If you are looking for good food, exquisite views, tranquillity, homey ambiance and impeccable service in the wilderness, Buckler’s Africa Lodge by BON Hotels is a must-visit. We had an opportunity to spend the weekend at the lodge and our expectations were exceeded.

The lodge is situated on the southern border of the Kruger National Park – just 6km from Crocodile Bridge Gate in Mpumalanga, and provides stunning view of the Crocodile River where Elephants and many other animals hang out often. We were privileged to enjoy such splendour from both the comfort of our own room, and the main deck overlooking the river.

Great for those travelling as a family or group of friends, the lodge has a total of sixteen rooms or suites in the utmost exclusivity. All the rooms are equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, an en suite bathroom, fully equipped sizable kitchenettes, television with DSTV and air conditioning. All have stunning, high ceilings and beautiful modern finishes. With views over Crocodile River from private balconies, braai facilities and access to the swimming pool, our stay at Buckler’s Africa Lodge by BON Hotels was relaxing and rejuvenating.

With countless options at our fingertips, it was very easy for us to pin down exactly what we’d do. We did a game drive to find the ‘Big 5’, Baobab spa treatment at the lodge, and explored local attractions. Guests can also do other activities including tiger fishing, nine-hole golf courses with spectacular scenery at Skukuza or Kambaku golf clubs, horseback and microlight safari, as well as sunset cruises on the river and quad biking safari.

The summer days in the area are humid and hot with temperatures often soaring to above 40 degrees C.

The rooms

We occupied one of the two deluxe suites available at the lodge. The suites are equipped with King size bed, en suite bathroom, lounge area, private kitchen and patio. This facility allowed us to enjoy a sunrise breakfast while overlooking the Crocodile River. All Deluxe rooms offer a double sleeper couch, accommodating children under the age of 12.

The interior décor portrays a true reflection of the Buckler’s philosophy with strong, modern South African influences which contribute to visual and taste experiences that will make guests feel right at home. 

The superior rooms are equipped with two single or king beds, en suite bathroom with shower, lounge, kitchenette and private patio, complimented by views of the pool and Crocodile River.

The family units are ideal for those who are travelling with their loved ones, or even a group of friends. The units offer twin and king beds, two en siute bathrooms, a kitchen and lounge and private patio with braai facilities. Family units provide the perfect relaxing atmosphere for well-deserved time off and views of the Crocodile River.

The spa

We had an opportunity to get pampered the morning after our arrival and enjoyed a uniquely tranquil experience at the Baobab Spa by BON Hotels. Our senses were revived, and our minds, bodies and souls rejuvenated.

The spa boasts some special surroundings – with the main feature being the stunning view of the Crocodile River – that are there to help you unplug from the daily hustle and bustle. The surroundings also encourage you to reconnect with yourself while leaving you feeling light, and relaxed, with a radiant glow.

The food

We were very pleased about the food at Buckler’s Africa Lodge by BON Hotels during our stay. The food was well presented and enjoyable. The service from the hosts was also excellent. The food at the restaurant is halaal. Alcohol is not sold at the property, however, guests are welcome to bring their alcoholic beverages at the facility.

For dinner on our first night, we had a very tasty chicken and mushroom soup served with baked bread, as well as Cajun grilled calamari salad with fresh garden greens for starters.

Our salivating mains were Cape Malay chicken curry served with rainbow rice and sambals which we found very fresh. The beef rump skewers garnished with crisp fries and a mild pepper sauce were to die for.

We ended our first night with the dessert – chocolate brownie with berry compote and vanilla ice cream, as well as medley of seasonal fruit salad.

For breakfast, the Buckler’s Africa Lodge by BON Hotels team satisfy the most discerning of palates with their wide variety of selections including cereals, yoghurt, fruit salad, pastries, meats, etc. with a variety of breads and much more.

For dinner on our last day, we enjoyed tantalising fish cake served with lemon dill sauce and pineapple salsa, as well as mint pea soup served with toasted seeds and cream.

We very much enjoyed the rump stake that was served with mash and veggies, as well as pepper corn cause for dinner. Fish dorado served with sweet potato, Greek salad and mushroom sauce was also well prepared and very tasty.

For dessert, we excited our taste buds with chocolate hot pot and ice cream, as well as fruit salad and caramel salsa.

Buckler’s restaurant is open for both the public and in-house guests. Their menu is focused on contemporary South African cuisine with some familiar favourites. They are open from Monday to Sunday for breakfast (7am – 10am), lunch (11am – 6pm) and dinner (6:30pm – 9pm).

Game drive at Kruger National Park

Buckler’s Africa Lodge by BON Hotels is situated on the southern border of the Kruger National Park – just 6km from Crocodile Bridge Gate. The gate is directly along the southern border of the park near the town of Komatipoort. It is smaller than the other main camps, and has easy access to the Mozambican border.

We did a self-drive in the park and enjoyed unusual wide variety of South African wildlife.

The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa. Established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. It also covers an area of 19,623 km² in the Provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga. It extends 360 km from north to south and 65 km from east to west.

All the big five game animals are found at Kruger National Park, which has more species of large mammals than any other African game reserve.

A fairly uniform aggregate of bird species is present from the southern to central areas of the park, but a decline in diversity is noticeable in the mopane-dominated flats northwards of the Olifants. Most species breed in summer, when rains sustain most vegetable and animal food, but the larger birds of prey conversely breed during the dry winter, when their prey is most exposed.

Kruger is also inhabited by large species of reptile, including black mambas, African rock pythons, and Nile crocodiles.

Though we did a self-drive, we however recommend that you plan your Kruger National Park safari trip from Buckler’s Africa Lodge by BON Hotels’ recommended safari tour options. Their partner guides have years of experience in the park, so they know where the animals hang out, and at what time. They know where to go to get the most out of your experience. They also educate you a little more about the wildlife and their natural habitat.

For Buckler’s Africa Lodge by BON Hotels special offers, please visit https://www.bonhotels.com/bucklers/specials.

For bookings, guests can call +27 76 574 3874 or +27 13 880 0455. They can also email the lodge on info@bucklersafrica.co.za or visit in person at Ngwenya Lodge Road, Tenbosch, Komatipoort Kruger Park, Mpumalanga.