Abelana River Lodge

It’s a sad reality these days that big 5 game lodge experiences cater primarily for overseas tourists and have become prohibitively expensive for South Africans. Abelana is an exception to that rule. We had a simply superb weekend in all aspects – at a remarkably good price. The main lodge itself is stunning. The reception, lounge, bar and dining areas are beautifully appointed – but the piece de resistance has to be the outside deck overlooking the rim flow pool onto the Selati River. This setting is hard to beat – it is magnificent and one can easily spend hours relaxing there watching hippos, crocodiles, elephant and other game on the banks and in the water. The individual chalets are likewise beautifully decorated, spacious and private. The furniture and fabrics used are top quality and the overall look is subtle and stylish. Absolutely superb. The staff are attentive and present without being intrusive, and the food was excellent. We really want to stress this – really, really great food. And finally the game viewing experience was wonderful. Our guide Tyler was top notch. Enthusiastic, knowledgeable, likeable and determined to show us the best that the reserve had to offer – and as a result we has some unforgettable sightings.

Abelana is within easy reach from Hoedspruit airport. We arrived in time for lunch. Well received and felt welcome and the level of comfort was exceptional. The chalets set on the edge of the Selati River, stunning setting rich in bird/wildlife

We went back to the bush after nearly 15 years of being away from that part of the world to spoil ourselves and celebrate our older daughter's 40th, Father's Day and a 44th wedding anniversary. This is a special. warm. welcoming and down-to-earth place indeed. Great food. Beautifully served. Just the right size of helping. Nothing is too much trouble for anyone on the staff, We had really good sightings. Small stuff. Big stuff. Walks with cheetah and rhino, birds, antelope, lion, fresh kills. The list could go on. And it does. We cannot recommend our guide, Wernich (Verne) , enough. He went far above and beyond to find us game large, small and tiny -- and to take us to the baobabs, which is off-the-scale special as a sighting. I don't think he had to do that as part of his job description/ KPAs, but he did. His energy and passion to know more and more about bush-lore and to make the deep knowledge he's already imbibed was inspiring. Thanks Verne. And also a huge thanks to Rob, Isaac, Judy for their calm, cheerful engagements on every occasion. This is a seriously, seriously special place. Go there.