Pondoro Game Lodge

Set on the banks of the Olifants River, this luxury lodge occupies 40,000 ha of Balule Private Game Reserve. Inside the greater Kruger National Park, it offers a rock pool and spa with waterfalls.

The thatched cottages at Pondoro Game Lodge feature an African décor with rich fabrics and nature-themed decoration. Each has a private wooden deck. Air conditioning and bathtubs are standard.

A fusion of traditional African and modern European cuisine can be enjoyed on the wooden deck overlooking the river. Guests can taste fine wine from Pondoro’s extensive wine cellar or grab a snack at the bar.

Bird-watching and nature walks are some of the activities that the lodge can arrange. Visitors can opt for a morning and evening game drive, both in open-topped Land Rovers.

The Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is 131 km away.

Rooms: 8
Rate: 2465 - 6990 ZAR

Directions from O.R. Tambo International Airport:

- Take the N12 towards Witbank.
- Go past Witbank.
- Turn left at Belfast on the R540 Drive through Dullstroom, Lydenburg (Mashising) and Ohrigstad towards Hoedspruit.
- Turn left at Hoedspruit and take the R40 towards Phalaborwa.
- Turn right after 17 km at the Balule/Olifants West Gate sign to enter Balule Game Reserve.
- Follow the gravel road for 9 km.
- Turn left at the Pondoro sign.
- Follow this road for 6 km
- Turn right at the T-junction and follow the road for 1 km to Pondoro.

Please note that guests are required to pay an entrance fee per car for the Balule Nature Reserve when arriving at the Olifants West gate. Prices vary according to type of vehicle.