Bateleur Safari Camp

Bateleur was the best choice of our trip. After three days of self-driving in Kruger, we decided to spend more for two days in a private reserve. Planning a South Africa safari on our own took lots of research: we watched videos, read blogs and compared over 30 options. We picked Bateleur for its location in Timbavati, where we hoped for good chances of seeing lions and rhinos, our top priorities, and because it seemed focused on wildlife and safari rather than just luxury. It exceeded my high expectations. The guide and tracker were knowledgeable, happy to be out there and committed to finding animals. One day the tracker even got out to follow tracks and found rhinos. Everyone was kind and welcoming. Jan and Michelle greeted us warmly, while Lucky and Zander made the drives unforgettable. The food surprised us in the best way, and we loved the open drinks system: help yourself anytime, with a better selection than we expected. The lodge has a special, peaceful feel. I think it has 5 or 6 rooms, so it never feels crowded. It's right in front of a riverbed, where we often had an elephant hanging around. The garden is beautiful and full of birds to spot and identify. It's elegant and comfortable, but if you're looking for a super luxurious place where people fuss over you, this isn't it. The focus is on the wildlife and the peace, and it's truly serene. If you're deciding between 2 or 3 nights, I'd say go for 3. Next time I definitely will. Don't hesitate, it's worth every cent. Thank you, Bateleur team. See you next time!

A lodge we'll never forget. Our family had a wonderful stay, with gorgeous accommodation, delicious food, and five-star service. The guides went above and beyond to give us game drives we'd remember for a lifetime.

The location was top-notch, and the lodge was decorated beautifully with a real jungle feel. Elephants came into the protected front yard, and we saw some right in front of our tent. We were lucky to witness a cheetah hunt. Our rangers, CJ and His partner, made the safari feel safe and were passionate about sightings, just as excited as we were. They knew a lot and explained how they searched for wild animals. The tents were clean, ventilated, well maintained and nicely equipped. The staff looked after everyone and everything, making each stay feel refreshing. They were very supportive, especially Michell. The food was good, and sunrise and sunset with brekkie made the stay more memorable. Three cheers for CJ and his partner ❤️ The one thing I'd have liked was heaters in the tent, as it was too cold for us in the morning. Amazing 7* experience, 7 stars out of 5 😂

We saw so many animals during our stay, and had no complaints about the viewing. On our first morning drive alone, we spotted rhino, leopard, lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, impala and more. On the first evening we were thrilled to see Wild dogs, then got to follow them from their sleep the next morning. Lucky was our tracker, a real master at finding animals and full of enthusiasm. He also led the bush survival class with great passion. All the other guests were lovely too. We loved our 5 night stay at this eco-lodge. Jan, Michelle and the whole team were welcoming and helpful, friendly and professional. Nothing felt short of luxurious. We worried beforehand about the canvas walls, but the tent was warm except first thing in the morning. The room and bathroom were spacious with excellent storage. The food was good, and the planned schedule ran like clockwork. Five star place!