Game Lodge, situated in the malaria-free Welgevonden Game Reserve in the Waterberg, is both luxurious and child friendly. Private and exclusive (the lodge has recently been renovated), it's the perfect wilderness retreat for families and small groups wanting to explore the bushveld on guided game drives to see the abundant wildlife. And you can expect great sightings at this 34,000-plus-hectare Big Five Reserve. A major attraction, also newly constructed, is the underground waterhole hide in front of the lodge, which allows guests to get close to the animals as they drink.
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The main lodge lies at Mhondoro's heart. Extensively rebuilt in 2015, the design and decor combine modern sophistication with homely comforts. The meals are five-star, with a full breakfast, afternoon tea and three-course dinners served with excellent wines (try the locally produced vintages – they're very good). Outdoors, expansive wooden decks overlook the waterhole, the bushveld and its inhabitants. There's a heated pool overlooking the waterhole, a star-gazing deck, a gym, massage suite and sauna, and that incredible hide.
Facing either the waterhole or the dramatic Waterberg mountains, five suites and a villa sleep a total of just 10 people. The suites may differ in size and situation, but all are beautifully decorated in chic African sophistication, with en-suite bathrooms and private viewing decks. On honeymoon? The Honeymoon Suite is perfect for romantic getaways. For exclusive use, including your own butler, chef and staff, the Presidential Villa is astonishing, and even has its own Jacuzzi.
Explore the bushveld on morning and evening game drives, or on a guided walk. Your chances of seeing the Big Five and other wildlife and bird species, including rare blue crane, are high. Back at the lodge, swim in the pool, relax at the spa or work out at the gym. There's a dedicated open-air play area and playroom for children. Mhondoro also has a custom-built stargazing deck equipped with a high-powered telescope and seating designed specifically for comfortable star-spotting.
The underground waterhole hide. A 65-metre tunnel leads from the lodge to an eye-level viewing spot – grab a coffee, settle in and watch elephants drink just metres away.
After dinner, head up to the star deck. There's a high-powered telescope and on a clear Waterberg night, the sky is nothing short of spectacular.
The stony paths around the lodge make it tricky for anyone with mobility issues.
Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made South Africa trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended South Africa trips featuring Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa or get advice and suggestions from one of our South Africa specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa start from around $670, or US$670, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
Malaria-free Big Five safaris within an easy hop from Johannesburg's bright lights
