Jabulani was officially launched by Queen Elizabeth's cousin, prince Michael of Kent. The luxury safari camp in Kapama Game Reserve is home to Jabulani the elephant and other elephants, all rescued by owner, Lente Roode.
Guests can look forward to luxurious accommodation in 6 en-suite Superior Suites plus the Zindoga Villa consisting of 3 bedrooms, a private chef, ranger and a butler. The new Villa Somopane is an exclusive villa for 4 guests in 2 spacious suites with the use of a private game vehicle. This is a great option for families with children (6 years and older) wanting a private game drive.
Jabulani safari camp is built next to a seasonal stream under the shade of leadwood trees. Relax at the spa with a soothing massage after a day of game viewing.
In June 1997, Jabulani the Elephant was left to the elements after becoming stuck in the mud of a silt dam. His mother and herd abandoned him after several rescue attempts. It took a year to nurse Jabulani back to health. Lente tried to reintroduce him into the wild but refused to be separated from them.
In March 2002 Lente found out about 12 Zimbabwean elephants who were facing an untimely end. War veterans were expropriating the farm and tagging the elephants for their meat. Lente rescued them and the matriarch immediately adopted Jabulani, who led the herd.
In 2005 Camp Jabulani was born as a way to fund the elephant's care and to provide guests with a luxury safari lodge stay and interactive elephant experience.
In 2019 HERD - Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development orphanage for elephants was built alongside Jabulani and provides a safe place to rehabilitate orphaned elephants. Guests can learn more about these magnificent creatures and observe them from a respectable distance. By staying at Jabulani you will also be supporting HERD and its conservation efforts.