Greater Kruger · Balule Private Nature Reserve
A short riverside safari in the unfenced Balule reserve, with road transfers from Johannesburg.
In the Balule Nature Reserve
Price confirmed for your travel dates on enquiry
This 3-day, 2-night safari takes you by road from Johannesburg to Nyati Safari Lodge in the Balule Private Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger, with all meals and two game drives a day.
Nyati overlooks the Olifants River, and Balule is unfenced with Kruger National Park, so wildlife moves freely between the two. You may spot elephant and hippo from your terrace between open-vehicle game drives.
The safari suits travellers who want a short Kruger safari from Johannesburg combining riverside accommodation, Big Five game drives and all-inclusive dining.
What this short riverside safari offers.
Early pick-up at OR Tambo Airport or a Sandton hotel
Road transfer of about 6 to 7 hours
Two nights in the Balule reserve; two game drives a day
Return transfer on day 3
Route overview, not a map. Pick-up times and the road route await confirmation.
View itinerary
An early pick-up from OR Tambo Airport or a Sandton hotel starts the scenic drive through Limpopo and Mpumalanga. On arrival at Nyati Safari Lodge, overlooking the Olifants River, you are welcomed with drinks.
In the afternoon, head out on an open-vehicle game drive in the Balule reserve, then enjoy dinner at the lodge with river views.
Meals: Dinner
Overnight: Nyati Safari Lodge
Set out on a sunrise game drive with experienced rangers, followed by breakfast at the lodge. Spend your free time by the pool, at the spa (extra cost) or watching for elephant and hippo from your terrace.
The afternoon game drive ends with sundowners, followed by dinner in the lodge's traditional boma under the stars.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Overnight: Nyati Safari Lodge
Enjoy an early morning farewell game drive and breakfast at the lodge, then transfer back to OR Tambo Airport or Sandton.
Meals: Breakfast
Rates depend on your travel dates, group size and room type. Send us your dates and we will confirm the rate for this safari.
Nyati Safari Lodge is in the Balule Private Nature Reserve, along the Olifants River. Balule is unfenced with Kruger National Park, so wildlife moves freely between them.
The lodge has suites with private terraces, a pool, a spa and a traditional boma. Family villas and child-friendly facilities are available.
Nyati Safari Lodge is in the Balule Private Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger, along the Olifants River.
The package includes a road transfer of about 6 to 7 hours from Johannesburg. Fly-in options via Hoedspruit or Phalaborwa are also available.
Its riverfront setting and suites with private terraces set it apart, along with Big Five game viewing in an unfenced reserve.
You may see lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino, as well as hippo, giraffe, zebra and plenty of birdlife. Sightings are never guaranteed.
Yes, Nyati has family villas and child-friendly facilities.
May to October is best for game viewing. November to April brings lush scenery, newborn animals and good birding.
Greater Kruger · From Johannesburg
4 days · 3 nights
Return road transfers Johannesburg–Greater Kruger included (about 6 to 7 hours each way)
Greater Kruger · Balule Nature Reserve
4 days · 3 nights
Return road transfers from Johannesburg included (about 6 to 7 hours each way); fly-in option via Hoedspruit on request
Greater Kruger · Balule Private Nature Reserve
5 days · 4 nights
Return road transfers or domestic flights to Hoedspruit or Phalaborwa included (option to confirm)
Make room for the extraordinary
Tell us what you have in mind. Your departure point, travel dates and the way you like to travel are a good place to start.
When enquiries open, share your dates and group size so the team can confirm availability, the total price and booking terms before you decide. This preview does not send or store enquiries.
Contact channels will be connected after the client confirms the details.
