Location: Vaalwater
Top Hotels in Vaalwater
Top Things to do in Vaalwater
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The 10 best hotels in Vaalwater, South Africa
Discover the best hotels in Vaalwater, Waterberg, Limpopo Province including Kololo Game Reserve, Waterberg Game Park, Dinkweng Safari Camp, Olievenhoutsrus Guest & Game Farm, The Orchid Guesthouse, Elephants Crossing, Bushwa Private Game Lodge, Matingwe Lodge, Elephants Crossing, Shambala Private Game Reserve.
Things to do in Vaalwater
1. Kololo Game Reserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 639 reviews
Kololo Game Reserve: From enjoying the Big Five while being on safari to walking and biking around freely among the African wildlife. Relaxed, comfortable, malaria free and child friendly, only a 3,5 hour drive from Johannesburg. Kololo Game Reserve is a nature reserve where the harmless African wildlife roams free. You can walk around freely and safely within the whole reserve from any of our accommodations . This is what makes Kololo a perfect family destination. You can thoroughly enjoy the African bush while being surrounded by giraffe, zebra, kudu, wildebeest and many more species of game and birds. Kololo Game Reserve is part of the even bigger Welgevonden Game Reserve. Welgevonden is home to the Big Five and many other big and small African game species. No private cars are allowed to enter the reserve, but we offer daily game drives in an open safari vehicle from Kololo to spot the Big Five. - Access to Big Five - Accommodation and free walking/biking among harmless wildlife - Malaria free and child friendly - At 3,5 hours’ drive from Johannesburg - Restaurant - Swimming pool - Curio and small snack shop
An unparalleled educational experience!
Reviewed By SAExplorer29I just finished a four day, three night field trip to the lodge with a group of almost forty 17-18 year olds. This trip had been in the planning stages for months and the Kololo Lodge staff (and in particular Tom and Tanya) could not have worked any harder to make our stay educational, memorable, fun, safe, and joyful. My students were able to complete on the ground research and observational studies for their Science classes and just learned so much in a truly engaging and entertaining way. The game drivers Kololo arranged for us delivered brilliant wildlife interactions and one of my colleagues who has been living in Africa for 16 years was able to see Cheetahs for the first time! We spent 20 minutes with a group of 4 lionesses lounging in the sun on the Fig Tree Plains in the Welgevonden Reserve. The Kololo Lodge is truly unique in that within their private reserve we were able to hike their trails and on our final morning were treated with a group of five playful giraffes. We learned so much about animal tracking and recognizing signs of life. The sunrises and sunsets were just epic and to see teenagers enthralled in stargazing at the milky way was a thing of beauty. The kitchen managed to keep a wide range of students with various food restrictions happy and well fed with delicious meals. No matter how hard staff were working they did so with a smile. After long days out on the trails or game drives being able to get an amazing night sleeps in the comfortable chalets and have a hot shower really is the cherry on top. If you are looking for a location for team building Kololo Lodge also offers a conference area we were able to coordinate two sets of guest speakers for the students. We were able to use wifi in the chalets, conference rooms and restaurant flawlessly throughout our stay. We used the Boma/Bonfire area for a celebration on our final evening and the atmosphere created for us here was just magical. We toasted marshmallows, made S'mores, enjoyed more stargazing and peace. I was able to transport my student group in on a large bus and when I went up on my own to research the Kololo lodge as a prospective site I was able to navigate the road there in a non 4x4 vehicle from northern Joburg in about 3.5 hours. If you are thinking about heading to Kololo Lodge -do it. Whatever your objectives are for exploring the South African Big Five, Nature, or just having some quiet contemplation for yourself the Kololo Lodge is the place to be.
2. Waterberg Game Park
Overall Ratings
4 based on 58 reviews
Only 3.5 hours drive from Johannesburg, this stunning 450 hectare game farm offers the wildlife enthusiasts excellent game viewing, horseback rides and bird watching. Game drives and walks let you encounter animals such as zebra, giraffe, 10 species of antelope and plenty of small game. These beautiful stone and thatch chalets are set among indigenous trees to create the perfect backdrop for sundowners and a braai. Game Drives may be pre-booked at Waterberg Game Park. Unfortunately no private vehicles are allowed on our Game drives.
Accommodation in dire need of refurbishments.
Reviewed By siwerubusheWe were disappointed and felt unsafe as a number of windows were cracked and broken, the lights were super dim and some not working and the couches were stained. On top of it all the units have a distinct smell with the bath water changing colour to blue after a while. We had reported these issues to reception a number of times and they advised that windows had been ordered and there is nothing they can do. I also invited the receptionist to come to the room to see and smell for herself, which she did not do. I was also rather disappointed at the rather limited knowledge the receptionist had on the area attractions and when she did manage to provide details on the Ziplining, the incorrect details were provided. Further training is definitely required here. On the positive side - the resort has great activities for the kids, and adults too and these seemed better maintained then the chalets. There is also no network or WiFi anywhere except at the restaurant. We had booked this family get away through The Holiday Club timeshare option, with the resort having a 4/5 rating. We were allocated W6 and W10.
3. Dinkweng Safari Camp
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 105 reviews
Dinkweng Safari Camp is located only 3 hours from Johannesburg. We offer luxury facilities with the bush as your surrounding. Each self-catering lodge offers space and privacy with a rule of building averaging over 100m apart. These spacious 3 bedroom en-suite lodges are tastefully furnished, with private facilities including a braai area with its own fire pit, splash pool and extended viewing deck. the view from the deck overlooks the valley and incredible African sunsets. Dinkweng Safari Camp is a wildlife sanctuary in the UNESCO-registered Waterberg Biosphere in Limpopo Province. A wide variety of game can be seen on the property, including giraffe, zebra, kudu, eland, wildebeest, Nyala and many other animals. We also have breeding projects for rare game such as the Golden Wildebeest and Black Impala. All this game roam free in the same camp as the lodges so chances are good that you will spot them from your driveway or deck on a regular basis. Guests are free to walk anywhere on there own within the Lodge camp. Bring your own Mountain bikes or hire from the office. Guided game drives can be organized with the office for early morning or late afternoon. Dinkweng Safari Camp is a place to come and relax while enjoying the beautiful nature and peacefulness of the African Bush. The Lodge is not available for parties (matriculations parties, year end functions, birthday parties, bachelor parties or any other party ) as the noise disturbs the neighbour's and bush life. This is a place to relax and to enjoy nature, loud music is not allowed. NOTE: The main gate closes at 21h00
Dinkweng
Reviewed By llents853201Excellent accommodation and hospitality. The only snag with the trip is the last 20kms on the way are on gravel road which will require a bakkie or SUV. We were also lucky it didn’t rain as the road would’ve been difficult to manage.
4. Olievenhoutsrus Guest & Game Farm
Overall Ratings
5 based on 79 reviews
We are situated in the heart of the Waterberg Biosphere only 10mins outside Vaalwater. Enjoy a break-away in the bushveld only 2hrs north of Pretoria! Our "Kruger Park style" Cottages and Rondavels are the perfect accommodation for a small group of family or friends! Wake up and watch Zebra, Giraffe and Wildebeest grazing around the Lodge! We have 2x cosy Rondavels from R350pP and 2x Family Cottages (sleeps 4-6) from R250pP. All accommodation is in a beautiful garden area with views onto the bushveld. For social get-togethers there is a central Lapa with braai facilities, a fully equipped kitchen and DSTV. Cool off in the sparkling swimming pool and enjoy evenings gathered around a large fire in the boma.The farm is in a unique setting and offers great self-guided game and bird viewing walks as well as horse- and pony rides (please by prior arrangements only!). There are plenty of things to do and recreational facilities in the nearby area like Quad Trails, Hunting Safaris, Elephant Rides, Canopy Tour, Fishing at Mokolo Dam, Marakele National Park (Big 5), D'Nyala Game & Nature Reserve or visit one of the local little towns which offer a variety of shopping opportunities and restaurants. We gladly assist with bookings of outings!We hope to welcome you soon at our establishment!Best regards,Sandra NortjeOlievenhoutsrus Guest- and Game FarmVaalwater
Gem in Vaalwater
Reviewed By TsumasterWe had the opportunity to return for a weekend breakaway and returned to Olievenhoutsrus. We found this guest-farm such a pleasure. We were welcomed back as friends and both Sandra and Delmar were gracious hosts, We stayed in a new upgraded room and my son was accommodated in his own room. The farm is well stocked with bushveld animals and the condition of the veld shows a carefully curated wildlife management practice, I can most definitely recommend this guest-farm to anyone that wants a quality breakaway!
5. The Orchid Guesthouse
Overall Ratings
5 based on 6 reviews
Looking for a place to stay in Vaalwater? Then look no further than The Orchid Guesthouse, a guest house that brings the best of Vaalwater to your doorstep. Rooms at The Orchid Guesthouse provide a refrigerator, and getting online is easy, with free wifi available. In addition, The Orchid Guesthouse offers breakfast, which will help make your Vaalwater trip additionally gratifying. And, as an added convenience, there is free parking available to guests. While in Vaalwater be sure to experience nearby Italian restaurants such as Moskitos Restaurant & Bar. We’re sure you’ll enjoy your stay at The Orchid Guesthouse as you experience everything Vaalwater has to offer.
Lovely accommodation, but overpriced on the Booking.com website
Reviewed By kbard651573The only criticism we had is that the cost per night vs what we would pay elsewhere for similar B&B accommodation was much higher. We were 4 colleagues travelling for work, and a 5th person joined us privately. We found the cost for this 5th person very high. Otherwise we would stay there again if we were in the area.
6. Elephants Crossing
Overall Ratings
5 based on 2 reviews
Experience the magnificent Welgevonden Game Reserve from a remote retreat surrounded by the lively bushveld of the Waterberg. Elephants Crossing welcomes those looking for the perfect combination of thrilling Big 5 adventures and serenity. This exclusive tented bush lodge overlooks wooded plains, a private waterhole, and allows for beautiful and uninterrupted views over the reserve.
Geweldig verblijf!!!
Reviewed By 695effievWauw, wat een plek! Geweldig personeel en alles werd tot in de puntjes en met liefde voor ons geregeld. Prachtig uitzicht en lekkere bedden in de luxe tenten. Goede en persoonlijke service en veel comfort midden in de natuur. De gamedrives zijn adembenemend met veel informatie. Als je in de buurt van Johannesburg of Pretoria bent, is dit niet te missen. Kom zeker weer terug!
7. Bushwa Private Game Lodge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 161 reviews
Perched high on a koppie with expansive views of the Waterberg Mountains, Bushwa Private Game Lodge is the perfect spot for a weekend safari in a malaria free area in the Limpopo Province. This luxurious lodge has a variety of accommodation options, including a luxury safari tent and chalets with private balconies. There's even a remote, romantic treehouse overlooking a waterhole that certainly sets the standard in terms of an exclusive romantic wilderness experience. Bushwa offers a variety of activities from guided game drives, to lazy days at the swimming pool and soothing spa treatments. Bushwa is a piece of bushveld paradise designed to relax the soul and engulf the senses.
Relaxing stay
Reviewed By Ajita RBushwa offers great relaxation and city break. The rooms are clean and comfortable. The views from the property are magnificent. The staff as friendly and committed to making your stay great. The game drives are good (buffalo is the only one of the Big 5 on the game reserve), however there is nice viewing of other animals. Overall it was an enjoyable stay.
8. Matingwe Lodge
Overall Ratings
5 based on 58 reviews
Matingwe, Limpopo, lies adjacent to the larger Welgevonden Game Reserve in the Southwest Waterberg region - vast, peaceful and startlingly beautiful. The superb vistas, mountain gorges, clear streams and rolling Bushveld hills are rich in indigenous species of plant and animal life, including the "Big Five". Its location makes it perfect for long picnics, packed especially for you. Experience pure wilderness joy at Matingwe Game Reserve taking part in our on-site activities - hiking, cycling, fishing and bird watching. Other exciting off-site activities include Big 5 game drives, horse trails, Bushmen painting hikes and elephant rides.
Wow, excellent Lodge and service.
Reviewed By BleswesShauna and Nolan are the best host that we ever met at a lodge. Always friendly and we were given 6 star service throughout our stay. Shauna is an excellent chef and the food was presented beautifully and was out of this world.
9. Elephants Crossing
Overall Ratings
5 based on 2 reviews
Experience the magnificent Welgevonden Game Reserve from a remote retreat surrounded by the lively bushveld of the Waterberg. Elephants Crossing welcomes those looking for the perfect combination of thrilling Big 5 adventures and serenity. This exclusive tented bush lodge overlooks wooded plains, a private waterhole, and allows for beautiful and uninterrupted views over the reserve.
Geweldig verblijf!!!
Reviewed By 695effievWauw, wat een plek! Geweldig personeel en alles werd tot in de puntjes en met liefde voor ons geregeld. Prachtig uitzicht en lekkere bedden in de luxe tenten. Goede en persoonlijke service en veel comfort midden in de natuur. De gamedrives zijn adembenemend met veel informatie. Als je in de buurt van Johannesburg of Pretoria bent, is dit niet te missen. Kom zeker weer terug!
10. Shambala Private Game Reserve
Overall Ratings
5 based on 62 reviews
Situated on 10,000 hectares in the Limpopo Province, a mere 2½ hour drive or 45 minute helicopter ride from Johannesburg, Shambala Private Game Reserve is set under the watchful guardianship of the picturesque, malaria-free Waterberg mountains, and the magnificent African bushveld is home to a variety of remarkable flora and fauna including The Big Five.
WOW - not only the big 5, but many many others!
Reviewed By NewZealandPatriotNow I know how Her Majesty The Queen is treated! We arrived at Zulu Camp ( this is the part of the reserve that contains the chalets, restaurant, bar and spa) mid afternoon November 2019. While touring the camp I asked our manager Brendon where all the other guest were? He said there weren’t any other guest – you have the whole place to yourself. We stayed 3 nights in chalet number 2 which was beautifully appointed with full bath – separate tub and shower plus an additional outdoor shower overlooking the small creek running through the camp. Jan was our server, bartender & butler during our stay and truly made us feel special (like royalty). Our chef Matthew would inquire what our likes were for lunch and dinner and prepared several fabulous meals with his culinary flair. We had a game drive on the afternoon we arrived and two drives everyday: one early morning 06:30 and one in the afternoon around 15:00. They were all spectacular! One evening we had a sunset boat ride with our captain Tinus on the lake near the dam. Here we saw rhino and crocodile with wonderful cocktails and charcuterie. We did not use the spa however we did use the shooting range and Pieter and Dion were wonderful instructors (10 out of 10 at 100 yards .30-06 Springfield). By far the best part of our stay were the game drives. Our driver and guide Jacques did an outstanding job and we tip our hat to him. He really knows what he is talking about, is enthusiastic and answered all our questions. Shambala is owned by the same group that owns the Saxon Hotel in Johannesburg. See our review of the Saxon. As I mentioned in my Saxon review, everyone at Shambala is at the top of their game. We give 4.5 stars. My wife’s only slight complaint was no wifi. I loved being off the grid. We hope to return someday!
