Baobab Ridge Lodge in Klaserie Nature Reserve

Baobab Ridge Lodge is located in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, which is part of the Greater Kruger National Park and is well-known for its outstanding game viewing. This family-owned lodge offers a genuine home away from home with its friendly, accommodating staff and cosy atmosphere. The entire lodge can be reserved exclusively for those looking for the ultimate private luxury safari experience.

Beautiful African art and a wide range of tribal expressions adorn every corner of Baobab Ridge, providing fascinating glimpses into the rich legacy of the continent. Everything from colourful collections of powder glass beads to elaborate shell necklaces hanging on the walls contributes a different element to the eclectic design.

Natural wood furniture blends indoor and outdoor areas seamlessly, echoing the surrounding wilderness. The lodge is covered with photographs, from stunning portraits to quick shots of wildlife, turning every area into a visual feast.

The main lodge features a bar, lounge area, small TV room with satellite television and DVD player, free Wi-Fi, outdoor terraces, guest bathrooms, a spacious dining room, and an office. Outdoors, guests can unwind in the comfortable open-air boma area with a fireplace or take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool overlooking the bushveld and a small waterhole.

Baobab Ridge Lodge ensures accessibility for all guests, with wheelchair-friendly facilities and full fencing to ensure safety from larger wildlife. Guests are invited to have themselves intrigued by the beauty of the African wilderness by using both indoor and outdoor living areas, as well as all lodge facilities, to enjoy and ensure a comfortable and wonderful stay.

Baobab Ridge Private Lodge is a small and intimate private lodge with only seven private free-standing suites that sleep a maximum of 16 guests. The main lodge features a bar and lounge area, satellite television, free Wi-Fi, outdoor terraces, guest bathrooms and a large dining room while outside is an open-air boma area with a fireplace and a swimming pool that overlooks the surrounding bush and a small waterhole. The lodge is wheelchair-accessible and fully fenced to keep larger wildlife out. All the nearby suites are raised on timber decks with a clean, modern design, a private terrace and classic décor inspired by the African wilderness. Inside it sports luxurious fittings and fixtures, air conditioning, high-quality linen and simple elegance in neutral colours where you can unwind. Guests have use of all indoor and outdoor living areas and all facilities. The age limit is 6 years, but if the lodge is booked exclusively, children of all ages are allowed.

Things to Do at Baobab Ridge Lodge

With the game drives guests can experience the thrill of safari adventures on open vehicles with qualified senior guides. These passionate guides are adept at tracking wildlife, ensuring remarkable sightings of the Big Five and other fascinating species.

Game drives offer opportunities to witness animal behaviour and interactions up close, with expert commentary on each species provided by your guide. Marvel at the spectacular birdlife, especially during spring and summer when migrants breed.

Explore the mysteries of the night-time world with night drives, which provide fantastic chances to see elusive animals that are rarely seen during the day. Spotlights illuminate our open safari vehicle as you experience the energy of nocturnal species like lions and leopards. Sundowner stops during afternoon drives offer the ideal location for taking in sunset views, indulging in refreshments, and socializing with other safari enthusiasts.

Experience Africa’s wilderness on foot by going on guided bush walks with knowledgeable guides. Observe the little details that are missed on game drives to get a deeper understanding of the environment. Learn about the fascinating ecosystem, from bird calls and tracks to plants and geological features.

During morning game drives, refreshments are offered, giving you the chance to stretch your legs and take a coffee break in the middle of the wilderness.

Travel and Booking Information

Included in the Rate You Pay

• Luxurious twin or double-bedded suites with en-suite bathrooms, private lounges, and terraces.
• Full board with set menu meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus game drive snacks and beverages.
• Wi-Fi access is available in both the main building and guest suites.
• Two daily game drives in open 4×4 vehicles with licensed guides.
• Guided bush walks.
• All rates include 15% VAT.

Excluded from the Rate You Pay

• Gate fee: R300 per vehicle, payable at the gate.
• Klaserie Levy: R480.00 (International) / R265.00 (RSA) per person, per night for guests over 12 years old.
• Additional costs for beverages and Nespresso capsules are available for purchase from the fully stocked bar.
• Laundry service.
• Transfers to/from Hoedspruit Airport only.

• Personal purchases, insurance, and gratuities for guides and lodge staff.

Child Policy

• Children from 6 years of age are welcome, children over 12 years will be charged at an adult rate.

Tips for Bringing Children on Safari

• Ensure you pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, and comfortable clothing suitable for both warm days and cooler evenings.
• Before embarking on your safari, educate your children about the animals they may encounter, their behaviours, and the importance of respecting wildlife and their habitats.
• Be flexible and understanding if they need breaks or become restless during game drives. Consider shorter, child-friendly drives or scheduling downtime at the lodge between activities.
• Encourage your children to ask questions, observe wildlife, and engage with their surroundings. Allow them to use binoculars and cameras to capture their own safari memories.
• Remind children to stay seated and quiet during game drives to avoid startling wildlife. Respect the guidance of your experienced safari guide and adhere to any safety instructions provided.

What to Pack

• Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing for hot days and layering options for cooler mornings and evenings.
• Comfortable walking shoes for bush walks and exploring the lodge grounds.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection during game drives.
• Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
• Binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens for capturing wildlife sightings.
• Personal toiletries and medications, as well as any necessary travel documents.

Etiquette During Game Drives

During game drives, it’s essential to observe proper etiquette to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for all guests:

• Listen to your guide’s instructions and follow their lead regarding wildlife viewing and behaviour.
• Keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing the animals and fellow guests.
• Refrain from standing up or leaning out of the vehicle while it is in motion.
• Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the wildlife.
• Always maintain a safe distance from the animals and never attempt to approach them for a closer look or photo opportunity.
• Remember to respect the natural environment and leave only footprints behind.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Baobab Ridge Private Lodge is during the dry season, which typically falls between May and September. During this time, vegetation is sparse, making wildlife easier to spot as they gather around water sources. Additionally, cooler temperatures make for more comfortable game drives and outdoor activities.

Getting to Baobab Ridge Lodge

By Air

To reach Baobab Ridge Lodge by air, guests have several convenient options from major cities in South Africa.

From Johannesburg, a one-hour flight to Hoedspruit (Eastgate Airport) is available, followed by a short 30-minute transfer to the lodge.

Travellers coming from Cape Town can opt for a two-and-a-half-hour flight to Hoedspruit, with a similar 30-minute transfer upon arrival.

Alternatively, guests can consider other nearby airports such as Nelspruit, Skukuza, and Phalaborwa. Nelspruit is approximately a 3.5-hour drive away, while Skukuza takes around 3 hours, and from Phalaborwa, it can take 1.5 hours to reach your destination.

By Road

Travelling by road to Baobab Ridge Lodge offers a scenic and enjoyable experience.

It takes about six hours to travel from Johannesburg to Baobab Ridge Lodge. Start by taking the N12 in the direction of Witbank (eMalahleni), then proceed on the N4 in the direction of Nelspruit, changing onto the R33 at Belfast. Proceed on the R540 through Dullstroom and Lydenburg from there, then take the R36 via Ohrigstad and the JG Strijdom tunnel.

After travelling through Hoedspruit on the R527 until you come to a 4-way intersection, turn right onto the R40 in the direction of White River. Turn left at the Timbavati Eastgate Airport sign after approximately 6.5 km, then scan in at the anti-poaching gate.

Travel 18.2 km on the paved path to the Klaserie/Timbavati Enkulu Gate. Proceed for 8.3 km and turn left at the sign for Baobab Ridge. Continue on the dirt road, passing a staff village of grey rondavels on the right. When the lodge appears on the left, take the fork in the road and keep left.

The trip takes roughly three hours if coming from Nelspruit. After travelling along the R40 through, , White River, Hazyview and Acornhoek turn right at Klaserie towards Hoedspruit. After about 17 km, turn right at the sign for Timbavati Eastgate Airport and proceed to scan in at the anti-poaching gate. Proceed 18.2 km on the paved path until you arrive at the Klaserie/Timbavati gate, which charges R230 (as of 2024) per car for admission.

Travel 8.3 km, taking a left at the Baobab Ridge sign and continuing on the dirt road. You will pass the staff village of grey rondavels on your right, and when the lodge appears on your left, you should stay to the left of the fork in the road.

FAQ

Are there any Spa treatments available at Baobab Ridge Lodge?

The lodge doesn’t have spa facilities on-site, but it is possible to arrange for nearby therapists to treat you in the seclusion of your suite. To find out more details and prices, kindly contact our resort managers.

Is Wi-Fi available at Baobab Ridge Lodge?

The Baobab Ridge Lodge does indeed have Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi is available in the main building and guest suites so that visitors can stay connected while visiting.

Do the rooms at Baobab Ridge Lodge have mosquito nets available?

The rooms at Baobab Ridge Lodge have mosquito nets over the windows, not over the bed.

There is also an air conditioner in the rooms at the lodge that helps deter mosquitoes, as they don’t like the cold and can’t fly in strong winds.

Is Malaria a threat at the lodge?

Although the risk of malaria is low, mosquito activity may rise during the rainy summer months, particularly at dusk and dawn. For this reason, we advise applying insect repellent and wearing protective clothing during these hours.

Winter is usually too cold for mosquitoes, though this can change depending on the conditions. The lodge also employs preventative measures, such as spraying all buildings and placing mosquito plugs in guest rooms.

Is it possible to do laundry at the lodge?

Although the lodge does provide laundry facilities, the cost is not included in the package.

It’s also important to note that, due to the lodge’s reliance on solar power, they can only accommodate one day’s worth of clothing per day. The laundry rate is R100 per kilogram for any laundry done during your stay.