Buhala Lodge

My partner brought me here as a birthday gift. I have to say it's probably the best hotel I've ever stayed in, and I travel a lot. Even for a 5* hotel, it's in a league of its own. The location is absolutely beautiful, with a terrace that overlooks the Crocodile River, where you can sit by day and spot wild animals like giraffes, rhinos and crocodiles on the opposite bank. The property itself is exceptionally well styled and immaculately clean. The food and beverage are exceptional too. Really well thought-out dinners and a great breakfast that really fills you up. If you're into wine, you'll love it here. They had some really high-quality South African wines that you don't see in the UK, with bottles costing about the same as a large glass in central London. Would recommend going on a safari into Kruger Park with one of the guides. Connor took us into the park one day, and we spent the whole day driving from place to place, seeing all sorts, not to mention leopards and lions. He really knows his stuff, explaining to you all the little dynamics behind what you’re seeing between the animals you're seeing; it's super interesting. The guys running it are exceptional: Ali, Bianca, Connor, Devet, Xolani, and Elsabe (I probably spelt all of those names wrong!) were really, really good. Everyone was so effortless in looking after us and making sure we had everything we needed. My background is working in 5* hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants in London, and although I don't think I'm tricky to look after, I'm rarely impressed. But on this occasion, I was really blown away by Buhala Lodge and would return in a heartbeat. Thank you!

The Buhala Lodge is a wonderful stay for visiting Kruger Park. The staff is very friendly, the room is equipped with all amenities and the location is great.

Although our room was very pretty and comfortable and the views were excellent, in my opinion it is not a 5 star lodge although the prices are! The room has a bar fridge. Empty. No drinks available. Even if it is to be paid for. All that was an available was plastic bottles of water. No wine opener for those who chose to take their own. Chunky wine glasses. The open shower was really small and water leaked all over the floor. As a golfer (the reason we stayed there) there were no amenities to get golf shoes cleaned or a dedicated place to keep golf bags. The food was totally below average and in instances, inedible. I did mention this to the receptionist (Alissa?) who did not take kindly to my comments that the chef might need further training. She refused to acknowledge my good bye when I left. I was going to send this review to the owners but it seems that the email goes to reception so they might not get a chance to see it. Do some research as there are other lodges that also arrange a golf game at Leopard Creek which is really a fabulous golf course. It’s sadly not 5 star in my opinion and management needs a shake up as it is a beautiful lodge and setting. Ali and Connor were very gracious hosts in the evening.