TASTEFUL THATCHED LODGE
Pondoro is a traditional thatched lodge overlooking a flat floodplain stretch of the perennial Olifants river in the north of Balule. Year round water draws game. Elephants in particular are plentiful.
DECENT RIVER TRAVERSING
Traversing is over 100 square kilometres of land shared with 3 other commercial lodges, all overlooked by the Drakensberg mountains which glower over the area. Sightings are regulated by radio to allow no more than two vehicles on any sighting.
BIG FIVE
Expert rangers and trackers, led by Pondoro owner Robbie Prehn, conduct morning and evening game drives. Their intimate knowledge of the area adds a new layer of understanding to the experience, and an appreciation of the wondrous plants and animals which surround you. Walking is not part of the offering here. Big Five certainly are.
CHALETS
Three large individually architected chalets overlook the river. All chalets have en-suite bathrooms with a shower and bath overlooking the river, air-conditioning, mosquito nets and a wooden deck. Two have outdoor baths.
PREMIUM SUITES
Premium accommodation is provided in five striking individually designed and themed suites.
SUITE LOUNGE, DECK, JACUZZI
Each has a private patio, lounge area, an outside shower, and a Jacuzzi built into the wooden deck facing the river.
TREE-HOUSE HIDE
You would be remiss in visiting Pondoro not to take the opportunity to enjoy the spectacular sleep-out deck overlooking a spotlit waterhole in the middle of the bush. The adventure begins after dinner with a late night drive to the hide. You will be picked up again during the morning safari.
SERENITY SPA
The Serenity spa offers relaxation surrounded by elegant décor and cascading waterfalls. Spa and face treatments include a glass steam room, a spa bath under the skies, or a massage in the privacy of your room.
AMBITIOUS FOOD
The food aims to fuse traditional African fare with contemporary European styles. Meals are served on a wooden deck high up in the tree canopy overlooking the river, or by candlelight along its banks. After dinner you’ll be able to relax with a Cuban cigar and enjoy a glass of Port or Cognac, should that be your fancy.
WINE CELLAR
To complement the food, wine can be selected from an extensive wine cellar, which has won Diners Club accolades in the past. The bar also stocks a selection of fine whisky.
BLACK MAMBA TOUR
Pondoro offers the chance to visit the all-female Black Mamba anti-poaching unit to understand their work in protecting Balule’s rhino (extra charge applies).
