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Trusted by 15000+ customers
Babanango Madwaleni River Lodge
Trusted by 15000+ customers
Select your dates to reserve
from R23,000
/ for 2 guests
WiFI
Bath
Patio
Private Plunge Pool
Outdoor Shower
Aircon from R19,000
/ for 2 guests
WiFI Bath Patio Private Plunge Pool Outdoor Shower Aircon 
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Accommodation Description
Madwaleni River Lodge is a spectacular bush retreat situated along the southern bank of the White Umfolozi River within Babanango Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal. Translated from isiZulu as "the place of the rock," the lodge pays homage to the stunning granolith mountains in the reserve. Blending sophistication with rustic wilderness, Madwaleni River Lodge offers an exclusive escape with twelve award-winning luxury glamping tents, accommodating up to 24 guests. Unfenced, the lodge immerses guests in nature, emphasising sustainability and farm-to-table dining. The gym boasts panoramic river views, while the library provides the perfect space to get lost in a good book. The infinity pool, set against the river backdrop, enhances the immersive experience. Notably, Madwaleni features a 2000-bottle wine cellar, showcasing the finest Cape wines.
Setting Description
Madwaleni River Lodge is located in the heart of Zululand in South Africa, along the iconic White Umfolozi River. Overlooking 20,000 hectares of Babanango Game Reserve, this rewilding project stands as a testament to ambitious conservation efforts. The rugged terrain harbours a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including the Big Five and unique species like the aardvark. Guests embark on guided safaris, exploring the historical battle sites of Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift nearby. With Madwaleni's unparalleled amenities and the reserve's natural wonders, a stay here promises an unforgettable blend of luxury and untamed beauty.
Activities
Game Drives
Battlefield Tours
Bush Lunch
Walking Safari
Reviews
F. Dalton
Stayed at: Babanango Madwaleni River Lodge
Best resort in the SADC region
This is definitely one of the best resorts in SADC region. From your luxurious suite, you can hear the running waters of the White Umfolozi River. The private heated pool was awesome and the chefs were incredible!
N. Walton
Stayed at: Babanango Madwaleni River Lodge
We'll be back!
Fantastic lodge! Amazing food and stunning accommodation. We loved our stay and can't wait to return!
F. Dalton
Stayed at: Babanango Madwaleni River Lodge
Best resort in the SADC region
This is definitely one of the best resorts in SADC region. From your luxurious suite, you can hear the running waters of the White Umfolozi River. The private heated pool was awesome and the chefs were incredible!
N. Walton
Stayed at: Babanango Madwaleni River Lodge
We'll be back!
Fantastic lodge! Amazing food and stunning accommodation. We loved our stay and can't wait to return!
Location
Off R34, 28.26410,31.44709, Ulundi, 3838
How to get there
DIRECTIONS FROM KING SHAKA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
There will be three toll gates on the way which require cash or a credit card. The fee ranges from ZAR15.50 to ZAR44.00.
From King Shaka, merge onto the N2 Kwadukuza towards Tongaat and travel 79km.
Take Exit 277 (the Gingindlovu turnoff) for the R66, continue for 800m then turn left onto the R66 towards Gingindlovu/Eshowe/Ulundi.
Travel for 103km passing through Melmoth town Please ignore all signs referring to Babanango Town. Continue on the R66 until you merge onto the R34, towards Vryheid. Continue for 41km.
Look out for the Babanango Game Reserve sign on your left. Enjoy your stay!
[Dirt road access. 4x4 not required]
Please adhere to the speed limits as there are many speed traps along the way. Please also be aware that a large portion of the roads are regional roads and you maybe drive past many cows and goats whom can walk across the road at any given time.
ESTIMATED DRIVING TIME: 3 HOURS 30 MINS
TOTAL DISTANCE: 228KM
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DIRECTIONS FROM CENTRAL JOHANNESBURG
There will be three toll gates on the way which require cash or a credit card. The fee ranges from ZAR300 to ZAR350.
Take the N3 south out of Johannesburg for about 150km. After you pass through Villiers, take Exit 133 and turn left onto the R34 towards Vrede. After 13km, turn right onto the R103, then after 15km turn left onto the R34. Travel for 13.5km to get to Vrede, then turn right to stay on the R34. After 89km, turn left and then continue straight for 12km until you come to the N11. Turn right onto the N11 and continue for 1.2km, then turn left on to the R34 towards Utrecht. After 75.6km, turn left onto the R33/R34 and proceed
for 23km. Turn right onto the R34 and proceed for 6km, and then turn right again to stay on the R34. After 57km, look out for the Babanango Game Reserve sign on your right. Enjoy your stay!
[Dirt road access. 4x4 not required]
Please adhere to the speed limits as there are many speed traps along the way. Please also be aware that a large portion of the roads are regional roads and you maybe drive past many cows and goats whom can walk across the road at any given time.
ESTIMATED DRIVING TIME: 6 HOURS
TOTAL DISTANCE: 455KM
Frequently asked questions
Yes, the Big Five can be spotted at the game reserve.
Children 8 years and over are permitted at this lodge. Ensure that children are not left unattended and respect the privacy of other guests.
No, Zulu Rock Lodge is located in a malaria-free zone.
Yes, the conservation levies are payable at the lodge directly on arrival.
