Big 5 safari adventures do not get more personal, comfortable and memorable than a visit to Pondoro Game Lodge nestled on the banks of the Olifants river. The owners/managers Robbie and Lize Prehn were involved from the start in choosing the location and it is evident in every design feature and service that Pondoro is a labour of love. Pondoro only has eight thatched rooms, each beautifully dressed in African art and touch-me textiles, assuring a more personal safari experience. Experienced guides take small groups of up to eight on unforgettable game drives in Balule Private Nature Reserve - part of the world-renowned Kruger National Park - so, you are in prime position to explore South Africa’s incredible wildlife and landscape. Located in the heart of the bush, a Treehouse Hide, raised above ground with views of a waterhole, is also available for one-night stays. Back at the Lodge and the small Serenity Spa practices traditional South African treatments, while traditional African cuisine meets modern European flavours on the decked dining area, elevated above the river.
Pondoro is set on the banks of the Olifants River inside the 50 000 ha Balule Private Game Reserve inside the greater Kruger National Park.
Pondoro has three architecturally designed chalets overlooking the Olifants River. Each chalet has been beautifully decorated with an African theme. All chalets have en-suite bathrooms (with a shower and bath overlooking the river), lounge area, air-conditioning, mosquito nets and a wooden deck.
All our suites are air-conditioned and architecturally designed offering modern comforts in an ancient setting. Each suite is provided with a private wooden deck, Jacuzzi, lounge area and an outside shower for those who are adventurous at heart.
A fusion of traditional African and modern European cuisine can be enjoyed on the wooden deck overlooking the river. Guests can taste fine wine from Pondoro’s extensive wine cellar or grab a snack at the bar. Meals and drinks included.
Revitalize your mind, body and soul with classic spa treatments which range from a glass covered steam room, a spa bath under the wide African sky to a massage in the privacy of your room or visit our fitness centre.
Morning and evening safari drives on open-topped Land Rovers, bird-watching and nature walks are included. Experienced guides will not only use their knowledge and bushcraft to try and show you the Big Five and other plains game, but they will do their best to paint memories of an Africa that will never fade away. A nature walk with an armed guide would add the thrill of encountering animals on foot.
The Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is 131 km away.
Hoedspruit Airport is a 60-minute drive from the camp.
