Nyala Safari Lodge

Resting comfortably on the banks of the seasonal Mohlabetsi River in the Greater Kruger’s Balule Nature Reserve sits the inimitable Nyala Safari Lodge. Distinct in design, this 5-bedroomed lodge offers thatched accommodation in an iconic rondawel style, an archetype of Kruger accommodation.

Nyala’s main area has a wrap-around viewing deck mimicking the curves of the river, and runs the full length of the lodge. The entire lodge is shaded by weeping Boer-beans and ancient Jackalberry trees, ensuring respite from the heat during the sizzling summer months. There’s also a swimming pool on-site-and decking area to ensure the most is made out of those balmy summer days. Don’t be surprised to spot bushbuck and vervet monkeys while lounging around the pool area.

Just metres away from the main area is a thriving waterhole, where wildlife is known to put on a spectacle for onlookers. The boma area is strategically placed to take advantage of waterhole views, and offers the perfect place to sit under the stars around a crackling campfire after your evening game drive. Boma and swimming pool aside, the rest of the main area comprises a dining section, open plan kitchen, lounge, and viewing deck with hammocks.

Dotted among the riparian vegetation are 5 well-appointed chalets, furnished with sandy beige interiors and earthy tones designed to harmonise with the Balule Bushveld. Expect Egyptian cotton linen, light wooden furniture, and ornate bathrooms, four of which have deep-set luxurious baths. While each room has a hint of uniqueness, all have indoor and outdoor showers, air cons; and views of either the bushveld, pool or river.

Activities include two game drives a day which depart at first light and late afternoon when the nocturnal predators are most active. For safari-goers wanting to capture the spirit of adventure, there are boma dinners available.

A recent TripAdvisor guest said, "Amazing! We had an absolutely amazing stay at Nyala! The entire staff there just blew us away. The attention to detail, knowledge, and overall experience we had was incredible. The chef was truly a genius - the meals she did with extra special attention to dairy free was way beyond what we had expected. I know Our dairy free guest appreciated being able to eat the same as everyone else - and the dishes were flavorful and unique (we haven’t gotten the level of food for dairy free at the other places we’ve stayed). Nicholle was an amazing guide full of knowledge -and Polite was absolutely amazing as well, again everyone going way beyond our expectations, making our stay incredible!"