About Us - Warm German Hospitality at the Lodge
The Baluleni Safari Lodge is operated with passion by four German proprietors. With their dedication to nature and love for wildlife, they transform this magical place into a paradise for adventurers and animal lovers.
Heike and Andreas live most of their time at the lodge and are the driving force behind the management. Along with their loyal dog, they are on hand almost year-round to ensure guests have a memorable experience.
Falk and Andrea, also owners of Safari Lodge, support Heike and Andreas in their mission. They are regular visitors to follow the progress of the lodge. They too share a love of nature and are fascinated by the wildlife the reserve has to offer.
The four German owners are constantly striving to improve the lodge to provide guests with an uncomparable experience. From expanding accommodations to implementing eco-friendly practices, they are always looking for new ways to perfect this beautiful safari lodge near Kruger National Park.
With their tireless work, Heike, Andrea, Andreas and Falk have managed to create a place that reflects the beauty of the surroundings while providing the highest level of comfort and service. Their enthusiasm and commitment are palpable and make Safari Lodge a unique and inspiring destination.
Are you ready to be taken on an unforgettable safari trip? Just contact us and we will personally take care of your travel plans.
About us - wildlife to restaurant
Balule/Grietjie is a proud part of the “Kruger To Canyons Biosphere Reserve”, which was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2001.
Wild animals live in an area as large as Belgium and move unhindered through the reserve to our property. As a conscious decision, we have left our lodge unfenced to preserve the natural habitat.
The Olifants River, which surrounds our property, carries water year-round and is vital to the survival of wildlife and plants in the region. This allows us to offer you fascinating wildlife viewing all year round at our lodge and in the reserve.
Many visitors are especially excited to see big cats like lions and leopards. We would like to emphasize that in the uncontrolled nature there is no guarantee to see all the desired animals during your stay. We deliberately refrain from measures such as feeding or GPS tracking. Near us live leopards, which are especially active at night, and occasionally we even catch a glimpse of them. Lions are already more likely to be encountered as there are several prides in our reserve. Our experienced guides will do their best to track them down for you.
Our garden is a true paradise for animal lovers. It is not uncommon to see majestic animals like elephants, elegant antelopes and graceful giraffes literally walking through our garden. The diversity of our wildlife also includes several species of monkeys and a wide range of charming bird species. From the terrace of your accommodation you can experience exceptional bird watching and enjoy the colorful activity of the animals in the midst of nature.
Immerse yourself in this unique animal experience that unfolds right before your eyes.
Welcome to Baluleni, a place dedicated to preserving nature and protecting wildlife habitat in South Africa. Our love of the bush and the land inspires us to be environmentally conscious and take action to protect the environment.
We run our own restaurant, where you can indulge in our culinary delights. Our lodge is unfenced and is located directly on the year-round flowing river, allowing us an impressive variety of wildlife encounters. Especially bird lovers will appreciate our garden.
Our safari experiences are unique because we focus on providing our guests with an intimate and memorable encounter with wildlife. On our game drives we keep the group size small and limit the number of vehicles to max. two per animal to ensure a relaxed and natural safari experience.
We offer first-class accommodations in various categories, including amenities such as round-the-clock Wi-Fi and much more. Our goal is to provide you with a luxurious yet authentic safari vacation in South Africa.
We invite you to learn more about us, become part of our Baluleni family and discover the wonders of the South African bushveld.
A few years ago, in 2012, Baluleni Safari Lodge was established in the private part of the Kruger National Park. It was originally conceived as a simple retreat in the wilds of South Africa. Over time, however, the lodge has evolved into a true gem that delights nature lovers from around the world.
Under the direction of Andreas and Heike, extensive remodeling of the lodge began during the Covid pandemic. The transformation was a long and passionate process, where we designed every detail with dedication and care. Our vision was to create a safari paradise that combines both luxury and authenticity. With a select team of architects, designers and craftsmen, we brought the lodge to life piece by piece. Many chalets now shine in new splendor and were provided with a new decoration.
The restaurant, kitchen and other behind-the-scenes areas have also been constantly developed and embellished. Every day brings new changes and contributes to the lodge becoming more and more beautiful.
Baluleni Safari Lodge is a place created with tireless work, attention to detail and a deep connection to nature. Here, guests from around the world can experience the beauty of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes while being pempered in luxurious accommodations and with exquisite hospitality.
Welcome to Baluleni Safari Lodge, a place designed with dedication and passion to capture the magic of South Africa in nature and bring the spirit of safari to life.
One of our unique selling points compared to almost all other safari lodges in the area is our restaurant.
Here your taste buds will be pampered daily by our talented chefs Nomsa and Tumelo.
Start your day with a rich breakfast that will tempt you with fresh ingredients, hearty dishes and delicious flavors. From crispy pastries and exotic fruits to fragrant coffee and tea – here you will find everything you need to start the day invigorated.
Enjoy a light lunch perfectly timed to replenish your energy reserves and delight your taste buds. Fresh salads, light dishes and delicate snacks are available to choose from and let you experience the natural flavors of the region.
Experience a traditional high tea, indulging in a selection of fine teas and delicate pastries. Let yourself be enchanted by the relaxed atmosphere and the sweet and savory treats.
The grand finale is an exquisite three-course meal prepared with dedication and attention to detail by our talented chefs. From refined appetizers to delicious main courses and tempting desserts, here you will experience a true explosion of flavors that will seduce and delight your senses.
At Baluleni Safari Lodge’s restaurant, you’ll be invited on an unforgettable gastronomic journey that focuses on quality, freshness and the delicious flavors of African cuisine. Let yourself be seduced by our culinary delights and experience pleasurable moments that perfectly round off your safari experience.
Our mission statement: passion for nature, connection to our location, and love for this land. Our focus is on the direct experience of the flora and fauna without leaving a lasting impact. We place particular emphasis on the following principles:
- Nature conservation: We are actively committed to protecting wildlife and their habitats. We strive to preserve and sustain our environment to allow future generations to experience the wonders of nature.
- Education and awareness: We believe that knowledge and understanding are key to protecting our environment. Therefore, we would like to inform and sensitize our guests by showing them the beauty and importance of the natural environment.
- Sustainable Tourism: We strive to have a positive impact on the local community and the environment. We work closely with local partners to ensure that our activities are socially responsible and environmentally friendly.
- Unforgettable Experiences: We aim to provide our guests with unforgettable safari experiences. Through carefully planned activities and dedicated guides, we enable them to experience and connect with the magic of nature firsthand.
With our mission statement, we want to ensure that every visitor can experience the beauty and fascination of nature, while at the same time making our contribution to nature conservation. Come join us and discover the incomparable splendor of nature in all its diversity and beauty.
Sustainability is our top priority. We are proud to implement a variety of initiatives to minimize our environmental footprint and protect the beauty of nature.
One of our priorities is to reduce plastic. Through various measures, such as providing refillable water bottles, we minimize the use of single-use plastic and promote the responsible use of resources.
We are also active in reducing CO2 emissions. We rely on environmentally friendly means of transport and innovative energy systems to make our contribution to combating climate change. By making a conscious decision not to go off-roading, we are preserving pristine nature and protecting wildlife from unnecessary stress.
Our accommodations have been designed and built with natural materials to blend harmoniously with the surroundings. At the same time, we have invested in nature-friendly wastewater facilities to ensure that our activities do not harm sensitive ecosystems.
The use of environmentally friendly consumables is also important to us. Our guests will find in the rooms soaps and detergents that do not harm the environment. We rely on local suppliers and source our goods from the surrounding communities to support the local economy and promote sustainable development in the region.
Another focus is on renewable energies. By planning and building solar energy sources, we cover part of our energy needs from sustainable sources. This reduces our carbon footprint and harnesses the inexhaustible power of the sun to make our operations more environmentally friendly.
With us you can enjoy a safari experience in harmony with nature, because sustainability is not just a phrase for us, but a guiding principle. We are wholeheartedly committed to protecting our environment and invite you to be part of this conscious journey. Together, we can make a positive difference and create a sustainable future for generations to come.
Baluleni Safari Lodge supports the:
INSPIRE, ENCOURAGE, EMPOWER
“The communities we support are among the poorest in the province, with some of the worst overall living, educational and medical facilities in South Africa.” – John Anderson, founder and chairman of BOT
The Balule Outreach Trust was established in February 2012 to raise funds and participate in community development programs in the Hoedspruit and Phalaborwa communities in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. The Trust is organized as a nonprofit
Organization registered with the Department of Social Development and the South African Revenue Service as a non-profit organization.
We are committed to making a difference in the lives of those in the surrounding communities who are less fortunate than we are. We work symbiotically to make a better life for all. This includes striving to educate families and individuals to be environmentally conscious in order to protect and enhance the biodiversity of the land and wildlife in our care. We also help empower our local communities to become better educated, healthy, financially secure, and ultimately self-sufficient.
Support the projects:
First National Bank (FNB), Bryanston, South Africa
Account number: 6233 678 7877 Clearing code: 250-017 Swift number: FIRNZAJJXXX
About us - The team
In Baluleni live and work fascinating people who strive passionately for animal welfare, nature and exceptional hospitality. Each and every one of them goes out of their way to make your stay something wonderful and special. We can’t wait to meet you in person and welcome you to our lodge.
About us - Your authentic safari experience in the private part of the Kruger National Park
About Us - Warm German Hospitality at the Lodge
The Baluleni Safari Lodge is operated with passion by four German proprietors. Heike and Andreas live on site and are the driving force in management, while Falk and Andrea, also owners, drop in regularly to provide support.
Together they create a paradise for adventurers and animal lovers. Their constant efforts to improve the lodge – whether by expanding accommodations or introducing environmentally friendly practices – are noticeable. Their enthusiasm and commitment make the safari lodge a unique and inspiring destination.
From the beauty of the surroundings to the unsurpassed comfort, the lodge reflects their passion. Are you ready for an unforgettable safari trip? Contact us now in German to discuss your plans.
Our safari experiences are unique because we focus on providing our guests with an intimate and memorable encounter with wildlife. On our game drives we keep the group size small and limit the number of vehicles to max. two per animal to ensure a relaxed and natural safari experience.
We offer first-class accommodations in various categories, including amenities such as round-the-clock Wi-Fi and much more. Our goal is to provide you with a luxurious yet authentic safari vacation in South Africa.
We invite you to learn more about us, become part of our Baluleni family and discover the wonders of the South African bushveld.
About us
Balule/Grietjie is a proud part of the “Kruger To Canyons Biosphere Reserve”, which was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2001.
Wild animals live in an area as large as Belgium and move unhindered through the reserve to our property. As a conscious decision, we have left our lodge unfenced to preserve the natural habitat.
The Olifants River, which surrounds our property, carries water year-round and is vital to the survival of wildlife and plants in the region. This allows us to offer you fascinating wildlife viewing all year round at our lodge and in the reserve.
Many visitors are especially excited to see big cats like lions and leopards. We would like to emphasize that in the uncontrolled nature there is no guarantee to see all the desired animals during your stay. We deliberately refrain from measures such as feeding or GPS tracking. Near us live leopards, which are especially active at night, and occasionally we even catch a glimpse of them. Lions are already more likely to be encountered as there are several prides in our reserve. Our experienced guides will do their best to track them down for you.
Our garden is a true paradise for animal lovers. It is not uncommon to see majestic animals like elephants, elegant antelopes and graceful giraffes literally walking through our garden. The diversity of our wildlife also includes several species of monkeys and a wide range of charming bird species. From the terrace of your accommodation you can experience exceptional bird watching and enjoy the colorful activity of the animals in the midst of nature.
Immerse yourself in this unique animal experience that unfolds right before your eyes.
Welcome to Baluleni, a place dedicated to preserving nature and protecting wildlife habitat in South Africa. Our love of the bush and the land inspires us to be environmentally conscious and take action to protect the environment.
We run our own restaurant, where you can indulge in our culinary delights. Our lodge is unfenced and is located directly on the year-round flowing river, allowing us an impressive variety of wildlife encounters. Especially bird lovers will appreciate our garden.
A little history about us: A few years ago, in 2012, Baluleni Safari Lodge was established in close proximity to the Kruger National Park. It was originally conceived as a simple retreat in the wilds of South Africa. Over time, however, the lodge has evolved into a true gem that delights nature lovers from around the world.
Under the direction of Andreas and Heike, extensive remodeling of the lodge began during the Covid pandemic. The transformation was a long and passionate process, where we designed every detail with dedication and care. Our vision was to create a safari paradise that combines both luxury and authenticity. With a select team of architects, designers and craftsmen, we brought the lodge to life piece by piece. Many chalets now shine in new splendor and were provided with a new decoration.
The restaurant, kitchen and other behind-the-scenes areas have also been constantly developed and embellished. Every day brings new changes and contributes to the lodge becoming more and more beautiful.
Baluleni Safari Lodge is a place created with tireless work, attention to detail and a deep connection to nature. Here, guests from around the world can experience the beauty of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes while being pampered in luxurious accommodations and with exquisite hospitality.
Welcome to Baluleni Safari Lodge, a place designed with dedication and passion to capture the magic of South Africa in nature and bring the spirit of safari to life.
One of our unique selling points compared to almost all other safari lodges in the area is our restaurant.
Here your taste buds will be pampered daily by our talented chefs Nomsa and Tumelo.
Start your day with a rich breakfast that will tempt you with fresh ingredients, hearty dishes and delicious flavors. From crispy pastries and exotic fruits to fragrant coffee and tea – here you will find everything you need to start the day invigorated.
Enjoy a light lunch perfectly timed to replenish your energy reserves and delight your taste buds. Fresh salads, light dishes and delicate snacks are available to choose from and let you experience the natural flavors of the region.
Experience a traditional high tea, indulging in a selection of fine teas and delicate pastries. Let yourself be enchanted by the relaxed atmosphere and the sweet and savory treats.
The grand finale is an exquisite three-course meal prepared with dedication and attention to detail by our talented chefs. From refined appetizers to delicious main courses and tempting desserts, here you will experience a true explosion of flavors that will seduce and delight your senses.
At Baluleni Safari Lodge’s restaurant, you’ll be invited on an unforgettable gastronomic journey that focuses on quality, freshness and the delicious flavors of African cuisine. Let yourself be seduced by our culinary delights and experience pleasurable moments that perfectly round off your safari experience.
Our mission statement: passion for nature, connection to our location, and love for this land. Our focus is on the direct experience of the flora and fauna without leaving a lasting impact. We place particular emphasis on the following principles:
- Nature conservation: We are actively committed to protecting wildlife and their habitats. We strive to preserve and sustain our environment to allow future generations to experience the wonders of nature.
- Education and awareness: We believe that knowledge and understanding are key to protecting our environment. Therefore, we would like to inform and sensitize our guests by showing them the beauty and importance of the natural environment.
- Sustainable Tourism: We strive to have a positive impact on the local community and the environment. We work closely with local partners to ensure that our activities are socially responsible and environmentally friendly.
- Unforgettable Experiences: We aim to provide our guests with unforgettable safari experiences. Through carefully planned activities and dedicated guides, we enable them to experience and connect with the magic of nature firsthand.
With our mission statement, we want to ensure that every visitor can experience the beauty and fascination of nature, while at the same time making our contribution to nature conservation. Come join us and discover the incomparable splendor of nature in all its diversity and beauty.
Sustainability is our top priority. We are proud to implement a variety of initiatives to minimize our environmental footprint and protect the beauty of nature.
One of our priorities is to reduce plastic. Through various measures, such as providing refillable water bottles, we minimize the use of single-use plastic and promote the responsible use of resources.
We are also active in reducing CO2 emissions. We rely on environmentally friendly means of transport and innovative energy systems to make our contribution to combating climate change. By making a conscious decision not to go off-roading, we are preserving pristine nature and protecting wildlife from unnecessary stress.
Our accommodations have been designed and built with natural materials to blend harmoniously with the surroundings. At the same time, we have invested in nature-friendly wastewater facilities to ensure that our activities do not harm sensitive ecosystems.
The use of environmentally friendly consumables is also important to us. Our guests will find in the rooms soaps and detergents that do not harm the environment. We rely on local suppliers and source our goods from the surrounding communities to support the local economy and promote sustainable development in the region.
Another focus is on renewable energies. By planning and building solar energy sources, we cover part of our energy needs from sustainable sources. This reduces our carbon footprint and harnesses the inexhaustible power of the sun to make our operations more environmentally friendly.
With us you can enjoy a safari experience in harmony with nature, because sustainability is not just a phrase for us, but a guiding principle. We are wholeheartedly committed to protecting our environment and invite you to be part of this conscious journey. Together, we can make a positive difference and create a sustainable future for generations to come.
Baluleni Safari Lodge supports the:
INSPIRE, ENCOURAGE, EMPOWER
“The communities we support are among the poorest in the province, with some of the worst overall living, educational and medical facilities in South Africa.” – John Anderson, founder and chairman of BOT
The Balule Outreach Trust was established in February 2012 to raise funds and participate in community development programs in the Hoedspruit and Phalaborwa communities in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. The Trust is organized as a nonprofit
Organization registered with the Department of Social Development and the South African Revenue Service as a non-profit organization.
We are committed to making a difference in the lives of those in the surrounding communities who are less fortunate than we are. We work symbiotically to make a better life for all. This includes striving to educate families and individuals to be environmentally conscious in order to protect and enhance the biodiversity of the land and wildlife in our care. We also help empower our local communities to become better educated, healthy, financially secure, and ultimately self-sufficient.
Support the projects:
First National Bank (FNB), Bryanston, South Africa
Account number: 6233 678 7877 Clearing code: 250-017 Swift number: FIRNZAJJXXX
The team
In Baluleni live and work fascinating people who strive passionately for animal welfare, nature and exceptional hospitality. Each and every one of them goes out of their way to make your stay something wonderful and special. We can’t wait to meet you in person and welcome you to our lodge.
Animal sightings
All animals shown here have been sighted in our own reserve. However, we would like to emphasize that these are wild animals, which are permanently on the move and generally avoid people. For this reason, we, as well as all other wildlife lodges, cannot guarantee to see all or specifically these wild animals during your stay. What is certain, however, is that you will experience spectacular animal encounters during your time in Baluleni. Our experienced guides will bring you in close proximity to the wonderful inhabitants of the African bush – we promise.
