Balule Private Nature Reserve

We saw the big five and much more.

I don't remember the names of the parks. Kruger was the worst. Partly was not your fault; there was a strike on. But we spent most of the day (only one in Kruger) entering a less desireable gate then racing to get back to the one we were supposed to enter. So most of the day was at top speed, not comfortable and rushed. Hardly saw any animals. The guide was grouchy.

Great accommodation and great guide at Masodini. Bert is probably the best guide in South Africa.

because of the marvellous bush walks and outdoor sleeping.

A great place to stay, amazing team of guides and hospitality staff. Great Safaris at night and during the day. Plenty to see and do. Well organised and centred around your satisfaction. 100% recommended. The sunset safari with a sundowner was a highlight. An amazing amount of wildlife. All of the staff were great, very welcoming and extremely knowledgable about the wildlife and reserve itself.

As far as our game sightings at Balule were concerned, the elephants topped the bill. We had some very close, very powerful experiences with the beautiful animals on the reserve.

Luxury among the Widerness

We stayed at the Pondoro Game Lodge in Balule Nature Reserve for a couple of days - and we can absolutely recommend it.

A typical day at Pondoro used to start at 6 am in the morning with the morning safari drive. Safaris were on a open jeep with a guide / driver and a tracker. Our guide and tracker (Rulani and Andries) were absolutely wonderful. Rulani always gave us a brief description of the animals we sighted - which was very helpful for us city people. Both were very friendly and absolutely motivated to provide us the best safari experience. We still remember the time when Andries went out on foot in search of lions, and after half an hour we saw a family of lions heading our way with Andries following them calmly with a stick in hand. We managed to see not only the Big 5, but also zebras, giraffes, hippos, etc.

Robbie and Lize maintain the lodge as a family home and you are always made to feel very welcome. Returning from the morning safari (around 9 am), there is a luscious breakfast waiting for you. It is indeed an exhilarating experience having breakfast out in the open, with the sound of a stream flowing nearby, where different animals often drop by for a drink. After breakfast, you are free to relax, roam around a bit and explore. The cottages are beautifully designed with modern amenities such as air conditioners, fully equipped bathrooms; and a bit of wilderness such as showers and a jacuzzi out in the open. So you might be taking a shower when an elephant decides to drop by for a visit :)

For a more detailed review, please refer to our blog: http://travel-pics-tips.blogspot.ch/2015/08/south-african-wilderness.html

Part of the Great Kruger National Park