We were fortunate enough to stay at Kirkmans in October for 3 nights and it was an awesome experience. Thomas was our butler for the duration and nothing was too much trouble for him - he was an absolute delight with a wicked sense of humour and we gelled to him immediately. We told him that we were vegetarian which is sometimes a problem to us in South Africa, such a big meat eating nation, but he arranged for the kitchen to make us some gorgeous meals and we were royally fed and watered. The room was divine and so very clean. Kirkmans is a typically old colonial property which added to its charm. We overlooked the bush and frequently had impala grazing outside our balcony and a family of monkeys with their young playing in the trees - mischevious little babies too! Don't leave your clothes on the chairs - they might be very quickly missed! Our ranger Jonty and tracker Elvis were amazing - Jonty had only just arrived at the camp for a months secondment and had only just met Elvis but, as the 3 days went on, they became an amazing team and it was warming to hear Jonty ask Elvis's opinion and advice on the area. These local trackers have an incredible knowledge and expertise to be marvelled at. All the staff at Kirkmans made you feel as though you were part of their family - the welcome was so generous. Game drives were excellent and we certainly saw the big 5 and more - I can fully recommend hot chocolate made by Jonty with a little Amarula in it for extra strength - gorgeous! All in all a very special place and we will certainly try to go back.
Anonymous, October 2010