The Greater Kruger area is filled with pockets of places where you can breathe out, relax and take in the sights and sounds of Mother Africa. The sunsets are legendary and the wildlife is spectacular. If you’re not a birder, you’ll definitely leave as one. The bird life will keep you enthralled throughout your visit. If you’re planning a bush break, or need an excuse to go back – the upcoming Easter Holidays are just around the corner. Here are some bush camps, lodges and self-catering accommodation options for you to consider for your next visit.
Situated in the Greater Kruger region in Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate just outside of Hoedspruit’s main town, this boutique lodge offers a unique safari experience. Staying here will provide you with an ideal base position, as you will have access to view the estate’s wildlife species, in addition to venturing out for the day. With access to Kruger through Orpen Gate, you can spend the day inside the park and visit Satara Rest Camp for breakfast or lunch. The lodge has six double rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a family room, one premiere suite and four luxury suites. There is a pool on the property, and other amenities include a boma area, outdoor and indoor seating and a sala bed.
Nestled between Malelane and Komatipoort, Mvuradona Sarafi Lodge combines authentic Africa with a modern touch. The thatch lodge is positioned inside the famous Marloth Park, where giraffes, zebras, warthogs, kudus and other game roam freely. The teak furniture and crisp white linen in the spacious rooms contribute to the modern yet comfortable feel. The Kruger National Park is accessible via the Crocodile Bridge Gate and the Malelane Gate. The lodge’s game ranger and tour guide are available for safari excursions or for a day trip to Swaziland or Mozambique.
Situated in Guernsey Private Nature Reserve between Thornybush and the Kruger National Park, Ngama is perfectly positioned. If you’re looking to get more interactive with nature than a self-drive or guided safari, the lodge offers walking and birding experiences within the private reserve. The luxury canvas tents are equipped with an en suite bathroom, an outside shower and a private deck. The tented chalets offers guests a tranquil resting place encompassed by nature. The communal lodge facilities include a boma, a pool and deck area where breakfast and dinner are enjoyed.
There are two properties on this game reserve in Hoedspruit. The Shikwari Suites consist of six luxury thatched suites. Spend the day relaxing in a shady spot on the veranda, while admiring the view or wallow in the cool water of the pool. The en-suite rooms combine rustic, natural tones with crisp white linen sheets and stylish finishes.
The Pangolin Rondavels offer a budget-friendly alternative to staying on the reserve. There are 4 rondavels, two of which have an adventurous bush bathroom consisting of an outdoor shower, covered toilet and basin. The other two rondavels share a communal bathroom and outdoor shower. Guided game drives in the Kruger National Park as well as guided walks in the reserve are available activities.
Shikwari Suites veranda area. Credit: Afristay.com
Greeted by an array of friendly faces on arrival, at Thornhill Safari Lodge, you’ll feel right at home. Only 40 kms from the Kruger National Park’s Orpen Gate, guests can spend time in the park as day visitors on an open vehicle with a knowledgeable safari guide. Guests will also have access to neighbouring Big 5 reserves. Spend time lounging around the pool, or relaxing in the comfort of your stylish en-suite bedroom.
Thornhill Safari Lodge. Image: Afristay.com
With the Drakensberg as a backdrop, a popular watering hole in the foreground and an infinity pool that reflects the sunset, Khaya Ndlovu Manor House is a very special place. From the incredibly attentive and kind staff, to two live-in cats: you really do feel as if you’ve arrived home when stepping foot onto this property. The private reserve is home to all of Africa’s exciting wildlife. While perched on the deck, you may be lucky enough to spy over some thirsty wild dogs. From guided bush walks, open-vehicle safaris, helicopter flights and horseback riding, there are so many ways to explore the Khaya Ndlovu Game Reserve.
Located on Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate, Ujabule Lodge boasts a variety of guesthouse accommodation: Ujabule Lodge, Ulala Kalula Lodge and Igama Lakho Lodge. Each lodge has a swimming pool and fast, free WiFi. A short drive into Hoedspruit town, which is teeming with life. Be sure to check out Cooked for a gourmet, delicious lunch before kicking back and relaxing on the property. Game drives, visiting the Moholoholo or Hoedspruit Cheetah rehabilitation centres or embark on a boat cruise on Blyde dam while here.
Ujabule Lodge. Image: Afristay.com
Image: Afristay.com
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