Shibula - Welgevonden Game Reserve

Shibula offers a captivating retreat within the Welgevonden Game Reserve, nestled in South Africa'

Location
Welgevonden Game Reserve, North West & Central Bushveld, South Africa, Southern Africa
Type
safari_lodge
Coordinates
-24.300213, 27.802460
Phone
0027153305062
Email
[email protected]
Website
https://shibula.co.za/
Activities
Game Drive, Spa
Amenities
Swimming Pool, Pool, Spa, Bar

PlnrScore: 33/100

Sustainability

solar power

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1148 species observed within 20 km, 52 mammals, 149 birds.

  • White Rhinoceros (Mammalia, 44 observations)
  • Lion (Mammalia, 37 observations)
  • Plains Zebra (Mammalia, 35 observations)
  • Blue-sided Sprite (Insecta, 33 observations)
  • Common Warthog (Mammalia, 30 observations)
  • Red-veined Dropwing (Insecta, 30 observations)
  • African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 29 observations)
  • White-masked Wisp (Insecta, 27 observations)
  • African Red Toad (Amphibia, 25 observations)
  • Black-backed Jackal (Mammalia, 25 observations)

Best Time to Visit Shibula

The best months to visit Shibula are September, January, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 21.6°C, rainfall 121.2mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 66.4%
  • February: Great, temperature 21.41°C, rainfall 75.7mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 67%
  • March: Great, temperature 20.7°C, rainfall 36.8mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 61.7%
  • April: Great, temperature 18.27°C, rainfall 44.4mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 59.9%
  • May: Great, temperature 16.14°C, rainfall 9.9mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 51.5%
  • June: Great, temperature 13.34°C, rainfall 1.4mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 47%
  • July: Great, temperature 13.27°C, rainfall 2.2mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 42.4%
  • August: Great, temperature 16.24°C, rainfall 0.7mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 41.2%
  • September: Great, temperature 20.06°C, rainfall 2.5mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 39.1%
  • October: Great, temperature 21.52°C, rainfall 31.2mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 44.9%
  • November: Great, temperature 21.98°C, rainfall 56.2mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 56.2%
  • December: Great, temperature 21.78°C, rainfall 124.1mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 65.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ideal time of year to visit Shibula for wildlife viewing and weather?

The dry winter months (May to September) are generally best for game viewing at Shibula, as vegetation is sparse and animals gather around water sources. However, the summer (October to April) offers lush landscapes, migratory birds, and newborn animals, with Welgevonden being a malaria-free reserve year-round.

What makes the safari experience at Shibula unique compared to other lodges in South Africa?

Shibula offers an exclusive safari experience within the private Welgevonden Game Reserve, meaning fewer vehicles and a more intimate wildlife encounter. Guests can expect luxurious accommodations, personalized service, and expert-guided game drives focusing on the Big Five and the reserve's diverse ecosystems.

What is typically included in a stay at Shibula, and are there any hidden costs to consider?

A stay at Shibula typically includes luxury accommodation, all meals, and two daily guided game drives. Most non-alcoholic and local alcoholic beverages are also covered, but premium brand drinks, spa treatments, and transfers to and from the lodge are usually additional costs.

How safe is it to travel to and stay at Shibula within the Welgevonden Game Reserve?

Shibula is located within the secure, fenced Welgevonden Game Reserve, which has strict access control and professional anti-poaching units ensuring guest safety. All game activities are conducted by experienced, armed guides, and the reserve is notably malaria-free, offering peace of mind for travelers.

Beyond the Big Five, what unique wildlife or birdlife can guests hope to spot while on safari from Shibula?

While the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) are a major draw, Welgevonden Game Reserve, accessible from Shibula, is also home to cheetah, brown hyena, and a variety of antelope species like eland and kudu. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diverse avifauna, with over 300 species recorded, including raptors and water birds.

Other Safari Lodges in Welgevonden Game Reserve

Parks in North West & Central Bushveld

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa