Paradise River Lodge — Hotel in Maruleng Local Municipality

My family and I wished to escape the chaos of London and see the nature and rural beauty of the Kruger National Park and surrounding area. Paradise River Lodge provided the perfect base camp for exploring the surrounding area. The owner, Max, was the perfect host and would often join us around the communal dining area for a drink and a chat. The lodge has several rooms, we had the two original rooms next to the Oilifants river. The beds were comfortable and the rooms accessorised in rustic furniture to enhance the ambiance of a thatched hunting lodge. All in very good taste. The ensuite bathroom was spacious and equally well equipped and decorated. Personally, I loved falling asleep with the sound of the river just outside. Max provided an excellent breakfast every day with everything possible. Freshly brewed coffee, fresh fruit, Greek yoghurt, granola, fried eggs and bacon and toast. For the evening, Max would provide a braai (BBQ) with boerewurst (sausage), steak, burgers and even ostrich. Accompanied by salads and pastas. In all cases, Max let the food speak for itself. The quality was excellent and succulent and didn't require hiding under superfluous sauces (unlike British food where you have to try and inject flavour into mass produced rubbish). Max also makes fantastic chocolate brownies and chocolate mouse. The lodge also runs an 'honesty bar' for drinks. The beers, wines and soft drinks were priced fairly and there was obviously a slight mark up in price to cover the cost of supplying the drinks but compared to London prices, very good value. The lodge is located inside the Ndlovumzi nature reserve and you are free to wander around as there is nothing too dangerous within the grounds. Watch out for the Vervet monkeys who like to steal food items. Max is also a very knowledgeable and accredited guide and took us on a drive around the reserve and to a picnic spot. Its amazing how Max could spot animals and birds among the bushes and trees. He definitely has a trained eye. There is WiFi so you can keep in touch with your world but I'm glad to say, NO televisions in the rooms. This encouraged socialising, drinking and discussions among your fellow guests which is an excellent way to digest and file away your days activities. The lodge is a good base for the obvious Kruger National Park but also Blyde River Canyon, Pridelands Game Reserve, Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and Jessica The Hippo. Hoedspruit town is just down the road with some excellent eateries and shops. Summing up ... Perfect location, perfect hosts, perfect facilities, perfect food and drink. Paradise River Lodge - Perfect description!!

Thank you Max - a truly...

A true paradise – highly recommended!

Our stay at Paradise Lodge was absolutely unforgettable. The lodge is set in a beautifully maintained property surrounded by nature – the perfect place to relax and recharge. The rooms are authentic, spacious, and tastefully decorated with attention to detail. We felt instantly at home. The breakfast was delicious and generous and the peaceful atmosphere in nature is priceless.

One of the absolute highlights was the evening by the river: Max, one of the amazing hosts, prepared a traditional Braai over an open fire – a magical experience under the stars. The warmth and hospitality of Maris & Max made us feel truly welcome. You can tell they put their heart into everything they do.

Another highlight of our trip was a boat tour through the Blyde River Canyon, which we highly recommend. The scenery was breathtaking, and we were lucky to spot plenty of wildlife along the way – a fantastic experience for nature lovers.

Everything was just perfect: the location is also ideal for trips into Kruger National Park.

So if you’re looking for comfort, authenticity, warm hospitality, and a deep connection to nature – this is the place. We will...

I stayed at Paradise River Lodge in January 2023 when it was just coming under their new management and owners Max and Mariska.

Firstly, they are the most welcome and wonderful hosts! Thank you for your time guys, and also a special thank you to the cleaners and service men who worked at the property too!

The accommodation was great and the nature reserve itself was really nice as well. Being so close to the river and hearing its roar really is an impressive thing to live with

Max was a great safari guide around the private nature reserve which Paradise River Lodge is situated within, and took our group on a nice day trip out to Mariepskop. Thanks again for that Max!

The South African food provided was top grade and filled us completely. We were very happy with the Potjie pots

There's a few different room options, we will have to come back and try the other cottages. They all look so different, but also so nice, accommodating and comfortable.

We will see you on our next trip to Hoedspruit, can't wait to come back into your slice of...