An absolutely magnificent lodge with incredible staff and the game viewing was exceptional.

The lodge offers an experience that feels much like visiting a friend’s beloved home. Set above a river bed one has a feeling of living in the trees. It has been lovingly and thoughtfully designed to be exceptionally functional and casually chic without ever feeling as clinical as ‘hotel type’ accommodation. Where most lodges are muted tones of beige, white & brown, Shimungwe is colourful and warm.

There was nothing not to like. I’d be remiss in particular, not to mention the ranger and his tracker, Lucan & Danny, who facilitated the most exceptional game viewing we’ve ever experienced.

The staff are warm and friendly, but the best thing is the lodge is small, so it doesn't feel like a hotel, it feels so much nicer and it's instantly relaxing. The suites are lovely with a beautiful view of the river and sitting around the campfire is fabulous - it's not tucked away - it also overlooks the river so you could be lucky to see animals at night, which is great. The game viewing was superb! The ranger/tracker team worked hard to make sure we saw a wide variety of animals and share their knowledge on all kinds of small & interesting details, what a wonderful safari, just loved it!

The lodge has just been upgraded so there were a few finishing touches still underway, but the staff waited until we were out on game drive to get those sorted out, so they didn't disturb us at all.