Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge

Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge

R36 Karongwe Portfolio, Bismark, Maruleng 1380 South Africa
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Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.

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Avg. R 13,069 /night, 3/23 - 3/24
R 17,055
per night
R 15,008
per night
R 12,960
per night

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About

#1 of 1 lodge in Bismark
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Location
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
4.8 of 5 bubbles
Value
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Service
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Step into an unparalleled African safari experience at Becks Safari Lodge; the latest addition to the renowned Karongwe Portfolio. Offering guests the full package, this safari retreat incorporates luxury accommodation, dedicated staff and big five game viewing; partnered with a spectacular look at some of South Africa’s most beautiful surrounds and a distinctive, personalised ‘home away from home’ feel. Set in the Karongwe Private Game Reserve and overlooking the stunning Makhutswi River, this intimate location offers eleven safari suites bordering the river as well as two couples oriented suites looking onto a popular waterhole. Outstanding views welcome guests to a unique lifestyle experience, combining lux living with a deep appreciation for South Africa’s natural environment.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Free breakfast
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Airport transportation
Spa
Secured parking
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Infinity pool
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Couples massage
Foot massage
Full body massage
Hand massage
Massage
Neck massage
24-hour security
Baggage storage
Gift shop
Mosquito net
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
Private check-in / check-out
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
Room features
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Desk
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Extra long beds
Walk-in shower
Bath / shower
Safe
Seating area
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
4.5 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Family
Trendy
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans, Xhosa, Zulu

Location

R36 Karongwe Portfolio, Bismark, Maruleng 1380 South Africa
Getting there
Hoedspruit Airport
52.5 km
See all flights
Phalaborwa Airport
66.5 km
See all flights
Traveller rating
  • 273
  • 19
  • 1
  • 1
  • 2
Time of year
Traveller type
Language
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Detailed Reviews
These reviews are machine translated from their original language. Show machine translations?
Valentina B wrote a review Jan 2024
Montecatini Terme, Italy
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I think only a fool could give less than 5 stars to this place:

Clean, large rooms with a breathtaking view! Well-kept structure, surrounded by nature and animals that come to drink in the river in front, the structure has a 24-hour security guard who comes to pick you up in your room once the sun sets to avoid running into an animal and getting scared. .

Excellent food, they manage to combine local and European cuisine by creating simple dishes, not too spicy and with the right variety between meat/fish and vegetarian.

Very kind staff, after knowing that we were on our honeymoon, they made us find a wonderful surprise in the room: a bottle of champagne, strawberries covered in chocolate and a bathtub full of bubbles and candles.

Finally, the Safari, a unique experience in the world and the kindness, friendliness and above all preparation of the rangers and trackers make it simply perfect.
Nobody promises you to see the big 5, they do everything by communicating between cars to let you see as many of the animals in their park as possible but we are not in a zoo, nature rules in there.
We were lucky enough to see all 5 of them and many more, we were a lucky group however I advise you to live every moment 100% as every smell or color gives you enormous emotions.
Every day there are 2 Safaris, one at sunrise and one at sunset while during the day you can enjoy the swimming pool for some well-deserved relaxation.

I WOULD SAY SUPER RECOMMENDED!!!
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Google
Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Vi consiglio di prendere i lodge sul fiume, c’è più privacy ed è molto suggestivo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andrea N wrote a review Dec 2024
Boston, Massachusetts
5.0 of 5 bubbles
What an exceptional experience, and 5 star all around. The staff are wonderful, you see up close animals on the safaris, the food is delicious, the pool is relaxing and the accommodations are gorgeous. Without breaking the bank (compared to other places) I have recommended this location over and over. Also, in November there are many animal babies!
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Date of stay: November 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Karongwe Reservations, Marketing at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge
Responded 06 Dec 2024
Dear Andrea Thank you for sharing your beautiful feedback with us. We are delighted to hear that you had an exceptional experience during your recent visit. We would love to welcome you back for more Magic of the Bush in the near future! Warm Regards Becks Safari Lodge
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Louise Oldham wrote a review Dec 2024
South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The staff at the lodge were absolutely outstanding—helpful, friendly, and always going above and beyond to ensure our comfort and cater to every need. From the night "escorters," Thomas and Ben, to the knowledgeable guides and trackers, Jack, Raymondo, and Ezekial, every interaction was exceptional. Johan and his wife are an incredible duo, seamlessly managing every aspect of the lodge with professionalism and warmth. The chefs, kitchen staff, and waitstaff delivered an exceptional dining experience, serving 5-star quality meals that truly elevated our stay.

The reception staff were always friendly and ensured a smooth check-in and check-out process, making our arrival and departure effortless.

There are also many other staff members who contribute to the overall luxury and comfort of the lodge, whose names we unfortunately did not take, but their efforts are clearly noticeable. The premises are impeccably maintained, and the cleanliness of the rooms is truly commendable, adding to the overall exceptional experience.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Karongwe Reservations, Marketing at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge
Responded 16 Dec 2024
We are grateful for your recognition of our outstanding staff, including the guide and tracker, who contributed to making your experience truly magical. Your high recommendation of Becks Safari Lodge is greatly appreciated, and we hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable safari adventure in the future. Kind Regards Becks Safari Lodge
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sandy M wrote a review Jan 2022
5.0 of 5 bubbles
As this was our first visit to Karongwe Game Reserve, what a pleasant surprise. Our first stop was at Becks Safari Lodge. All staff were extremely friendly, professional and went out of their way to ensure that our every requirement was met. Rooms are large, comfortable and well appointed and offer views of either the river or the Drakensburg Escarpment. What can be said about the food - prepare to put on weight as every meal was excellent and offered a wide variety to choose from. Our ranger Sondy and tracker Michael were very polite and knowledgeable, and ensured that the vehicle was clean, eats were available (all individually provided due to Covid) and the best possible sightings were seen.
If you need to relax and enjoy wildlife, then this lodge is definitely recommended.
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Date of stay: December 2021
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Room Tip: Would recommend a chalet with a river view - we were in No. 1
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Karongwe Reservations, Marketing at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge
Responded 20 Jan 2022
Thank you so much for your wonderful review and we hope we will see you again in the near future.
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Cian F wrote a review Jun 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Myself and my family recently stayed at Becks safari lodge for 1 night. From the moment we arrived at the lodge we were greated by the friendly staff, who kindly took our bags to our rooms (as a family of 4 we had 2 rooms).

The lodge itself was absolutely stunning and had a great atmosphere, but the rooms were something else. The rooms over looked a river and were very well furnished.

Johan and his wife ran the lodge amazingly well. All the staff were friendly and the food was tasty and excellently presented. The staff and all the people in the lodge made us feel like VIP's and could not have done more for us.

On our 2 game drives, with Matthews and Forget, we saw 3 of the big 5, but by far the best sightings were the cheetah and leopard. I'm sure if we stayed longer we would have seen more.

We would love to stay there again, I highly recommend it.
Read more
Date of stay: June 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Karongwe Reservations, Marketing at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge
Responded 24 Jun 2024
Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience at Becks Safari Lodge! It sounds like you had an exceptional stay, and I’m thrilled to hear about the impeccable service and treatment you received. Thank you for recommending it—I’m sure other travelers will appreciate your insights and hope to see you soon! 🌿🦁🌄
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
L H L wrote a review Sept 2024
Johannesburg, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Large beds, large rooms, lovely deep bath, clean and tidy. AC in the rooms for heat or cooling.
Plenty of complimentary tea and coffee in the room with a coffee machine . Water bottles in the fridge.
Large veranda with wildlife to observe on the riverside.
Very friendly and helpful staff. They really do care that you are having a wonderful experience and stay.
Fabulous food with a vegetarian option for every meal.
Safari early morning and late afternoon. Good game to view, experienced tracker and ranger.
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Date of stay: September 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: If visiting in September make sure you have some warm layers of clothing that you can remove once...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Karongwe Reservations, Marketing at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge
Responded 06 Sept 2024
Thank you so much for the wonderful feedback. We are delighted to hear that your expectations were exceeded during your visit! We hope to welcome you back for more Karongwe Magic in the near future. Warm Regards Becks Safari Lodge
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Meir731 wrote a review Jul 2023
Westport, Connecticut
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Spent 5 days there with my wife. The food was excellent. The staff was warm and friendly. The game guide, Bert, and tracker Patrick, were very knowledgeable and incredibly helpful. My wife has a leg problem that makes getting in and out of the vehicle, they were always there to assist us, Most days there were groups of animals eating right outside our porch in the afternoon. The grounds were kept spotless. Our one complaint was that the heaters in the room were localized and so the rooms were chilly during the winter nights.
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: In the winter, it is cold in the early mornings and at night. For the game drives dress in...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Leslie Family wrote a review Dec 2024
Alexandria, Virginia
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We had an amazing stay at Becks Safari Lodge in Karongwe Private Game Reserve, arranged through Platinum Holidays. The game drives were well-organized and exciting, giving us the chance to see the Big Five, other incredible wildlife, and abundant bird species.

The lodge, with its stunning riverbed and plains views, offered luxurious accommodations. Villa #7 was a delight, and the meals were exceptional, especially the standout breakfasts and delicious South African dishes.

The outstanding staff, including our guide and tracker, made the experience truly magical. We highly recommend Becks Safari Lodge for an unforgettable safari adventure!
Read more
Date of stay: November 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Karongwe Reservations, Marketing at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge
Responded 07 Dec 2024
Dear Leslie Family, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your fantastic review of Becks Safari Lodge. We are thrilled to hear that you had an amazing stay and enjoyed every aspect of your safari adventure. Your kind words about the well-organized and exciting game drives, which allowed you to witness the Big Five, other incredible wildlife, and abundant bird species, truly mean a lot to us. We are also delighted to hear that you found the lodge's views, luxurious accommodations, and meals to be exceptional, especially the breakfasts and South African dishes. We are particularly grateful for your recognition of our outstanding staff, including the guide and tracker, who contributed to making your experience truly magical. Your high recommendation of Becks Safari Lodge is greatly appreciated, and we hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable safari adventure in the future. Kind Regards Becks Safari Lodge
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
AnikaS0001 wrote a review Oct 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Amazing experience at Becks Safari Lodge.
Very friendly staff and excellent service.
Food was amazing as well as the game viewing experience! They went above and beyond to make us feel at home and the small extra details were so special.
We loved every minute!! Would highly recommend staying at Becks!
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Karongwe Reservations, Marketing at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge
Responded 09 Oct 2024
Dear Anika Thank you for taking the time to share your amazing feedback with us. We are overjoyed to hear that your Anniversary Trip to us was extremely special. We would love to welcome you back again in the near future for more Karongwe Magic! Warm Regards Becks Safari Lodge
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rits2211 wrote a review 07 Mar
Orlando, Florida
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Everything was handled perfectly! Amazing cuisine, delicious breakfast, my unit was huge inside and all amenities provided. The staff was very service oriented with a smile. The managers, husband and wife team, Johan and Adeline were gracious, informative, listened to my requests and stayed here twice already, I knew what to expect.

My safari guide, Williams and the Tracker, Forget, were hands on excellent with all the game rides. I’ll definitely return in the near future.
Read more
Date of stay: February 2025Trip type: Travelled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Karongwe Reservations, Marketing at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge
Responded 2 weeks ago
Good day, Thank you for taking the time to share your beautiful feedback with us! We hope to host you again in the near future for more Safari Magic. Warm Regards Becks Safari Lodge
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Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Tad L wrote a tip Nov 2024
Bethel28 contributions3 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Don't forget to tip your guide and tracker at the end of your stay. A rule of thumb is US $10-20 per person per game drive, or better."
Read full review
L H L wrote a tip Sept 2024
Johannesburg, South Africa1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"If visiting in September make sure you have some warm layers of clothing that you can remove once the sun has come up."
Read full review
Lez H wrote a tip Aug 2024
Perth, Australia97 contributions6 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Try to get cabins 1 - 4"
Read full review
Stuart M wrote a tip Jul 2023
Melbourne, Australia16 contributions4 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"As there are only 10 rooms in the lodge, you feel like you are in your own world."
Read full review
Meir731 wrote a tip Jul 2023
Westport, Connecticut4 contributions1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"In the winter, it is cold in the early mornings and at night. For the game drives dress in layers, bring a scarf or ear coverings and a coat"
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Bismark area.
PRICE RANGE
R 11,267 - R 20,095 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaLimpopo ProvinceMarulengBismark
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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KARONGWE PORTFOLIO - BECKS SAFARI LODGE - UPDATED 2025 Reviews & Price Comparison (Bismark, South Africa)

Frequently Asked Questions about Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge
What are some of the property amenities at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
Which room amenities are available at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a desk, and extra long beds.
What food & drink options are available at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Are pets allowed at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge?
Yes, pets are typically allowed, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Afrikaans, Zulu, and Xhosa.
Is Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge accessible?
Yes, it offers wheelchair access and facilities for disabled guests. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.