Guests are invited to relax with a pair of binoculars and a refreshment, keeping an eye on the wildlife wandering the plains and visiting the river.
Rukiya is a shady safari retreat on the banks of the Blyde River, bringing the tranquil presence of flowing water and whispering trees to the camp. All elements of the camp’s construction and location are orientated around keeping things natural, low impact, and serene.
There is a large, rim-flow swimming pool sprawled out between the tented chalets and the main lounge and dining area, which is the magnetic central area of the camp. Sun loungers offer the perfect place to relax in the dappled shade with the view of the riverbank ahead.
Excellent 3-course dinners are served at the dining table, which shares the large timber decking area with a comfortable lounge and casual bar. There is WiFi throughout the camp, but better reception in the main area. Subtle and sophisticated African art adds to the simple, stylish décor of this relaxing camp. We have a close-knit team that is friendly, professional and passionate about their work - click here to see the friendly faces behind Rukiya!
Please Note: There is power throughout the camp, however due to nationwide electricity outages there could be the occasional power interruption for a short periods of time.
Rukiya Safari Camp is located in the Wild Rivers Private Nature Reserve about 10km outside Hoedspruit in the Greater Kruger region of Limpopo.
Wild Rivers is a 3000-hectare area forming part of the 12000-hectare Blyde Olifants Conservancy. The camp itself lies on the banks of the Blyde River only 500m upstream from the confluence of the significant Blyde and Olifants Rivers.
The reserve is home to an array of wildlife species and phenomenal birdlife; it has a mountain view and the presence of water, which makes it a magnificent spot in the bush.
Rukiya Safari Camp conducts game drives in the Balule Nature Reserve, which is open to Kruger National Park and this is where guests can enjoy even more sightings, with opportunities to see the 'Big-Five'. A new addition is the development of mountain biking routes throughout the reserve, where guests can get cooler boxes of food and drink delivered en route.
The local Hoedspruit airport is only 45-minutes’ drive away, making it an easily accessible yet remote safari experience.
The entrance to the Wild Rivers Nature Reserve is only 10km from the town of Hoedspruit, and about 45-minutes’ drive from the airport. It is easily accessible by road from Johannesburg (5-6- hour drive). Once inside the reserve, it is another +-10km to the camp via dirt roads.
DO NOT follow the GPS co-ordinates on Google, they are incorrect and take you through private areas. Follow our directions ONLY.
From the Wild Rivers Reserve Gate:
After you have turned left at the signboard on the R40 and travelled straight towards the gate, crossing the railway line you will see the gate. Upon entering the gate, turn immediately right and drive along the fence line. After 2.5km the main road curves to the left slightly, leaving the fence line. From this point it is another 2.5km until you reach a board that signs 14-23 to the left. Turn feft here and continue another 4.3km. This road will start to gently decline down towards the river, keep straight passing the signs for 14 and 15. Keep driving straight on you will reach 21 on the left. Turn left at the wooden board saying Rukiya Safari Camp, 21.
Please Note: The Wild Rivers reserve gate is open from 6h00-18h00, so please plan to arrive and depart in this time frame. There is an out of hours gate service that can be arranged if you are going to arrive late but this must be done so prior to your arrival. This service runs from 18h00 - 19h30 but there will be no access granted after 19h30. The fee for this out of hours service is R200 per vehicle. Should you need a late gate entry between 18h00 – 19h30 this needs to be arranged in advance (before the gate closes at 18h00) and this can be done by contacting the lodge directly; lodge@rukiyacamp.com or +27 60 802 4229.
Should this arrangement not be made before 18h00 or should you arrive after 19h30 unfortunately there will be no access into the reserve.
