Oluchi is a small, secluded lodge that is perfect for people who enjoy nature and being away from the crowds. The lodge and grounds were lovely and the service superb. Overall we loved it so much we extended our stay and we’re already planning to return soon.||||Lodge Description—||There is a large central lodge with a bar and dining area, beautifully decorated with a high thatched roof. Outside, there is a covered deck with tables and chairs and an excellent view over the valley. There is also a hammock and swing chair. There is a Weber gas braai bbq for guests to cook their own food. Next to the outside dining area is an infinity pool with deck-chair loungers. There is good wifi in the common areas but not the rooms. The lodge has just 8 rooms, and in our experience even at full capacity the pool and deck area are very quiet, as guests seem to spend time in their rooms or away from the lodge (at least during our stay). Tip: the executive and ‘honeymoon/family’ suites are the best rooms, and feature a private deck/balcony with a spectacular view. The other rooms may have a private patio area but the views are more limited.||||Hosts and Service— ||Pieter, Lynne and Xander are a family that own and run the lodge. They all truly went above and beyond to cater for all our needs. They are wonderful, thoughtful hosts. The food was superb and has a home-cooked feel. Breakfast is included, dinner is offered at a bargain extra cost, and lunch is not offered. I think my only negative for the whole stay was that the bar was not as well-stocked as it could be (e.g. sometimes no lemonade or Coke Light) - but the Oluchi team made us delicious gin cocktails and gave excellent wine recommendations, so we were never thirsty.||||What to do at Oluchi—||There are two lovely walks through the Oluchi grounds, and you are guaranteed to see wonderful birds, butterflies and plants. One takes approximately 5-10 minutes and takes you to a rocky hilltop with a spectacular view. The other walk takes you down into the valley in front of Oluchi lodge, and takes about an hour round-trip. You are more likely to see game on this walk, and we saw Kudu, Impala and wart-hog. The lodge has two very friendly dogs and do not be surprised if they cheerfully accompany you on your walk!||||Those enjoying birding can also contact Johann [0027832943370] who is a bird guide at Kaapsehoop around 40 mins drive from Oluchi. He took us to several great birding hotspots which we could not otherwise have accessed. He is knowledgeable and kind and charged a very low fee for 6...
Read moreA Slice of Bushveld Heaven: My Oluchi Lodge Experience Wow. Just, wow. I recently had the immense pleasure of staying at Oluchi Lodge, nestled just outside Nelspruit in Mpumalanga, and I'm still daydreaming about it. If you're looking for an escape that truly recharges the soul, this is it. From the moment I arrived, the sense of peace was palpable. The lodge is perched perfectly, offering absolutely breathtaking views of the sprawling conservancy below. I spent countless hours just sitting on my patio, a cup of coffee in hand, watching the bush come alive in the morning and seeing the stunning sunsets paint the sky in the evenings. It's truly a photographer's dream, but even more so, a place to simply be. My suite itself was a little haven. It felt incredibly private, with its own entrance and a lovely patio – perfect for those quiet moments. I loved the thoughtful touches, from the comfortable decor to having my own kitchenette with the essentials. The Wi-Fi was reliable, which is always a bonus. Now, let's talk about the food. While I know meals are on request, I wholeheartedly recommend indulging. The dinners were nothing short of delicious – clearly made with care and creativity. And the breakfasts? Hearty and satisfying, setting me up perfectly for the day's adventures. The hosts and staff are genuinely warm, friendly, and incredibly attentive. They made me feel so welcome and looked after, and their passion for the lodge and the area truly shines through. If you're seeking tranquility, natural beauty, and genuine hospitality in Mpumalanga, look no further than Oluchi Lodge. It truly feels like a hidden gem, and I can't wait to return. It's more than just a place to stay; it's...
Read moreNestled amidst nature's embrace, my recent stay at Oluchi Lodge was nothing short of enchanting. The picturesque surroundings unfolded like a canvas of tranquillity, offering a breath-taking panorama that seemed almost surreal. The accommodation, strategically positioned to showcase the area's natural beauty, provided a front-row seat to awe-inspiring landscapes. What truly elevated my experience was the warm and genuine hospitality extended by the management team. From the moment I arrived, their friendly demeanour and eagerness to ensure my comfort made me feel like a cherished guest in a home away from home. The management team’s attention to detail, combined with their local expertise, enhanced my exploration of the surrounding attractions, turning each day into an adventure, especially the hiking trail that provided the ideal setting for meditation and quiet time. Oluchi Lodge is a haven for those seeking a perfect balance of natural beauty and warm hospitality. It's more than just a place to rest; it's an immersive retreat that leaves a lasting impression. I departed with heart full of gratitude, already planning my definite return to this...
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