First Impressions of Silvan Safari

I've heard many great things and read glowing reviews about Silvan Safari, an extraordinary luxury lodge in the heart of Sabi Sand. With over 300 TripAdvisor reviews, it boasts an almost perfect record – its lowest rating is a single four-star review, while the rest are all five-star experiences. This remarkable consistency speaks volumes about the outstanding hospitality, thoughtful design, and thrilling safari adventures that define Silvan Safari. 

The People

At the heart of Silvan is a very special team. They're so happy to have you there and to share a piece of their world with you. They understand that being in the bush is probably a once-in-lifetime experience for you, so they effortlessly ensure it’s an experience you'll never forget.

This team is one of the kindest I've ever met. They have such warm souls and sweet smiles – you just want to hug them. They get excited when they can mix a special G&T with flavours you’ve never tasted before. And they laugh with you when you cannot decide which of their stellar wines to savour next.

For game drives, they have something special... It started as a spur-of-the-moment solution, and has now become a bit of a ritual: the sippy cup. Why wait until you get to the drink stop? The team is happy to prepare your safari sippy cup with your choice of drink: cappuccino, white wine, berry G&T – on the go! We'll drink to that.

The Place

Most suites at luxury safari lodges offer plenty of space to move around. But at Silvan Safari, they take everything to another level. The suites are ginormous – you could easily clock 10,000 steps just by wandering through yours throughout the day.

I had the pleasure of staying in the Blue Guarri Suite. As I walked up the stairs, the wooden deck stretched endlessly before me. My first thought? Wow! Framed by lush green trees, the deck overlooks a cerulean splash pool that glistens in the sun – pure African safari luxury.

When you enter the suite through the main sliding door, you’re welcomed by a cool breeze from the aircon – and a feast for your eyes. The blue hues of Blue Guarri are instantly calming and relaxing. And there’s nothing mini about the bar, stocked with soft drinks, tonics, spirits, and indulgent treats like fudge and droëwors – a coriander-spiced dried sausage, a popular South African snack.

The bathroom is bigger than most people’s apartments. In the middle – carefully positioned to offer a private view of the outdoors – is the very inviting bathtub. It was the perfect place to soak in candlelight, bubbles, and the scents of nature after an eventful day. Everything is up to the highest standards – from the Mungo towels and Africology amenities to the branded Silvan Safari bathrobe and breathtaking views from the outdoor shower.

I saved the best part of the suite for last – the most comfortable king-sized bed I’ve ever slept in. It felt like being wrapped in a cloud. The curtains around the bed added to the feeling of being cocooned, undisturbed by the outside world. A puffy duvet, plush pillows, soft linen, and all that space to myself… pure bliss.

The Food

There should be a Michelin-star equivalent for safari lodges – and Silvan would set the standard. Shortly after check-in, we unwound on a lowered deck right on the Manyaleti riverbed. Shaded by towering jackalberry trees, we sipped cool Springfield sauvignon blanc and indulged in a selection from the menu – the perfect start to an exceptional stay.

For dinner, we were treated to a Cape Malay feast under the soft glow of lanterns and tea-light candles. A long white table was adorned with platters brimming with naan bread, cumin-infused basmati rice, fragrant lamb curry, and cauliflower drizzled with a date and tamarind dressing. It was a meal to remember. With a menu that changes daily, every dining experience brings a new and delightful surprise.

Almost every review on TripAdvisor mentions food, so here’s what you can expect:

• Beef burger with boerenkaas cheese, homemade tomato chutney, and chunky chips
• Venison tagliata with marinated mushrooms, grilled courgette, parmesan, truffle, and rocket
• Green garden salad with charred broccoli, avocado, roasted green grapes, feta, and pesto
• Tempura kingklip with a delicious tartare sauce, chunky chips, and a side salad

The Feeling

Thinking back, I'm just buzzing with joy, bliss, and happiness. It was honestly such a special time, almost whimsical! Together with hundreds of happy guests, I highly recommend you jump on it and start planning your next safari to Silvan Safari. Now.