Independent hotels in Motlatse Canyon Provincial Nature Reserve, Mpumalanga

"I cannot express how amazing this place was. I've been all over the world, and every aspect of the AM Lodge is by far the most superior. The unique daily game drives had our Bush Bar (best bar in South Africa, thanks to Benjamin and Penwey) interrupted by a Nyala being chased by a wild dog. Literally chasing Lions led to our fantastic guides helping another group get out of a ditch. Even seeing zebras and wild buffalo ended up being so hilarious, it brought tears to our eyes! For the millennials reading this, imagine the perfect mix between Steve Irwin and Wild Boyz. Shepherd is the definition of what a proper host looks like. We had a strange request of being shuttled to a nearby tattoo shop, and they happily obliged. Our chefs made amazing food, with our only request being to show us the local cuisine. That kota sandwich and African buffet was exactly what we were talking about! Way to deliver! At no point did I ever think I was anything less than royalty thanks to the amazing staff, treatment, and accomodations. I don't know how they managed to do it, but they also made it seem like me and my father were the only ones there! As if the entire safari grounds were just for us (even though, they obviously had other guests). I hope to have the chance to visit again. If any guest is considering a safari, the search ends here. "

"The room here was beautifully appointed, and the bed was very comfy. The property was really quiet and it had a lovely pool. It was unfortunately too cold to take a dip in winter. There was wifi available everywhere, but its speed could vary depending on where you were. It would have been nice to have some bathrobes available in the room. The views from the property were lovely, especially when you are on the observation deck and can see the Drakensbergs in the distance. The breakfast and dinner was enjoyable and generally varied each day. The service was also lovely and friendly. I stayed in the Mbali villa so it was about a 5 minute walk down the road back to the main building for meals. In the evenings, they can organise a shuttle to collect you and bring you back as it gets very dark outside. "

"Definitely recommend staying here! Breakfast is delicious!"

"Food was excellent as was the hotel beautifully decorated and loved the motion sensor lights for when you get up in the night for the bathroom "

"Great location and super quiet "

"The suite was large and comfortable, the property itself very charming. The owners were also very friendly and helpful."

"We were rather disappointed with the directions to the lodge as they were rather misleading and Confusing. The service at the lodge by a young man called Knowledge was very good. "

"What a fantastic property right inside the game reserve with daily game drives to catch the big five. The food and service, including impeccable hospitality were the highlight of staying here. It’s a beautiful, luxurious modern property, right across the HDS airport. Highly recommend staying for atleast 2 nights ideally three! "

"The Blyde Mountain Country House is set back off the main roads, and quite peaceful, charming and very welcoming. Bets (short for Elizabeth) surprised us with an upgrade, and the cottage room was delightful. It was spacious with a small kitchenette and adequate size bathroom including a walk in shower and built in shower bench. We really enjoyed the hot water and water pressure! The bedroom had a comfortable bed with a couch, bench, desk and chair, and television. The decor added a touch of class and made you feel at home! The common areas included an outdoor dining area, plus inside living rooms and bar (honor system). The outdoor scenery is breathtaking, and I enjoyed my walk around the pool area, gardens, and adjacent farm. The dinner was scrumptious (South African bobotie with chutney, bananas and coconut with rice and assorted mixed vegetables). The lemon meringue dessert was simply the best! The next morning, we had a wonderful breakfast, so relaxing to sit and admire the morning sky above the majestic mountains. Most of all, the staff, especially Bets and Jacob (?spelling) deserve recognition for their outstanding hospitality. And, thumbs up to all the wonderful cooks and other staff members that make this country house such a marvelous place. We will not hesitate to come back here again and will certainly recommend it to others if staying in Hoedspruit! Thank you!"