The Legend of Lukimbi

Lukimbi Safari Lodge is named after the elusive Lukimbi - half Eagle Owl and half Lion.

Local traditional verbal history relates the story of the Mighty Toto, the strongest warrior of the clan, who one morning was walking near the bank of the beautiful Lwakahle River that winds through the dramatic bushveld scenery.

Suddenly he heard screams from the river.

Swiftly he ran down to the water's edge. Ntombi, his betrothed, had gone down to the river to fetch water in her traditional clay pot, when Mbisi, the largest crocodile in the whole river, had grabbed her leg in his jaws. Without hesitation, the Mighty Toto threw himself into the water to rescue his beloved.

All day the battle raged, Toto against Mbisi. When nightfall came both were exhausted and the waters of the river were stained with their blood, while Ntombi lay in the shallows, too weak to move.

The Great Nkulunkulu looked down from the heavens and took pity on the Might Toto and the fair Ntombi and turned them into Lukimbis - mythical beasts that are half Giant Owls and half Lions.

The Lukimbi has the wisdom of the Owl and the strength of the Lion. And is charged by the Great Nkulunkulu to safeguard all travellers in the African bush against unseen and unexpected dangers.

So whenever the brave are faced with perils in the bush, they call upon Toto and Ntombi, the guardian Lukimbis, in their most dire need and they will be saved.

This is the heritage of the ultimate luxury safari lodge in the Kruger National Park.