Kusudalweni Safari Lodge and Spa — Hotel in Maruleng Local Municipality

Our recent stay at this so-called "all-inclusive" lodge was horrific to say the least. Our disappointing experience started off very quickly due to poor organization, over promising, and under delivering. We booked this lodge specifically for the safari experience, and all inclusive game drives, which turned out to be completely underwhelming.

Our first game drive was at sunset and they took us around their property which was very small and didn’t include much wildlife at all. The entire area was fenced and felt very unauthentic. Although we were dishearten and expressed this to Colleen she reassured us that our full day Kruger Safari would be much better. She claimed that it would be private and professional with just our family on the game drive. Then, due to the “all-inclusive” package we paid for, she assured us that we would receive breakfast and only a 200rand voucher for lunch, I was a little bit surprised by this considering the amount we paid for this lodge but nonetheless agreed.

The next game drive was even worse than the first. First, we had to pick up 3 other guests from a different location and the game drive felt unengaging, with little effort made to track or locate wildlife. Our guide seemed disinterested, inexperienced, and provided minimal insight throughout the excursion. He only drove on the main tar roads, far from any wildlife - and told us to “look closely” for any animal sightings in the distance.

Most frustratingly, despite the fact that meals were included in our package, both breakfast and lunch were completely forgotten on our full-day safari, so our entire family from 4am - lunch time have not eaten a single thing. Our driver advised us that Colleen should’ve packed breakfast and that’s how they have always operated.

Being out in the bush for hours without any food or communication from the lodge was not only unacceptable—it was negligent.

When we confronted Colleen about the horrible experience we had, she assured us that the following day we would “feel like you’re in Hollywood” and that the reason we didn’t spot any wildlife is because the driver was inexperienced and she will ensure the next day we have someone who would be able to go into the private areas and “off road”.

The last opportunity we had to experience any wildlife was on our 2 half day safaris. The first one in the morning was at Manyaleti private reserve and again, we drove around for hours without spotting any wild life because our driver was restricted to just the main roads. Once we spotted 2 lions, our guide told us his car is unable to go to that area because we didn’t have the authority to go into any private areas or off road (the complete opposite of what Colleen promised us). Then, our car got stuck in the middle of the jungle and we spent half an hour trying to get out of the area, until someone finally assisted us and was able to get us out. It was unfortunate, but we weren’t offered any type of compensation or extension of the game drive.

For a property that markets itself as luxury and all-inclusive, the service fell far below expectations. There are many outstanding safari lodges in South Africa that offer genuine hospitality, well-organized experiences, and professional guides—unfortunately, this is not one of them.

The worst part is, we will never get these days back. I would strongly recommend looking elsewhere.

RESPONSE TO OWNER

I find your reply disappointing and disingenuous, rather than acknowledging valid guest concerns, you've chosen to discredit them in a way that misrepresents the facts. I don’t personally know the other guests who left those reviews. Other families we personally spoke to have expressed similar frustrations. It’s especially concerning that you are denying making promises that I can prove were made (find photos attached). This is about basic services being completely overlooked. The best places don’t just have good reviews, they know how to take responsibility when things go wrong. Sadly, this was not...

Our recent stay at this so-called "all-inclusive" lodge was horrific to say the least. Our disappointing experience started off very quickly due to poor organization, over promising, and under delivering.|We booked this lodge specifically for the safari experience, and all inclusive game drives, which turned out to be completely underwhelming.|Our first game drive was at sunset and they took us around their property which was very small and didn’t include much wildlife at all. The entire area was fenced and felt very unauthentic. Although we were dishearten and expressed this to Colleen she reassured us that our full day Kruger Safari would be much better. She claimed that it would be private and professional with just our family on the game drive. Then, due to the “all-inclusive” package we paid for, she assured us that we would receive breakfast and only a 200rand voucher for lunch, I was a little bit surprised by this considering the amount we paid for this lodge but nonetheless agreed.|The next game drive was even worse than the first. First, we had to pick up 3 other guests from a different location and the game drive felt unengaging, with little effort made to track or locate wildlife. Our guide seemed disinterested, inexperienced, and provided minimal insight throughout the excursion. He only drove on the main tar roads, far from any wildlife - and told us to “look closely” for any animal sightings in the distance.|Most frustratingly, despite the fact that meals were included in our package, both breakfast and lunch were completely forgotten on our full-day safari, so our entire family from 4am - lunch time have not eaten a single thing. Our driver advised us that Colleen should’ve packed breakfast and that’s how they have always operated.|Being out in the bush for hours without any food or communication from the lodge was not only unacceptable—it was negligent.|When we confronted Colleen about the horrible experience we had, she assured us that the following day we would “feel like you’re in Hollywood” and that the reason we didn’t spot any wildlife is because the driver was inexperienced and she will ensure the next day we have someone who would be able to go into the private areas and “off road”.|The last opportunity we had to experience any wildlife was on our 2 half day safaris. The first one in the morning was at Manyaleti private reserve and again, we drove around for hours without spotting any wild life because our driver was restricted to just the main roads. Once we spotted 2 lions, our guide told us his car is unable to go to that area because we didn’t have the authority to go into any private areas or off road (the complete opposite of what Colleen promised us). Then, our car got stuck in the middle of the jungle and we spent half an hour trying to get out of the area, until someone finally assisted us and was able to get us out. It was unfortunate, but we weren’t offered any type of compensation or extension of the game drive.|For a property that markets itself as luxury and all-inclusive, the service fell far below expectations. There are many outstanding safari lodges in South Africa that offer genuine hospitality, well-organized experiences, and professional guides—unfortunately, this is not one of them.|The worst part is, we will never get these days back. I would strongly recommend...

Kusudalweni Safari Lodge and Spa, nestled in the Greater Kruger area, is truly a hidden gem. From the moment I was warmly greeted at Hoedspruit airport to the moment I departed, the staff went above and beyond to ensure my stay was unforgettable. Their attention to detail and genuine hospitality made me feel incredibly well looked after.

The dining experience was second to none, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner consistently exceeding expectations. Every meal was catered perfectly to my tastes, and nothing was ever too much trouble for the team. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking to enjoy fresh, delicious cuisine, Kusudalweni delivers on all fronts.

The excursions were an absolute highlight, and thanks to the expert guides, I was fortunate enough to see the Big Five over the course of a few thrilling days on safari. Each excursion was perfectly organised, and the guides’ knowledge and passion for the wildlife made the experience even more enriching.

The facilities at Kusudalweni are exceptional. The bar and restaurant offer a great variety for all preferences, and the option to enjoy a massage in the privacy of my lodge was a luxury I deeply appreciated. The peace and tranquillity of the surroundings made it the perfect place to unwind and recharge.

I left Kusudalweni with a heart full of memories and a deep sense of calm, already planning my return. It’s a place that leaves a lasting impression, and I can’t thank the team enough for their incredible service and hospitality. This is an experience I will...