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Our Story

The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve was established in 1969 and officially proclaimed a nature reserve in 1972. In 1994, the fences between the Klaserie, the Kruger National Park, and its associated reserves were removed, creating part of what is now known as the Greater Kruger - an expansive, unfenced wilderness spanning over 60,000 hectares. This diverse landscape supports an incredible variety of fauna and flora, including the Big Five.

Klaserie Drift Safari Camps was founded in 2016 by local couple, Dawie and Talitha, with a vision to create immersive safari experiences rooted in a genuine connection to this remarkable environment.

At the heart of this story is Misava Safari Camp, one of the original and oldest camps in the Klaserie. Formerly known as Angela’s, the property was first purchased in 1936 by Edwin Crookes and named after his daughter. Over the decades, it evolved from a private retreat into a self-catered camp for local guests, before undergoing a complete transformation in 2019 into the intimate, five-star lodge it is today.

In 2026, this story entered a new chapter with the addition of Amani Safari Camp. Set along a dry riverbed on the opposite side of the Klaserie river, Amani brings its own sense of space, calm, and character to the collection. Together, Misava and Amani form Klaserie Drift Safari Camps - two distinct lodges united by a shared ethos: thoughtful hospitality, immersive safaris, and a deep respect for the wild places we are privileged to call home.

Klaserie Drift Safari Camps team

Our Team

At Klaserie Drift Safari Camps, we are more than just a lodge—we are a family. Our small, close-knit team brings together a wealth of expertise, passion, and commitment to delivering an unforgettable safari experience.

Each team member plays a vital role in ensuring that every guest enjoys seamless hospitality, personalized service, and the magic of the African wilderness in true five-star style. From our experienced guides to our warm and attentive lodge staff, every detail is handled with care to create a safari experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

It is this unwavering dedication that defines the success of Klaserie Drift—where guests arrive as visitors but leave feeling like part of the family.

Culinary Experience

Indulge in a true taste of Africa with cuisine passionately prepared by our resident chefs, whose skill and creativity transform every meal into an unforgettable experience. Using locally sourced ingredients, including fresh produce from our very own greenhouse, we take pride in offering dishes that are both authentic and innovative.

Every day, our chefs bake fresh bread, rusks, and biscuits in-house, ensuring that even the simplest pleasures are crafted with care. Drawing inspiration from their years of experience in five-star establishments both locally and internationally, they create menus that celebrate bold flavors, seasonal ingredients, and elegant presentation.

Whether you’re enjoying a private dinner, a boma feast beneath the stars, or a leisurely brunch overlooking the bushveld, each meal is a culinary journey designed to delight the senses.

⭐ “The food was simply incredible – every meal was a masterpiece! Fresh, beautifully presented, and full of flavor.” – TripAdvisor Review

Experts In The African Bush

At Klaserie Drift Safari Camps, our resident guides are more than just experts—they are storytellers, conservationists, and passionate ambassadors of the African wilderness. With years of experience in the field, each guide brings their own unique perspective and deep connection to the land, allowing guests to experience Africa through their eyes and expertise.

Their passion is evident in every game drive, where knowledge, instinct, and enthusiasm combine to create an experience that is as thrilling as it is educational. Whether tracking a pride of lions, interpreting the subtle signs of the bush, or sharing fascinating insights about the ecosystem, our guides ensure that every moment is filled with wonder and discovery.

⭐ "Our guide was phenomenal—so knowledgeable and engaging! Every game drive felt like an adventure, with incredible sightings and fascinating stories about the bush.” – TripAdvisor Review

With our guides leading the way, you can be assured of an informative, exhilarating, and truly unforgettable safari experience.

Making The Bush Our Home

In 2015, we left behind the fast-paced city life in search of something more—something wilder, more authentic, and deeply fulfilling. That search led us to the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, a place that quickly became more than just a destination; it became our home.

Inspired by the beauty and untamed spirit of the bush, we founded Klaserie Drift in 2016, designing an experience that reflects what we, as a family, would love in a luxury yet intimate safari getaway. We wanted to create a place where guests could feel at home while still indulging in world-class hospitality, surrounded by the raw beauty of the African wilderness.

What began as a vision has since grown into a thriving lodge that welcomes travelers from across the world. We are incredibly grateful for the team that brings this vision to life and for each guest who shares in the magic of this place.

For us, Klaserie Drift is more than just a our lodges - it’s a way of life. It’s about finding the perfect balance between luxury and nature, adventure and relaxation, and fostering a deep appreciation for the land we now call home. We feel privileged to share this special piece of Africa and hope every guest leaves with a sense of its beauty, serenity, and soul-stirring charm.

We look forward to welcoming you to Klaserie Drift—where the wild meets the heart.

Dawie and Talitha