Independent in Karongwe Private Game Reserve from AU$485

"We had a wonderful time at Karongwe River Logde. Staff, accommodations, food and service were impeccable! The games were great and we saw many animals , including the big five. "

"Everything at Nyati Safari Lodge was absolutely wonderful. The rooms were spotless and incredibly comfortable – ours was located right in front of the river, and on the very first day we had elephants, crocodiles, and other wildlife right in front of us. It was like living in a nature documentary! The meals and drinks were delicious! The entire staff was incredibly attentive, making us feel welcome and taken care of every step of the way. The highlight of our stay was definitely the game drives. Kenneth, Peter, Pride, and Freja went above and beyond, always asking which animals we wanted to see and doing everything they could to make it happen. Each game drive ended with either a morning coffee or a sunset drink, always paired with a breathtaking view of the reserve. I truly can’t wait to go back!"

"The Blyde Mountain Country House is set back off the main roads, and quite peaceful, charming and very welcoming. Bets (short for Elizabeth) surprised us with an upgrade, and the cottage room was delightful. It was spacious with a small kitchenette and adequate size bathroom including a walk in shower and built in shower bench. We really enjoyed the hot water and water pressure! The bedroom had a comfortable bed with a couch, bench, desk and chair, and television. The decor added a touch of class and made you feel at home! The common areas included an outdoor dining area, plus inside living rooms and bar (honor system). The outdoor scenery is breathtaking, and I enjoyed my walk around the pool area, gardens, and adjacent farm. The dinner was scrumptious (South African bobotie with chutney, bananas and coconut with rice and assorted mixed vegetables). The lemon meringue dessert was simply the best! The next morning, we had a wonderful breakfast, so relaxing to sit and admire the morning sky above the majestic mountains. Most of all, the staff, especially Bets and Jacob (?spelling) deserve recognition for their outstanding hospitality. And, thumbs up to all the wonderful cooks and other staff members that make this country house such a marvelous place. We will not hesitate to come back here again and will certainly recommend it to others if staying in Hoedspruit! Thank you!"

"Not value for money. Dinner was tasteless. Disturbing was to catch a worker at 07:30 the next morning hiding under our tent while we were bathing. The wooden floor has clear gaps to look through. When confronted he said he was there to fix a problem. Complained to the manager and she only replied "Sorry for that". No investigation or request to identify the worker. Internet is non-existent and lights are inadequate in the tent. "

"Absolute trip of a lifetime. Everything from the pickup from the airport to the drop off was wonderful. Staff were amazing, property was beautiful and the reserve was incredible - we saw all of the Big 5 and more in 24 hours. Can’t recommend highly enough."

"This was an amazing experience. The accommodation was clean, spacious and well presented. It accurately reflected the photographs. Outside shower and private pool with personal butler. The food was extremely good and the staff went over and above to exceed our expectations. The food was by far superior than high end restaurants. I really enjoyed the entire stay and can’t fault the experience. It was calm & peaceful in nature. I was sad to leave and will ensure I book for longer in the future."