A Weekend at Monwana Lodge in Hoedspruit: It Felt Like Coming Home

I recently had the pleasure of spending a weekend at Monwana Lodge in Hoedspruit, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived, I felt a sense of familiarity and warmth that made me instantly feel at home.

The lodge is nestled in the heart of the African bush, surrounded by lush vegetation and an abundance of wildlife. As I walked through the lodge’s entrance, I was greeted by the sounds of chirping birds and the gentle rustling of leaves in the wind. It was a symphony of nature that immediately put me at ease.

The staff at Monwana Lodge were incredibly welcoming and friendly. They made sure that I had everything I needed and were always available to answer any questions or help with any concerns. It was clear that they truly cared about providing a memorable experience for each guest.

The accommodations at the lodge were comfortable and luxurious. My room was spacious and well-appointed, with all the amenities one could ask for. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and I slept like a baby each night.

One of the highlights of my stay at Monwana Lodge was the game drives. Led by experienced and knowledgeable guides, we set off into the African bush in search of wildlife. It was nothing short of incredible to witness animals such as lions, elephants, and rhinos in their natural habitat.

During the game drives, our guide shared fascinating facts and stories about the animals we encountered. I learned so much about each species and gained a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of nature.

In between game drives, I had the opportunity to relax and unwind at the lodge. Whether it was lounging by the pool, indulging in a spa treatment, or simply soaking in the serenity of the surroundings, there was always something to enjoy.

The food at Monwana Lodge was another standout. Each meal was a culinary delight, with a wide variety of dishes to choose from. Whether it was a hearty breakfast to start the day or a sumptuous dinner to end it, I was consistently impressed with the quality and flavor of the food.

As I reflect on my experience at Monwana Lodge, one word comes to mind: magic. It was a weekend filled with wonder, beauty, and a deep connection to nature. I left feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and grateful for the opportunity to create lasting memories in such a special place.

If you are looking for a truly extraordinary getaway, I highly recommend visiting Monwana Lodge in Hoedspruit. It is a place that will capture your heart and leave you longing to return. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

In the heart of the sunny Lowveld in Limpopo, there exists a place that radiates tranquility. It is a place of beauty and comfort, where the natural world and human nurture coexist in perfect harmony.

Having grown up in the lush green pastures of this province, Monwana Game Lodge felt like a familiar destination that I had somehow never visited before. From the moment I arrived, I was overwhelmed with a sense of belonging and familiarity.

The lodge has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment, with the owners paying meticulous attention to every detail. They have redesigned and reimagined every corner, from the cutlery on the table to the furniture in the rooms. It’s no wonder that both visitors and staff alike feel a sense of being at home when they step onto the grounds.

As I stand at the entrance of Monwana Lodge, I can’t help but admire the beauty that lies ahead. The image of this stunning safari destination fills my mind with excitement and wonder. It’s a departure from the city, an escape from the monotonous routine of the urban landscape.

Leaving behind the city for a thrilling adventure

Living in different parts of South Africa, whether it’s the coastal Western Cape or the bustling Gauteng, we all wake up to the same urban grind. Every day, we find ourselves trapped in the concrete jungle, disconnected from the natural world around us. It often feels like we’re drifting apart from others, lost in a sea of people.

But amidst the chaos, there is still hope. We can find solace in nature, rediscovering our true selves and creating a connection with our environment. And the best part is, embarking on this journey doesn’t have to be complicated or tiresome.

When I flew from Cape Town International airport to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, I had the pleasure of enjoying a peaceful 2-hour 30-minute Airlink flight. Airlink is a premier regional airline that offers flights from Johannesburg as well. No matter where you’re coming from, the views during the descent into Hoedspruit are truly breathtaking.

The moment you begin your descent, the beauty of the winding Klein Drakensberg will captivate you. It’s a sight that few can compare to. And as you touch down on the runway, the comforting expanse of green landscapes will greet you, making you feel right at home.

If you’re lucky enough to snag a window seat, you’ll be treated to an even more remarkable experience. The opportunity to witness animals drinking from the waterhole is truly extraordinary. It’s a sight that will make you feel connected to nature and leave a lasting impression.

As I was driven to the lodge, which was about 45 minutes away from the airport, I couldn’t help but notice the beautiful scenery that unfolded before me. Instead of the usual tall buildings of the city, I was greeted by majestic giraffes wandering through lush flora. Little did I know that this was just the beginning of the warm greetings I would receive.

Welcome to your new home

Monwana is not just a place to stay because of its architectural design; it is a home because of the incredible staff that make you feel like part of their family.

Welcome to the Monwana family! Let me tell you about my experience when I arrived at the lodge.

As soon as we pulled into the driveway, a wonderful sight awaited me. Some friendly faces were at the entrance, waving and smiling. It was clear that they were genuinely excited to welcome me as their guest.

Even before stepping foot into the lodge, I felt a sense of familiarity. The staff quickly took my luggage and led me through a narrow entrance. And then, I was greeted by a breathtaking sight – a spacious dining area that overlooked a waterhole. It was a truly stunning view, where nyala could be seen quenching their thirst.

What struck me the most was how seamlessly the lodge blended in with nature. The line between humans and the natural world was almost nonexistent. It was a beautiful reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things.

My Amazing Living Space

First, I got to see where I would be living during my stay.

At Monwana, there are different types of rooms to choose from. You can pick between Suites and Savannah residences, which can also be turned into family suites for 2 adults and 2 children. If you’re traveling alone or want a more private experience with a dedicated team, you can go for the Woodland residences or the Monwana villa.

The luxury suites are incredibly spacious, covering 90 square meters. Each suite can accommodate two guests and comes with a private outdoor area of 25 square meters, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding bushveld.

Welcome to the Monwana Suite interior!

When you stay with us, you’ll enjoy a range of comfortable amenities designed to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. Our accommodations feature air-conditioning and heating, high-quality linens and towels, and a selection of luxurious amenities. And for a unique experience, we even offer a private outdoor shower so you can connect with nature.

When it comes to relaxation, we have you covered. You can unwind in various areas of your suite, including the cozy bed, the inviting lounge area, or the spacious deck with a private plunge pool. No matter where you choose to relax, you’ll be surrounded by comfort and tranquility.

Let’s talk rates:

Low season (January – July): R23 200 p.p sharing / R34,800 p.p single

High season (August – December): R25 050 p.p sharing / R37 575 p.p single

If you’re wondering about occupancy, our Monwana Suites are designed for a maximum occupancy of 2 people. With 118m² of space, including a separate lounge, and a generous 35m² private outdoor area, you’ll have plenty of room to relax and make yourself at home.

The Savannah Residences offer a stylish and sophisticated atmosphere, with tasteful decorations and a cozy lounge area that can easily transform into an extra bedroom with twin beds. You’ll find not one, but two luxurious bathrooms, equipped with a bathtub, a double shower, a single shower, and even an outdoor shower.

Now, let’s talk about the rates:

In the low season (January – July), the prices are as follows:

• R25,300 per person sharing
• R37,950 for a single person
• R18,975 per person for shared accommodation for children aged 12-15

In the high season (August – December), the rates are:

• R27,300 per person sharing
• R40,950 for a single person
• R20,475 per person for shared accommodation for children aged 12-15

Keep in mind that the maximum occupancy for each residence is 2 adults and 2 children.

Moving on, we have the Woodland Residences, which are simply stunning. These magnificent accommodations boast a spacious interior, covering 118 square meters, providing the utmost comfort for two guests. Additionally, you’ll have access to a cozy outdoor area spanning 35 square meters, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the surrounding nature.

Welcome to the Woodlands Residences, where luxury meets nature in a secluded and serene setting. Our exceptional accommodations offer a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the wilderness. You’ll feel as if you have the whole place to yourself, surrounded by the melodious songs of birds and the gentle rustling of animals. It’s an experience that will leave you feeling invigorated and refreshed.

Let’s talk about rates:

During the low season, from January to July, our rates are R27,500 per person for sharing and R41,250 for single occupancy. If you visit us during the high season, from August to December, the rates are R29,700 per person for sharing and R44,550 for single occupancy.

Our accommodations are designed for couples or individuals, with a maximum occupancy of 2 people. The Monwana Villa, in particular, is a luxurious option with two en-suite bathrooms and a spacious undercover area of 390m². Additionally, you can enjoy 130m² of outdoor deck space, perfect for dining and relaxing amidst nature’s beauty.

The Villa is like having your own private safari home. It’s exclusive and secluded, with its own entrance and a dedicated team of staff, including a field guide, tracker, butler, and chef. You’ll feel like a VIP from the moment you arrive.

With two en-suite bedrooms, each with its own private plunge pool, you’ll have plenty of space and privacy. The shared living area is spacious and comfortable, with a fully equipped kitchen, cozy lounge, and dining area. And on those chilly nights, you can cozy up by the fireplace.

One of my favorite features of the Villa is the wooden deck. It’s the perfect spot to relax and take in the breathtaking views. There’s also an outdoor dining area, so you can enjoy your meals al fresco. And for those who like to swim, the heated pool is a must.

But what truly sets the Villa apart is the personalized safari experience. You have the power to shape your daily activities and make your dreams come true. Whether you want to go on game drives, explore the bush on foot, or simply relax and soak up the surroundings, the choice is yours.

I was lucky enough to experience the Villa firsthand, and it was truly unforgettable. One of the highlights for me was taking a night swim and then rinsing off in the outdoor shower. There’s something magical about being immersed in nature under the starry African sky.

As for rates:

The Villa suite is perfect for a group or family, with rates starting at R140,400 during the low season and going up to R151,600 during peak season. The maximum occupancy is 4 people.

The Villa lounge is ideal for couples or solo travelers, with rates ranging from R102,600 in the low season to R110,800 in peak season. The maximum occupancy is 2 people.

Accommodation is all about family

I want to tell you about Monwana Lodge, a place that not only cares about its guests but also takes care of the environment.

At Monwana Lodge, they are committed to being eco-friendly. Unlike other places, you won’t see any plastic here. They have found creative ways to reduce their carbon footprint and protect the planet. They have even installed solar panels and inverters to combat the energy challenges caused by loadshedding and low supply from Eskom. And they go even further by using wasted heat from cooling water as an energy source.

Wow, you won’t believe how amazing it is to work at this lodge. One of the most impressive things about it is how much they care about their staff. They provide them with these excellent living quarters that are just as good as some apartments in the city. And get this, if the staff members have kids, they can bring them along to live with them at the lodge! Plus, the food is absolutely delicious.

Explore the Wilderness

What’s really cool about Monwana is that it’s right next to the Greater Kruger National Park, with no fences in between. That means there are tons of animals all around. It’s like living in the middle of the wild!

Imagine this: you’re embarking on an incredible safari adventure, surrounded by a vast array of wildlife. Your checklist includes a whopping 147 mammals, featuring the iconic Big Five, as well as fascinating creatures like giraffes, wild dogs, and cheetahs. And that’s just the beginning!

But it’s not just about the mammals. You’ll also encounter an astonishing 114 reptiles, like the impressive giant plated lizard or the venomous black mamba. And let’s not forget the 507 species of birds, including the captivating Lilac-breasted roller, with its mesmerizing colors.

But it doesn’t stop there. The diversity extends to the underwater world as well, with 49 fish species and 34 amphibians waiting to be discovered. It’s truly a wildlife enthusiast’s dream come true.

During one of our guided safari drives, I had a truly unforgettable experience. We spotted a magnificent leopard feasting on its prey high up in a tree. We were lucky enough to witness this captivating sight from a close distance. However, the leopard’s feast didn’t go unnoticed by a cunning hyena lurking below. With a hungry glint in its eyes, the hyena patiently waited for any leftovers. Eventually, the scraps came tumbling down, and the hyena seized its opportunity without hesitation. It was a remarkable display of nature’s circle of life, right before our eyes.

As I stood there, in awe of this incredible spectacle, I couldn’t help but think of David Attenborough. His voice narrating the scene would have added an extra layer of wonder and fascination.

All good things must come to an end, but the memories and emotions from such an extraordinary experience last forever. It’s a reminder of the grandeur and beauty of nature, and the intricate harmony between its inhabitants. So, if you’re searching for an adventure that will ignite your curiosity and leave you with everlasting memories, a safari is an absolute must. Get ready to be immersed in a world where every moment is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

Farewells have never been my strong suit. Saying goodbye has always been a challenge for me, especially when I know I’m about to embark on a new adventure. But, like everything else in life, goodbyes are inevitable. ‘Se sesa feleng sa thlola’ – a phrase that reminds me that even though goodbyes can be tough, they also mark the beginning of something miraculous.

As the engine roared to life and the tires churned up the gravel, I couldn’t help but look back one last time. There they were, the Monwana family, waving goodbye. In that moment, I realized it wasn’t really an ending, but the start of a feeling that would never fade.

Contact us to make a booking: [email protected] / 021 203 0111

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