The Sunday News
Rorbeta Katunga
BUILT to provide the weary traveller a restful haven far from the hustle and bustle of the city life, Phomolo Safari Lodge is a must visit this season.
Aptly named in the Sotho language, Phomolo means a place of rest and is located in the flora of Figtree about 40km outside Bulawayo along Plumtree Road.
For a visitor coming through to Phomolo from Bulawayo, after passing the first tollgate turn left into a dirt road just before Redwood Leisure Centre and visible signs along the way will guide you to the destination of tranquility, where you can expect a warm welcome into the safari lodge.
Phomolo Safari Lodge offers an authentic wildlife experience. It has savannah game that includes kudu, zebra, impala, and warthog and is a must for the avid bird watcher.
Guests are encouraged to take a game drive or guided walking tour where they can experience nature first hand as well as view some bushman rock paintings.
For those who would rather bring their tents and sleeping bags for that added safari adventure, the safari lodge has a campsite with a shower and ablution facilities.
What to look forward to as a guest at Phomolo besides the plains game and rock paintings are the breathtaking views of the mountains and dams, comfortable rooms overlooking the dam and a watering hole where animals come and drink.
Phomolo Safari Lodge is cosy but most importantly remains very affordable to the discerning traveller.
As a self-catering venue with fully equipped kitchens complete with electrical stoves, fridges, sinks and ample cupboard space, Phomolo Safari Lodge offers guests a choice between two lovely thatched suites constructed from granite stones.
Guests are encouraged to bring their own food for consumption and make full use of the operational kitchen in each lodge. In the event of power cuts, gas stoves can be used.
Phomolo consists of a honeymoon suite aptly named “Thakgalo” which is Sotho for “happiness” which costs $60 per couple per night and a two-bedroomed family suite, “Moloko”, Sotho for “family” which costs $70 per night.
To enjoy the activities on offer, visitors should budget about $5 for a game drive and for day visitors intending to barbeque be sure to bring your own provisions as the braai facilities and firewood are provided.
Fishing enthusiasts don’t forget to pack your rods and enjoy the day fishing and what fun it would be with friends to see who has the biggest catch.
In addition to these activities and the lodges, Phomolo Safari Lodge also offers an outdoor garden wedding venue where one can pitch their tent for the occasion.
Please note, the lodges are self-catering so there is no dining area although the lodge is undergoing expansion that will include more ensuite lodges, a dining area that will serve meals for guests who prefer to not cook, a bar area and a swimming pool.
