Baluleni Safari Lodge

We had a special family Christmas in 2025 at this family-owned and run place. We were lucky enough to see the Big 5, but the generous, knowledgeable staff and guides also went the extra mile for us. Thank you, Baluleni Staff!

Baluleni feels wonderfully intimate. Each evening we sat around an open fire with the staff and owners, eating together and swapping stories from the day's safari. The food was lovely, and there was more than enough for my unapologetically huge American appetite every day. The grounds are beautifully cared for, and everyone was warm and welcoming. Wild animals roam freely because the lodge isn't fenced in. During my week there, giraffes grazed just inches from my chalet in the mornings. At dinner under the stars, I could hear hippos grunting and elephants rustling through the trees. It felt surreal, and unlike anywhere I've stayed before. Authentic, peaceful and unforgettable, I'm already planning to return. Don't hesitate, this place is special.

The staff were amazing, and the owners were friendly and caring. We ate fantastic breakfast, lunch and dinner, with vegetarian options available, and enjoyed good game drives with knowledgeable guides. Our two riverside suites were super clean and comfortable, and we got to watch giraffes, elephants, monkeys and other animals stroll past. A gorgeous, incredible place for our second stop in South Africa. Thanks for a great time.

Flooding meant we couldn't make it to Baluleni and had to miss the stay. Still, they responded promptly to all our questions and were willing to refund our payment since the lodge couldn't be reached in the current conditions. We certainly hope to visit in the future.