The 10 best lodges in Balule Game Reserve, South Africa | Booking.com
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Lodges in Balule Game Reserve

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The best lodges in Balule Game Reserve

Check out our pick of great lodges in Balule Game Reserve

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Naledi Lodges

Balule Game Reserve

Naledi Lodges lies within the Balule Game Reserve and is located 25 km from Hoedspruit. It boasts panoramic views of the African savannah and features an outdoor swimming pool, restaurant and bar.

S
Sarah
From
United States
The Staff is amazing, they do what they can to make this the perfect holiday for you. We had the apartment with a private pool viewing towards the park, it was huge, well equipped and very clean. The day starts at 5 AM with waking up, first Game drive roughly from 5:30 til 8:30, breakfast at 9:00. Then you can have a bush walk or go to a hide&view place or just relax. At 14:30 lunch is served. 16:30 the evening game drive starts and you are back for dinner at 21:00. (This was in March, schedule changes based on sunrise/set) The food was excellent and plenty to eat. The game drives were the absolute highlight, we saw the big 5 and many more animals in just two days. The price is definitely great for what you are getting and also fair compared to other Lodges. We 100% staying at Naledi!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.9
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 111 reviews
Price from
US$877.60
1 night, 2 adults

Chacma Bush Camp

Balule Game Reserve

With Phalaborwa Gate reachable in 27 km, Chacma Bush Camp features accommodation, a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and a terrace.

A
Alexandra
From
United Kingdom
Chacma is the perfect place from which to explore the big 5 and the broader SA safari experience. The setting is natural and beautiful with meals eaten outside to make the most of the waterhole and potential for wildlife spotting. Between safari rides comfortable rooms, shady spots across the camp and the pool provide the perfect setting for reading and relaxation. With just three rooms at Chacma, you’re guaranteed a much more intimate experience than staying at a bigger location. As a solo traveller the real highlight was the friendly and fun team behind Chacma: Matt, Josh and Charlie are fantastic, passionate guides who guaranteed that each trip out provided memorable, safe experiences while Karen, Lynx and the wider team at Chacma ensured a comfortable stay. You’ll learn so much from this team and they are only too happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. A special place I can’t wait to return to.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 19 reviews
Price from
US$687.07
1 night, 2 adults

Maninghi Lodge

Balule Game Reserve

Situated on the banks of the Olifants River within the Balule Game Reserve, Maninghi Lodge offers accommodation 48 km from Hoedspruit.

M
Marthijn
From
Germany
What a great stay! We were really satisfied by our stay. Absolutely highlights were the amazing location and the super friendly staff. The Lodge is located next to the river, which gives the opportunity to see a lot of animals. We saw for example some; crocodiles, hippos, babboons and elephants next to the river. Regarding the staff: super friendly, good organized and you feel directly welcome! Not unimportant, the lodge is clean and all needed facilities are there! We would definitely recommend to go here and will go back when we are in the surrounding.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.1
Superb - What previous guests thought, 75 reviews
Price from
US$298.50
1 night, 2 adults

Sausage Tree Safari Camp

Balule Game Reserve

Featuring mountain views, Sausage Tree Safari Camp in Balule Game Reserve features accommodation, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a terrace and a bar. Free WiFi is offered.

S
Sean
From
Germany
Wish I could rate Sausage Tree an 11/10. We had an absolutely magical stay and couldn't have asked for anything more. The lodge is incredible and exactly as pictured. The terrace and pool with the sky deck were so relaxing to sit at during the day - once I even came up for air from a swim and there were 5x giraffes right there - coming to drink at the watering hole right out front. The tents are very nice and well furnished also, we found them spacious and relaxing. The food was also really nice, some really nice meals and we loved eating out under the stars around the fire with our fellow guests. The Balule reserve itself is awesome - it's not as well known or established as some of the other private reserves which is actually great as it's less crowded, but still full of wildlife (we saw lions, leapords, white and black rhinos, hippos, elephants, giraffes, zebra, warthogs, hyena - you get the picture) and beautiful terrain (hills, plains, rivers, watering holes etc.). What really should be mentioned and which is tough to describe though is how incredible the staff is. As it's a smaller lodge (only 5 tents), the staff is really like a family, and each and every one of them we formed a bond with. They were so gracious as hosts and helped us at every point. The owner James is also full of stories and super friendly. Special shout out though of course to Themba (our safari guide) and Jimmy (our tracker) for the amazing game drives every morning and night. We saw and learned so much - but most of all we laughed a TON. Everyone working at the lodge are such great people and we would love to come back one day.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.7
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 71 reviews
Price from
US$981.52
1 night, 2 adults

Greenfire Game Lodge

Balule Game Reserve

Surrounded by nature and wildlife, Greenfire Game Lodge is located inside the Balule Game Reserve. It offers a viewing deck, dining room and outdoor pool.

E
Ethienne
From
Brazil
the hotel is amazing, right inside the savanah! the team is great everybody is extremely polite and they do everything to make you feel comfortable. Loved It. our driver/ ranger (Given) showed us everything with explanations and did everything he could for us to see the big five. Everything was perfect, the food, the room, the games ans the team.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.6
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 98 reviews
Price from
US$721.71
1 night, 2 adults

MILIMA Big 5 Safari Lodge

Hoedspruit (Near Balule Game Reserve)

With garden views, MILIMA Big 5 Safari Lodge is located in Hoedspruit and has a restaurant, a shared lounge, bar, garden, year-round outdoor pool and terrace.

G
Grégoire
From
France
Beautiful lodge located in a private reserve near Hoedspruit The terrace has a view on a waterhole where elephants and impalas come to drink The tent was very confortable The meals were all very good, and my girlfriend who doesn’t eat meat always had a fish or vegetarian option which we really appreciated Every single person of the staff was very kind and attentive to us
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.6
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 455 reviews
Price from
US$974.16
1 night, 2 adults

Muweti Bush Lodge

Grietjie Nature Reserve (Near Balule Game Reserve)

Situated in the Balule Nature Reserve, Muweti Bush Lodge offers the opportunity for wildlife encounters at its waterhole, where elephants and other game come to drink.

D
Desiree'
From
South Africa
Hardus is an excellent host,we loved everything, and the food was great. We viewed a leopard drinking water in front of our porch. Elephant, giraffe, hyena, and antelope around the lodge.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.8
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 198 reviews
Price from
US$484.99
1 night, 2 adults

Masodini Game Lodge

Hoedspruit (Near Balule Game Reserve)

Offering garden views, Masodini Game Lodge in Hoedspruit offers accommodation, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a terrace and a bar. Free WiFi is featured throughout the property.

E
Elliott
From
United Kingdom
The property was very good, had great facilities such as a nice pool area and the honesty bar. The staff were amazing and really made us feel like family. We even went out for a meal with them on our final evening. Bianca the chef was amazing, all her meals were so good and diverse. Selby our game driver was the best we could’ve asked for, he was amazing at spotting all the animals and taught us so much, was a genuinely nice guy aswell. We already want to come back and will miss all of the staff. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting to do a safari. We had a perfect experience. The hospitality was amazing aswell, they really do all the little details that made our trip so good.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.9
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 22 reviews
Price from
US$739.03
1 night, 2 adults

Off Beat Safaris Bush Lodge

Hoedspruit (Near Balule Game Reserve)

Providing garden views, Off Beat Safaris Bush Lodge in Hoedspruit provides accommodation, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a shared lounge, a terrace and barbecue facilities.

E
Ellen
From
Netherlands
We were the only guests, and were given a free upgrade to the chalet with private pool. The host and gardener were also very kind and helpful. We greatly enjoyed spotting smaller wildlife from the hide out during the sunset and sunrise, and the peace and quiet of the stay. During the night we were visited by a honey badger twice that tried to get into the cupboards and fridge, some excitement for sure!
Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 31 reviews
Price from
US$93.24
1 night, 2 adults

Muunga Bush Lodge & Spa

Hoedspruit (Near Balule Game Reserve)

With Drakensig Golf Club reachable in 5.9 km, Muunga Bush Lodge & Spa features accommodation, a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and a shared lounge.

c
catherine
From
Hong Kong
Prepare to be captivated by the sheer magnificence of this hotel! From the moment you step foot inside, you'll be transported to a realm of enchantment and beauty. The vibrant and meticulously designed decor will leave you in awe, creating an atmosphere that is truly mesmerizing. And hold onto your seats because during breakfast, you might just catch glimpses of adorable little creatures passing by, adding a touch of excitement and wonder to your morning meal. Oh, let me tell you about the room we stayed in! Picture a haven of cleanliness and comfort that surpasses all expectations. Every corner of our room was immaculate, and the level of comfort provided was simply unparalleled. It was like stepping into a dreamy oasis where relaxation and tranquility reign supreme. But wait, there's more! The host of this extraordinary hotel is not only warm and welcoming but also an absolute treasure trove of wildlife knowledge. Engaging in conversations with them will open up a world of fascinating information about the local fauna that will leave you spellbound. And brace yourself for a taste sensation because the food prepared by the lodge is hands down the best in town. Each bite is a tantalizing explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds begging for more. I can't contain my excitement! This hotel is an absolute gem, offering an ambiance that will transport you to another realm, luxurious rooms with private yards that redefine comfort, a host who is both welcoming and a wildlife expert, and gastronomic delights that will leave you craving for seconds. Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this extraordinary experience. It's a journey of a lifetime that will leave you buzzing with excitement and longing to return.
Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.9
Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 105 reviews
Price from
US$175.61
1 night, 2 adults
All lodges in Balule Game Reserve

Looking for a lodge?

Ideal for nature-lovers looking for a self-sufficient getaway, lodges are fully furnished and self-catered. Usually made of wood and surrounded by forests or mountains, lodges can be part of a group or a single unit. More remote than holiday homes, lodges are popular for safari trips.

Most booked lodges in Balule Game Reserve and surroundings in the past month

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Save money on lodges in Balule Game Reserve and nearby – budget options available

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
    Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 31 reviews

    Providing garden views, Off Beat Safaris Bush Lodge in Hoedspruit provides accommodation, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a shared lounge, a terrace and barbecue facilities.

    From US$98.15 per night
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
    Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 15 reviews

    Offering river views, Sangasava Safari Lodge in Balule Game Reserve offers accommodation, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a shared lounge, a terrace and a bar.

  • isiLimela Game Lodge

    Hoedspruit
    Budget options available
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
    Superb - What previous guests thought, 70 reviews

    Set in the African bush, IsiLimela Game Lodge is located within the Greater Kruger Park, overlooking the Drakensburg Mountains. Each chalet at IsiLimela features a modern interior.

  • Parsons House

    Hoedspruit
    Budget options available
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.6
    Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 6 reviews

    Situated in Hoedspruit, 47 km from Drakensig Golf Club, Parsons House features accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi, a shared kitchen, and a shared lounge.

  • Masodini Game Lodge

    Hoedspruit
    Budget options available
    Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.9
    Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 22 reviews

    Offering garden views, Masodini Game Lodge in Hoedspruit offers accommodation, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a terrace and a bar. Free WiFi is featured throughout the property.

    From US$681.29 per night
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.8
    Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 198 reviews

    Situated in the Balule Nature Reserve, Muweti Bush Lodge offers the opportunity for wildlife encounters at its waterhole, where elephants and other game come to drink.

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.2
    Superb - What previous guests thought, 35 reviews

    Casart Game Lodge is situated in the Grietjie Nature Reserve, which is integrated into the Balule Nature Reserve, and has an open connection to the Kruger National Park.

Enjoy breakfast in Balule Game Reserve and nearby

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.6
    Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 455 reviews

    With garden views, MILIMA Big 5 Safari Lodge is located in Hoedspruit and has a restaurant, a shared lounge, bar, garden, year-round outdoor pool and terrace.

    From US$1,325.06 per night

Great access to the city centre. Check these lodges in Balule Game Reserve and nearby

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.0
    Superb - What previous guests thought, 1 review

    With Phalaborwa Gate reachable in 28 km, Lamai Safari Lodge provides accommodation, a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and a shared lounge.

  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 6.0
    Pleasant - What previous guests thought, 1 review

    Ezulwini Lodges offer modern accommodation with private bathroom facilities in the picturesque Balule Private Nature Reserve. Rates include 2 game drives per day.

FAQ about lodges in Balule Game Reserve

Lodges that guests love in Balule Game Reserve

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  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.9
    Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 111 reviews
    I travel a lot. To say that Naledi Lodges exceeded m expectations would be an understatement. Everything there - checking us in, getting our bags to our rooms, the staff greeting us every time we returned from a Safari, the food and drink, our guides, etc., - everything was well thought out and first class!
    Guest review by
    Perry
    Group
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.9
    Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 111 reviews
    The lodge is really comfortable but the best part is the people who work there. The staff is really kind and they managed to give us the best experience, the food was great. It was our first Safari in a game reserve and we saw the big 5 and so much more. The guides are awesome, Sydwell and Vuyani! Thank you
    Guest review by
    Andreia
    Young couple
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.7
    Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 166 reviews
    The staff, the location, the lodges, the food:
    Guest review by
    Michelle
    Young couple
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.8
    Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 186 reviews
    Super lodges and staff
    Guest review by
    Candy
    People with friends
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.9
    Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 111 reviews
    Small lodge with individual rooms looking out into the bush, a variety of seating and relaxing areas, 4 different locations to enjoy meals, fabulous chef, safari drivers and guides were knowledgeable and eager to find a variety of animals, drinks out in the bush morning & night. A beautifully designed and authentic lodge.
    Guest review by
    Tracy
    Family with young children
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.8
    Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 186 reviews
    Beautiful setting, overlooking the Olifants River, very peaceful. Excellent game drives, good meals, and incredibly friendly, cheerful staff. Of the 3 lodges we stayed at in Greater Kruger, this was our favorite. A small-scale operation, efficiently run. Wonderful overall feeling.
    Guest review by
    Roger
    Young couple
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.8
    Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 186 reviews
    Probably the best place I've ever been. The attention to detail, the customer first approach and the respect of nature has been astonishing. Best safari experience of my life. Pondoro Game Lodge will always have a special place in my heart!
    Guest review by
    Istvan
    Young couple
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 8.8
    Fabulous - What previous guests thought, 15 reviews
    An incredible lodge! Very remote and a vehicle with ground clearance is highly recommended. But you are rewarded with a breathtaking view from the terrace. While you cool your feet in the pool, you have the best view of nature. We saw several elephants and giraffes passing right by the fence. The next day there was a live hunt by two lions for impallas. We would never have dared to dream of it. Besides the gamedrives, bushwalks and safaris in the Kruger, you should definitely plan a day on the terrace. It's definitely worth it.
    Guest review by
    EKlassen
    Family with young children
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.8
    Exceptional - What previous guests thought, 186 reviews
    beautiful property and well maintained. Staff was wonderful and exceeded our expectations. We stayed at another lodge called Jabulani Safari which was far inferior to Pondoro. Stay at Pondoro, avoid Jabulani!
    Guest review by
    Paul
    Young couple
  • Scored out of 10, guest rating 9.4
    Superb - What previous guests thought, 82 reviews
    Emhosheni River Lodge is just one of the most lovely places on this earth. The setting is stunning, the hotel staff are simply the nicest people you will ever meet, the cuisine is fantastic and the safari drives just wonderful …. It really is a taste of paradise here on earth
    Guest review by
    Ruth
    Family with young children