Marulani Bush Lodge — Hotel in Gauteng

During the past week we had the privilege of spending 3 nights at Marulani Bush Lodge in Dinokeng Game Reserve just north of Pretoria. Our first great experience was the travelling distance from home. After only a 45 minute drive, we arrived at our destination and within a few minutes we were settled in absolute pristine accommodation. I could not stop noticing all the details inside and out. If you care for interior design and little details which create a special atmosphere, you will be awestruck at what Debbie and Riaan had done at Marulani. This clearly is what passion looks like! Their attention to detail regarding design and comfort is truly astonishing to me. The chalets are spacious, very pretty, spotless and very comfortable. The kitchen is very practical, very well equipped and the appliances seems all brand new. The wonder simply continues outside the chalets while exploring the property. Great care has been taken regarding guests' privacy and comfort and it is clearly visible all around you. The mere size of the fenced property allowed for a beautiful and exciting trail which was laid out across the entire property, zig-zagging between bushveld trees, natural veld grass and beautiful little gardens surrounding each chalet. You simply can not get bored on this trail. There are too many little surprises stored away in nature's nooks and corners and beneath bushveld trees - keeping this trail very exciting. Children will simply go wild with excitement while riding bikes and exploring all the little secrets this trail and the entire property has to offer. All within the safety of an electric fence and secure gate. Because of the levelness and the layout of the trail, even grandma and grandpa can enjoy walking it with their children and grand children. There are plenty places to sit down and rest in the shade while being completely surrounded by bushveld. We even used it to keep our fitness up to standard by doing a bit of trail running and a pool to cool off in afterwards. Our chalet's very private hot and cold outdoor shower, overlooking the bushveld, offered a great alternative to the pool as well. We spend much of our time on the stoep of the chalet as well as in the bird hide overlooking the watering hole and we could closely observe many different bird and animal species. As complete novice bird watchers, we had the opportunity to spot and identify many bird species we have never even noticed before, all because of Riaan's absolute passion for wildlife, the bushveld and especially for birds. I never expected to gain this much knowledge about nature in only 3 days! Whether we were inside the bird hide or on a game drive, Riaan took the time to highlight special little details about different species of animals and birds that we, as nature lovers and very regular visitors to the Kruger National Park, never even knew. This little gem called Marulani Bush Lodge is right on our doorstep and offers much more than we could imagine or expect in Gauteng! Thank you Debbie. Your passion and talent for creating something very special inside the chalets and all around the property is clearly visible and makes Marulani Bush Lodge an experience and not just a destination. Riaan, thank you again for taking the time to teach us so much and sharing you love and the passion you have for nature with us. The game drive you took us on were the best we ever experienced and we truly had a great time! This past week was unforgettable and we will cherish all the memories we made! We hope to see you again soon. Much love an appreciation. Karien,...

We couldn’t have chosen a more perfect place for our honeymoon than Marulani Bush Lodge! From the moment we arrived, we felt embraced by nature and the warm hospitality of the owner, who went out of her way to accommodate our last-minute booking. Her helpfulness set the tone for our entire stay, making it all the more special.||The lodge itself was incredibly spacious and serene, providing the ideal atmosphere to relax and unwind. We were captivated by the stunning wildlife right on our doorstep, including two Southern Yellow-billed hornbills making a nest nearby. It was amazing to watch them as they caught insects for each other—a mesmerizing, intimate glimpse into nature.||One of our favorite features was the beautiful, secluded outdoor shower. It offered a unique way to connect with nature, feeling both private and luxurious. Our adventure didn’t stop there; the owner helped us arrange an unforgettable game drive at Owl Spot. Not only did we see incredible animals like cheetahs, kudus, zebras, and giraffes, but we were also treated to some wine and juices—an extra touch that made the experience feel even more magical.||Marulani Bush Lodge is an absolute gem, and we couldn’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of the bush in comfort and style. Thank you for a truly...

We didn't stay at Marulani Bush Lodge. The place where we were camping arranged that my husband and I join the Game Drive. Coenie was our guide. It was amazing. So hard to wrap my head around having all these animals so close to Pretoria! Coenie was very knowledgeable. And if he didn't remember a name, he looked it up quickly. (Have you ever heard or seen a SWEMPIE?!) We were on the game drive for about 3 hours. We saw so much and heard so much about everything. We even got to know about Dinokeng, how it works, the animals, the rangers, the owners of the properties. Coenie was connecting with the other drivers to find the best viewing for us. Over and above the big animals we saw, I loved seeing the little ones. 2 jackals sauntering down the road (not together though)! A puff adder sliding over the road. All the little pheasants, partridges, a swempie!, 2 night owls, drongos.... My favourite part was travelling back to the lodge just as the sun was setting and the smell of the bush. That wettish coldish smell in the dusk. I never realised that Dinokeng was so big and...