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Kambaku River Lodge

Traveller (534)
Room & Suite (193)
Videos (1)
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#1 of 7 lodges in Malelane
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Travellers' Choice
Kambaku River lodge, Malelane, Kruger National Park offers 140 meters of private river frontage, spacious, luxurious accommodation, self-catering, or dinner and breakfast served to your private patio with views of the Crocodile River and the Kruger National Park, home to the Big Five. Elephants, hippo, rhino, buffalo, lions and leopard are just a few of the animals that can be spotted from the comfort of your suite or superb river deck. Safaris with our experienced guide or self drive into the park. We can book you a game of golf at the famous Leopard Creek Golf Course or visit the Mac Mac falls, Gods window, Barberton, Swaziland or Mozambique. Body massage in your private suite or at our comfortable Dzombo Spa . Relax around the various pools sipping cocktails as you watch the wildlife come to drink on the banks of the river. Sunsets and star gazing around your fire-pit listening to the call of the wild. Graded 5* Lodge
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Breakfast available
Hiking
Horseback riding
Airport transportation
Spa
Secured parking
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Private pool
Plunge pool
Breakfast in the room
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Fishing
Patio
Squash offsite
Tennis court offsite
Walking tours
Board games / puzzles
Taxi service
Couples massage
Facial treatments
Foot massage
Full body massage
Hand massage
Head massage
Manicure
Massage
Neck massage
Pedicure
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Gift shop
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
Umbrella
Express check-in / check-out
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Desk
Dining area
Coffee / tea maker
Cable / satellite TV
Extra long beds
Walk-in shower
Housekeeping
Interconnected rooms available
Private balcony
Room service
Safe
Seating area
Separate dining area
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Private bathrooms
Tile / marble floor
Kitchenette
Microwave
Minibar
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Flatscreen TV
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
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Room types
Mountain view
Landmark view
Pool view
Bridal suite
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
4.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Great View
Languages Spoken
English, French, Afrikaans, Portuguese and 1 more

Location

142 Strathmore, Malelane 1320 South Africa
Kambaku River Lodge
419Reviews10Q+A34Room tips
Traveller rating
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Patricia G wrote a review Feb 2024
Brighton, United Kingdom19 contributions10 helpful votes
Excellent place to stay, Accommodation, staff, scenery was lovely. The views were spectacular and to see the various animals by Crocodile River was amazing. The staff were all lovely, and on hand if needed. And having the Spa threatments were a bonus, which we all enjoyed. We enjoyed two safari’s during our stay and saw the big 5 and many others, thanks to the expertise of Elvis the guide. A special thank you to Leanne, Dennis, Luke and Anzelle and all the staff for making our stay so enjoyable.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2024
Value
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Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Response from Leanne Santana, Owner at Kambaku River Lodge
Responded 3 weeks ago
Dear Patricia Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are so pleased you enjoyed your stay with us. We hope we will see you again in the future. Warm regards
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Matars_Z wrote a review Jan 2024
Washington DC, District of Columbia589 contributions624 helpful votes
+1
Property's Favourite Review
Ah, what a magnificent place this is. There are too many choices at Kruger, one feels overwhelmed with options. You simply cannot go wrong with this one. We spent a long long time searching and reading of all options for places to stay at Kruger- north to south, top to bottom - every review imaginable, and we were flexible in most regards, including the airport to fly into.... but we did not wish to play the exorbitant in-park prices of some of the uber-luxury all inclusive options over the highest peak season in the area, yet still wanted as much of the luxury and awe experience as possible. Considering the many choices in the area I think the one we finally selected was far beyond all expectations, the absolute best- and having seen some of the top lodges in Kruger, I don't think Kambaku's rooms or setting are any lesser than the absolute best. Staff and service may be far more limited, as expected for a small place, but no matter- they are great. They don't use dynamic pricing, and the value for price is second to none. This is a lovely family run place, selected as a site for a lodge by someone with a dream of running such a place, who is clearly involved in every aspect of her property - from decorative touches, to attention to details and the day to day operation- and right there for every guest need and concern. The property is as magnificent as the images show - the rooms are beautiful, decorated with a specific unique taste, nice amenities, super comfortable beds, good linens, great showers, baths, AC, screens, anti-mosquito measures- anything you imagine you need. We loved it all. The views are peaceful and draw you in: Kruger and its animals, right in front of you - a fun surprise appearance every few hours! Every suite except one is directly facing the river, yet somehow built to be quite private. We saw lions, elephants, buffalo and hippos during our stay, both from our rooms and the viewing platforms, and of course even more amazing species on the safari excursions arranged by the property with two fantastic guides. Kruger, like all of South Africa, is magic, and the grounds of Kambaku lodge have their own surprise collection of fun living beings that come to visit you, especially the beautiful and endless variety of singing birds. Ah, the birds! If you love birds, this is the place for you. The food at the lodge is very good, fresh, and delcious--although one minor negative is the absolutely set dinner times that are sometimes announced via whatsapp, but sometimes not- and lack of any choice in food options at dinner is odd at first: you eat what is shopped for that morning, for that day, at a time for dinner that appears to be set in stone, likely because of the limitations of the traveling staff who are not on site --which once explained, you will be understanding of- but may still be a new concept and strange for some guests, even if they have stayed in set menu dinner-inclusive properties. I still like to imagine what happens if a meal is ruined, or you cannot consume the item brought at a certain time- even if allergies or preferences are pre-conveyed: there appears to be severe limitations in this regard, and they may have not yet run into the clients who want, for example, two portions of something delcious at dinner - it is unclear if special requests can at all be accomodated, as one would want for such a place- and all this could disappoint those wanting some level of flexibility in multiple aspects of dinner. But at the end of the day, many people staying here may be self catering and not care about such thing-- and its a very small price as all the food was always so delicious, high quality and done very nicely. Perhaps in the future some elements of choice or flexibility will be introduced, but even if not, the food is excellent and so most will be very happy. Breakfast choices are given and discussed each evening and breakfast is plentiful and also delicious. While dinner is set menu, and set quantity- lunch can be set at any time you wish, and you have a number of different options to select from- all excellent, well-priced and quantity is, of course, in your control. The wine list at any time is extensive and fantastic. Another aspect of the lodge, common in South Africa and South America, that may require adjusting for some North American or other clients, is communicaiton: be prepared to have to communicate via Whatsapp -down to any orders placed for drinks or snacks-- this is how you get information on dinner, and dinner times, and all other arrangements, since there isn't really an on site reception or desk. Everything with this system works well- but you must be willing to use this form of communication to, say, place a drink order or be attentive to receive notices. You can use email, but whatsapp is clearly the most efficient manner of exchange. The managers or owner have a common account and respond immediately, and everything is delivered exactly as requested, so the system generally works- but for those few averse to Mr. Zuckerberg's companies or use of mobile phones....good luck. Food is served outside-You get fires and lanterns lit for you each evening, and you eat at a table on your private veranda/patio area. It is lovely. We were worried about mosquitos but there were hardly any and anti-bug measures were provided in multiple forms. It is quiet, and beautiful. While all the physical amenities, features and beauty of the lodge are as good as it gets, I think what makes the place, at the end of the day, is the care and attention of the dedicated owner- and staff. The owner, who clearly loves the lodge a tremendous deal and wants every single person to have the best experience is right there to correct any mishap or miscommunication. Communication before arrival was excellent with the managers, and was an important factor in selecting the lodge. There are two managers, Luke and Anzelle, who take on many a task - even cooking- and all queries are answered almost immediately (and we had many)- with exact and specific clarity-- therefore every part of the booking, pick up, excursion planning went like clockwork-- thanks to these dedicated and efficient managers. The other staff are also very nice, and kind. We found they sometimes showed up unannounced to set tables or clear them, never intrusive- but we wish they would give some verbal notice of their arrival as the managers and owner did, before stepping into the private area facing the room. This was a minor observation of concern. At the end of the day, in midst of so many places of beauty, the Kambaku is truly a best-of-the-best. What makes or breaks this place is in good part the owner, who keeps a close eye, has great people and situation handling savvy, and knows how to communicate well with different clients. It is never possible to know how much of what seems true hospitality is practice and skill, and how much is a genuine from-the-heart caring for guests.....but at the end of the day, it matters little. If you convey a sense of caring and concern through all your actions, the why or the how of its origin is not relevant--that is all most guests want on their precious once in a lifetime visits to a place like this- to feel cared for- listened to-and you will feel very much cared for at this lodge. It is a wonderful place.
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Date of stay: January 2024
Value
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Book the honeymoon suite for most privacy-but all suites have great views.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Leanne Santana, Owner at Kambaku River Lodge
Responded 27 Jan 2024
Thank you so much for taking the time to give us such an in depth review. We so appreciate the time and effort that it took . We always value your feed back and are so happy that you loved your stay with us and hope to see you again. Warms regards Leanne and the Kambaku River Lodge Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Julie Q wrote a review Feb 2024
Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, United States33 contributions36 helpful votes
+1
Kambaku really has the full experience down for guests. We felt pampered the entire time while booking safari tours through them that were perfect. We saw three different leopards, and many elephants, giraffe, lions, zebra, rhinos and hippos along with wild dogs. I would recommend one safari tour per day. The spa is also so nice. I had a massage and facial with Miriam, who knew exactly where to focus. When is a true professional. Breakfast and dinner were included and were enjoyable. They prepared vegetarian meals as we requested in our booking. So good. Meals were served on our covered patio or sent along in a cooler for our morning safari. The hosts were always available and so helpful and welcoming. We couldn’t have asked for more. We hope to return in the future.
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Leanne Santana, Owner at Kambaku River Lodge
Responded 6 Feb 2024
Hey Julie, We are so glad that we could provide a unique experience for you. Thank you for your kind words and your feedback. Please do return in the future!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Aretha2024 wrote a review Feb 2024
White River, South Africa1 contribution
We were treated like royalty when we celebrated my husband's 70th birthday. We can't wait for the next special occasion to celebrate with Kambaku River Lodge! Everything was perfect, clean and in working order. I even did a "military style" inspection of the place and could find no fault. Very peaceful and quiet.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: January 2024
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Leanne Santana, Owner at Kambaku River Lodge
Responded 2 Feb 2024
Dear Aretha Thank you so much for taking the time to give us a fabulous review. We are thrilled that you loved your stay with us and look forward to your next visit. Warm regards Leanne and the Kambaku Team.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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metsfan24 wrote a review Jan 2024
Ossining, NY12 contributions16 helpful votes
The Kambaku River Lodge experience was wonderful. We had a lovely private chalet with visiting animals in the back, and a family of elephants drinking out of the pool. It was an off season, so there weren't many of us here. The food was quite good, but not as much variety, likely do to the low occupancy. The game drives were spectacular, with many of the other vehicles in the area help track down the most elusive of animals...including a pride of lions mating in the middle of the road, and a rare cheetah sighting. One note. The game drives are very early, with brunch served at 10 am and dinner after the afternoon drive. That made for a lot of "down time" during the day.
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Date of stay: January 2024
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Leanne Santana, Owner at Kambaku River Lodge
Responded 6 Feb 2024
This is news to our ears! Thank you for your feedback and for letting us know. We hope that you can come back soon!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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briley2024 wrote a review Jan 2024
1 contribution
From the minute we arrived we were greeted by the most friendly staff. Nothing was too much trouble. We were in the family suite as we were travelling with my mum. It was stunning. The decor was so well thought out and every little detail had been considered. It felt super luxurious and was so comfortable. And well the view on the river was exceptional. The dinners served were absolutely delicious and were huge portions - you certainly will not go hungry! To sit in the evenings outside with the sounds of the lion roaring was just such an incredible experience. We went out on early drives a few days and were prepared the most delightful packed lunches which had so many snacks in. I have to say you will feel very spoilt staying here it truly is heaven.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: January 2024
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Leanne Santana, Owner at Kambaku River Lodge
Responded 6 Feb 2024
Thank you for your feedback Briley! We are delighted to hear that you all enjoyed it! Please come and visit this little piece of "heaven" again, as you said.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Britta K wrote a review Jan 2024
2 contributions
We stayed in Kambabu River Lodge over New Year’s Eve. This is an amazing place. The service and location is perfect. Next to the river you can see elephants, buffalos, rhino, lions…. The organized safaris have been great and we‘ve seen the big five in short time.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2023
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Leanne Santana, Owner at Kambaku River Lodge
Responded 21 Jan 2024
Hey Britta, Thanks for the review. We have to mention that it was you that spotted the animals you mentioned! You have good eyes for the bush! Come back soon and help us to keep seeing such wonderful sightings along the banks of Kambaku River Lodge.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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benjaminrusson wrote a review Jan 2024
Luxembourg City, Luxembourg1 contribution
Most extraordinary place, wonderful people, great location - everything one wishes for when going on a vacation like this. Clean, helpful, excellent food, great guide, nothing to complain - could not be better!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2023
Value
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Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Leanne Santana, Owner at Kambaku River Lodge
Responded 10 Jan 2024
Dear Benjamin Thank you so much for taking the time to give us your fabulous review. We certainly hope that we will get to see you again. I will most certainly pass on your compliments to the staff which always make their day! Warm regards Leanne and the Kambaku River Lodge team.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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munyaradzih2024 wrote a review Jan 2024
Johannesburg, South Africa1 contribution
We have travelled to many places but the service and level of hospitality we got at Kambaku was on another level. We really felt so comfortable and the food was awesome. The kids loved every bit and would love to come back every year as they said. Keep it up and thumbs up to Anzelle, from the booking to checkout she was so amazing.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Leanne Santana, Owner at Kambaku River Lodge
Responded 10 Jan 2024
Dear Munyaradzi We are always so thrilled when our guests have loved their stay with us and especially when we have lived up to their expectations and exceeded them. Thank you so much for taking the time to give us your 5/5 review! Anzelle will be thrilled with your comments as will the other members of our staff who strive for excellence. Until next time. Warm regards Leanne and the Kambaku River Lodge team.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Alison wrote a review Jan 2024
Neath South Wales1 contribution
What can I say other than WOW. It felt like we were in a little piece of heaven. You will be truly spoilt. Had the most amazing lodge with spectacular views. Elvis was an amazing guide and we saw so many animals he is a master! The staff were all so friendly and helpful and we loved the drum call to the evening meal on our private terrace. We loved having a little drink while watching the elephants walk past. We will 100% be back. Thank you so much for making our anniversary so special.
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Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
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Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Leanne Santana, Owner at Kambaku River Lodge
Responded 10 Jan 2024
Thank you so much for your fabulous review and we are always so happy when we have all lived up to your expectations and been able to share our little piece of heaven . We look forward to return. Warm regards Leanne and Kambaku River Lodge team.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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PRICE RANGE
HK$2,135 - HK$2,534 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaMpumalangaMalelane
NUMBER OF ROOMS
6
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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KAMBAKU RIVER LODGE - Updated 2024 Prices & Reviews (Malelane, South Africa)

Frequently Asked Questions about Kambaku River Lodge
Which popular attractions are close to Kambaku River Lodge?
Nearby attractions include Nukain Mabusa's Garden of Flowers (7.8 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Kambaku River Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, a pool, and a spa.
Which room amenities are available at Kambaku River Lodge?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, a minibar, and air conditioning.
What food & drink options are available at Kambaku River Lodge?
Guests can enjoy breakfast, barbeque facilities, and complimentary tea during their stay.
Is parking available at Kambaku River Lodge?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Kambaku River Lodge?
Conveniently located restaurants include The Sugar Train Restaurant, KFC Matsulu, and Debonairs Pizza.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Kambaku River Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Kambaku River Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Kambaku River Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Kambaku River Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, French, Portuguese, Afrikaans, and Zulu.
Does Kambaku River Lodge have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the river view available here.
Is Kambaku River Lodge accessible?
Yes, it offers reduced mobility rooms. For specific enquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.