Sun Destinations

Ezulwini Game Lodges in the Balule Nature Reserve are undergoing a number of changes at their luxury lodges, and owner Laurence sent us an update about current development underway at this “Place of Paradise”. It’s imperative that a lodge constantly reviews all facets of the business, from the day-to-day running of things, to the decor, food and staff facilities. And, of course, with Laurence’s fairly succinct update he has also delighted us with wildlife happenings on the doorstep of the lodges.

Here are the latest changes and updates happening at Ezulwini Game Lodges, as detailed by Laurence Saad:

The Lodge :

• The two RO (Reverse Osmosis) machines and cold water dispensers are now in operation at both lodges, as well as the complimentary water canister… No more plastic! The water canisters have been engraved with our logo as well as the profile of Ezulwini the elephant (his left tusk is shorter due to him being left ‘handed’ / favouring his left side).
• New communal staff bathrooms are being built at both lodges. The bathrooms comprise two toilets. two basins and two showers, each being separate for male and female staff.
• Two new staff en suite bedrooms are almost complete at River Lodge. Much building work is taking place within the River Lodge staff village and the guest rooms. Both Billy and River lodge’s staff villages now each have their own RO water system, TV lounge, plunge pool and own bedroom for each person.
• River Lodge has been closed for two months for a soft refurb. This has enabled us to revamp the standard chalets, and add on lounges and decks to each room. In addition, Spelati suite is being upgraded and there’s a new ultra luxury suite being built in place of the old honeymoon/ elephant chalet.
• A new deck is being built around the bar area and main pool at River Lodge.

Wildlife at the Lodges :

• This is the first time a bushbuck has been seen so far from the river and has been hanging around Billy’s the last few days. She’s a youngster and probably finding the Lodge vegetation irresistible as the summer rains have not yet arrived to alleviate the last two years of very dry conditions.
• The elephants are having a smashing time eating the trees to compensate for the lack of grazing! The latest vegetation victims are the large evergreen tree, fuchsia and apple leaf tree which screened the sky deck at Billy’s
• An nyala bull and his female friends have taken to the River Lodge garden as their new favourite eating place!
• Predator viewing has been amazing. As well as the usual lion sightings, guests are seeing leopard on an almost daily basis!

That’s a wrap from Ezulwini owner, Laurence!