Houtboschoek Vacations from $2,147

The pool needed cleaned

This must be one of the most special properties in South Africa, if not on the entire African continent! Every detail of our stay was made to feel extraordinarily special, from the staff stocking the game drives with our favourite beverages, to the intimate surprise fireside dinner for two. We truly left feeling that if we were to return, our favourite staff members would remember us. Thoughtful menus and wine list, superb and unique decor that embraces the local surroundings, and pleasantly long and educational game drives.

Staff and amenities excellent !! Can’t beat the experience of being in the middle of national reserve. Easy access to safaris. Three restaurants on property- great range of food. People super nice and kind. Had a great time. Would love to go there again. Will suggest buying all safari packages from the rest camp reception 5 min walk away from the lodge rather than the hotel reception who sells same at significant markup (more than twice the price) otherwise very reasonably priced especially for the experience and convenience.

We hired 2 chalets' no's 528 & 529. 528 was in good shape but 589 was not. The master bedroom carpets were dirty and the chalet needed painting. We paid for half board but found the food generally very poor. Breakfast was OK with eggs cooked while you waited, the sausages and bacon were good but there was little fresh fruit. The evening meal starters were poor, those which should have been hot were cold and the roast was generally overcooked. The facilities this resort offers are excellent with Tennis, Table tennis, a small Pool table, a nice swimming pool and of course, Golf. The hippo pool and hide are well worth a visit with good views of a large number of hippos. We also saw kingfishers, a darter and egrets.