to experience Jock safari lodge in all its glory.
with its southern boundary being the old inland-bound wagon route from pre-colonial Delagoa Bay, the Jock concession is the ideal property to experience the luxury, style, and adventure of a bygone era.
situated in pristine, untamed wilderness where the Big Five regularly come calling while guests watch, drink in hand, from the safety of a raised deck, the lodge boasts 12 individually thatched rooms which sleep two people each.
Each suite is configured in ultra-luxurious fashion and offers full air conditioning, a mini bar, a private plunge pool, and an en suite bathroom, as well as an outdoor shower. while being entirely out of sight and earshot of other suites, one would be forgiven for wondering whether the animals on the other side of the river may be taking a good look at the two-legged creatures going about their ablutions.
It is the exceptional standard of service that sets Jock apart from similar establishments. with its understated old-world luxury an indelible part of the Jock experience, there is nothing superficial about the lodge. All fittings and furniture are truly authentic, and even the piano in the dining room has had its ivories tickled in years gone by, by the infamous Cockney liz, who was a prominent entertainer during the Barberton Gold Rush.
Keeping up with the decidedly upmarket ambience, dining at Jock is a highlight in itself. The wine list is well chosen, featuring some of South Africa’s finest vintages across a broad range, while my rule of thumb – the quality of the coffee and the breakfast options served – saw Jock’s chefs pass the test with flying colours.
Evening dining, after a fascinating day of hunting down the Big Five (with a camera), is yet another adventure, with local ingredients forming the basis of bush dining in the boma, to be followed the next night by an unsurpassed fine dining experience in the dining room overlooking the confluence of the Biyamiti and Mitomeni rivers.
The original bush camp was built by the descendants of sir Percy, the Niven family, and later developed into the five-star lodge that it is today, and stands like a beacon in the bush with indigenous trees providing shade and shelter, and plenty of opportunities for bird-watchers to indulge their passion.
Accessible as a self-drive destination, or by air from skukuza or Nelspruit, the upscale Jock safari lodge oozes charm and history, while the superbly trained staff are always discreetly available to cater to your every whim. The guides, in particular, deserve mention: They have an uncanny eye for spoor, and an astounding knowledge of mammals, birds, and plants.
Apart from daily game drives, lodge activities also include guided walks conducted by the same experienced Jock guides. There is something thrilling about exploring the region’s best natural offerings on foot. In this region, Jackalberry trees that are older than written history form the basis of a leafy ecosystem that supports a myriad of insects, birds, mammals, and reptiles. The sheer wonder of Mother Nature at work in this microcosm makes one eager to understand more, and to experience even more of the untouched Bushveld.
spending time with Jock’s guides is an education in itself, and guests are taught that the African wilderness is a magical place where the unexpected and unconventional will be revealed to all who are prepared to embrace the environment with its serene beauty, as well as its harsh and unforgiving nature.
For more information, please visit www.jocksafarilodge.com or call +27 13 010 0019.