Find Hotels with Bars in Balule Game Reserve

"We came here for our honeymoon. What an amazing experience we had. We had 2 game drives per day with fantastic guides/spotters. The food was top tier - nearly Michelin star level; I had the eggs benedict every single morning. They arranged the most romantic evening dinner in their wine cellar for us. This is probably the best place I have ever stayed. "

"We loved our stay! The service was incredible."

"This was my second time staying at Raptor Retreat and it was just as good as the first. Our lodging, the Hippo Cottage, was huge, very well equipped and had a wonderful view of the river and the animals. One morning, we saw a parade of elephants right by our window. I also loved the soaking bathtub that also had a great view. We did three amazing game drives with Keith, the owner of Raptor Retreat on which we saw an incredible variety of animals including a huge herd of elephants, hippos and both male and female lions. Finally, we had several excellent massages from Nancy. I highly recommend Raptor Retreat and look forward to returning in the future."

"Bushveld terrace is the only place to stay in Phalaborwa, staff are friendly, rooms clean and spacious. Restuarant serves delicious meals "

"This is a most beautiful and tranquil hideaway that invites you in so you never want to leave. In the first hour of our arrival a herd of elephants with some babies came to drink, just metres away. Hardus and his team offered impeccable service. Wonderful meals every day, with every wish catered for. The highlight, by far, was the game drives early morning and late afternoon. Hardus is an exceptionally knowledgeable and competent guide, and full of passion for the animals and the environment. We experienced incredible sightings, from lion to elephants at play, to almost everything else. It’s very beautiful and interesting terrain, with a marvellous riverside experience included. Our early morning coffee outside the vehicle on the river bank, watching the hippos and the sunrise, were memorable. It doesn’t get better than this!"