Explore the Wild: Discover the Beauty of the Kruger National Park
Ezulwini River Lodge, sister to Billy’s Lodge, combines romance and adventure with luxury suites and private plunge pools, which overlook the hippo-filled Olifants River. Game drives introduce guests to the plethora of species found in this exclusive Greater Kruger Reserve, while River Lodge’s multiple relaxation areas offer views of the surrounding reserve. Twice daily game drives and 3 scrumptious meals a day allow just enough time for guests to settle down in their exquisite bedrooms for a peaceful moment, and absorb the ambience of the Balule bushveld.
Ezulwini Game Lodges are located in the Big 5 Balule Nature Reserve in a pristine region of Limpopo Province, offering a top class Kruger safari. Reasons for visiting lie in the appeal of the natural surrounds, the expert owner-management, and the seamless knowledge and experience of the guides. The location of the reserve means that it shares unfenced borders with the Kruger National Park, but without public thoroughfare, making it a little piece of private Kruger heaven.
Accommodation at River Lodge is stylish and inspired by the natural elements of the Balule bushveld, while air conditioning or fans are a standard mod con. All rooms have tea and coffee facilities, while luxury suites also have mini bars.
River Lodge has 4 luxury chalets, which are traditional, thatched rondavels equipped with twin or double beds plus mosquito nets, bedside tables, and ensuite bathrooms, which have both bath and shower. The newly revamped chalets have wooden decking and balconies with views of the wilderness beyond.
There are 4 superior suites, which have large wooden decks, plunge pools, and views of the river. One of these superior suites is a honeymoon suite, and the other a family room (Spelati). Interiors are chic and spacious with lounge, coffee table, and ensuite with bath, and indoor and outdoor shower.
Luxury chalets are rondavel-shaped with thatched roofs, ceiling fans, and have en suite bathrooms equipped with both bath and shower. In-room tea and coffee facilities offer comfort and convenience, while hot days can be spent at the pool or the bar, neither of which is far away. Chalets have wooden balconies and relaxation areas.
Superior suites at River Lodge are spectacularly built with a lot of space, and are uniquely decorated using natural wood and African-inspired artwork. Private plunge pools and decks with sun loungers keep things exclusive, while open-plan en suite bathrooms have bathtubs, plus indoor and outdoor showers. Minibars, tea and coffee, and air-conditioning complete the luxurious look.
One of the main features of a safari is a 4×4 game drive. On game drives you are able to get a lot closer to big game than on a self-drive safari, as you are guided by experienced rangers and in appropriate vehicles. The animals are generally habituated to the vehicle. This enables to you to get within 5 to 10 metres of the large animals – and safely!
All game drives are conducted in open 4 x 4 Land Rovers; which are perfect for photographic and video opportunities. The afternoon game drives generally leave at 16:00 and include late afternoon game spotting, a sundowner stop and a game drive that continues into the night.
Every game drive includes a leg-stretch at sunset, at which point, guides unpack a cooler box containing refreshments and snacks. A safari tradition known as ‘sundowners’ is an opportunity to set foot on the African soil and admire the surrounding bush as the sun sets, while sipping on an ice-cold G n T!
