Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Book with confidenceWe partner with the top travel sites so you know you're getting a great deal on the perfect rental
Enhanced cleaningExtra health and hygiene measures to ensure your safety
Location
Reviews
9 / 10
One of the Best
Beautiful setting, wonderful staff and service, amazing variety of animals, decent meals, incredible facility and tent lodge. Special mention for our safari guide Sibo who went the extra mile to search the Big 4 game and found them!
The quality of brunch at the river bed gathering could be better. Pastries and dessert were good. Beer and wine offering would be nice.
Being a wine afficionado, the inclusive wine selection can be upgraded.
4 / 10
Fully disappointing
The description and the other reviews on booking.com. The design of the room.
Our stay at your hotel was supposed to be the conclusion and highlight of our two-week trip to South Africa, and we were very much looking forward to it. However, as our experience was greatly marred, we would like to share our experiences with you:
1. First, three email enquiries about prices and availability went unanswered. Then we received a reply from the sales manager we had also contacted, but he offered us worse rates than Booking.com (which we were not aware of).
2. On the evening of our arrival, the lighting leading to our room was faulty.
3. The next day, the toilet flush was faulty.
4. Common drinks (Coke Zero, Fanta Orange) were not available or only available in limited quantities.
5. The minibar was minimally stocked.
6. The selection of alcoholic all-inclusive drinks was very limited and, in some cases, incomprehensible; for example, there was initially no (white) sparkling wine on offer.
7. The reception could not be reached by telephone from the room (telephone numbers 550 and 551: ‘User refused’).
8. The gym had not been cleaned and the treadmill in the gym was not working.
9. The animal density was also very low (‘have you seen the elephant?’).
It was also a pitty that you couldn't let light into your room in the morning, as the tent curtains could only be operated by staff.
All in all, the standard was not only below our expectations of a 5-star hotel in this price range, but also below our previous experiences in South Africa, and that at lower prices. However, we would like to emphasise that the staff on site were all very helpful and friendly; it was simply the above-mentioned conditions that were unpleasant and greatly detracted from our experience.
9 / 10
Every staff member gave us exceptional service. We checked in late and the communication between us and reception was ex
There’s nothing not to like.
There’s nothing to dislike.
10 / 10
The sanctuary of tranquility where serenity reigns supreme.
The lodge embodies the essence of an intimate retreat, offering a sanctuary of tranquility where serenity reigns supreme. The gentle cadence of the river’s flow weaves seamlessly into the stillness of the surroundings, creating an atmosphere that soothes the soul. It is a haven where time slows, allowing one to revel in the quietude and reconnect with a loved one in the embrace of nature’s understated elegance.
Maybe develop a spa tent to cater for massages and beauty requirements with its own swimming pool, and cabanas.
Beautiful setting, wonderful staff and service, amazing variety of animals, decent meals, incredible facility and tent lodge. Special mention for our safari guide Sibo who went the extra mile to search the Big 4 game and found them!
The quality of brunch at the river bed gathering could be better. Pastries and dessert were good. Beer and wine offering would be nice.
Being a wine afficionado, the inclusive wine selection can be upgraded.
9 / 10Outstanding·Jul 2025
There’s nothing not to like.
There’s nothing to dislike.
10 / 10Outstanding·May 2025
The lodge embodies the essence of an intimate retreat, offering a sanctuary of tranquility where serenity reigns supreme. The gentle cadence of the river’s flow weaves seamlessly into the stillness of the surroundings, creating an atmosphere that soothes the soul. It is a haven where time slows, allowing one to revel in the quietude and reconnect with a loved one in the embrace of nature’s understated elegance.
Maybe develop a spa tent to cater for massages and beauty requirements with its own swimming pool, and cabanas.
10 / 10Outstanding·Mar 2025
Madwaleni River Lodge exceeded all our expectations! From the moment we arrived, we were treated to incredible hospitality and an unforgettable experience. The food was abundant and absolutely delicious. The service was outstanding, with a special shoutout to Anele, who went above and beyond to make our room extra special with thoughtful treats and surprises.
The tent was simply spectacular—the most luxurious we’ve ever stayed in. Every detail was carefully considered, and the quality of the furniture was top-notch. Our game drives were a highlight, thanks to our knowledgeable guide, Njabulo, who made the experience even more memorable.
Drinking sundowners next to the river was an absolute dream, and the lodge’s location—nestled between the White Mfolozi River and breathtaking mountains—made for a truly magical setting. A huge thank you to Robyn, Sifiso, and all the incredible staff who made our stay so special. We can’t wait to return!
Does this property follow enhanced cleaning procedures?
Yes, this nature lodge has implemented enhanced cleaning procedures and processes to keep you healthy and safe.
Is parking included with this nature lodge?
Parking is not specified as an available amenity at Madwaleni River Lodge - Babanango Game Reserve. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this nature lodge?
Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at Madwaleni River Lodge - Babanango Game Reserve. Enjoy the water!
Is Madwaleni River Lodge - Babanango Game Reserve pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this nature lodge is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Madwaleni River Lodge - Babanango Game Reserve?
We found 24 amenities for this rental. This includes free wifi/internet, free parking, air conditioning, pool, and non-smoking.
"The lodge embodies the essence of an intimate retreat, offering a sanctuary of tranquility where serenity reigns supreme. The gentle cadence of the river’s flow weaves seamlessly into the stillness of..."
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Book with confidenceWe partner with the top travel sites so you know you're getting a great deal on the perfect rental
Enhanced cleaningExtra health and hygiene measures to ensure your safety
About this nature lodge rental
Elegant Accommodations
Amenities
Free WiFi/internet
Free Parking
Air conditioning
Pool
Non-smoking
Gym
Heating
Bar
Spa
Balcony/Terrace
WiFi/Internet
Shared living spaces
Garden
Laundry services
Fireplace
Family friendly
Ironing facilities
Smoking allowed
Safe
Key access
Housekeeping available
Fire alarm
Fire extinguisher
Cleaning products
Map of KwaZulu-Natal
Ratings and reviews
9 / 10
Outstanding(17 Ratings)
100% verified reviews
9 / 10Outstanding·Apr 2026
Beautiful setting, wonderful staff and service, amazing variety of animals, decent meals, incredible facility and tent lodge. Special mention for our safari guide Sibo who went the extra mile to search the Big 4 game and found them!
The quality of brunch at the river bed gathering could be better. Pastries and dessert were good. Beer and wine offering would be nice.
Being a wine afficionado, the inclusive wine selection can be upgraded.
9 / 10Outstanding·Jul 2025
There’s nothing not to like.
There’s nothing to dislike.
10 / 10Outstanding·May 2025
The lodge embodies the essence of an intimate retreat, offering a sanctuary of tranquility where serenity reigns supreme. The gentle cadence of the river’s flow weaves seamlessly into the stillness of the surroundings, creating an atmosphere that soothes the soul. It is a haven where time slows, allowing one to revel in the quietude and reconnect with a loved one in the embrace of nature’s understated elegance.
Maybe develop a spa tent to cater for massages and beauty requirements with its own swimming pool, and cabanas.
10 / 10Outstanding·Mar 2025
Madwaleni River Lodge exceeded all our expectations! From the moment we arrived, we were treated to incredible hospitality and an unforgettable experience. The food was abundant and absolutely delicious. The service was outstanding, with a special shoutout to Anele, who went above and beyond to make our room extra special with thoughtful treats and surprises.
The tent was simply spectacular—the most luxurious we’ve ever stayed in. Every detail was carefully considered, and the quality of the furniture was top-notch. Our game drives were a highlight, thanks to our knowledgeable guide, Njabulo, who made the experience even more memorable.
Drinking sundowners next to the river was an absolute dream, and the lodge’s location—nestled between the White Mfolozi River and breathtaking mountains—made for a truly magical setting. A huge thank you to Robyn, Sifiso, and all the incredible staff who made our stay so special. We can’t wait to return!
Nothing
$$$$
Top rated by guests
9Outstanding
(17 Ratings)
"The lodge embodies the essence of an intimate retreat, offering a sanctuary of tranquility where serenity reigns supreme. The gentle cadence of the river’s flow weaves seamlessly into the stillness of..."
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Book with confidenceWe partner with the top travel sites so you know you're getting a great deal on the perfect rental
Enhanced cleaningExtra health and hygiene measures to ensure your safety
Map of KwaZulu-Natal
About this nature lodge rental
Elegant Accommodations
Amenities
Free WiFi/internet
Free Parking
Air conditioning
Pool
Non-smoking
Gym
Heating
Bar
Spa
Balcony/Terrace
WiFi/Internet
Shared living spaces
Garden
Laundry services
Fireplace
Family friendly
Ironing facilities
Smoking allowed
Safe
Key access
Housekeeping available
Fire alarm
Fire extinguisher
Cleaning products
FAQs
Does this property follow enhanced cleaning procedures?
Yes, this nature lodge has implemented enhanced cleaning procedures and processes to keep you healthy and safe.
Is parking included with this nature lodge?
Parking is not specified as an available amenity at Madwaleni River Lodge - Babanango Game Reserve. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this nature lodge?
Yes, a swimming pool is available for use at Madwaleni River Lodge - Babanango Game Reserve. Enjoy the water!
Is Madwaleni River Lodge - Babanango Game Reserve pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this nature lodge is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at Madwaleni River Lodge - Babanango Game Reserve?
We found 24 amenities for this rental. This includes free wifi/internet, free parking, air conditioning, pool, and non-smoking.
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