"Having the animals roaming around in front of the unit was great!"
Nico from South Africa
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"The ambiance was mesmerizing. Very comfortable. Beautiful."
Christine from South Africa
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"The beds and bedding were exceptional."
Joanne from United Kingdom
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"I loved that the owners did something special for my daughter's birthday. Very thoughtful."
Miguel from South Africa
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Mabalingwe Nature Reserve - Elephant Lodge - Tjaila: Wildlife-Viewing Lodge with Private Kitchen, Game Drives & On-Site Spa
Accommodation & Rooms
Each two-bedroom house includes air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, and a private bathroom with a shower. The unit also has a full kitchen with a dining area and a fridge, allowing guests to prepare their own meals. Guest reviews note that each bedroom has its own bathroom and TV, providing separate spaces for each occupant.
On-Site Amenities & Recreation
The resort provides an outdoor swimming pool, a kids' pool, and a spa and wellness centre for relaxation. Recreational activities include billiards, table tennis, mini-golf, horse riding, and tennis equipment, along with entertainment staff organizing game drives. Guests can also use the board games/puzzles and kids' outdoor play equipment, with sun loungers available poolside.
Dining & On-Site Services
The property has a restaurant and a bar serving meals and drinks, with kids' meals and wine/champagne options available. A minimarket on site sells basic groceries, and the 24-hour front desk provides ATM/cash machine services. The resort offers daily housekeeping, free private parking, and free WiFi throughout the non-smoking premises.
Family & Children
A kids' pool and kids' outdoor play equipment are specifically provided for younger guests, along with board games and puzzles. The restaurant offers kids' meals, and the entertainment staff runs activities suitable for families. Guest reviews highlight that animals often roam right up to the terrace, adding an engaging experience for children.
Location & Wildlife Experience
The lodge is located within Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, 24 km from Zebula Golf Course and 47 km from Sondela Nature Reserve. Guests report regular sightings of elephants, zebras, and other animals passing directly in front of the units. The property is open all year and offers guided game drives to explore the reserve, with 24-hour security and key access for safety.
Highlights
Rooms: two-bedroom houses with private kitchen, dining area, and two bathrooms
Wildlife: animals including elephants roam in front of the unit
Recreation: game drives, horse riding, mini-golf, table tennis, billiards
Family: kids' pool, outdoor play equipment, board games, kids' meals
Services: spa centre, on-site minimarket, ATM, daily housekeeping
Location: 24 km from Zebula Golf Estate, within the nature reserve
“The immersion in nature here is truly remarkable, with wildlife frequently visiting the property, creating a captivating experience. Accommodations are thoughtfully equipped and comfortable, particularly the exceptional bedding. The convenience to local amenities and the accessibility for self-drive exploration add significant value to any visit.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Zalimpopo
Select your room type
Mabalingwe Nature Reserve - Elephant Lodge - Tjaila offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Two-Bedroom House
2 persons
90 m²
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Air conditioning
Shower
room details
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Mabalingwe Nature Reserve - Elephant Lodge - Tjaila offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.9/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
24-hour reception
No pets allowed
24-hour security
ATM/Cash machine
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Horseback riding
Tennis
Billiard tables
Table tennis
Mini golf
Guest Parking
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Services
Housekeeping
Shops/Commercial services
Welcome drink
Dining
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Outdoor dining area
Children
Cots
Board games
Children's menu
Children's pool
Children's play area
Spa & Leisure
Outdoor swimming pool
Sun loungers
Entertainment
Garden area
Spa & wellness centre
Room features
Air conditioning
Sitting area
Patio
Dining table
Self-catering
Electric kettle
Cookware/ Kitchen utensils
Media
Flat-screen TV
Show more
Location
Unit 258 Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, Bela-Bela, 0480,
Explore Bela-Bela
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Mabalingwe Nature Reserve
15 minutes' walk
Home to diverse wildlife, the reserve offers game viewing and guided tours. Enjoy its rich flora and fauna at your doorstep.
Wessels Lake
8 minutes' walk
A tranquil spot ideal for birdwatching and picnics. Its scenic views make it perfect for relaxation amidst nature.
Lookout Hill
25 minutes' walk
An elevated viewpoint offering panoramic views of the reserves. A favorite spot for photography enthusiasts.
Klipspringer Lake
25 minutes' walk
A serene lake popular for fishing and canoeing. Perfect for a family day out with water activities.
Game Drives
10 minutes' drive
Morning and evening game drives provide close encounters with wildlife. Pre-booking is recommended for a guided experience.
Guided Nature Walks
15 minutes' walk
Led by experts, these walks reveal the reserve's hidden treasures. Perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Mountain Biking
10 minutes' drive
Thrill-seekers can enjoy biking trails within the reserve. Rentals are available, making it easy to gear up for adventure.
Wellness Retreats
10 minutes' drive
Relax with wellness retreats nearby offering yoga sessions and spa treatments, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
The Bushveld Brasserie
10 minutes' drive
Offers a diverse menu featuring local flavors. Enjoy a casual atmosphere with unique dishes like game meat specials.
Bela-Bela Brewing Co.
15 minutes' drive
Craft beer enthusiasts will love this brewery. Known for its relaxed vibe and signature brews paired with gourmet burgers.
De Groene Gangen
15 minutes' drive
A fine dining experience showcasing international cuisine. Reservations are recommended for a memorable evening.
Sundowner Restaurant
10 minutes' drive
Casual dining with outdoor seating. Enjoy classic dishes and refreshing drinks while soaking in stunning sunsets.
Mabalingwe Game Lodge Bar
5 minutes' drive
The lodge bar offers live music on weekends. A great spot to unwind with drinks after a day in the reserve.
Local Markets
15 minutes' drive
Visit local markets for arts, crafts, and food. Family-friendly, with a lively atmosphere showcasing local culture.
Mystique Lounge
15 minutes' drive
A stylish lounge offering live performances and cocktails. Perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic evening.
Family Game Nights
5 minutes' drive
Occasionally hosted at the lodge, these fun evenings are suitable for all ages, featuring board games and snacks.
Getting around
City Centre
Bela-Bela 42 min · 28 km
Airports
Wonderboom (PRY) 196 min · 130.1 km
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-18:00
Check-out
from 08:00-10:00
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Former name
tjaila - mabalingwe
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Mabalingwe Nature Reserve - Elephant Lodge - Tjaila from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 26 verified reviews
9.2 /10
Perfect
100 %
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.9/10
Comfort
9.2/10
Facilities
8.9/10
Free WiFi
7.5/10
Location
9.4/10
Staff
8.9/10
Value for money
9.1/10
Guest reviews
based on 40 reviews
8.9/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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