Top 10 Hotels in Makalali Game Reserve (from $24) 2026 - Competitive Prices

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Our top choices for Makalali Game Reserve hotels

A spacious lounge area with a high wooden ceiling, a central fireplace, and comfortable seating arrangements.

A spacious living area with a high thatched ceiling, a large wooden tree trunk, and a view of a swimming pool.

An outdoor patio area with a central fire pit, stone walls, wooden pergolas, and tables and chairs arranged for dining.

A building with a stone facade, a set of stairs leading to an entrance, and a tree in the foreground.

1. Kapama River Lodge

Hoedspruit

Leela

$1,375 nightly

$1,581 total

Oct 26 - Oct 27

Total with taxes and fees

A modern villa with a pool, outdoor seating, and a covered patio area.

A spacious lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and a large window offering a view of the outdoors.

A modern building with a triangular roof and multiple light fixtures.

A circular outdoor seating area with a central fire feature, surrounded by a wooden fence and trees.

2. Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit

Hoedspruit

Daniel

$179 nightly

$206 total

Oct 8 - Oct 9

Total with taxes and fees

An outdoor seating area with a wooden deck, wicker chairs, a sofa, and a table.

A spacious bedroom with a large bed, a wooden ceiling, and a classic chair.

A room with two leather armchairs, a wooden coffee table, and a view of a grassy area with trees through large windows.

A table set for a meal with candles and a lit lantern, overlooking a body of water.

3. Karongwe - Becks Safari Lodge

Hoedspruit

Maira

$683 nightly

$786 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

A serene outdoor pool area with natural rock formations, lounge chairs, and a wooden pergola.

A cozy living room with a fireplace, comfortable seating, and large windows offering a view of the outdoors.

An outdoor dining area with a fire pit, surrounded by tables and chairs, overlooking a river and forested landscape.

A wooden pathway leading to a stone building with a thatched roof.

4. Karongwe - Kuname Safari Lodge

Hoedspruit

David

$626 nightly

$720 total

Oct 9 - Oct 10

Total with taxes and fees

A poolside area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by trees and a building in the background.

A traditional thatched-roof structure with a wooden deck, surrounded by lush greenery and a clear sky.

A wooden deck with a thatched roof overlooking a river and trees.

An attic room with a thatched roof, wooden beams, a television, a sofa, a coffee table, and a chessboard.

5. Nyati Safari Lodge

Hoedspruit

Derek

$753 nightly

$866 total

Oct 28 - Oct 29

Total with taxes and fees

A swimming pool with lounge chairs and candles, surrounded by a wooden deck and trees.

A well-lit garden pathway leading to a building with a thatched roof and a large glass door.

An outdoor dining area with tables and chairs, a fire pit, and a building with glass walls in the background.

A garden pathway with trees and plants, leading to a building with a thatched roof.

6. Unembeza Boutique Lodge & Spa

Hoedspruit

Lila

$170 nightly

$196 total

Oct 26 - Oct 27

Total with taxes and fees

A poolside area with lounge chairs, a wooden table, and a decorative vase.

A modern bedroom with a large bed, a nightstand, a lamp, and a view of the outdoors.

A bedroom with a large bed, bedside tables, a bench, and a canopy bed.

A spacious living area with a high ceiling, a wooden staircase, a TV mounted on the wall, and a view of the outdoors.

7. Tshukudu Game Lodge

Hoedspruit

James

$167 nightly

$192 total

Oct 3 - Oct 4

Total with taxes and fees

A wooden deck with a central fire feature and lanterns, surrounded by trees and a view of the landscape.

A modern living room with a high ceiling, leather sofa, and a fireplace.

A poolside area with umbrellas, lounge chairs, and potted plants.

A bathroom with a large window, a shower, and a sink.

8. Tomo Safari Lodge

Hoedspruit

Graeme

An outdoor dining area with a long table set for a meal, surrounded by trees and a thatched-roof structure.

A wooden cabin with a staircase leading to a deck, surrounded by trees.

An aerial view of a private pool area surrounded by dense greenery, with a clear pool and stone pathways.

A four-poster canopy bed with a wooden bench, bedside tables, and a desk with a lamp.

9. Karongwe - Chisomo Safari Camp

Tzaneen

Justin

$626 nightly

$720 total

Oct 3 - Oct 4

Total with taxes and fees

A hot tub surrounded by stone walls, wooden deck, and benches.

A thatched-roof house with a wooden deck and large windows.

A room with a bed, a large mirror, and a stone seating area.

A bedroom with a canopy bed, a large tree sculpture, and a rustic decor style.

10. Pondoro Game Lodge - Open to Kruger Park

Hoedspruit

JAMES

A two-story building with a balcony overlooking a mountainous landscape.

A spacious living room with a large mountain view mural, leather sofas, and a wooden coffee table.

A restaurant with outdoor seating, leather chairs, and a mural of a musician.

A hallway with a stone wall, wooden door, and a framed picture on the wall.

11. Blyde Canyon, A Forever Resort

Matibidi

Kent

$93 nightly

$107 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

A covered outdoor seating area with a view of a river and forest.

A spacious outdoor seating area with multiple sofas and a dining table, overlooking a swimming pool and natural surroundings.

A cozy room with a bed, a sofa, and a dining area. There is a large window providing a view of the outdoors.

A cozy lounge area with a large window overlooking a pool and deck.

12. Karongwe - River Safari Lodge

Hoedspruit

Emma

$551 nightly

$633 total

Oct 9 - Oct 10

Total with taxes and fees

A spacious outdoor seating area with wooden furniture and a thatched roof.

A poolside area with a thatched roof, wooden deck, and a clear pool.

A bedroom with a canopy bed, a bathtub, and two lounge chairs under an umbrella.

A modern house with a swimming pool, lounge chairs, and a bathroom visible through the open door.

13. Raptor Retreat Game Lodge

Hoedspruit

Shikar

A wooden deck with a pool, lounge chairs, and umbrellas.

A stone staircase leading up to a wooden deck with a railing, surrounded by greenery and flowers.

A swimming pool with a stone edge, surrounded by a grassy area and trees. There are lounge chairs and a thatched-roof building in the background.

A bedroom with a bed, a bedside table, a mirror, a window, and a ceiling fan.

14. Emhosheni River Lodge

Hoedspruit

William

A bedroom with a canopy bed, a glass table, and a view of trees through large windows.

A cozy bar area with wicker furniture, hanging lanterns, and a variety of bottles and glasses on shelves.

A poolside area with lounge chairs, a hanging chair, and a small pool with a blue light.

A modern house with a thatched roof, a covered outdoor seating area, and a gravel pathway.

15. Ukuthula Bush Lodge

Hoedspruit

Jeremie

$165 nightly

$189 total

Oct 5 - Oct 6

Total with taxes and fees

A swimming pool with white lounge chairs, a building with a pointed roof, and a signboard.

A park with a miniature golf course, benches, and lush greenery.

A building with a thatched roof, a stone entrance, and a fire extinguisher mounted on the wall.

A bedroom with a bed, a door, a window with curtains, and a ceiling light.

16. ATKV Eiland Spa

Phalaborwa

Diederik

A poolside area with a covered seating area, stone walls, and a swimming pool.

A large, oval-shaped hot tub with a stone exterior, positioned next to a window with a view of greenery outside.

A spacious living area with a high ceiling, a dining table, sofas, and a coffee table.

A spacious living area with a dining table, sofas, and a kitchen area.

17. Leopard's Lair Bush Lodge

Hoedspruit

Yashodhan

$125 nightly

$125 total

Oct 10 - Oct 11

Total with taxes and fees

A poolside area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by tropical vegetation.

An outdoor dining area with tables set for a meal, a fire pit, and a bamboo fence.

A bar area with a stone counter, wooden chairs, and a pool in the background.

A wooden deck with a pool, lounge chairs, and a table with a bottle of wine and a glass.

18. Karongwe- Shiduli Safari Lodge

Hoedspruit

Ricardo

$629 nightly

$723 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

A pool area with lounge chairs and a wooden deck, surrounded by trees and a building with a balcony.

A nighttime garden with a cobblestone path, illuminated by soft lighting, surrounded by various plants and trees.

A pool area with a blue-lit water feature, wooden deck, and a tree with illuminated branches.

A spacious room with a high ceiling, a wooden reception desk, a large bookshelf, and a red sofa.

19. Naledi Game Lodges

Hoedspruit

Simon

A thatched-roof dining area with wooden furniture and hanging spherical light fixtures.

A wooden deck leading to a circular seating area with a fire pit, surrounded by greenery and trees.

A bedroom with a bed, bedside table, lamp, and a view of the outdoors.

A pool area with a thatched-roof structure, stone pillars, and a table with chairs.

20. Call of the Wild Lodge

Hoedspruit

Anita

$166 nightly

$193 total

Nov 1 - Nov 2

Total with taxes and fees

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Explore the area near Makalali Game Reserve and other popular areas in Phalaborwa

Nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers will thrive in and around Makalali Game Reserve. Discover captivating wildlife parks, embark on thrilling outdoor activities, and soak in the breathtaking scenery. This eco-friendly destination is perfect for families seeking unforgettable experiences in the heart of the South African wilderness.

Two lions resting in a dry grassland with sparse vegetation.

A lion lying on the ground in a dry, sandy area with sparse vegetation.

A giraffe with a brown coat and white spots, standing under a tree with green leaves.

An elephant with a tusk eating leaves from a tree.

A lion with a large mane walking in a dry grassland with sparse trees.

Karongwe Private Game Reserve

Discover Karongwe Private Game Reserve, a captivating destination perfectly suited for adventure seekers who will appreciate its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. This vibrant village offers access to enchanting experiences, such as the Lourene Game Farm and the iconic Jessica the Hippo, along with picturesque views of the Baobab Tree at Leydsdorp. Located about 9 miles from Makalali Game Reserve, Karongwe is an excellent choice for travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying luxurious accommodations.

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Karongwe Private Game Reserve

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Mica

If you are an adventure-loving traveler, look no further than Mica, a charming village near Makalali Game Reserve. Here, you can explore the delightful Jessica the Hippo farm, immerse yourself in the beauty of the Blyde Olifants Conservancy, and relax by the serene Zebra Dam. Mica is about 9 miles away from the reserve, making it an ideal base for your wildlife adventures. With its blend of luxury and nature, Mica is a smart choice for your stay.

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Selati Game Reserve

Immerse yourself in Selati Game Reserve, where luxury travelers can easily access stunning natural landscapes and thrilling safari adventures. This enchanting area boasts nearby attractions like the Baobab Tree at Leydsdorp and Ndzalama Wildlife Reserve, offering unique experiences for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. With Selati's proximity—about 13 miles—to Makalali Game Reserve, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the wildlife and scenic beauty of Limpopo. Choosing Selati Game Reserve ensures a memorable stay filled with authentic South African experiences.

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Stay near popular attractions around Makalali Game Reserve

Discover the allure of Makalali Game Reserve, where outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery await. Immerse yourself in nature, explore serene lakes, and enjoy eco-friendly experiences that will make your vacation unforgettable. This is the perfect destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Lourene Game Farm

Set the stage for your adventure at Lourene Game Farm, a nature reserve perfect for outdoor lovers seeking eco-friendly experiences. Located about 6 miles from Makalali Game Reserve, it offers thrilling activities that connect you with nature. Staying nearby enhances your exploration of this beautiful region.

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Blyde Olifants Conservancy

Ideal for eco-conscious travelers, Blyde Olifants Conservancy offers a unique blend of adventure and outdoor experiences amid stunning natural landscapes. Located about 8 miles from Makalali Game Reserve, this nature reserve provides convenient access to its eco-friendly activities, making it a perfect spot for a day of exploration and relaxation.

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Lissataba Nature Reserve

Ideal for travelers interested in wildlife experiences, Lissataba Nature Reserve offers breathtaking landscapes and diverse habitats teeming with flora and fauna. Located about 11 miles from Makalali Game Reserve, it's a convenient spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying nearby attractions.

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Zebra Dam

No trip is complete without a visit to Zebra Dam, an enchanting lake offering stunning scenery and a romantic atmosphere perfect for couples and nature lovers. Located about 14 miles from Makalali Game Reserve, its picturesque setting provides a peaceful retreat after a day of adventure in the reserve.

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Boabab Tree at Leydsdorp

10.0/10 (1 review)

An essential stop for business travelers, the Boabab Tree at Leydsdorp offers a unique venue with a distinct atmosphere. This remarkable location combines natural beauty with professional amenities, making it perfect for meetings or events. Located about 15 miles from Makalali Game Reserve, it’s a convenient choice for those staying nearby.

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Kolgans Dam

A captivating spot for nature lovers, Kolgans Dam offers stunning scenery and a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation. This beautiful lake, located about 13 miles from Makalali Game Reserve, invites visitors to enjoy its romantic beach vibes, making it an ideal retreat during your South African adventure.

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Top Makalali Game Reserve Hotel Reviews

Cape Vulture Lodge

10/10 Excellent

"I should preface this review by saying that I am a professional wildlife photographer. I have stayed at dozens of safari lodges both, expensive high-end and ‘budget’ all over Southern and East Africa. The Cape Vulture Lodge, is exceptional! I simply cannot praise it enough. If you require accommodation in this part of South Africa, this is the place to stay! It is very close to the ‘Panorama Route Drive’ and the spectacular Blyde River Canyon, Bourkes Luck Potholes, and a few large waterfalls. The location of the lodge is stunning, at the base of towering Drakensberg cliffs, complete with nesting ledges of the rare, endangered Cape Vulture. The individual ‘tents’ (more like canvas cabins on raised wooden platforms) are spotlessly clean and well appointed with large beds surrounded with mosquito nets, comfortable furniture, elegant bathrooms with both indoor and outdoor showers. Antelope and giraffes often stroll by. The main building with the deck, lounge, bar and dining area, is contemporary safari style covered by a thatched roof. The staff, from the manager to the cleaners are all very friendly, polite and exceptionally helpful. Oh, the food! The lady chef is exceptional, frankly the very best in Africa! The meals are inventive, well presented and gourmet delicious, with all dietary restrictions catered for! Sustainability is part of their ethos, power is all solar. They grow their own vegetables. They offer a multitude of wildlife based activities."

Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit

10/10 Excellent

"Adding microwave to the room would be great"

Khiwane Boutique Hotel

8/10 Good

"Clean room nice pool and good location"

Nyati Safari Lodge

10/10 Excellent

"Wonderful!!!"

Tshukudu Game Lodge

10/10 Excellent

"Simply wonderful! Game drives were excellent and well worth the early start, although if visiting in winter be sure to bring your cold weather gear. Accommodation excellent. Food great too (could be a bit warmer, though). Friendly staff and a very welcoming vibe."

Unembeza Boutique Lodge & Spa

10/10 Excellent

"Beautiful hotel with stunning rooms and real sense of luxury. The pool and grounds are so tranquil and calm and everything is immaculate The staff are attentive and professional and the setting is beautiful with giraffe and zebra roaming around - so lovely. The restaurant is gorgeous. The only tiny bit of feedback is that the restaurant staff got things a bit confused for us and forgot some of the food and got the courses mixed up so the children got their main courses while the adults were served the starter so then had to wait ages for their pudding while we had the rest of the meal, and the side orders of vegetables never materialised but overall we had a wonderful stay "

Karongwe - River Safari Lodge

10/10 Excellent

"Everything was exceptional! The room was beautiful and clean, every single staff member was so friendly and helpful! The facilities were great, the food was delicious and the safari was just amazing! "

Pondoro Game Lodge - Open to Kruger Park

10/10 Excellent

"Favorite game lodge in SA. Loved being by the river!"

More cheap stays in Makalali Game Reserve

Hlakula Lake Resort

R36 Road via D21 Road, Stand 4, Exit 3 Metz Limpopo

$21 nightly

$24 total

Oct 4 - Oct 5

Total with taxes and fees

Mist of Gold

112 Giraffe Street Hoedspruit Limpopo

$39 nightly

$46 total

Oct 24 - Oct 25

Total with taxes and fees

7.8/10 Good! (16 reviews)

Offbeat Safaris

Brussels Ext 4, Off R36 Hoedspruit Limpopo

$94 nightly

$94 total

Oct 9 - Oct 10

Total with taxes and fees

7/10 Good! (2 reviews)

Wild Dog Guest Lodge

352 Kierrieklapper Road Hoedspruit Limpopo

$110 nightly

$110 total

Oct 27 - Oct 28

Total with taxes and fees

Asuite-Dream

244 Rotsvy Street Hoedspruit Limpopo

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8/10 Very Good! (2 reviews)

Parsons River Camp

Plot 36 Balule nature reserve, 1380 Hoedspruit Limpopo

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Hotels in Makalali Game Reserve with star-rating

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Makalali Game Reserve?

The best area to stay in Makalali Game Reserve is within one of the private lodges scattered across the reserve, as this provides the most comprehensive and convenient safari experience.Staying directly within a private lodge means you're already in the heart of the bushveld, offering immediate access to wildlife viewing opportunities. These lodges typically include game drives with experienced rangers and trackers, often twice daily, along with all meals and sometimes other activities like bush walks. This all-inclusive approach simplifies planning and allows you to focus entirely on the safari experience.For couples seeking a romantic and secluded getaway, lodges positioned along the Makhutswi River or overlooking watering holes are particularly appealing. These locations often provide opportunities to view animals directly from your private deck or communal areas, enhancing the sense of being immersed in nature.

When is the best time to go to Makalali Game Reserve?

The best time to go to Makalali Game Reserve is during the dry winter months, from May to October, as this period offers optimal conditions for wildlife viewing.During these months, the vegetation is sparse, making animals easier to spot. Water sources become limited, concentrating wildlife around rivers and watering holes. The weather is generally cooler and drier, with clear skies and less humidity, which is more comfortable for safari activities. This time of year is excellent for most travelers, particularly those on their first safari, as the chances of seeing a wide variety of animals are significantly higher.For travelers who prefer warmer weather and don't mind the occasional rain shower, the shoulder seasons of April or November can also be a good option. During these months, the landscape begins to green, and while wildlife viewing can be more challenging due to thicker bush, you might witness newborn animals and migratory birds.

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Makalali Game Reserve.

How much is the nightly rate at a Makalali Game Reserve hotel?

Prices for hotels in Makalali Game Reserve often vary, but you can find a great deal from $24 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

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Hoedspruit Vacation Rentals

Find hotels in Makalali Game Reserve from $24

Upfront pricing

Treat yourself

Be picky

Go beyond your typical stay in Makalali Game Reserve

Check prices for these dates

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Our top choices for Makalali Game Reserve hotels

1. Kapama River Lodge

2. Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit

3. Karongwe - Becks Safari Lodge

4. Karongwe - Kuname Safari Lodge

5. Nyati Safari Lodge

6. Unembeza Boutique Lodge & Spa

7. Tshukudu Game Lodge

8. Tomo Safari Lodge

9. Karongwe - Chisomo Safari Camp

10. Pondoro Game Lodge - Open to Kruger Park

11. Blyde Canyon, A Forever Resort

12. Karongwe - River Safari Lodge

13. Raptor Retreat Game Lodge

14. Emhosheni River Lodge

15. Ukuthula Bush Lodge

16. ATKV Eiland Spa

17. Leopard's Lair Bush Lodge

18. Karongwe- Shiduli Safari Lodge

19. Naledi Game Lodges

20. Call of the Wild Lodge

Explore the area near Makalali Game Reserve and other popular areas in Phalaborwa

Karongwe Private Game Reserve

Karongwe Private Game Reserve

Mica

Selati Game Reserve

Stay near popular attractions around Makalali Game Reserve

Lourene Game Farm

Blyde Olifants Conservancy

Lissataba Nature Reserve

Zebra Dam

Boabab Tree at Leydsdorp

Kolgans Dam

Top Makalali Game Reserve Hotel Reviews

Cape Vulture Lodge

Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit

Khiwane Boutique Hotel

Nyati Safari Lodge

Tshukudu Game Lodge

Unembeza Boutique Lodge & Spa

Karongwe - River Safari Lodge

Pondoro Game Lodge - Open to Kruger Park

More cheap stays in Makalali Game Reserve

Hlakula Lake Resort

Mist of Gold

Offbeat Safaris

Wild Dog Guest Lodge

Asuite-Dream

Parsons River Camp

Hotels in Makalali Game Reserve with star-rating

Frequently asked questions

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