The history of the Varty and Taylor families – the conservation dynasties who have dedicated their lives to saving a small part of Africa’s Eden – is the history of Londolozi. The foundations of the Londolozi dream were shaped over eighty years ago when two friends – the great grand fathers of the Varty and Taylor clans stood before mighty Sand River for the first time ever. The vision and potential that these two men saw in the virgin bush has endured over the years with those same granite rocks of the River.
For two generations the family hosted presidents and princesses and sacrificed its wild beasts at the mercy of the hunter’s gun. This came to an end thirty-five years ago in John, Dave and Shan Varty’s care. Together the family shared a dream to build a world class destination and create the blueprint for modern day conservation in Southern Africa. The farm was renamed Londolozi, derived from the Zulu word ‘to protect’. The new name symbolised the family’s aim to provide a sanctuary for all living things. True to its name Londolozi has become fertile ground for enkindling aspirations for a better future for all, for a planet abounding in open spaces, wild animals and people living together in dignity and harmony. The Londolozi Intentions
- Redefine the essence of Safari to Africa
- Build corridors of wildlife to the high rainfall mountain regions of South Africa which lie to the west of Londolozi and continue to campaign for more space for animals to roam freely
- Seek greater reverence for our rivers from our country’s leaders
- Create opportunity for relief from poverty for people who remain caught in the economic disempowerment trap caused by ill conceived land use practices
- Contribute in a small way to the success of our country and her people
- Be of service
Ultimately, the sense of energy and enjoyment that pervades the camps arises from the Londolozi family’s shared values and belief that we are working towards something much bigger and better than a mere game lodge experience. |
