Find all hotels by Independent in Karongwe Private Game Reserve from SAR 626

"If we could give 6 stars for our 3 day stay at Naledi we would! We were incredibly well taken care of by Marise, Matthew, Lilian, Decide and Chef Dudu throughout our stay. The food was delicious, our room in the Paperbark suite and the entire property is meticulously maintained, and they made incredible efforts to make our trip as enjoyable as possible. They succeeded! The game drives with Oupa and Excellent exceeded every expectation. They are true experts at guiding and tracking the majestic animals in the Balule reserve, and just incredibly lovely gentlemen to spend time with. We saw so much - yes, the Big 5, but also warthogs and hyenas and giraffes and hippos and zebras and impala herds and beautiful birds; sunset and sunrise and a rainbow one morning took our breath away. On our final sundowners, Oupa and Excellent took us by the Olifant River where we enjoyed the sunset and drinks surrounded by hippos and a grazing rhino. Each day felt like a treasure hunt - we gave very little input, allowing Oupa and Excellent to do their thing, and loved every minute. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime trip for my wife and I, as we were visiting South Africa from the US for a friend's wedding. I went back and forth between the more well-known reserves (Sabi Sands, Timbavati) and was unsure what we'd be able to see in the summer season (our visit was in late January) - I'm so glad we chose Naledi and if there's ever an opportunity to visit South Africa again, we will be back!"

"Not value for money. Dinner was tasteless. Disturbing was to catch a worker at 07:30 the next morning hiding under our tent while we were bathing. The wooden floor has clear gaps to look through. When confronted he said he was there to fix a problem. Complained to the manager and she only replied "Sorry for that". No investigation or request to identify the worker. Internet is non-existent and lights are inadequate in the tent. "

"We had a great experience at Nyati Safari Lodge, from check-in to check-out. We stayed for six days and had a wonderful time. All the staff were friendly and polite, and the game drives were both knowledgeable and enjoyable. We did four game drives with Peter, which were exciting adventures as we searched for animals. Also, Lux and Henry were great and knowledgeable. The food was delicious, and everything was well-organized. There are a few areas that could use some attention and improvement: -The outdoor restaurant was difficult to enjoy during our stay because of windy and cool weather. It would be helpful if they provided heaters for such conditions. -During the buffet, I noticed some guests refilling their plates without using new ones, which could pose a hygiene risk, especially since many guests were coughing and sneezing. -It would be great if they offered hot drinks like cappuccinos or lattes. When I asked if I could buy one, I was told they didn’t have any, though a coffee machine could easily provide this option. Overall, I highly recommend Nyati Safari Lodge to anyone seeking adventure along with a luxury stay."

"Absolute trip of a lifetime. Everything from the pickup from the airport to the drop off was wonderful. Staff were amazing, property was beautiful and the reserve was incredible - we saw all of the Big 5 and more in 24 hours. Can’t recommend highly enough."

"This was an amazing experience. The accommodation was clean, spacious and well presented. It accurately reflected the photographs. Outside shower and private pool with personal butler. The food was extremely good and the staff went over and above to exceed our expectations. The food was by far superior than high end restaurants. I really enjoyed the entire stay and can’t fault the experience. It was calm & peaceful in nature. I was sad to leave and will ensure I book for longer in the future."

"Karongwe River Lodge is simply PERFECT! We couldn’t recommend it more. The rooms are very spacious, beautifully decorated and comfortable. We had a incredible view of the river, where we often saw various types of animals (crocodiles, giraffes, impalas, inhalas, hipos, and more). The staff is very welcoming and thoughtful to our every need. Very kind people indeed. We incredibly well received and treated by every single person who assisted us in the lodge. Really remarkable! The meals were also very good! Fresh, made with care, very well cooked and plent. I think we even put in a few pounds in three days lol Nevertheless the greatness of everything, the game drives were the high point in our stay. Truly amazing! Bethuel (our designated ranger) and Ludwick (tracker) were the best! Very competent at their work and incredibly nice and kind people. We enjoyed every minute in Karongwe! And we certainly are coming back soon! "