Last Friday, we embarked on a Sho’t Left adventure to Makalali Private Game Lodge in Hoedspruit—a 5+ hour drive from Johannesburg that took us through Polokwane and Tzaneen. For me, it was a fresh route through small towns, where sprawling greenery and homely scenes reminded us that quality living extends beyond city lights.
Arriving just in time for lunch, we parked at the main gate since our car wasn’t suited for the gravel road to the lodge itself. If you’re planning a trip here, do yourself a favor and bring an SUV to make the 30-35 minute trek from the gate easier. Greeted warmly, we were ushered in with a gracious welcome and indulged in lunch—tender beef fillet and light chicken pasta. A deliciously healthy start that matched the calm ambiance of this newly revamped lodge, where all rooms boast animal-view balconies!
Our Accommodations
Settling into our room, we found a setup that felt like an apartment in the wild. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a front-row view of the bush, complete with giraffes and elephants meandering by. Inside, we discovered the charm of two showers (one outdoor with direct views of the wilderness), a cozy tub, a bar fridge, a coffee station, and blissfully no TV. Here, nature was all the entertainment we needed, though WiFi was available for those occasional Instagram uploads.
Game Drives, Wildlife, and Stories by the Fire
We started our first game drive with a sunset cocktail and met other travelers—a family from Italy and a couple from the Netherlands. Our ranger, Nonkululeko, who was refreshingly a female, shared her extensive knowledge about the animals and landscapes, making us feel like students in awe. Right from the get-go, we spotted elephants, kudus, and then—the highlight of the night—a leopard hunting antelope! We watched, spellbound, as the leopard stalked, pounced, and secured its prey—a real-life National Geographic moment that had us all cheering in hushed awe.
The night wrapped up with a romantic bonfire dinner under the stars. We enjoyed a three-course meal, with kudu and ribeye as the standout dishes, and malva pudding for dessert. To top it off, the lodge surprised me with a “belated birthday” bar-one cake, serenading me with song and dance. It was one of those unexpected moments that make you feel right at home, even in the middle of the bush.
Lazy Mornings, Monkey Mischief, and Poolside Relaxation
After a long drive and late night, we decided to skip the early game drive and lounge over breakfast. Here, we had a diverse spread of cold meats, fresh fruits, and hot breakfast options served by the ever-smiling staff. Watch out for the cheeky monkeys—they might just steal your toast if you aren’t alert!
The lodge’s pool area became our daytime retreat, with views over the bush that provided another chance to spot passing animals. Sipping on refreshing drinks and indulging in light poke bowls, we relaxed with other guests from the game drive, chatting about life and travel under the warm Hoedspruit sun.
Evening Adventure: Face to Face with Big Cats
That evening, after another cocktail hour, we set out with Nonkululeko and our spotter, Collen, for another game drive. We were close—like, within a few meters close—to elephants and buffaloes. And we were fascinated by the owls, which, as Nonku explained, are just night birds despite their witchy reputation in some communities. The real thrill, though, came when we encountered three lionesses; one, heavily pregnant and too full to move, gave us quite the spectacle as it walked right by our vehicle.
After another scenic stop for drinks and snacks, we enjoyed a cozy, under-the-trees dinner for two. I savored a dish of kingklip and wedges—definitely my favorite of the entire trip.
Final Morning: Goodbyes, Monkeys, and the Open Road
On our last day, I decided to sleep in while my partner headed out for a final game drive and spotted hippos and crocodiles! I packed up with a light breakfast of muesli, enjoying the peaceful morning before check-out. Though the temperature climbed to 40 degrees, the air-conditioning and ceiling fans kept us cool as we reminisced on our unforgettable experience.
The scenic drive back through Mpumalanga offered another opportunity to soak up South Africa’s beauty, cementing the feeling that this country truly has it all.
Final Takeaway
If you’re looking to unplug, reconnect with nature, and experience the thrill of the bush, Makalali Private Game Lodge is a gem that offers everything from heart-pounding game drives to tranquil poolside retreats. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a getaway, this lodge promises a memorable escape into South Africa’s breathtaking wilderness. For more information, you can reach the lodge at Gravelotte Road, Hoedspruit, Limpopo, or contact them directly at 010 442 5888.