BushTime at Mabula

Wildlife kept walking right past our self-catering unit, and the variety was incredible. We stayed a week and went on lots of game drives, from early morning trips to night drives. Every one was memorable. It was the best game reserve experience we’ve had, and I can’t wait to return.

Mabula means a lot to us and has so much to offer, but poor management is making the experience really negative. It feels like the main lodge and international visitors get the focus, while local and loyal Bushtime guests face new restrictions on facilities. At the New Year’s braai, only a third of the tables and chairs we needed were supplied, and the response was very delayed. At Modjadji restaurant, 60% of the menu needs cheese, but there was none for two days. BH5 urgently needs repairs or an upgrade, including its leaking roof and shower, and the Mahasha main pool ablutions still haven’t been renovated. Marc McDonald, the focus needs to shift to loyal Bushtime guests. Please stop blaming others and take ownership. Communication, proactive complaint resolution and accountability all need attention.

After coming to Bushtime at Mabula for many years, it’s disappointing to watch the experience decline year after year. The place has a lot of potential, which makes the lack of visible action especially frustrating. Management says it will respond and follow up, but those promises often feel empty. The timeshare accommodation seems neglected while money goes to the hotel side. Our usual unit clearly needs maintenance, the outside areas are overgrown with weeds, and the units urgently need refurbishment. On our latest stay, there was no power for several days and all the food in the unit spoiled. There’s also a divide between hotel and timeshare visitors, with the restaurant and main lodge facilities not seeming to cater well for timeshare guests. Game drives used to be a highlight, but now the guides change often, vehicles are frequently overbooked, and the trips feel less personal and enthusiastic.

Our first visit to Mabula was a good one. We stayed in Madika, and the unit was clean and well equipped. We enjoyed every safari, and all the drivers were informative. We’ll come back as soon as we can. For us as pensioners, it’s a great place to be. I’m just not sure our grandchildren would enjoy it, with cycling restricted and little focus on children’s activities. Thank you.