"Pros: I genuinely cannot rate the Abelana River Lodge highly enough. We spent a weekend there for our first ever family safari (two adults, one eight year old boy) and this lodge exceeded every expectation. The staff, the food, the location, everything was superb! The location is incredible with the lodge and rooms nestled beside a river. We regularly saw elephants and monkeys as we sat for our meals. Note that the lodge is about a 1.5 hour drive from Hoedspruit Airport. The decor is amazing. It does not jar with the surroundings but instead it complements the nature with the indoor-outdoor setting. The food was ridiculously good. We felt like we were having Michelin star food for every meal. It really was that good. Compliments to the kitchen team! Last but by no means least, we wanted to say a special thank you to our game ranger, Duncan. He made the entire trip so special. He brought us close (and safely) to the animals and you can tell that he really knows his stuff. Our twice daily safari trips with him were fantastic and he made it his mission to get us to see the animals. He fully succeeded in that mission and we are totally grateful! THANK YOU DUNCAN!!!" ~Patrick

"Pros: From the moment we arrived at Abelana Safari Camp, we could tell this was going to be a special experience, and it truly exceeded all expectations. The hosts, Marge and John, were the standout highlights of the entire stay. Their warmth, hospitality, and dedication to ensuring we had an unforgettable time were evident in every interaction. The Abelana Game Reserve itself was stunning, with diverse wildlife, vast landscapes, and tranquil settings. The accommodations had that perfect blend of luxury and nature. However, it was Marge and John's personal touch that elevated the experience. They took the time to greet us upon arrival and made sure we were settled in before giving us a brief tour of the property. Marge and John were always available to answer any questions and offer advice. The numerous guided game drives with John were a particular highlight. His knowledge of the wildlife, passion for conservation, geology and astronomy made the drives not just informative but also a genuine pleasure. We saw an impressive range of animals, from majestic rhinos, lions to elusive predators, and John’s ability to spot wildlife from afar was truly impressive. With Marge and John as your hosts, the Abelana Safari Camp was a truly memorable and heartwarming experience. We highly recommend this place to anyone looking for an unforgettable safari experience with hosts who genuinely care about making your stay extraordinary. Cons: N/A" ~Ka