Balule Nature Reserve, Off R40, Balule Game Reserve,
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Near nature reserves
Perfect
9.8
9.9
/10
5.0
5.0
/5
Loved by Pondoro Game Lodge guests
exclusive game drives
luxury chalets
river views
delicious food
amazing staff
"The suite was very comfortable, with Aircon which we used in the evenings to heat."
Bernice from South Africa
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"The room was brilliant and the hot tub overlooking the river was amazing, so nice chilling there in the day."
Jennifer from United Kingdom
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"Our safari was fantastic, with plenty of off reading, searching for lions and leopards."
George T from United Kingdom
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"The safari team were amazing."
Stephanie from United Kingdom
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Chalets with River Views
Pondoro has three architecturally designed chalets overlooking the Olifants River. Each chalet includes an en-suite bathroom with a shower and bath overlooking the river, a lounge area, air-conditioning, mosquito nets, and a wooden deck. All suites are air-conditioned and have a private wooden deck, Jacuzzi, lounge area, and an outside shower.
Traditional and Modern Cuisine
Guests can enjoy a fusion of traditional African and modern European cuisine on the wooden deck overlooking the river. The lodge has an extensive wine cellar and a bar. Meals and drinks are included. Breakfast is à la carte, lunch offers a daily set menu, and dinner is served on the riverbank.
Game Drives and Spa
Morning and evening safari drives on open-topped Land Rovers are included, along with bird-watching and nature walks. The spa offers treatments including a glass-covered steam room, a spa bath under the sky, and massages in the room. There is also a fitness centre, an outdoor swimming pool, and a hot tub/Jacuzzi.
Inside Balule Reserve
Pondoro is set on the banks of the Olifants River inside the 50000 ha Balule Private Game Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park. The game drive traverses 12100 hectares. An airport shuttle from Hoedspruit Airport is available and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes.
Services
The lodge offers concierge service, express check-in/check-out, private check-in/check-out, 24-hour security, and safety deposit boxes. Daily housekeeping and laundry are available. Room service includes a bar and restaurant with special diet menus. Free WiFi and free parking are provided. Airport pickup and drop-off are available.
“What strikes me most is the intimate atmosphere here, a true rarity, where the attentive staff makes every interaction feel personally curated. The game drives, led by exceptionally knowledgeable guides, consistently deliver on intimate wildlife encounters, often right from the suites' private decks overlooking the river. It's a place where luxury comforts seamlessly blend with the wild, fostering a deeply engaging safari experience.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Zasouthafrica
Select your room type
Pondoro Game Lodge offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Chalet 1
2 persons
75 m²
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Chalet 3
2 persons
75 m²
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Chalet 2
2 persons
75 m²
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
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Price and Room Availability Calendar
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Facilities
Pondoro Game Lodge offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Perfect
9.7/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Parking
Safe deposit box
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
Concierge desk
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Fireplace
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Sports & Fitness
Fitness centre
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Services
Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink
Dining
Restaurant
Poolside snack bar
Picnic area/ Tables
Special diet menus
Children
Board games
Spa & Leisure
Outdoor swimming pool
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Spa & wellness centre
Steam room
Jacuzzi
Back massage
Head massage
Full body massage
Foot massage
Open-air bath
Room features
Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Air conditioning
Mini-bar
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Media
AM/FM alarm clock
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Dining Onsite
At Pondoro Game Lodge, the culinary experience reflects the harmony between African and European influences, all set against the backdrop of the South African wilderness. Guests can savor an array of meals, from vibrant breakfasts to candlelit dinners, where each dish tells a story of local flavors and the beauty of nature.
Restaurant #1
African, European, South African
Ambiance
Romantic candlelit setting under the night sky, enriched by the sounds of the wild
Key Offerings
Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with options for Halal, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets. Relish a Gin & Tonic sundowner with a light snack while watching the sunset after an exhilarating game drive. Special candlelit dinners transported to a hide via a 4x4 safari cruiser offer a unique dining experience.
Reservation
Recommended
Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and high tea.
Pondoro Game Lodge Location
Balule Nature Reserve, Off R40, Balule Game Reserve,
Map view
City landmarks
Landmark
Ndhique Waterhole
4.9 km
Explore Balule Game Reserve
Activities, Dining, and Entertainment Near Pondoro Game Lodge
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Ndhique Waterhole
10-minute drive
Ndhique Waterhole offers fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities. This well-known spot is frequented by diverse fauna, especially during dry seasons.
Game Drives
5-minute drive
Game drives in the Balule Nature Reserve provide thrilling wildlife encounters. Guided tours are available to maximize sightings.
Yoga Sessions
10-minute drive
Relaxing yoga sessions near the reserve help rejuvenate the mind and body. Classes often occur in serene outdoor settings.
Bushveld Bistro
5-minute drive
Bushveld Bistro offers local specialties in a laid-back ambiance. Signature dishes include game meat and vegetarian options.
The Dining Deck
10-minute drive
The Dining Deck features a scenic view with a diverse menu, serving everything from international dishes to local delicacies.
Wildlife Photography Evenings
5-minute drive
Wildlife photography evenings offer all-ages fun with expert tips. A perfect blend of wildlife observation and skill-building.
Local Night Market
10-minute drive
The local night market features crafts and food stalls. A vibrant atmosphere filled with live music and delicious local snacks.
Getting around
City Centre
Balule Game Reserve 54 min · 35.9 km
Airports
Air Force Base Hoedspruit (HDS) 86 min · 56.9 km
Hendrik Van Eck (PHW) 86 min · 57.1 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 13:00-17:00
Check-out
from 08:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the villa rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
8
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Pondoro Game Lodge from previous guests about their experience.
Cleanliness
9.9/10
Comfort
9.8/10
Facilities
9.7/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.5/10
Location
9.8/10
Staff
9.9/10
Value for money
9.4/10
Pros
Really good staff hospitality
Professional game drives
Delicious lodge cuisine
Luxurious room comfort
Cons
Disruptive wildlife viewing
Conservation concerns
Guest reviews
based on 154 reviews
9.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.