48 reviewsfrom verified guests
You won't find another lodge quite like Makalali. From its curious mix of rugged thatched spires and earthy walls, to its ancient mystical ornaments and luxury appointments, Makalali Private Game Lodge in Hoedspruit, Limpopo, offers a truly unique experience. Nestled on 14 000 hectares of conservancy, Makalali prevails as one of the finest private game lodges in the world. Four exclusive camps, each consisting of six spacious suites adjacent to a stilted Sala set amongst Jackalberry trees, are equipped with all the modern conveniences you could wish for. Amenities on offer at each camp include a uniquely designed swimming pool, boma, air-conditioning, and an enclosed dining and lounge area. Considered one of the leading pioneers in Ecotourism in South Africa, Makalali Private Game Reserve represents a conservation mission to expand South Africa's green frontier by re-establishing the ancient wildlife migration routes that linked the famous Kruger Park in the east to the lush Drakensberg Mountains in the west. In the process lion, cheetah, leopard, elephant, and rhino have all been reintroduced to the wild, making Makalali home to over one thousand wild animals including four of Africa's "Big Five".
Makalali has four separate camps situated on the banks of the Makhutswi River on 22 000 hectares of Lowveld Acacia and open savannah grassland. Each camp has six luxury suites with en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, fireplace and raised timber ‘sala’ (private viewing deck/lounge). All the rooms are individually decorated in African design styles with sculptured metalwork lamp shades and taps, and ceramic basins. Mosquito nets surround the king-size beds by night, and insect repellent, hairdryers and bathrobes are provided. Makalali is quickly becoming recognised for its specific brand of African Cuisine, put together by a dedicated team of "Makalali Makers, Bakers and Shakers". Cuisine at the lodge consists of bush breakfasts, leisurely lunches in the hand-crafted outdoor "salas", and the legendary boma and bush dinners, where guests can enjoy a variety of exciting dishes, from Moroccan Lamb with Lemon and Coriander to Grilled Kingklip in Chermoula. Makalali is fully licensed and is able to cater for a variety of special guest dietary requirements including: Vegetarian, Vegan, Low fat / Salt / Sodium meals.
Each camp has its own swimming pool, boma, and enclosed dining and lounge area. Additional Facilities and Services at Makalali include:
Baby Sitting: In order for parents not to compromise their Game Viewing and Dining experiences, skilled baby sitters from the local communities can be arranged at a nominal fee.
Children Policy: Families with children are welcome at Makalali. Kiddies walks and daytime Game Drives can be set up in order for the children to also experience the magic of Makalali. Children are welcomed with a special Makalali colour-in book and games on arrival in Camp. Special meals are also arranged for the little ones, including dishes such as Burger and Pizzas.
Electricity: 220v A.C. current is available 24 hours a day. Voltage converters can be supplied on request.
Gallery: The art and merchandise gallery offers guests a tranquil place to view the river, to shop, browse for art, read a historical account of the Reserve and the area or just relax.
