New eco-friendly safari brand to debut in South Africa: Travel Weekly

New eco-luxury safari brand Few & Far will open a six-suite ecolodge within the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve in South Africa’s Soutpansberg Mountains in early 2025.

Few & Far Luvhondo lodge aims to redefine the safari experience through a range of innovative services. At the center of this is the “Solfari”, a solar-powered aerial cable car system that offers guests nearly 25 miles of game-viewing views above the treetops. This quiet, eco-friendly mode of transportation allows visitors to spot wildlife and enjoy the mountain range from a bird’s eye view.

A rendering of Few & Far Luvhondo's solar-powered aerial cable car system.

A rendering of Few & Far Luvhondo’s solar-powered aerial cable car system. Photo credit: Few & Far Luvhondo

Few & Far Luvhondo will also focus on culinary experiences featuring a comprehensive farm-to-table program. Travelers can expect multi-course bush dinners, cooked breakfasts and traditional dishes paired with South African wines. Boma Bryce (barbecue) and hunting trips. Most produce is sourced from the lodge’s on-site farm, ensuring maximum freshness and seasonality.

The Core of Sustainability

Few & Far says sustainability is at the core of its mission. As a participant in the Verra Registered Carbon Program, the lodge aims to sequester more than 100,000 tons of carbon each year through rewilding efforts. These efforts extend beyond environmental protection to active regeneration of local ecosystems.

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The lodge offers a variety of activities including guided game drives, forest walks, bird watching, overnight trips to sleep under the stars, mountain biking and stargazing. Cultural immersion programs, such as the “Conservationist for a Day” experience, allow travelers to participate in the property’s conservation efforts.

Wellness also plays an important role in the Luvhondo experience. The lodge offers a variety of spa treatments using locally produced ingredients accompanied by the soothing sounds of nature. A meditative labyrinth walk will provide guests with an opportunity for reflection and relaxation.