Independent in Makalali Game Reserve from AU$238

"The host was spectacular and the staff kind and helpful. Loved the Safari decor in the great hall. The rooms were really nice, good mini fridge, great tub and separate shower. The breakfast was delicious! Location was great- and secured entry onto the estate. Great place to walk about and see wild warthogs, kudu, steenbok and monkeys. It was a perfect spot to be to drive to all the animal places (endangered species center, Jessica the hippo, the elephant sanctuary/orphanage and the wildlife rehab center). Highly recommend! "

"Exceptionally clean and staff very friendly and helpful. Beautiful hotel and surrounding grounds very well kept. Loved and very much enjoyed my stay."

"The room was clean and well appointed. The staff were very friendly and helpful. "

"Nyati is beautiful, spacious, friendly, efficient and considerate of special dietary concerns. We stayed in Rhino Tents which were luxurious and comfortable. Staff went out of their way to make our experience amazing. Wildlife was everywhere but we felt safe on the resort and on safari. It was an experience of a lifetime!! "

"The rooms are lovely and a decent size, however Khiwane is set up and feels more like an apartment block than a hotel. The cupboard is very small and is only made for one person, the hanging rod is very low and you can’t hang dresses properly. Although it says they offer breakfast at their restaurant and on doing online check-in you’re asked to choose time for dinner, Khiwane does not have a restaurant. They work with another restaurant, Arugula in the area where you walk to for breakfast. Minimum wait for breakfast is about 40 minutes so don’t go if you’re in a hurry to get elsewhere. You will have to find another restaurant in the area for dinner as if Arugula is open their kitchen closes at 19:30 and it’s not really set up for dinner, in any case. Also, Khiwane is in a built up area with lots of other businesses around, the pictures and statements of mountain views makes you think that you are in a place with a lot of property around it away from the city but in fact you are right off main road with the sounds of traffic coming clearly into the room. Our room also had an issue with the sliding door to the garden as it wouldn’t open so trying to get some fresh air into the room proved difficult, we had to open the door that leads outside but then could hear everyone walking past and dragging their suitcases in the corridor. Lastly, there was a constant pong in the bathroom, I think there is something wrong with the drainage system."

"Amazing staff and the food was terrific!"

"The lodge is perfect for a stay in Hoedspruit; with an easy drive to Kruger Park. The wildlife come to within meters of the garden which makes for exciting and interesting viewing from your patio. The hosts Sue and Deon will do everything they can to make your stay wonderful. Would definitely recommend. "

"We had the most incredible experience at Pondoro Game Lodge. From the moment we arrived, everything was absolutely phenomenal. The staff made us feel so welcome and cared for, going above and beyond to make every detail perfect. Our suite was stunning—luxurious, private, and designed with so much attention to comfort and beauty. The game drives were unforgettable. Our guide (Dewalt) and tracker (Andrès) were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, and thanks to them we were able to witness breathtaking wildlife moments that we’ll never forget. The food was exceptional—every meal was a treat, beautifully prepared and served with warmth. What truly stood out was the atmosphere of the lodge: intimate, peaceful, and filled with genuine hospitality. Pondoro exceeded our expectations in every way, and we left with memories we’ll treasure for a lifetime. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience."

"Great place with game drives "