Mohlabetsi Safari Lodge is situated in the vast Big 5 Balule Nature Reserve, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park. The emphasis here is upon close-up encounters with Africa's spectacular wildlife, from the mighty elephant, the impressive lion or the miniscule termite. Evening game drives are conducted in specially modified open Land Rovers, giving guests excellent all-round visibility, as well as the excitement of meeting Africa's Big 5 close up. The rangers are well versed in ensuring that you have a thrilling and informative safari. Guided bush walks can also be arranged.
The main lodge is nestled under age-old trees with a panoramic view over the bush and onto a well-frequented waterhole. The shady lawns, with chaise lounges, create a wonderful scene of tranquility. There is also a swimming pool to relax around as well. Lunch is served under the shade of a massive Acacia tree, with the chance of seeing animals coming to drink at the waterhole at this time. In the evenings, the boma showcases a crackling log fire, where dinners are often served.
The Tranquility Lapa is situated in a quiet area of the lodge and offers relaxing massages during the day. Indulge yourself with an Aromatherapy Massage, with only the sounds of nature to provide background music.
The accommodation consists of 6 African rondavels. These typical African dwellings are round huts with characterful thatch roofs. Each rondavel has an outdoor shower for a wonderful close-to-nature experience. There is also space for an extra bed to convert each room into a triple room if required.
There are also 2 family units. Each unit has 2 rooms with an interleading door for privacy. One room has a queensize bed and the other has 2 single beds - it is possible to add an additional bed into each room too, thereby accommodating up to 6 guests. Each room has its own bathroom facilities and an al fresco shower.
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Rates Include
Breakfast, lunch and dinner; twice daily shared game drives; and a morning foot safari are included. IN ADDITION: The Conservation fee (currently R200 per person but subject to change) is not included and is payable directly to the lodge at check out. For self-drive visitors, there is also a R150 per vehicle entrance fee, payable in cash at the entrance gate (subject to change).
Children Policy
Children of any age are welcome. Rates available on request. Children of any age are allowed on game drives.
Bush Walks / Walking Safaris
Bush walks with your ranger are available on request. Only children of certain ages are allowed to participate in a bush walk - to be agreed with the lodge manager on arrival.
Regardless of any age, the final decision on whether a guest can join a guided walk remains with the guide and lodge manager.
Directions For Drivers
From Hazyview: Follow the R40 towards Klaserie and Hoedspruit. After approximately 10 km from Hoedspruit, turn right at the Mohlabetsi signboard. Enter the manned security gates. For self-drive visitors, there is a R150 per vehicle entrance fee, payable in cash at the entrance gate (subject to change). Travel 7 km and drive straight to the lodge.
Do not get out of your car until you reach the lodge. You may see some wildlife on your way - if you do, slow down and maintain a good distance. Do not drive off-road in any circumstances.
From Eastgate/Hoedspruit Airport: From the airport, turn right out of the airport and then turn right onto the R40 towards Hoedspruit, and follow the directions as above.
From Johannesburg/Pretoria: Take the N12 or N4 highway to Witbank/eMalahleni (from Johannesburg Airport, follow signs to Boksburg to find the N12). Follow the N4 highway past Middleburg (Toll Plaza), Belfast and Machadodorp (Toll Plaza). Follow the Schoemanskloof option on the N4 and then take the R36 to Lydenburg/Mashishing.
Follow the R36 to Ohrigstad, go through the Strydom Tunnel and take the R527 to Hoedspruit. Turn left onto the R40 Phalaborwa/Mica road, and continue along this road until you see the Mohlabetsi signboard. Follow the directions as above.
From Kruger National Park/Orpen Gate: Exit the Park, and continue along the R531. Turn right onto the R40, and follow the directions as above.
PLEASE NOTE: On some signposts/maps, Belfast MAY also be referred to eMakhazeni.
General Information For Guests
All rondavels have a thatched roof, an al fresco shower, an international multi-plug, a personal safe, an overhead fan, and air conditioning.
The Family Rooms have 2 bedrooms separated by an interleading door - each room has it's own bathroom facilities including an al fresco shower.
The lodge offers free/unlimited Wi-Fi access.
There is a curio shop stocking an array of trinkets, clothing and objects d'art.
The bar lounge is furnished with comfortable chairs and offers beautiful views over the lawn and bush, making it the perfect place to meet after safaris to regale your exciting animal stories. The garden also has hammocks for an afternoon siesta. There is also a boma for dining under the stars.
The swimming pool is surrounded by sun loungers and provides the perfect place of relaxation during the warm midday hours.
Your rate includes an evening game drive as well as an early morning safari too. The lodge uses specially modified Toyota Land Cruisers for the game drives. Renowned for their comfort and reliability, they are able to conquer even the most difficult terrain. The 10 seater vehicles are completely open to allow for unrestricted views of animals, birds, trees and the stunning stars at night.
Your guide will keep up a commentary during the drive, interpreting and informing you of the sightings. Their knowledge and unique relationship with the bush will ensure that your game drive is both a sensory and educational experience. They are also in radio contact with a number of other vehicles to maximize game-viewing opportunities.
For true lovers of wildlife, nothing beats the adventure of getting close to nature on foot. Your guide will lead you through pristine African bushveld, stopping for anything of interest. Animal encounters take on a completely different feeling, once you come down to their level. And the silence allows you to listen to bird calls, appreciate the vegetation and be overwhelmed by the ways of the termite.
Credit cards are accepted.
A laundry service is also available (additional cost).
Bush Walks / Walking Safaris
Bush walks with your ranger are available on request. Only children of certain ages are allowed to participate in a bush walk - to be agreed with the lodge manager on arrival.
Regardless of any age, the final decision on whether a guest can join a guided walk remains with the guide and lodge manager.
We are back! And had the most amazing time. Thank you so much for organising mine and Jodie's honeymoon, we couldn't have had a better time. The lodges each had their own characteristics, each making our stay there memorable, from sleeping in the tree house, romantic dinners in the bush, group dinners on the drive and breakfast in the wild. We were overwhelmed by whole experience and the welcome we received at Mohlabetsi, Africa on Foot and Ngala. Each reserve offered a different mix of wildlife and we spotted the big five on more than one occasion and a lot more.
We would just like to thank you for organising our adventure, we really enjoyed our time in South Africa and cannot wait to go back.
