Glamptuary Review - Few & Far Luvhondo
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE A STAY IN A CLIFF-SIDE SUITE CARVED INTO THE SOUTPANSBERG MOUNTAINS IN SOUTH AFRICA; A FULL SAFARI EXPERIENCE WHICH INCLUDED GIRAFFES, ZEBRAS, SAMANGO MONKEYS, BUSH DINNERS IN THE WILD; AND THE MOST LUXURIOUS LEVEL OF HOSPITALITY WE’VE EVER EXPERIENCED AT A GLAMPTUARY.
Bobby and Christina at the entrance to Few & Far Luvhondo in Waterpoort South Africa
We were still smiling as we arrived to the entrance gate of Few & Far Luvhondo after a total of 23 hours on 4 planes, a 2-hour ride from the last airport, and a severe lack of sleep.
Why were we smiling?
We knew we were about to embark on a life-changing trip. We had no idea how amazing it would be though.
Katja Quasdorf - VP of Strategic Partnerships at Few & Far Luhvondo
Our experience with Few & Far started well before we arrived. 4 months before in fact.
We had the pleasure of working with Katja Quasdorf - VP of Strategic Partnerships - during our onboarding and planning. She helped us organize flights within South Africa, connected us with lodging options in Cape Town, and walked us through all the activities, excursions, and options available to us during our stay.
Planning a trip of this size began with a questionnaire sent to us from Katja, which is issued to all incoming guests. The intent behind this questionnaire is so the Few & Far staff can learn about their incoming guests, and plan special surprises tailored to the answers they receive. I’ll certainly be highlighting the surprises we experienced, which we will never forget.
Katja and her Guide Staff also put together a daily itinerary which was sent back to us for approval. They reminded us that there were intentional gaps in our schedule, that would be filled with the aforementioned surprise and delight.
And delighted we were.
Photo Credit - The Next Big Idea Club - Author Will Guidara and his book “Unreasonable Hospitality”
Few & Far Luvhondo gave the best hospitality service I have ever experienced. It made me think of passages I read in Will Guidara’s book Unreasonable Hospitality.
One quote from Will stands out to me, and sums up the philosophy that drives Few & Far, “No one who ever changed the game did so by being reasonable.”
It’s no surprise that Few & Far’s Founder, Sarah Dusek, has yet again built a second-to-none experience at Few & Far. Sarah was also the Founder of UNDER CANVAS, which defined and established what luxury outdoor hospitality looks like in the United States.
Sarah Dusek, Founder of Few & Far Luvhondo
Sarah sold Under Canvas for a reported $100M dollars. She took the proceeds and launched a VC firm called ENYGMA VENTURES to support female entrepreneurs with a focus on conservation efforts in South Africa. Sarah also launched Few & Far with the intent to operate an exclusive safari experience designed to protect, preserve and re-wild the Soutpansberg Mountains.
Sarah took her already peak level of hospitality from UNDER CANVAS and amplified it 10x at Few & Far Luvhondo.
It’s also important to state that beyond the hospitality and 5-star service you’ll experience as guests, you should know that part of the booking fee goes to preserving the land, supporting the animals, and caring for the environment that surrounds you during your stay.
“When we built Under Canvas, we sought to reimagine the safari experience in the United States, but to come to Africa and reimagine it again in the home of the safari felt like an extension of work we've been doing for 15 years," said Sarah Dusek, who co-founded Under Canvas with her husband, Jacob. "We want people to fall in love with being in the wilderness, slowing down, hearing the birds, drinking great coffee, just having a lovely time." - Travel & Leisure
The road to the lodge started out steep, but smooth. It got progressively more bumpy as we neared the top of the mountain where it became an exercise of bouldering with no paved road to use.
After a 1-hour drive from the entrance gate to the lodge property over progressively treacherous boulders and rough landscape, we arrived to a royal welcome given by the Few & Far staff.
Few & Far Management welcomed us to the property
There were drums, singing, warm hand towels to freshen up, and delicious mocktails to quench our thirst.
Enjoying fresh mocktails upon arrival to Few & Far Luvhondo
I mention mocktails because normally, guests will receive an alcoholic spritzer of some sort when they arrive. Few & Far had prepared mocktails because they knew we do not drink alcohol, which was disclosed on our initial onboarding questionnaire. I was really impressed with this attention to detail.
Our cliff-side suite is on the left
Let’s talk about our accommodations.
Wow.
There are only 6 cliff-side suites on the 100,000 hectare property. They are spaced out nicely for privacy and immersion into the surrounding landscape. Taken from Few & Far’s description on the website along with our pictures to add context:
At Few & Far Luvhondo, we offer six uniquely designed tented Cliff suites that blend luxury with the raw beauty of the African wilderness. Each suite is meticulously and locally handcrafted to provide an unforgettable experience. Each suite boasts an expansive deck perched on the edge of the cliff, overlooking the stunning valley below, offering breathtaking views and a perfect spot for wildlife observation.
Our private deck overlooking the valley between the Soutpansberg Mountain ranges
Highlights for each 1,200 sq. ft. Cliff Suite Include:
Climate control
Luxury king bed with heated bedding
Robes, towels and toiletries
Inclusive mini-bar stocked per your preferences
Indoor + outdoor shower
Free-standing tub
Full ensuite bathroom amenities
Plunge pool
The suite feels like the perfect mixture of luxury and adventure.
Maybe this is what the word ‘glamping’ is supposed to mean? A debate for another time.
Massive Baobab Tree at the heart of Few & Far Luvhondo’s main lodge
After we stowed our luggage, our assigned guide (named Moses), arrived at our door to take us on a hike to explore the Baobab trees on property.
I fell in love with these trees.
The magnificent baobab tree (Adansonia digitata) is an icon of the African continent. With bark and fruit offering over 300 life-sustaining uses, it is the root of many Indigenous remedies, traditions, and folklore. Hence its literal nickname, ‘The Tree of Life.’ - One Earth
Moses explained that these trees act as water towers, providing much needed drinking water to residents of desert climates in Africa. They were also used as living chambers (you can literally live inside the tree trunks) and in some cases, burial chambers for important members of ancient tribes.
A lone Baobab without its leaves. Due to it being winter, many Baobabs shed leaves to conserve water in dry season
Moses did a wonderful job explaining the rich history of the Baobab trees and we knew were in good hands for our upcoming safari adventure.
Our amazing guide Moses
As our hike concluded, the sun dropped behind the mountain range around 5 PM. During the summer in the United States, it is winter on South Africa. Sunrise is around 7 AM and sunset is around 5 PM.
Our first dinner was nothing short of delicious.
There is not a traditional menu offered. Meals are tailored to each guest’s preferences with options to satisfy everyone. All meals are served as a group meal, individually plated, with 3 courses (starter, main and dessert) at dinner and 2 courses (main and dessert) at brunch. Breakfasts are grab n’ gos planned by your guide depending on what morning activity you are doing.
Our private dinner setup
We took our seat at a specially set table on our wrap-around deck surrounding our suite. The Few & Far team had set up a dinner for us as we were out on our hike, which was a nice surprise to come home to.
Our taste buds exploded with a gnocchi pasta starter, rack of lamb main, and a chocolate cake for dessert.
Following dinner, we turned in early to continue catching up on our jet-lagged lack of sleep.
An African sunrise
We awoke to fresh coffee inside our butler hatch next to the front door. We geared up and headed down the mountain to the main road to start our drive towards our first excursion. As we left the gate for Few & Far, I saw the most beautiful sunrise.
Our destination for the day was a remote research facility that partners with Few & Far as part of the re-wilding efforts for the Soutpansberg Mountains. The specific function for this facility is studying the migrational habits of the Samango Monkeys who are native to Africa, and specifically South Africa.
Christina, Moses, and our research guide quietly hike through the forest in search of a Samango Monkey troupe
We trekked through dense forest, covered in tree canopy, listening for the sounds of the monkeys.
After roughly an hour of hiking, listening, and looking for signs of monkeys, we finally heard some rustling in the canopy above. We looked up and saw a troupe of about a dozen Samango monkeys moving through the trees in search of food. And on the ground, we saw an older male, probably the leader, watching us.
A Samango monkey allows us to take a photo, only a few feet away from us
It was such a cool experience to be welcomed by this monkey troupe. We were told that their comfort level with humans has grown exponentially over the years due to the friendly nature of this research facility. For us, it was a rare chance to feel like a part of the nature we were immersed in, and we were grateful to have been in the presence of the Samango Monkey troupe.
As we departed the forest, we expected to begin our journey back to Few & Far but alas… Moses had other plans.
Moses pours coffee for us at the surprise breakfact in the bush set
While we were tracking the monkeys, Moses had the research facility set up a brunch in the bush, complete with breakfast burritos, yogurt parfaits, a fruit medley, and fresh coffee.
Brunch was scrumptious. After we feasted, we headed back to Few & Far for some rest before dinner at the lodge.
After a nap, we showered and were about to head to the main lodge for dinner. Moses appeared at our door and said we were going to go for a ride. We asked where and Moses coyly said “we were going to tour a new part of the property.”
We obliged and hopped in the jeep for destination unknown.
Surprise dinner in the bush
After a brief tour of a new part of the property, we came upon a beautiful desert dinner setup. Not only did the staff set up tables, chairs and a gorgeous bonfire, the chef had also constructed a make-shift grill and serving station. And that’s not all!
The African dance troupe invited us into their circle!
Before dinner started, a traditional African Dance and Drum troupe from a neighboring village emerged and performed an amazing collection of ceremonial dances to bless us, and our dinner.
We felt so fortunate to experience this firsthand, and we got to shake our booties a bit too!
Such an honor to learn about this wonderful collection of women, and African tradition
I was curious what the dinner would be like without a proper commercial kitchen at the chef’s disposal.
I’ll let the photos do the talking for the amazing 3-course dinner we enjoyed in the bush, that far surpassed any dinner we could have in a formal restaurant.
Our bellies and hearts were full as we laid down to rest that evening. I must admit that despite all the ingredients one needs to get a restful night’s sleep after a full day of activities, I was so excited for what the next day had in store that it took awhile for mind to quiet down.
Early morning hike in search of giraffes
We awoke early as our next excursion was titled “Giraffe Tracking”. Giraffes are most active in the early morning and late day. The point of this excursion was to locate fresh giraffe tracks, and then silently follow in the hopes that we might see one of these majestic creatures. Moses did an amazing job teaching us how to observe tracks and what they meant, just like the ancients did many years ago.
We spotted some fresh tracks and slowly followed their path as it wound through the brush. And then…
A female giraffe watching us watch her
We had been tracking this female and her calf for about an hour when suddenly, we heard the sounds of eating right before a giraffe popped out from behind a tree. We stopped in our tracks (and hers) and stared at her as she stared at us.
It was magical.
We observed her as she moved around eating vegetation from the tree tops until she emerged so we could see her full beauty.
A female giraffe felt comfortable enough to come out from behind a bush
We never saw the calf, which stayed hidden behind the trees, protected by its mother.
For the 10 minutes or so that we held each other’s gaze, I felt a true connection to her (and this land). It was overwhelming.
And then, she turned and walked off knowing we posed no threat.
It was time to eat brunch and by this point… we expected that we may not be eating at the main lodge. Sure enough, Moses and the team had another surprise in store for us.
A beautiful brunch set in the desert
Another meal in the bush was set up for us.
Dining outside in the wild is an amazing way to connect with the land.
We were so grateful to be able to continually immerse ourselves with nature thanks to the thoughtful efforts of the Few & Far team.
Best breakfast sammie ever
Moses joined us for brunch and he told us about his life outside of Few & Far, and how grateful he was to be able to guide on this land.
Moses takes nature conservation very seriously, and also believes in delivering the highest level of hospitality for his guests.
For us, our interactions with Moses and all the staff at Few & Far, made us truly feel ‘taken care of.’
It is a rare experience to fully give yourself over to the care of strangers and yet in this experience, it felt very natural.
Overhead shot of the pool - CREDIT - Jemma Wild/Courtesy of Few & Far Luvhondo
On this particular day, Christina and I were also celebrating our 10-year wedding anniversary. We decided to indulge ourselves with some pool and spa time. Fortunately for us, we had the picturesque pool at Few & Far all to ourselves.
Pool view at Few & Far
The views are spectacular and the water was so refreshing after our morning activities.
Following our dip in the pool, we proceeded to the full-service spa for a massage and facial treatment before dinner.
Interior of the spa treatment room - CREDIT - Jemma Wild/Courtesy of Few & Far Luvhondo
Christina’s massage was last and night had fallen. I decided to leave our suite to escort her back across the property. Baboons, pythons, and other animals are active at night and on the property. There are no fences keeping humans in, or animals out. As it should be in the wild.
I was gone from our suite for about 25 minutes (round trip) and somehow, the Few & Far Staff pulled off one of their greatest surprises yet…
Few & Far surprised us with a wedding anniversary gift
In the span of 25 minutes, the staff had arranged a beautiful floral display, set up non-alcoholic champagne for us, filled the bath tub, and placed rose petals all over our floor.
HOW DID THEY PULL THIS OFF?
The attention to detail, the hospitality, and the thoughtfulness we experienced at Few & Far is the best we have EVER experienced.
Anniversary dinner - It was salmon which is Christina’s favorite
We finally enjoyed a dinner at the Lodge. They served Christina’s favorite - Salmon.
Sunrise seen off our deck
It’s always a bit of a bummer to wake up knowing this is your last full day of a multi-day experience. It’s a little better when your alarm clock is the sounds of Zebras barking at each other underneath your suite. We hadn’t seen a zebra yet and this could be our last chance. I ran out on our deck to see if I could spot one.
The sun hadn’t risen yet. So no luck. Maybe we’d see some on our educational hike that morning?
Our morning hike
There are a number of different hiking paths throughout the 100,000 hectares that comprise Few & Far. Moses chose this particular hike so we could learn about the re-wilding efforts to bring back the natural flora and trees that had been neglected in years past. Having more flora and vegetation means it will be possible to introduce more animal species to Few & Far. Most animals that live at Few & Far are non-predatory in nature, besides the elusive leopards and the African Rock Pythons that inhabit the area.
Termite mound
Another group of inhabitants are mound-building termites.
I had always assumed termites lived IN the mounds. I was wrong.
The mounds act as climate control chambers. When it gets too hot, the termites create vents to release heat. When it gets too cold, they cover the holes. The termites actually live underground and their cities can be 5-6x the width of the mound we see above ground.
Fascinating.
We headed back to the lodge for some nourishment.
Fish and Chips made with Kingklip - the best I’ve ever had
I would never have thought the best fish and chips is to be had while on safari in South Africa. But it was true, at least for me.
They make their fish and chips with Kingklip, a fish native to South Africa and South America. Superb.
We went back to our suite to change into some cooler wardrobe.
Temperatures in the winter average around 75-80 degrees during the day and about 45-50 degrees at night and in the morning.
Our last excursion was a game drive and grand tour of the 100,000 hectares that make up Few & Far. It was our last chance to see many of the animals that live on property (including zebras).
Jackpot!
We saw Baboons, Impala, Kudu AND we finally found the elusive Zebra!
Moses informed us that it’s much easier to spot these animals being in a vehicle. The animals don’t know what a vehicle is and do not see it as a threat. They know humans are a threat on foot, but cannot distinguish humans when they are in a vehicle, so they don’t run when one approaches.
Super jackpot!
On the road back to the lodge, we were escorted part of the way by a tower of giraffes. We were SO close to them! Truly magical animals.
We felt that our expectations had FAR been exceeded by the results. We saw everything we wanted to, and Christina was thankful we DIDN’T see a python.
A special last dinner for two
To celebrate the conclusion of our trip, the Few & Far staff set up a special table for two, next to a magnificent bonfire. The chef grilled a delicious plate of corn, prawns, steak, sausages, vegetables, and potatoes. It was a feast fit for a king and queen, which is exactly how we had been treated for our entire stay.
We slept SO well after this meal.
Sarah Dusek has created something magical at Few & Far Luvhondo.
I want to formally thank Sarah, her husband and partner Jacob, the staff, the animals, and mother nature for an unforgettable safari.
And thank you readers. I hope this blog inspires you to get out and take a safari.
Maybe at Few & Far Luvhondo?
Namasté
Helpful Information For Planning A Visit To Few & Far Luvhondo in Waterpoort, South Africa
Booking: Directly on the Few & Far Luvhondo Website
Nearest Major Airport: Polokwane International Airport
Drive times: Entrance to Few & Far Luvhondo is approximately a 2-hour drive from Polokwane Airport. All guests of Few & Far will be provided shuttle service to and from Polokwane Airport. Once guests arrive at the Few & Far gate, they will switch vehicles to an enhanced 4x4 vehicle for another 1 hour trip to the peak of the Soutpanberg Mountains, and the final destination at the lodge.
Guests will not be able to leave the property without their assigned guide and a proper vehicle operated by Few & Far personnel.
Nearest hospital - Zoutpansberg Private Hospital - approximately 1 hour drive or accessible by airlift
This is a real working nature conservatory spanning over 100,000 Hectares
Groomed dirt paths inside the property for use, all hikes and excursions require your guide to accompany guests for safety
Experiences are all led by a private assigned guide who plans and guides all experiences during a guest’s stay
All meals provided
Full kitchen on-site along with an honor bar
Coffee, tea, alcohol and water provided ensuite and refreshed daily
Heated bedding and 5-star luxury amenities en-suite
Private cold plunge pool built in to the private wrap-around observation deck for each suite
Full bathroom ensuite with shower and tub, with an outdoor shower as well
Towels, robes and toiletries provided
Wi-Fi available en-suite
Family-friendly
Community pool on-site
On-site spa and wellness center available for booking
Most activities are included in the booking price, some require extra fees
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