Tucked away in the heart of the bushveld, where the air carries the scent of wild grass and distant rain, Isinkwe Lodge began as a dream.
Twenty years ago, Tony Soares, together with his wife, Gillian Soares envisioned a private escape. A place where they could step away from the noise of daily life and sit quietly beneath African skies. They chose this land carefully, drawn to its untamed beauty and the steady rhythm of the bush. What started as a personal holiday retreat soon became something more.
Friends began visiting. Word spread. Weekends filled with laughter around the firepit, early morning game drives, and long afternoons watching wildlife wander past the lodge. Before long, what was meant to be a private sanctuary became a place others wanted to experience too. Isinkwe Lodge slowly grew into a business, not from ambition alone, but from genuine love for sharing the magic of the bush.
Today, that legacy continues through Tony’s son, Antony Soares, and his fiancée, Jolandi Stadler.
Antony, a qualified FGASA ranger, lives and breathes the wilderness. As the resident ranger, he guides guests through the reserve with deep knowledge and quiet respect for the land. His training ensures not only an exciting experience, but a safe and educational one. From tracking animals to explaining the smaller wonders of the bush, Antony brings the landscape to life. Beyond the game drives, he manages front of house duties, ensuring every guest feels welcomed from the moment they arrive.
Behind the scenes, Jolandi oversees bookings, marketing and the back of house operations. From handling guest enquiries to ensuring each stay runs smoothly, she keeps the heart of the lodge beating. Her eye for detail and passion for storytelling helps share Isinkwe’s story with the world, while her commitment to hospitality ensures that every visit feels personal and memorable.
The lodge itself reflects the care poured into it over the years. An interior designer carefully furnished the space, blending comfort with the natural tones of the surrounding bushveld. Warm textures, earthy palettes and thoughtful details create an atmosphere that feels both refined and relaxed. Large windows invite the outside in, allowing guests to wake up to golden light and the sounds of the wild.
Isinkwe Lodge is more than a getaway. It is a family story. A place built on love for the land, carried forward by the next generation, and shared with every guest who walks through its doors.