Maninghi Lodge

Maninghi Lodge is situated on the banks of the Olifants River in the Northern section of Balule Nature Reserve, which is open to the Kruger National Park. Our sole use, self-catering lodge has the "The Big 5" within the reserve, and is a bird watcher's paradise. Sit back, relax, and enjoy viewing animals coming down to drink at the river, whilst from our viewing deck, watching birds feed in our two magnificent sycamore fig trees. Take a guided game drive within Balule Nature Reserve, or opt to experience the wild on foot with a guided bush walk.

Maninghi Lodge accommodates up to 12 guests, although the lodge can be also be booked for smaller groups or couples.  The Lodge is fully-furnished, boasting comfortably-appointed bedrooms and lounges, as well as all necessary kitchen appliances and utensils.

With plenty of local attractions in the area, spend the day visiting the Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon, Khamai Reptile Park, Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre and Echo Caves, to name a few. Let Maninhgi Lodge be your affordable nature escape away from home.

Balule Nature Reserve

Balule Nature Reserve is a protected area in Limpopo Province, South Africa, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park. As part of a wildlife conservation initiative, all fences separating these associated reserves - Balule, Timbavati, Klaserie, Umbabat - and the Kruger National Park have been removed. Conservation efforts have ensured that the wildlife population includes all of the Big Five game: Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Leopard and Rhinoceros.

The Reserve is just under 40,000 hectares, and is home to over 30 species of mammal, and the variety of birdlife in the Reserve is some of the best in the country, offering over 340 different species, including the Big Six (Kori Bustard, Ground Hornbill, Lappet-faced Vulture, Pels Fishing Owl, Martial Eagle and Saddle-billed Stork).

Located in the subtropical lowveld, the Reserve contains multiple eco-zones, resulting in significant variety in the flora with over 336 documented tree species in the region. Baobab trees, Leadwoods, Knobthorns, Marula and MopaneTrees are dominant species in this wooded savannah.

The diverse flora accommodates a diverse array of fauna. The rivers and other watering holes are home to hippos and crocodiles.  Maninghi is fortunate to be situated on the banks of the Olifants River, which flows through the Game Reserve, and attracts a wide variety of different animals.

Accommodation

 Maninghi is a sole-use, self-catering lodge that is the perfect getaway for family and friends that want to escape to the bush, and are guaranteed the whole lodge privately to themselves. All our rooms are under one thatch-roofed double-storey lodge that can sleep up to 12 people. The Lodge boasts two queen rooms, with stunning views overlooking the river, and one room with twin beds. The loft has two open plan rooms, one with a queen bed and twin beds, and the other room with twin single beds.

The first storey viewing deck is the perfect place to enjoy a cold drink, with the elevation affording excellent bird spotting, as they forage for fruit in the two nearby sycamore fig trees.

Enjoy braaing (BBQ) under our open-thatched lapa area, whilst watching animals coming down to the Olifants River for a drink. You won't miss the action at night as our high-powered spotlights illuminate the opposite bank.

Maninghi Lodge benefits include:

• Unrestricted viewing of the river
• Complete privacy - Maninghi is a sole-use facility, that guarantees you the entire Lodge and its facilities to yourself and your guests
• Fully furnished bedrooms, including linen, towels and mosquito netting.
• Shower and bathroom facilities First storey viewing deck, overlooking the river, and the two sycamore figs
• Fully stocked kitchen. Three fridge / freezers, four-hob gas stove and an ice machine are also offered. 
• Outside thatched lapa area, with a built-in braai and grid.
• Splash pool
• Comfortably-appointed lounge area, with large flat-screen TV and DSTV.
• Complimentary tea and coffee
• Wi-Fi access offered at an extra cost.
• Accessible too many nearby exciting activity destinations.
• Game drives, guided walks and tours are offered - contact your hosts about bookings

Maximum Occupancy:

• 12 guests. One camp cot is available on request.

Additional Information:

• Wood and beverages are available at the Lodge at an extra cost
• The Balule Game Reserve charges a conservation fee per person, and a vehicle fee. Please refer to the booking form for up-to-date fees
• Balule is in a malaria area: please consult with your doctor for precautionary measures