Maliba River Lodge

We went for a special weekend with friends to Maliba Lodge to celebrate my husband’s birthday. When I made the booking, I asked if something special could be arranged, there was no creativity or option offered. I find this strange for a 5 star lodge. I was told it was fine dining and smart casual at night, this was not evident. We were not told that there was another restaurant. The setting and the scenery are what make the lodge. The view from the balcony is beautiful, and very tranquil. Unfortunately, it is clear that upper management is not present. Service is extremely slow. The quality of the food is mediocre, and there is no choice. I understand that being in Lesotho does give you limited options, there was no option of cereal or fruit. I had booked a spa treatment, when I came to the office. I was told that it was double booked, I was disappointed that no one had come to inform that this was the case. I will complement the lady at reception as she offered to do the spa treatment. I found that very kind, but not fair or appropriate for her to be taken away from her duties. When you arrive at the entrance of Tsehlanyane National Park, it is run down, you write in a book, no receipt and no knowledge when you make the booking that this is required. When making payment, no change given. My suggestion is that a registration book with a receipt is given, so that when you leave, you had in the receipt having been stamped by the lodge. This helps keep track of who paid what and what change was given On the website, it shows routes for 4x4, however when we requested information regarding the routes. We were informed that no one really knew which routes were still appropriate to take. We saw on the map, that it was outdated and had not be updated. We had Ernest offer to take us around, thankfully he had some knowledge and we managed to do some 4x4 adventuring. Maliba advertises that it is an Eco-friendly lodge, the water comes in plastic bottles, the amenities in the bathroom are good quality, however, I would suggest to buy permanent bottles that are attached, this minimizes the use of plastic. If you’re looking for natural beauty, then I would go, but limit you expections regarding Maliba being a 5 star lodge in connection with quality of food and service. The staff are friendly, they just need guidance.

The cottages are old and tatty. The main hotel reception looks very nice but when you get to the cottages there has clearly not been any money spent on these for a long time. From broken wall heaters to mold on the bathroom walls, the place needs some desperate care. Kitchen was also bad, oven door would not close, not enough cutlery for four people and fridge was dirty inside. The outside cushions had not been cleaned since they were bought obviously. Everything very run down. Very disappointed.

We loved our stay at Maliba Lodge. We stayed in one of the self catering chalets by the river which was beautiful and peaceful. The food at the restaurant was amazing! The dinners were true three course marvels! Such a beautiful setting where we were able to hike and horseback ride while also doing the tour of the nearby village to experience some of Lesotho's interesting culture.