Nothing completes a day in the bush like a game drive by one of our highly experienced hosts, who are keen to help you spot your favourite animal, or can educate you on aspects of bushlore and animal behaviour, in our open-safari vehicle. Balule Nature Reserve is home to The Big 5, and a variety of general game and birds.
We also cater for our younger guests, and can tailor game drives to engage their interest with interactive learning. Kids are encouraged to be a part of the experience
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in nature is by going on a guided walk.
Guided Walks are the best way to really experience the Balule Nature Reserve. Learn the medicinal properties of plants, how to identify mammal spoor, and watch the wildlife from the best seat in the house: your feet! The Nature Reserve is home to The Big 5, and has a variety of general game and birds.
Maninghi enjoys a rich and varied bird life, thanks in part to its proximity to the Olifants River, as well as to major parks nearby such as the Kruger National, and is home to 340 unique species, including “The Big 6” (Kori Bustard, Ground Hornbill, Lappet-faced Vulture, Pels Fishing Owl, Martial Eagle and Saddle-billed Stork). There are two sycamore fig trees near the viewing balcony, which attract many interesting varieties of birds, such as the Trumpeter Hornbill, Purple-crested Turaco and Plum-coloured Starling.
South Africa’s largest and most famous game reserve is a short distance away from Maninghi Lodge. Put your spotting skills to the test and see if you can spot the Park’s Big 5 residents. Kruger is also home to 550 species of bird. Please note the nearest Kruger gate is Phalaborwa Gate, which is an 1hour and 30 minutes’ drive.
Enjoy the thrill of a Quad Bike drive through Big5 territory. This is a vastly different experience from that of a game drive and bush walk. The drive itself is easy enough as the quad bikes are automatic – so don’t panic! The region explored is in Maseke, which neighbours Parsons, and it is truly unique. Persons 12 and older can have their own quad, if there’s anyone under 12, then it will be 1 quad shared by an accompanying adult.
Explore the iconic Blyde River Canyon, the world’s largest green canyon, just a short distance from Maninghi Lodge. With breathtaking landscapes, this full-day excursion offers stunning viewpoints like the Three Rondavels, God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and Echo Caves. Activities include scenic walks, boat trips, and even microlight or hot air balloon flights for a unique perspective. Essentials: binoculars, camera, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
Experience a unique encounter with Jessica the Hippo, located 15 km from Hoedspruit. Visitors can feed, touch, and learn about Jessica’s remarkable story, offering a rare opportunity to interact closely with one of Africa’s most formidable animals. For bookings, please consult with your hosts at Maninghi Lodge. This activity is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, families, couples, and photographers. Remember to bring your camera, hat, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.
A short drive from Maninghi Lodge, Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre offers a close-up experience with rescued wildlife, including cheetahs, lions, leopards, and more. The center provides vital care, aiming to release animals back into the wild, and offers educational tours ideal for all ages. Tours run Monday to Saturday, at 9:30 and 15:00, lasting around 2.5 hours. Essentials: camera.
Just 15 km from Maninghi Lodge, the Hoedspruit Reptile Centre offers an exciting encounter with a variety of reptiles and arachnids. Daily talks and guided tours allow guests to handle non-venomous reptiles, while a special Photographic Tour provides close contact for unique shots. The center’s conservation efforts and educational focus make it a fantastic experience, especially for families. Essentials: camera, hat, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.
Our specialist guides provide immersive, affordable and memorable full-day trip to Mariepskop and the Blyde River Canyon. All trips are fully guided in either a closed 4×4 vehicle, and our guides specialise in wildlife, photography and birding.
The trip will start with a drive to the bottom of the Blyde River Canyon for a refreshing swim in the river, followed by an excursion to the top of Mariepskop (the highest peak in the Northern Drakensberg range).
Mariepskop is famed to being home to three different biomes (savannah, forest and fynbos), hosting more species of plants than the Kruger National Park. This makes Mariepskop a unique birding experience.
Experience the magic of hot air ballooning over the African lowveld, floating silently above wildlife with stunning views of the Drakensberg mountains. This unforgettable one-hour flight at sunrise offers incredible photo opportunities, followed by fruit juice and sparkling wine upon landing. Suitable for couples, families, and groups, with transport available upon request. Essentials: camera, binoculars, hat, sunglasses, and a warm jacket.
Discover wildlife from the water with an Olifants River Safari on the “Kambaku” houseboat, where you can observe animals like hippos, crocodiles, and buffalo up close as they gather along the riverbank. This relaxed, three-hour afternoon cruise is ideal for photographers and birding enthusiasts, with options for breakfast, sunset, and dinner cruises. Essentials: binoculars, camera, wildlife guides, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and a jacket.
