Independent in Makalali Game Reserve from AU$238

"We were rather disappointed with the directions to the lodge as they were rather misleading and Confusing. The service at the lodge by a young man called Knowledge was very good. "

"I loved how understanding the staff was!"

"The Pondoro experience is first class from beginning to end! The location is stunning and we watched hippo, crocs, giraffe, elephants and all sorts from our room. The games drives led by the wonderful Shadlack and Dion were breathtaking, with the big 5 and all manner of wildlife seen on multiple occasions. They also hosted a river walk which showed us how they look for tracks and gave a very different perspective to the hippos and crocs! All the staff at the lodge are fantastic, there is a warm welcome every day and a real personal touch with attention to details that makes each day special. The food is exceptional and would definitely recommend the lunchtime picnic if you get the opportunity."

"The premises is very nice, very clean and comfortable. The self catering unit was well equipped with everything you may need for self catering. The place is beautiful and peaceful. Loved the communication and flexibility I got when still planning the trip and the efforts made to make our birthday special. The only thing I didn’t not like was the rudeness from the lady that woke us up for breakfast on our last morning, she was very rude about how we must be at breakfast by 08:00 ( which o think of breakfast is between 08:00 and 10:00 then guests should have the flexibility between those times). The girl banged the door and rudely communicated how we need to be there at 08:00. She needs general customer service communication training as all my encounters with her were not pleasant. The rest of the staff was amazing. "

"Very nice stay"

"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!"

"Great place to stay if you're visiting Hoedspruit. Safe location, lovely outdoor shower and close to town."

"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. "