Star attraction

Greater Kruger lodge makes a spectacular first impression

- David Batzofin

On my arrival at Hoedspruit airport, I was met by the transfer company that would take me to Balule Nature Reserve and Naledi Game Lodge, my home for the next few days. Like many South African lodges, they re-opened their doors to visitors recently, and I was one of their first post lockdown guests.

Never having been to this part of Greater Kruger before, I had no idea what lay ahead as I was driven from the reserve gate down a winding gravel road to the lodge. Given the fact that the camp has been in lockdown and without guests for the past several months, I was not surprised by the smiling faces of the staff who met me at reception.

The earliest recorded use of the quote “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” was in 1966 as an advertising slogan for Botany Suits. Naledi Game Lodge have kept this statement in mind, as guests arrive at a reception area that doubles as an office as well as a curio shop. Given the current COVID-19 protocols, it makes sense that the shop is selling branded masks, a must on game drives as well as around the public areas of the property. And speaking of the pandemic, the lodge is fully compliant with all the required protocols and social distancing regulations.