Buhala Lodge

5.0 star property
Luxury lodge with a full-service spa and free breakfast

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Buhala Lodge

Room, River View | View from room
Property grounds
Outdoor pool, sun loungers
Suite, River View | View from room
Hot stone massages, massages

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Bar
  • Breakfast included
  • Housekeeping
  • Spa
  • Laundry

Explore the area

Map
12km Beyond Malelane, N4 Highway, Kruger National Park, Nkomazi, Mpumalanga, 1320
  • Malelane Gate
  • Leopard Creek Country Club
  • Malelane Golf Club

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Room options

Room, River View

  • River view
  • 323 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Large Twin Beds

Suite, River View

  • River view
  • 323 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Large Twin Beds

Room, River View

  • River view
  • 323 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Large Twin Beds

Room

  • Mountain view
  • 215 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Large Twin Beds

About the neighborhood

Emjejane

Buhala Lodge places you 10.8 mi (17.4 km) from Malelane Gate and 12.3 mi (19.8 km) from Leopard Creek Country Club. This 5-star lodge has 18 guestrooms and offers a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and free in-room WiFi.

Getting around

  • Nelspruit (MQP-Kruger Mpumalanga Intl.) - 75 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Hamiltons Lodge & Restaurant - ‬18 min drive
  • ‪Dulce - Malelane - ‬13 min drive

About this property

Buhala Lodge

Luxury lodge with a full-service spa and free breakfast
Guests staying at Buhala Lodge enjoy access to a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and free WiFi in public areas. There's free parking, and an airport shuttle (available on request) for ZAR 1400 per person one-way. Front-desk staff can assist with tours/tickets and luggage storage. Other amenities at this luxury lodge include a terrace, laundry facilities, and a porter/bellhop.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and designer toiletries, and beds are dressed in premium bedding. Other standard amenities include electric kettles and free tea bags/instant coffee.
Recreational amenities at the lodge include an outdoor pool.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Guests can indulge in a pampering treatment at the lodge's full-service spa. Services include hot stone massages and massages.

Languages

Afrikaans, Dutch, English

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge) from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM on request
  • Free extended parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free cooked-to-order breakfast available daily 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant

Things to do

  • 18-hole adjacent golf course
  • Full-service spa
  • Game viewing
  • Hiking/biking trails
  • Mountain biking
  • Outdoor pool
  • TV in common areas

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities
  • Outdoor pool

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Porter/bellhop
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Turndown service
  • Wedding services

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • On a river
  • Pool loungers
  • Terrace

Full-service spa

  • Hot stone massages

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking

More

  • 2 floors
  • Banquet hall
  • Built in 1994
  • Colonial architecture
  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Designer toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Electric kettle
  • Tea bags/instant coffee

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM

Check-out

Check-out before 10:30 AM

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); guests must contact the property with arrival details before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
The front desk is open daily from 7 AM - 6 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in
At check-in, guests must provide either a negative COVID-19 test result or a record of full COVID-19 vaccination
Negative COVID-19 test result requirement applies to all guests aged 10 and up, and test must have been administered no more than 48 hours prior to check-in

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets or service animals

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Airport shuttle fee: ZAR 1400 per person (one-way)
  • Airport shuttle fee per child: ZAR 1400 (one-way), (up to 14 years old)

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM
  • Check-out: 10:30 AM
The front desk is available during limited hours. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle (available during limited hours), which is offered for a fee. Driving? This property offers free self parking, along with free extended parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
  • At check-in, guests must provide either a negative COVID-19 test result or a record of full COVID-19 vaccination.
  • The negative COVID-19 test result requirement applies to all guests aged 10 and up, and the test must have been administered no more than 48 hours prior to check-in.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Reservations need to be made in advance for golf tee times and massage services. Contact the lodge at the phone number listed on your booking confirmation.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

National rating

Quality Graded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) – South Africa's official quality assurance organization.

Property is also known as

Buhala Game
Buhala Lodge Hectorspruit
Buhala Game Lodge Malelane
Buhala Game Malelane
Buhala Lodge Malelane
Buhala Lodge
Buhala Malelane
Buhala Hectorspruit
Buhala Lodge Lodge
Buhala Lodge Nkomazi
Buhala Lodge Lodge Nkomazi

Frequently asked questions

What's there to do near Buhala Lodge?

This lodge is located in Nkomazi, close to Leopard Creek Country Club and Ligwalagwala Nature Reserve.

How much does it cost to stay at Buhala Lodge?

As of May 29, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Buhala Lodge on Jun 8, 2025 start from $328.02, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is there parking available at Buhala Lodge?

Yes, self parking and long-term parking are offered for free at the lodge. Accessible parking is also available for guests.

Is there a spa at Buhala Lodge?

There is a full-service spa available for guests to enjoy and services include hot stone massages.

Does Buhala Lodge have a casino?

No, Buhala Lodge doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Buhala Lodge?

No, this lodge doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is an outdoor pool.

Is Buhala Lodge a good place to stay for couples?

This riverfront lodge offers many amenities for couples such as an outdoor pool and a bar with some guestrooms featuring private plunge pools.

Are there hot tubs at Buhala Lodge?

No, this lodge doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Buhala Lodge feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, Buhala Lodge serves free cooked-to-order breakfasts each morning from its restaurant.

Does Buhala Lodge allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets and service animals aren't allowed at Buhala Lodge.

Are there connecting rooms at Buhala Lodge?

No, this lodge doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Can I book a room with a balcony at Buhala Lodge?

Yes, some guestrooms at this lodge offer either a furnished balcony or a furnished patio where guests can enjoy river or mountain views.

Does Buhala Lodge host weddings?

There are wedding services available at Buhala Lodge if that's in your vacation plans.

Buhala Lodge Reviews

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 16 out of 22 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 22 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 22 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 22 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 22 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

9.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Timothy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Blissful Buhala

Truly amazing place & people!! We will definitely be back. Martje & all the staff were brilliant.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

8/10 Good

Nuno

Stayed 1 night in May 2023

6/10 Okay

Brian

Liked: Staff & service, room comfort
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities

Great location!

Fantastic staff and great owners. The food was awesome. The place needs updating and maintenance as well as a thorough cleaning. I later stayed at the Kruger Gate Hotel which had more amenities, free meals, cleaner and much cheaper.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

G

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Incredible view

Quiet beautiful room with a splash pool on the river, we were greeted by a heard of elephants meters away
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Tiamiyu

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Amazing experience

Great hospitality and breathtaking views. Awesome
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2020

8/10 Good

Paul

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Wonderful experience but!!!!!

We spent 2 nights at Bhula primary to enable us to play golf at Leopards Creek, however we took advantage of a couple of game drives our guide Pat was truly amazing and Sean so helpful thanks guys for fab memories. The lodge whilst physically in the Kruger is on the edge and you have to drive to Malelane Gate approx 15mins. The staff are wonderful and so helpful if there was one fault it would be the quality and choice of the evening meal I sent my salmon back because it was raw the same piece came back recooked this should never happen under any circumstances
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

JAMES

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Perfectly Awesome!!! Shawn and Marji along Tuckeee are the best. Spent 5 days and loved everything. Just what we wanted - a high end lodge in a perfect setting!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
From the moment we arrived we were welcomed as if we were family. Marjie and Erica were fabulous and the entire staff went out of their way to make sure we were comfortable and well fed. From our room we watched crocodiles and hippos enjoying the river, an elephant visited the riverbank, kudus and bushbuck were everywhere. We enjoyed wonderful massages in a tent overlooking the Crocodile River and Sean, the guide took us on a wonderful tour of the panorama route. This is a lovely spot with wonderful staff.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Paulo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Nice safari lodge facing the river and KNP

We had a wonderful weekend stay at Buhala Lodge. Breakfast and dinner were tasty and served in the dinning room which opens into the garden and to the crocodile river. Beautiful location near the Malelane gate. The lodge offers golf in the surrounding courses and safari drives in the KNP. We were extremely happy with our stay
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Rob, Nevis

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Miss it... :) Beautiful place. Peacefull. I'm still in South Africa and thinking to going back tomorrow for 2 days. :)
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2018

10/10 Excellent

JG, Oregon

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Luxury of afternoon tea while watching elephants

Loved the afternoon tea and scones while watching elephants and giraffes come down to river to drink. You can sit in room balcony using wifi to broadcast photos to your friends at home or if feeling social you can join others on back deck as sun goes down. Dinner has great options for both meat eaters and vegetarians. Room peaceful and bubble bath a relaxing way to get dust of Kruger safari off. (Staff helpful in setting up safari rides in park if you don't want to self-drive.) You drive through a commercial papaya grove to get to the property adding an air of adventure. Mistakenly parked under mulberry-like tree. Staff kindly washed car before we left demonstrating the high level of service. Highly recommend for relaxing getaway.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2017

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer, New Brunswick, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

A real find - gem guest house

Had a fantastic two night stay with some co workers during a trip to South Africa for a conference. This place was a real gem, great place situated directly on the crocodile river which borders Kruger National Park. It is located just minutes from the gate. The rooms were wonderful and the food was five star. We had breakfast and dinners each day which were served el fresco on a beautiful patio overlooking the river. This place is perfect for couples, small groups and I would definitely return with my family.

10/10 Excellent

Lobel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Überragender Aufenthalt in einer super Lodge!

Tolle Lodge gegenüber des Krüger Nationalparks. Blick auf eben jenen mit Blick auf Elefanten, Büffel (vor dem Fenster), Impalas und jede Menge Nilpferden (Ohropax mitnehmen für die Nacht!) Die Zimmer sind traditionell aber modern eingerichtet. Das Personal super klasse, immer freundlich. Das Essen war ebenso super. Die Safaris auch. Wir kommen gerne wieder!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Ricardo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Espectacular!

Espectacular!! Muy buena ubicación, para no ser hotel dentro del parque, prácticamente nos sentíamos dentro, con los elefantes en los jardines, una belleza! Servicio, comida cuartos, espectacular!!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Luis

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Best hotel in South Kruger

Best experience ever!!! Love the place, accommodations, service and Erika! I will always recommend this hotel! Love the food and where is located. 10/10. We also saw elephants, impalas and monkeys from the hotel. Amazing sunset and sunrise.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Traumhaft

Sehr schöne Lodge mit Blick auf den Crocodile River. Man sieht dort fast immer irgendwelche Tiere. Gute Küche! Guter Preis!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2018

8/10 Good

SB

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Duur maar wel dik in orde

Het is wel een heel duur verblijf, wellicht een tikkel overpriced, maar alles is wel super en dik op orde. Vriendelijke mensen, ruime comfortabele kamer, heerlijk bed, kwartiertje van de gate van het Kruger Park en het diner en ontbijt waren zeer goed verzorgd. Het uitzicht vanaf het terras over de Crocodile River en het park waren subliem.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2017

10/10 Excellent

Ulrich, Full-Reuenthal

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Winter in Südafrika

Winter in Südafrika / waren fast alleine

6/10 Okay

Margrith

Zu teuer

Preis leistung stimmt nicht

8/10 Good

Emil, Wittenbach (Schweiz)

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Erlebnisreiche Lodge

Tolle Lodge an sehr gutem Standort mit ebenso gutem und persönlichen Service.