Kududu Guest House

We spent four days at Kududu, a lovely quiet start to our South African holiday. The garden and pool made it easy to unwind, and the place had everything we needed for self catering. Our boys quickly befriended the owners’ three dogs. Addo Elephant Park is conveniently close, and there’s also a handy SPAR in the town of Addo. We’d happily return.

The setting is wonderfully peaceful, with rolling green hills and beautiful views, well away from the crowds. It’s about 20 minutes from both Kirkwood city centre and Addo Elephant Park. The owners and staff were friendly and accommodating, and everything was pristinely clean. You can choose rooms, self catering, or a bush stay. The more adventurous can try a shower in a primitive setting, which makes you feel close to nature. There’s a lovely pool, pleasant lounge and dining areas, and breakfast tables with gorgeous scenery. Rooms are spacious and have stocked bar fridges, and there’s a game drive on the property too. It’s tranquil and good value, with an experience that feels different from an ordinary guest house.

I’d been looking forward to the jacuzzi, so it was disappointing that it wasn’t working.

We booked a few weeks ahead, but the hotel sent an unreadable directions message just days before we arrived. Driving in the dark, we got lost and ended up near dangerous places. After an hour going between orchards, a patrol officer helped us find the way. At the gate, we waited almost 10 minutes for someone to answer the intercom. The room we were given was old and dirty, with grimy towels, as the pictures show, and an air conditioner that sounded like a tractor.