Babanango Game Reserve
CEDARBERG RATING
Luxury
Overview
Babanango Game Reserve is one of KwaZulu Natal's most successful rewilding projects over the last few years. And now you can experience it for yourselves. There are three main lodges on Babanango: the 4+ star Zulu Rock Lodge, the family-friendly Valley Lodge and now the luxurious Madwaleni Lodge.
Babanango Game Reserve
Babanango Game Reserve, located in the heart of Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal, is a showcase for one of the most ambitious rewilding projects in Southern Africa in recent years. Set among the topography of the upper White Umfolozi River Valley, the reserve occupies a vast wilderness area of over 20,000 hectares that is steeped in Zulu history and layered upon geological features that date back to the beginning of time.
The stunning landscape of Babanango Game Reserve, with its rugged mountains and serene valleys, serves as a sanctuary for an incredible variety of birds, plants, insects, reptiles, and mammals. Here, you might catch a glimpse of the secretive aardvark or hear the distant call of the aardwolf. With the recent return of the African elephant, Babanango is officially a Big Five game reserve.
Zulu Rock Lodge
Zulu Rock Lodge is perched high on the cliffs of Babanango Game Reserve and captivates its guests with breathtaking views of the expansive landscape. This exclusive lodge offers six luxurious villa-style suites, perfect for couples seeking a private safari getaway, and a family villa. Indulge in room service or unwind on the deck beside the elevated pool, watching the wildlife gracefully roam the valley below.
Designed for those desiring an intimate and serene retreat, Zulu Rock Lodge can accommodate a maximum of 16 guests, ensuring a personalised experience. With no fences to separate guests from nature, this bush lodge accommodation invites guests to immerse themselves in the stunning natural surroundings.
At Zulu Rock Lodge, every moment is crafted to inspire awe and tranquillity. From the panoramic views that greet you each morning to magical encounters with wildlife, this sanctuary reconnects guests with the beauty of nature. Whether embarking on a thrilling safari adventure or savouring the peacefulness of the lodge, Zulu Rock Lodge promises an unforgettable experience with cherished memories to last a lifetime.
Madwaleni River Lodge
Nestled on the southern bank of the White Umfolozi River, sits the opulent Madwaleni River Lodge. The name “Madwaleni” comes from an isiZulu phrase meaning “The place of the rock,” reflecting the beautiful granoliths found in this part of the reserve. This ultra-luxury tented camp blends sophistication and wilderness, offering you a truly exclusive retreat. The twelve luxurious tents, each uniquely designed and recognized for its award-winning style, providing unmatched comfort and style. The main building has a restaurant, lounge, and library. Madwaleni River Lodge is unfenced, so guests can fully immerse themselves in nature.
Valley Lodge
The homely Valley Lodge, situated deep in the south of Babanango Game Reserve, is perfect for couples and families, Its nine adjoining luxury rooms provide splendid views of indigenous gardens designed by horticulturalist Chris Dalzell. This farm-style lodge ensures a cosy experience. You can enjoy panoramic views from infinity and splash pools or relax by the fireplace. The library offers books on local history and bird species. In the evening, the outdoor boma with a firepit creates an intimate ambience. The lodge’s culinary experience includes canape-style lunches, handcrafted cocktails, and traditional South African-style potjiekos and braais.Being fenced off for safety, it is perfect for families.
Babanango Game Reserve also has an Adventure camp, Matatane Camp, for gap year and other students. Activities available at this camp also offer some adventure activities for guests staying at the other three camps
Activities at Babanango Game Reserve
Safari activities are more extensive than at many other game reserves with the usual 4x4 game drives on offer. But this is joined by bush walks, breakfast or lunch in the bush. Or why not immerse yourself in the intriguing history of the Coppermine Tour, located just 10 minutes away from Valley Lodge. Adventure activities such as ziplining are also on offer at Matatane camp.
Battlefield Tours - Being only 45 mins drive from the famous Isandlwana battlefield, guests staying longer at Babanango may well want to enjoy an excursion to both Isandlwana and the equally fascinating Rorke's Drift Station.
At A Glance
Big 5
Mountain Views
Swimming pool
Rural location
Beautiful Landscapes
Wildlife
In Pictures
Babanango Game Reserve on the map
Rooms
Zulu Rock Lodge
Zulu Rock Lodge offers two Deluxe Suites, three Luxury Suites, a Romance Suite and a Family Villa. The Deluxe Suites are ideal for couples who prefer to be close to the main lodge and pool. Each suite has a private patio with an outdoor fire pit, providing the perfect setting to unwind after an exciting day spent exploring the reserve. The three luxury suites provide stunning panoramic views of the Babanango Game Reserve. Guests can relax on cliff-face decks and take in the wildlife roaming the valley below. Each Luxury Suite is away from the main lodge to ensure privacy. Located furthest from the main lodge, the Romance Suite is perfect for couples. It has a private swimming pool, sun loungers, and a swing bed overlooking the valley below, setting the tone for a lifetime of bliss. The Family Villa, fenced from free-roaming wildlife, is perfect for up to four people. This two-bedroom suite offers a relaxed atmosphere with a private pool and boma, kitchenette, ample space for children to play safely, and a private indoor and outdoor lounge. Located far from the main lodge, it offers the utmost privacy and seclusion.
Madwaleni River Lodge
Madwaleni River Lodge offers seven Luxury Tents, two sets of interconnected Luxury Family Tents and a Romance Luxury Tent. Each of the Luxury Tents feature a private heated plunge pool, indoor and outdoor lounges with breathtaking wilderness views and sophisticated copper bathroom fixtures. Air-conditioned rooms come equipped with iPads for seamless food and beverage orders, ensuring a comfortable stay. The Luxury Family Tents are connected by a walkway, providing a shared space that is perfect for a group of friends. The communal lounge and dining room area offer a gathering spot for enjoying meals together and creating lasting memories. For a romantic escape, a secluded Romance Tent awaits with an outdoor shower and bath. Guests can revel in privacy while enjoying luxurious amenities.
Valley Lodge
Valley Lodge presents a selection of opulent rooms, meticulously furnished with upscale amenities to guarantee an indulgent and delightful experience for guests. The lodge offers two Deluxe Rooms, two Family Rooms, four Luxury Rooms and a Romance Room. Located closest to the lodge and pool area, the two deluxe rooms provide a convenient and accessible option. For those seeking a touch of privacy and tranquillity, the luxury rooms are an excellent choice. These rooms offer splendid views of the garden. The romance room at Valley Lodge is specifically tailored for couples looking to create a romantic getaway. This room feature a private balcony, a cozy day bed, and a private boma, allowing couples to enjoy their own secluded space and create memorable moments together. Designed with families in mind, the two family rooms at Valley Lodge are more spacious and include a sleeper couch suitable for two children under the age of 12. These rooms are set away from the other accommodations and the pool area, providing a quieter environment for families to relax and unwind.
