Toro Yaka Bush Lodge
Sable Road R40, Kruger National Park 1380 South Africa
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About
#22 of 113 lodges in Kruger National Park
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Owner/Manager team Steve & Nicole Baillie would like to invite you to visit Toro Yaka Bush Lodge. This special lodge is nestled in the heart of the Balule Nature Reserve, a 38 000 hectare conservancy, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park area. ToroYaka means “My Dream” in Northern Sotho, one of South Africa’s local languages, and the creation of Toro Yaka Bush Lodge has fulfilled the dreams of Steve and Nicole, by establishing a haven of peace and tranquility from which to share their passion for nature. The lodge has been designed in a modern elegant style, with a relaxed atmosphere, allowing guests to sit back, relax and feel at home. The four en-suite double rooms ensure tranquillity and comfort at all times. Steve is now a trainer/instructor in a nearby reserve, you might see him during your stay. Nicole is a qualified holistic massage therapist and takes care of all the tiny details. Amore is at Nicole's side assisting in the runnings of the lodge. Mike, your guide, has been working as a guide for a decade. His passion and enthusiasm for nature is inspiring. Together with the Toro Yaka Staff, they will ensure your stay to be a memorable one. Balule is home to a large variety of plants and animals. From the smallest spider to the largest elephant, from the tiniest flower to a 1000-year-old leadwood tree, owls at night and eagles by day, every aspect of the ecosystem is explored. The Olifants River, which flows year-round through the Balule, is home to hippos and crocodiles, and the whole area is one of scenic splendour, with the northern tip of the Drakensberg mountain range being visible from many points. Together with all of this, Toro Yaka Bush Lodge offers you good home-cooked food, friendly service, warm South African Hospitality and loads of enthusiasm
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Property amenities
Free parking
Public wifi
Pool
Yoga room
Poolside bar
Patio
Walking tours
Airport transportation
Secured parking
Pool / beach towels
Infinity pool
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Restaurant
Breakfast buffet
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Board games / puzzles
Foot massage
Full body massage
Massage
Neck massage
Open-air bath
Baggage storage
Gift shop
Mosquito net
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
First aid kit
Umbrella
Private check-in / check-out
Clothes dryer
Laundry service
Washing machine
Ironing service
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Room features
Blackout curtains
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Desk
Housekeeping
Coffee / tea maker
Cable / satellite TV
Walk-in shower
Interconnected rooms available
Private balcony
Safe
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Clothes rack
Laptop safe
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Refrigerator
Electric kettle
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
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Room types
Pool view
Non-smoking rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Hidden Gem
Romantic
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans, German, Xhosa
Location
440Reviews9Q+A70Room tips
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Toro Yaka is simply amazing. From the incredibly knowledgeable guides (Sarina + Steve!) and tracker (Chat - still amazed he saw the chameleon @ night moving at 15 km/hr!) to the lodge staff that always made us feel welcome and at home. And the food! The best we had during our entire trip. This was my second trip to Toro Yaka and I hope to visit again next year.
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip 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.
Helpful
Wow, what an amazing place. Great game drives that included discussions about animals, birds, reptiles, insects, flowers, trees, astrology and more, super-informative bush walks, amazing food, cute and comfortable rooms (and well equipped to deal with South Africa’s load shedding) with lovely outdoor shower and verandahs with views of the bush and/or waterhole, caring and involved owners, knowledgeable guides and trackers, friendly and efficient lodge staff, and peaceful afternoons by the pool spent watching animals visit the waterhole only a few dozen yards away. Just wow! Owner Nicole was super amazing helping us not only plan our stay, but with transfers and day trips as well. If you are looking for an authentic safari experience away from the crowds and enjoy spending time immersed in nature and learning about the ecosystem, I cannot recommend Toro Yaka enough! Feel free to message me if you have any specific questions.…
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Date of stay: May 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
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Service
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
+1
We had the most incredible honeymoon at Toro Yaka in early May and it was better than we ever imagined! We left teary-eyed because we not only had an unbelievable experience with the safari game drives, but we really got to connect with the owners and staff over our 5 days/4 nights. The staff was incredible - from Nicole and Steve running the lodge, to our guides for the week Stefan and Chatt, to the rest of the staff that prepared the meals, accommodations, drinks/service. The food was unbelievably good!! I've never eaten so well on a vacation in my life, the variety of food was amazing, quality was speculator and it was so well-plated that you'd think you were at an upscale restaurant. The safari game drives themselves were obviously the best part - two drives per day and we couldn't get enough! They really made sure to give us the best experience possible. We got to see the Big 5! As well as so many other animals, including baby lion cubs, baby elephants, baby zebra's etc. Elephants came up to the watering hole in front of the lodge pool multiple days to hang out! We are so glad that somebody else had recommended Toro Yaka to us, it was unforgettable in every aspect and we can't wait to go back someday!…
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Date of stay: May 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
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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.
Helpful
As the previous reviews have stated, Steve and Nicole have created a really lovely safari experience with their lodge and the guides they hire (two game drives a day). My wife and I heartily agree with all the positives mentioned in the previous reviews. Not mentioned is that this great experience compares very well on price as the total cost is less expensive then all the other options we looked at. I will be recommending this lodge to all my friends and understand why the person who recommended this place to me has returned on multiple occasions. If you are new to safaris know that Hoedspruit is about 40 minutes away from this lodge and transport can easily be arranged by Nicole if you fly into this airport as many do. If you have questions about the lodge before you book I encourage you to email the lodge directly as they are very helpful. What I most loved about being at Toro Yaka is that although you are in a game park (where you know there will be animals) doing game drives, the entire experience felt exotic and otherworldly and we know the special atmosphere we felt was due to the efforts of the Nicole, Steve, the entire staff and the guides who worked with us. Stephan, our guide, was very knowledgeable and his enthusiasm for the animals and their habits and habitats was really excellent, and he is a great communicator; Chat was a good tracker - we really saw so much more than we expected! Toro Yaka was a wonderful experience.…
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Date of stay: May 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.
Helpful
As returning guests we couldn't recommend Toro Yaka Bush Lodge more - it is the perfect place to safari, relax and reconnect. You are looked after by Nicole and the team from the moment you arrive to the sad moment when you have to leave. *Food* The food is outstanding, Nicole knows exactly what her guests need throughout the day. Before morning game drives there is tea/coffee etc provided as well as fruit and other nibbles. Breakfast is a combination of fresh fruit, cereals, pastries and something cooked. Lunch is a lighter bite, but exactly what you need in the heat of the day, while dinner is a bigger feed and always delicious. Nicole does well to mix you in with other guests, while also giving you your own time together. *Game drives* Serena (guide) and Chat (tracker) made our trip. Both extremely knowledgeable, friendly and approachable they showcased all the variety the bush has to offer. Serena talked us through tracking, spider webs, how to start fires without matches as well as tracking the big 5. We were also very lucky to see an incredible lion hunt - possibly the best day we have had! In the mornings we stopped off for tea/coffee/hot chocolate and in the evenings we watched the sun go down over a beer. *Accommodation/Lodge* The lodge feels like home, there is an honesty bar, fresh water and a superb pool to lounge beside. The rooms are sizeable, clean and have mosquito netting over the beds. The real highlight is the outdoor shower - it is quite special to shower while looking at the Milky Way. *Other* We were in SA while load shedding was happening (resulting in no power being available across SA). However this was something we hardly noticed. In fact it was refreshing not to be able to access internet and be in the moment instead. Every day Nicole updated on the times of the load shedding times so we were aware of what was happening. In the room we were provided with wireless lights and fans if needed. All in all an amazing trip and we will be back! …
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
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Service
Room Tip: Pre-book your taxi from Hoedspruit Airport to the lodge with Nicole.
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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.
Helpful
A memorable trip which introduced my wife and I to the Greater Kruger Park fauna and flora. All of the staff were fantastic and headed up by Steve & Nicole who were always checking to see if we needed anything or answer our many questions about the lodge. The food was always memorable and delicious prepared by the lovely staff and had a creative flair for each of the nightly dinners. We really enjoyed the thrill of the game drives and fascinating commentary from our very enthusiastic and entertaining guides. We would recommend Toro Yaka to people that like a more boutique style of safari managed by people who are passionate about respecting both flora and fauna. Thanks to Nicole, Steve & all of the lovely staff at Toro Yaka for making our Safari an unforgettable experience. Stephen & Jann D…
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Date of stay: November 2022Trip 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.
Helpful
Response from , Owner at Toro Yaka Bush Lodge
Responded 16 Jan 2023
Thank you Stephen and Jann. We loved meeting you and we wish you all the best for 2023
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
Wow, this is our third visit all the way from Australia. It was so wonderful to be back. From the wonderful warm welcome from Nicole and all the staff, to the amazing game drives with Tim, Serena and Chat. And Steve on the last day 😊. We had incredible experiences with the animals, seeing so many giraffes, elephants, zebra, hyenas, lions, hippos, rhinos, baboons & birds galore. The meals are delicious and beautifully presented. My husband is ceoliac and Nicole is amazing in making sure he never missed out on anything. You get to eat in all different parts of the lodge. We love seeing the animals come up to the watering hole which is just beyond the pool. The rooms are extremely comfortable with a choice of indoor or outdoor shower. Mosquito nets over the bed for sleeping. Turn down service every night, complete with a bush story and sweet . Bed were so comfortable. Tea and coffee provided in the room as well as in the lounge, there is a coffee machine available for use. The attentive staff made sure you lacked nothing. 7 nights still was not long enough. Hope to be back again soon. …
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Date of stay: August 2022Trip 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.
Helpful
Response from , Owner at Toro Yaka Bush Lodge
Responded 28 Aug 2022
Thank you Caroline, We loved seeing you again, and look forward to the next time
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
We had 7 wonderful days at Toro Yaka and thoroughly enjoyed every minute. The Hosts Steve and Nicole and the guides Tim, Serena and Chat and the rest of the staff were all amazing, the room was very comfortable the food was beautifully presented and delicious and the service level was way beyond any expectations. I would highly recommend this lodge, I think the fact this was our third visit speaks volumes. Thank you for allowing us to enjoy the unfolding bush from your little gem in the bush. We will definitely be back.
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Date of stay: August 2022Trip 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.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from , Owner at Toro Yaka Bush Lodge
Responded 28 Aug 2022
Thank you Des
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We had a great stay. Nicole, Steve and their team are great and the lodge is sumptuous. The meals are delicious. We loved our discovery of the bush with them, it was very good moment. We recommend a lot
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Date of stay: July 2022Trip 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.
Helpful
Response from , Owner at Toro Yaka Bush Lodge
Responded 28 Aug 2022
Thank you, we loved having you here.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Back home in Luxembourg, we often think about our wonderful time that we spent at Toro Yaka Busch Lodge in South Africa. We'll never forget the amazing game drives with Wesley, Chad and Sophie. They made every imaginable effort to make us see the elephants, zebras, giraffes, hippos, hyenas, wild dogs ...etc and gave us many interesting informations about life in the African bush. In the evening, Nicole, together with Portia and Sibongile superbly cooked delicious meals, always served with a friendly smile by Daisy, Cbonelo and Nathi. The spacious rooms are cosy and tastefully furnished with a nice balcony and a great view of the reserve and its animals. Thanks to Angel who took good care of our room. We also loved to read the little African stories that we found on our bed every evening. Unfortunately, we didn't meet Steve, but we hope to see him next time!? Until then, we would like to thank each of you for having made our stay at Toro Yaka so unforgettable and having helped us going home with Africa in our hearts. Jeanne + Franco…
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Date of stay: May 2022
Rooms
Location
Service
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
Response from , Owner at Toro Yaka Bush Lodge
Responded 28 Aug 2022
Thank you, We really enjoyed meeting you
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
LOCATION
South AfricaKruger National ParkBalule Nature Reserve
NUMBER OF ROOMS
4
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Frequently Asked Questions about Toro Yaka Bush Lodge
What are some of the property amenities at Toro Yaka Bush Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include a pool, an on-site restaurant, and free parking.
Which room amenities are available at Toro Yaka Bush Lodge?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a refrigerator, and blackout curtains.
What food & drink options are available at Toro Yaka Bush Lodge?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a poolside bar, and complimentary tea during their stay.
Is parking available at Toro Yaka Bush Lodge?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Toro Yaka Bush Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and a yoga room during their stay.
Does Toro Yaka Bush Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Toro Yaka Bush Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at Toro Yaka Bush Lodge?
Yes, laundry service and a clothes dryer are offered to guests.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Toro Yaka Bush Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, German, Afrikaans, and Xhosa.