Hippo Waterfront Lodge & Camping — Hotel in Mbombela

A Hidden Gem Where Nature and Hospitality Meet – My Soul Found Home at Hippo Waterfront Lodge

I arrived at Hippo Waterfront Lodge in Sterkspruit, Mbombela, intending to spend just an evening visiting a friend who was staying there for work. What happened next was nothing short of magical—I ended up staying three nights, and even that felt far too short for a place that captured my heart so completely.

From the moment you drive in, you’re embraced by the untamed beauty of the Lowveld. The majestic Crocodile River winds its way right through the entire lodge, a silver thread of life that brings with it the symphony of nature. The trees rise like sentinels, serene and proud, their leaves whispering stories on the breeze. And the birdlife… oh, the birdlife! It’s a living orchestra. Every morning and evening is serenaded by the sweetest, most soul-soothing music you could ever hope to hear.

The true treasure of Hippo Waterfront Lodge, however, is not just the landscape—it’s the hosts, Paul and Stephanie. Within half an hour of meeting them, I felt like I was reconnecting with lifelong friends. Their warmth, humor, and generosity of spirit infuse the entire property. They are the heartbeat of the lodge, and their passion for making every guest feel special radiates from every corner. You don’t just stay here—you belong here.

The bar and restaurant area overlooks the river—a setting so breathtaking it almost doesn’t seem real. Whether you’re enjoying a drink, a delicious meal, or simply watching the sun melt into the water, it’s a place of peace and wonder. It’s also where you might spot hippos in their natural playground—especially the elusive Mr. Wiggles, the leader of the hippo-pack, charmingly named by Paul. Sadly, I didn’t get to meet him this time, despite Paul and Stephanie going above and beyond to help me try. Their dedication and enthusiasm were touching—and made the experience even more special.

The chalets are cosy, clean, and incredibly comfortable, with everything you could need for a restful stay. The showers are spacious with gloriously hot water, and the quiet of the lodge at night makes for the perfect sleep. The grounds are immaculate, lovingly maintained, and you can feel the care and pride in every detail.

And then, there’s the food. Oh, the food. The chef at Hippo Waterfront served what I can only describe as the best homemade burger patty I’ve ever tasted—juicy, flavorful, unforgettable. Every meal was prepared with heart, and the staff were kind, attentive, and incredibly welcoming.

In short, this place is what I imagine heaven must look like: riverside beauty, towering trees, nature’s music, soul-restoring peace, and hosts who treat you like royalty. I am already planning my return—not only to be embraced again by this slice of paradise, but also to sit by the river until Mr. Wiggles decides to grace me with his presence.

Thank you, Paul and Stephanie, for your hearts, your laughter, your incredible lodge, and your open arms. Hippo Waterfront Lodge is now my home away from home—and I can’t wait to come back.

And last but not LEAST: I almost forgot to mention Goliath, my new most cutest four legged friend, who instantly stole my heart… he is the best...

Just back from another 8 day stay over at Hippo Waterfront Lodge . What has changed since our visit in May? The weather! with crisp mornings and wonderfully warm afternoons. The first avocado's , oranges, naartjies and tomato's are in the shops. Fresh produce and I mean "fresh" abounds in all the shopping centres' at a price that can make Gauteng residents weep.! But back to our Hippo Waterfront as beautiful as ever, our caravan site with private bathroom was spacious and still well maintained .Hippo Waterfront remains a dream destination and Mbombela City remains only 15 minutes away with amenities that can still put Johannesburg to shame. So what has changed? Johan and Chane the owners are back from their break. Too chilly to go to the restaurant and bar? Not a problem Chane will cook breakfast and deliver directly to your cabin or caravan site, and what a very good chef she is. Johan will organize a braai at the boma with a blazing log fire, where visitor's from all over South Africa and the World gather to relax , laugh and exchange stories right on the edge of the Crocodile River. But your days remain the same, the upgrading of cabins and maintenance goes on quietly. Which when you think about it so many places use "low season" to do maintenance and really the forget about the peace of fewer visitor's on site. But at Hippo Waterfront, you are left to sit there in peace and quiet with the distant hum from the N4. But be warned it still takes a lot of resolve to actually get of your chair and put that book down, and just wander back down to the restaurant and grab another coffee and sit again by the river under shady trees to "Spot the Hippo". Many visitors still stopped over, being on their way to the Kruger, Mozambique or to explore the rest of South Africa.? So yes Hippo Waterfront has not radically changed there is just an extra layer of being welcomed into Johan and Chane lives. Chane you really are my "mother hen"!! as you are to all your visitor's. So next time there will have to be a conscious effort to get out and explore, or maybe not. Hippo Waterfront Lodge a place to be at peace with yourself!! And to all you "overnighter's" consider planning another day or so, at Hippo you won't regret it. In closing just because Hubby and myself prefer the total peace and quiet, it should not deter anyone from planning their events at Hippo Waterfront Lodge, there is a lovely hall/ conference centre and I know that there are weddings, sports events and school events planned, you will create lasting memories!!!! Check...

Many things have led up to this review. Firstly there is one heck of a ground road you have to drive before getting to the place. Not nice to drive such a road with a new vehicle. Warning sign of beware of the monkeys would be great. As we discovered they helped themselves to our snacks left on the table. Also slightly over priced for what you are getting. Unit was not that clean and very stuffy apon entering. Wifi password was not provided. Evening was crazy cold and even heaters that are provided the one in our room kept tripping making a flashing light. There was loud music playing right through out the early morning of 03:00 and even still 04:00. Not sure if its from the very big house as you enter outside the premises on the right. This made it very difficult to sleep. Many other great places to stay...