Set on the banks of the Olifants River, this luxury lodge occupies 40,000 ha of Balule Private Game Reserve. Inside the greater Kruger National Park, it offers a rock pool and spa with waterfalls. The thatched cottages at Pondoro Game Lodge feature an African décor with rich fabrics and nature-themed decoration. Each has a private wooden deck. Air conditioning and bathtubs are standard. A fusion of traditional African and modern European cuisine can be enjoyed on the wooden deck overlooking the river. Guests can taste fine wine from Pondoro’s extensive wine cellar or grab a snack at the bar. Bird-watching and nature walks are some of the activities that the lodge can arrange. Visitors can opt for a morning and evening game drive, both in open-topped Land Rovers. The Blyde River Canyons are 120 km away.