Makalali River Lodge  

Set on the Lowveld near Hoedspruit, this river lodge sits steps from Karongwe Private Game Reserve and within easy driving distance of Greater Kruger National Park and Blyde Nature Reserve. A family-friendly bush retreat that puts game drives and safari mornings front and center.

Seventeen individually decorated guestrooms with pillowtop beds and premium bedding. Rooms feature private bathrooms with separate tubs and showers and hair dryers; many also have terraces, air-conditioning and tea/coffee facilities. The property carries an ethnic bush-retreat vibe with communal lounges and relaxed, nature-focused decor.

Take a dip in the pool, book an on-site massage or unwind on the sun terrace and garden loungers — perfect after a dawn safari. Onsite gift shop, communal living room and reception hall add convenience, while babysitting and childcare services make it genuinely family-friendly.

Complimentary wired internet access is available, with additional internet in public areas. The lodge offers a 24-hour front desk, multilingual staff, laundry facilities and free self parking.

An on-site restaurant and bar serve guests daily, with a complimentary continental breakfast each morning from 8:00–9:30 AM. Lunch, dinner and full-board options are available, including vegetarian and gluten-free choices.