In the heart of South Africa’s Soutpansberg Mountains lies Few & Far Luvhondo, a ground-breaking eco-lodge that is redefining the concept of luxury travel.
- Spanning over 100’000 hectares within the UNESCO-listed Vhembe Biosphere Reserve, this intimate six-suite lodge is the first offering from Few & Far.
- The eco-travel company was founded by visionary eco-adventurers Sarah and Jacob Dusek in 2024.
- Few & Far Luvhondo features six ultra-luxurious suites, immersive wildlife experiences, sustainable design, and breath-taking views in the heart of South Africa’s wilderness.
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As pioneers of sustainable luxury travel, the Sarah and Jacob Dusek are no strangers to the hospitality industry. Their previous venture, Under Canvas, has positioned them at the forefront of the U.S. glamping scene. Few & Far Luvhondo represents their bold new vision for the future of safari travel – one that is both luxurious and rooted in a commitment to environmental conservation.

Situated on the rugged slopes of the Forgotten Mountains, Few & Far Luvhondo offers a unique and immersive safari experience. It combines biophilic design, regenerative tourism practices, and a strong commitment to carbon neutrality. The lodge, which opened its doors in January 2025, is a tranquil sanctuary offering guests an escape into one of the world’s most biodiverse and remote ecosystems. The area, which is home to a variety of wildlife and over 600 bird species, is the perfect setting for Few & Far’s mission to create immersive, eco-conscious travel experiences.

The Sandton Times took the road to Louis Trichardt, to experience Few & Far Luvhondo first-hand. As we arrived, the journey itself set the tone for the adventure ahead. Guests are greeted in style and transported in a specially modified Jeep Wrangler – an off-road vehicle that felt like something straight out of a Jurassic Park movie. For those looking to take their journey up a notch, Few & Far has partnered with Rovos Rail, offering the option to arrive by rail, a scenic journey that winds through the sprawling reserve. The drive up the mountain to the lodge was as exhilarating as it was breath-taking, surrounded by the rich and diverse foliage of the area, making it the perfect backdrop for the lodge’s numerous hiking trails.

Designed by South African architects Nicholas Plewman and Ohkre Collective, Few & Far Luvhondo exemplifies a perfect fusion of sustainability and luxury. The lodge’s architecture draws inspiration from the surrounding African landscape, incorporating elements like the shade of a shepherd tree, the towering presence of a baobab, and the grandeur of sycamore figs. Each suite is a masterpiece of biophilic design, with interiors that reflect the textures and patterns of the region’s rock formations, flora, and fauna. Natural materials like heat-treated eucalyptus are used throughout, sourced from an on-site facility that reduces carbon emissions and supports the local community.

The six cliffside suites are as luxurious as they are sustainable, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the reserve. Each suite is designed to provide the ultimate in comfort, with private splash pools, infinity pools, and open-air spaces that seamlessly blend with the landscape. Guests can start their day with a morning coffee served through a unique hatch, adding a touch of novelty to the experience. The suites offer a perfect balance of opulence and eco-consciousness, with energy-efficient systems and locally sourced furnishings that enhance the overall experience without compromising on luxury.

Few & Far Luvhondo is not just about the stunning accommodations – it’s also about creating a transformative experience that connects guests to the land and the people who inhabit it. The lodge offers a variety of activities and excursions designed to immerse guests in the natural beauty of the region. Game drives take visitors through arid savannahs and subtropical forests, providing the chance to observe leopards, giraffes, zebras, and many other species. Guests can also take part in the Conservationist for a Day program, engaging in hands-on efforts to preserve the biodiversity of the area.

One of the most unique aspects of Few & Far Luvhondo is its soon-to-be-launched Solfari experience, a solar-powered aerial safari that spans 8km. This one-of-a-kind adventure offers guests the chance to soar above the wildlife and observe the landscape from a bird’s-eye view, all while maintaining a minimal environmental footprint. It promises to be an unforgettable way to experience the bush, blending adventure with conservation in a way that has never been done before.

One of the highlights of the Few & Far Luvhondo experience is its culinary offerings. Led by Chef Nhalkanipho Soxhela, the lodge’s dining program celebrates the vibrant flavors of South Africa while emphasizing sustainability. The lodge’s farm-to-table philosophy ensures that the majority of the ingredients used are sourced from the on-site farm or local, eco-conscious partners. The menu highlights fresh, organic produce that reflects the region’s diverse landscapes. Guests can indulge in multi-course bush dinners, traditional boma braais, and sundowners under the stars, all prepared with thoughtfulness and care.

In addition to the adventurous activities and world-class cuisine, Few & Far Luvhondo offers a range of wellness experiences designed to help guests relax and rejuvenate. The meditative labyrinth walk, set amidst the natural surroundings, offers a peaceful retreat for introspection and mindfulness. For those looking for a more indulgent experience, the lodge’s spa offers rejuvenating massages and facials using locally sourced organic ingredients.

Few & Far Luvhondo represents a glimpse at the future of luxury travel – one that is not only about indulgence but also about making a positive impact on its surroundings. It is a place where guests can immerse themselves in the raw beauty of South Africa’s wilderness while contributing to its preservation. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a culinary delight, Few & Far Luvhondo offers a unique safari experience that is as different as it is unforgettable.
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