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Traveller (292)
Room & Suite (76)
Dining (24)
What is Travellers’ Choice?
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.

About

#1 of 7 lodges in Malelane
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value
Travellers' Choice
Buhala Lodge is an enchanting five star colonial style lodge, situated on the Southern banks of the Crocodile River. The ample veranda space, provides all guests an opportunity to relax and dine outside while admiring gorgeous views of the Kruger National Park, and all the wild life splendor it has to offer. Members of the Big 5 are frequent visitors to our property along with hippo, crocodile and many antelope species. Buhala Lodge is well known for exceptional cuisine and a wine list showcasing only the best South African wines. Dinners are served either al fresco or in our gracious dining room. Dinners are as a three course meal with some options offered. The menu changes daily and dietary requirements are attended to with prior notice. Our guests have the rare opportunity to play golf at the exclusive LEOPARD CREEK COUNTRY CLUB which is usually only reserved for members. An open air bush spa is available at Buhala for guests who want to relax after a long day of game viewing.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Public wifi
Pool
Free breakfast
Hiking
Fishing
Airport transportation
Full body massage
Parking
Pool / beach towels
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Complimentary tea
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Massage
Neck massage
Non-smoking hotel
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Electric kettle
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Private bathrooms
Hair dryer
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Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Charming
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans
680Reviews2Q+A64Room tips
Traveller rating
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John OC wrote a review Nov 2023
Greater Adelaide, Australia3 contributions
Wonderful people - warm and welcoming. Stunning facility - luxurious and stylish. Service - exceptional … first class. Safaris - WOW! (Shaun is an amazing tracker. Such knowledge, experience and instinct) Food and Beverage - excellent
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: November 2023
Value
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Location
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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.
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Response from Buhala Lodge, Owner at Buhala Lodge
Responded 1 week ago
Dear John, thank you for taking the time to review and recommend Buhala Lodge, We loved having you and Wendy stay with us and glad you enjoyed your stay, filled with safaris in the Kruger Park and Golf at Leopard Creek. We hope to see you back on your next South African holiday. Warm Regards, The Buhala Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Marie F wrote a review Aug 2022
Weston, Massachusetts12 contributions3 helpful votes
Property's Favourite Review
We recently stayed at Buhala Lodge again having stayed there 3 years ago with our friends. WE LOVED IT SO MUCH! Marjie (hilarious) at the front desk, Gary (what a photographer!) at the front desk, Sean (safari guide extraordinaire!) who we requested and paid a little extra to have him all to ourselves...he KNOWS the habits of the animals and KNOWS exactly what and where and how to enjoy them and get the best photos because he is a beautiful photographer as well! Then there is the lodge itself...OMG!!!! Our room with a private veranda overlooks the Crocodile River in Krueger and in the evening we watch the sun go down in all its brilliance and glory-you have never seen a sunset like this! I like to enjoy a serene bath looking at the river and the rich colors of bougainvillea outside the bathroom window. (Room #13) There are lounging/sitting areas all over the lodge, a bar area, pool and wonderful large veranda to view the animals who wander about as you sip a finely crafted cocktail before dining al fresco by candlelight. The atmosphere is gentle, subdued, sophisticated. Linen napkins contorted into animal figures in your water glass lit by the lantern, fine wines (there is a beautiful glass enclosed wine room!) and very, very inexpensive, you just can't believe it! The food is the best ever, we are foodies and know good food...this is exceptional, this is truly 5 star cuisine. You choose what you want even morning from plenty of options. Let's see, what else? Oh we like to play golf and was able to play Leopard Creek, a fine private club, about a 15 minute drive. If you stay at Buhala Lodge you get to play there, otherwise no. All in all, this is the place to stay. We stayed at the Burj Al Arab in Dubai as we flew Emirates from JFK (they call it the only 7 star hotel in the world) and once we got to the lodge we decided that there was NO comparison...Buhala Lodge is simply the most beautiful place to stay and we have traveled everywhere. Make your travel plans...and enjoy!!!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: August 2022
Value
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Sleep 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.
1 Helpful vote
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Response from Buhala Lodge, Owner at Buhala Lodge
Responded 07 Aug 2022
Dear Marie and Edson, wow thank you for this raving review! We all so loved having you and Edson come stay and experience all that our beautiful lodge has to offer! Our river view rooms really are a treat being able to watch our breath-takingly beautiful red/pink sunsets over the Crocodile river and Kruger Park. We know that you so badly wanted to extend your stay but couldn't due to flights, so we hope to welcome you back in the near future! Warm Regards, the Buhala Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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thyldelund wrote a review Nov 2023
St. Petersburg, Russia2 contributions
It was an absolute pleasure to stay at the Buhala Lodge. From the terrace overlooking Crocodile River we spotted Rhino, Buffalo, elephant, waterbuck and much other game. The food and the service was excellent. I can highly recommend this place.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep 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.
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Response from Buhala Lodge, Owner at Buhala Lodge
Responded 3 weeks ago
Thank you for taking the time to review and recommend Buhala Lodge. Wonderful to hear that you had a excellent stay! Please do visit again soon. Warm Regards, The Buhala Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Mads H wrote a review Nov 2023
Algiers, Algeria1 contribution
What an absolute gem you have. Buhala is truly authentic in atmosphere and the service is great, you feel right at home. The rooms are spotless and cozy. Make sure to book a room with a balcony. The view is stunning and wildlife is just outside. We had great game drives with knowledgeable rangers (special thanks to Pat). We will definitely come back and we highly recommmed Buhala to other bush lovers.
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Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
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.
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Response from Buhala Lodge, Owner at Buhala Lodge
Responded 3 weeks ago
Thank you for taking the time to write a lovely review! we loved having you and your family stay with us! Wonderful to hear that your bush holiday was just perfect! we always striving to make our guests stay magical :) we can't wait to welcome you back! Warm Regards, The Buhala Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Mark E wrote a review Nov 2023
Limpsfield, United Kingdom98 contributions37 helpful votes
It is like staying in a family home - so comfortable with staff that just want to ensure you are enjoying yourself. They are friendly, chatty and so hospitable. We were able to settle in very quickly and so enjoyed our stay there - if ever back to that area then this is where we will return!!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
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Sleep 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.
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Response from Buhala Lodge, Owner at Buhala Lodge
Responded 3 weeks ago
Dear Mark, Thank you for taking the time to write a review. We loved having you stay with us and glad it felt like home away from home ;) Please do visit us on your next trip to SA. Warm Regards, The Buhala Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Golferandrunner wrote a review Nov 2023
Atlanta, Georgia30 contributions6 helpful votes
Our stay at the Buhala Lodge in October 2023 was perfect in every way! From the moment we arrived with a warm and spirited welcome from Margie, no detail was overlooked. We stayed in the spacious Elephant Room which had a large deck, private pool and spectacular views of the river and wildlife. The staff, hospitality, atmosphere, accommodations, wine and food were five stars. And as a bonus, we had the privilege of playing golf at the Leopards Creek Golf Club as arranged through Buhala. Thank you for adding yet another lasting memory to our trip! Mike & Marnita Riddle Duluth, Georgia USA
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
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.
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Response from Buhala Lodge, Owner at Buhala Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
Dear Mike & Marnita, Thank you for the wonderful review- we so enjoyed hosting you! Buhala really is a special place with breath-taking views and we are so pleased that you got to experience it. Good to hear that everything was "5 stars" as we really do strive to make a memorable holiday for our guests. We hope to welcome you back on your next visit to South Africa. Warm Regards, the Buhala Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Helena C wrote a review Oct 2023
1 contribution
It was an excellent experience! We'll certainly want to come back one day and relive these days. The place is one of the most beautiful we've ever seen. Watching the animals by the river from the lodge terrace is a unique sensation. Staying at Buhala Lodge means being in the middle of nature with the tranquillity that characterises it and with enormous comfort and refinement.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep 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.
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Response from Buhala Lodge, Owner at Buhala Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
Dear Helena, Thank you for taking the time to review Buhala. We so pleased that you had a fantastic stay and got to experience our beautiful Lodge. We hope to welcome you back again soon! Warm Regards, The Buhala Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Veronique wrote a review Oct 2023
2 contributions
We enjoyed top class service. The food was excellent and meals well balanced. Very welcoming staff. Professional attitude and very helpful. Breathtaking view from the bedroom and excellent bedding. Highly recommend!!!!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep 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.
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Response from Buhala Lodge, Owner at Buhala Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
Dear Veronique, Thank you for taking the time to review and recommend our Lodge. Glad to hear that you had a wonderful experience and "top class service" at Buhala. Please visit again soon. Warm Regards, The Buhala Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Thanesmith wrote a review Oct 2023
31 contributions10 helpful votes
This was a beautiful stop on our South Africa trip, and I wish we could have stayed more than the two days that we did. We enjoyed everything; the friendly staff, the wildlife viewing from the terrace, the excellent food, and the comfortable room and decor. We had a lovely drive with Shaun in Kruger National Park. Really, another day or two would have been great. Thanks to all at Buhala.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep 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.
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albycruse wrote a review Oct 2023
1 contribution
Third time to this destination. The experience is exhilarating, with the safaris, relaxing in Buhala, Food and service are of the highest quality. Staff cannot do enough. Setting is one of the best places in the world I have ever visited. As you can tell we had the most wonderful time, would recommend to anyone and would certainly go again.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: September 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep 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.
Helpful
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Response from Buhala Lodge, Owner at Buhala Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
Dear Alan, thank you for taking the time to write a wonderful review and for recommending Buhala! We love having you stay with us and are always welcome at Buhala. We so happy that you had a fantastic holiday with a great mix of golf and safaris and a superb experience at our hotel. Hopefully we can welcome you back for a fourth time ;) Warm Regards, The Buhala Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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PRICE RANGE
US$263 - US$307 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaMpumalangaMalelane
NUMBER OF ROOMS
18
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BUHALA LODGE - Reviews & Price Comparison (Malelane, South Africa) - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Buhala Lodge
What are some of the property amenities at Buhala Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
What food & drink options are available at Buhala Lodge?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Buhala Lodge?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Buhala Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Buhala Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Buhala Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Buhala Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Afrikaans.
Does Buhala Lodge have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the river view available here.