Bundox River Lodge
A Step Into The Bush
Bundox River Lodge
Bundox River Lodge is perfectly situated on the banks of the flourishing Olifants River in the northern part of the Balule Nature Reserve. With its luxurious, river-facing Meru-style tents, each elevated on wooden platforms, Bundox offers breathtaking views of the river’s bend below, setting a new standard of opulence in the heart of the bush.
Combining an ideal riverside location with lavish canvas suites, Bundox evokes the iconic atmosphere of Okavango Delta camps, making it a truly unique destination in the Kruger region. Reflecting the understated elegance of the Bundox brand, the lodge seamlessly blends light wood and classic canvas to create a harmonious retreat within its natural surroundings. The finest linen, textiles, and fixtures are used throughout, ensuring guests experience nothing but the best.
The five spacious tented suites are designed to flood the interiors with natural light, offering a perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Each suite features an en-suite bathroom with outdoor showers, private viewing decks, king-size beds, and standing fans. The interiors are both modern and plush, incorporating bushveld tones with colorful accents. Expect explorer-style furniture, oversized cushions, and curated pieces that reflect the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
The main lodge area is a peaceful sanctuary nestled beneath a canopy of trees. Elevated above the river, the expansive relaxation zone includes a lounge with oversized couches, a dining area, a bar, and a swimming pool with a deck overlooking the water. The boma area and smaller viewing decks provide additional spots for guests to unwind and connect with nature.
The lodge is designed with an effortless flow, where each space transitions smoothly into the next. Winding wooden walkways from the main lodge to the suites trace the curve of the river, enhancing the lodge’s connection to the wild surroundings. Activities include two daily game drives within a 5,000-hectare private wilderness area, which encompasses an 8-kilometer stretch of the Olifants River, offering guests an exclusive safari experience.
Full Board + Activities
1 January 2025 - 31 December 2025- All meals, game drives & bush walks, teas & coffees.
Fully Inclusive
1 January 2025 - 31 December 2025- All meals, all local drinks (soft & alcoholic) game drives & bush walks, teas & coffees.
Information
Facilities
WiFi
Wi-Fi is available at reception, although connectivity can be unreliable due to the remote location.
Pool
The swimming pool and deck area provide a tranquil space to relax and unwind
Bathrooms
Each tent features en-suite bathrooms with flush toilets and refreshing outdoor showers, offering a seamless blend of comfort and nature.
Accommodation
The spacious tented suites are elevated on wooden platforms and include private balconies with seating. Inside, each tent is equipped with standing fans, a desk, and ample closet space.
Relaxation
The relaxation lounge offers stunning riverfront views. The bar and dining area create a welcoming atmosphere for guests to enjoy meals and drinks, while the separate boma area offers a cozy spot for evening gatherings.
Birdwatching
The lodge is nestled beneath a canopy of trees, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching. Guests have the unique opportunity to spot the rare Pel’s fishing owl, adding an extra layer of excitement for nature enthusiasts.
General Information
Location
Bundox River Lodge is situated in the northern part of the Balule Private Nature Reserve. Guests are encouraged to fly into either Hoedspruit or Phalaborwa airports and use the lodge’s transfer service for their onward journey. The lodge is 60 kilometers from Phalaborwa and just 21 kilometers from Hoedspruit, making it easily accessible from both airports.
Wildlife
At River Lodge, guests can experience both savannah and riverfront habitats, providing a rich diversity of wildlife. The surrounding landscape is teeming with den sites for big cats and abundant prey, making it a prime location for predator sightings. The river itself is home to hippos and crocodiles, easily viewed from the comfort of the lodge. During the dry season, predators and big game frequent the river to drink, adding to the excitement of the experience. As part of the Big 5 Balule Nature Reserve, there’s a strong chance of spotting the elusive big cats, while other wildlife such as honey badgers, hyenas, antelope, elephants, buffalo, and African wild dogs are commonly seen.
For bird enthusiasts, the lodge is situated in a prime birdwatching area, hosting a variety of waders, passerines, and birds of prey. Notably, the Pel’s fishing owl nests in the nearby tree canopy, making it a must-see for avid birdwatchers. Kingfishers, herons, eagles, and various species of vulture can also be spotted, making this a haven for twitchers and nature lovers alike.
Weather
Bundox River Lodge is an exceptional safari destination throughout the year, with each season offering a unique experience for game viewing. The wet summer months (November to February) are perfect for birdwatching and landscape photography, while the winter season (June to August) offers excellent opportunities for big game sightings. However, guests can expect to see a diverse range of wildlife year-round within the reserve.
The majority of rainfall occurs in mid-summer, typically in the form of short thunderstorms that rarely last more than a few hours. Average maximum temperatures range from 24°C in July to 34°C in January, while winter temperatures can drop as low as 8°C, offering a refreshing coolness during the evenings and mornings.
Malaria
The Balule region is considered a low-risk malaria area, but it’s advisable to consult your local doctor for personalized recommendations. The recommended anti-malarial medications for the Kruger area include Malarone, Doxycycline, or Melfloquine. Mosquitoes are more prevalent during the wet, warmer months, so it’s important to use mosquito repellent and creams as additional preventive measures.