Bushbaby Favorites
Special suggestions from our team -handpicked for unforgettable moments
Game drive and Bush Dinner in Pridelands
An evening we’ll always remember
The drive through the private reserve just outside of Hoedspruit already was like a little safari. In the golden dusk, we spotted giraffes along the track, a lone elephant hiding among the trees, and heard the distant call of a hyena.
When we arrived at the clearing, we were greeted by a scene straight out of a dream: glowing torches, a crackling fire, beautifully laid tables, and the warm, welcoming smiles of the team. A true south african hospitality experinece.
Everything was prepared with so much care – rustic yet elegant, simple yet utterly atmospheric.
We were served a delicious three-course dinner, rich in local flavor and paired with a lovely South African wine. Above us, the stars stretched endlessly across the sky, and all around us, the bush whispered and stirred.
It wasn’t just dinner – it was a moment of deep connection. With nature, with each other, and with the soul of Africa.
This evening reminded us why we truly fell in love with this place.
- Bushbaby River Lodge - Pridelands Private Reserve
- Held in the afternoon and evening, weather permitting
- Transfer included, sundowner drink at the fire included
- 3-course menu with drinks, and the true magic of the bushveld
A place with joie de vivre, – and seriously good food
The Thirsty Giraffe
When you live in Hoedspruit, you quickly develop a sense for places that offer authentic hospitality, warm-hearted service, and truly good food.
The Thirsty Giraffe, located about 20 minutes from our Back Gate and Bushbaby River Lodge, is one of those hidden gems you can’t help but fall in love with.
If you prefer dining where there aren’t too many tourists, this is your spot. The last few meters lead you down a bumpy, unpaved road without any lighting – but trust us, it’s absolutely worth it!
What keeps us coming back? The relaxed, rustic atmosphere, the lovely bush views – and of course, Vic and Leigh, who, together with their team, are exceptional and warm hosts.
Right upon arrival, you’re often welcomed with a wonderfully refreshing Blood Orange Gin & Tonic, and with your meal, you’ll enjoy excellent wines.
On the menu: perfect steaks, creative burgers, and flavourful Mozambican-inspired dishes, all made with care and love.
What we especially love: everyone in our team has their own personal favourite!
Freddie always goes for the spare ribs – served with fries and crispy onion rings.
Sabine can’t resist the prawn platter with fragrant rice.
And Petra is a huge fan of the beef carpaccio – tender, aromatic, and beautifully presented.
And if, after your gin & tonic, you think you hear a donkey (or several) – don’t worry, you’re not imagining things. The donkeys roam freely around the property and often come over to greet guests. We’re honestly a bit envious of their stunning eyes and those gorgeous lashes!
The kitchen features hearty meat dishes with a Mozambican flair, like the classic Espetadas, grilled over open flames and served with a spicy peri-peri sauce. Rustic, bold, honest – and simply delicious.
Another big plus: you’ll meet locals, neighbours, and other lodge owners here – it’s a real melting pot.
When big games like rugby or cricket are on, the place comes alive and gets wonderfully “zizzelig” – buzzing with fantastic food, good drinks, and excellent service.
- Bushbaby River Lodge - R40 towards Phalaborwa, about 20 minutes from the lodge
- Final stretch: unpaved and unlit at night
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Open for lunch and dinner – also great for sundowners
Sundays lunch only | Closed on Mondays – well-deserved rest for the hosts - We’re happy to book a table for you!
A different kind of Big 5 safari…
Walking Safari in the Greater Kruger
We wanted to experience the bush and its wildlife from a different perspective – not from the comfort of an open game viewer, but on foot. And yes, we were also craving that little bit of thrill that comes with walking through Big 5 territory.
So we decided on a walking safari in the Greater Kruger.
And to say it right up front: it exceeded our expectations in every way.
We were picked up at the lodge and driven to the Pridelands reserve. There, our guide Reinhardt – also our neighbour – got ready for the walk. He grabbed his rifle (legally required for safety), and off we went. Reinhardt assured us that in all his years, he’s never had to fire a shot – that already gave us a good feeling.
Walking through the bush is a completely different experience. There’s a hole in the ground – not a mole, but a scorpion burrow. A termite mound becomes a fascinating example of natural engineering. Then: tracks in the sand. Buffalo!
And yes – just a bit later, we saw them. A whole herd of at least 60 buffalo, calves included, at a waterhole. Reinhardt quietly led us around the herd, against the wind, to a small rise – the perfect viewpoint for this stunning moment.
It was hard to walk away. But there was more to discover.
And then, as if the bush wanted to top it all off: a lioness appeared in front of us. A moment we’ll never forget.
After more than three hours, we returned to the lodge – happy, amazed, and full of new impressions from the world of tracks, plants, and wildlife.
And after such a walk, Nomsa’s breakfast tastes even better.
- Bushbaby River Lodge - Pridelands Reserve, Greater Kruger
- Duration: approx. 3 hours (early morning)
- Guided by a certified trails guide and armed ranger
- Minimum age: 16 years
