River House Lodge - Malalane

Award-winning country-style lodge bordering Kruger National Park on the Crocodile River

Observatory Deck & Wildlife Viewing

River House Lodge Malelane South Africa has a large, thatched observation deck overlooking the Crocodile River. From this deck, guests watch elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and buffalo as they come to drink. Binoculars are provided free of charge on the deck, and a family of bushbuck regularly visits the garden.

Rooms & Private Balconies

Each of the rooms at River House Lodge has a private balcony with views of the Khandizwe and Thalabye Hills. The accommodations are newly refurbished, with fresh bedding, feather pillows, and a coffee press with fresh milk. The lodge also offers family rooms with a separate upstairs bedroom for children, though the staircase is steep.

On-Site Dining & Cuisine

Dinner at River House Lodge South Africa is a set menu of traditional South African dishes, such as chicken à la king with rice followed by malva pudding. Breakfast is served on the terrace each morning, and the lodge offers a good wine selection and a full bar with cocktail service. Guest reviews note that the food is homemade, hearty, and one of the best meals of their trip.

Pool, Spa & Grounds

The outdoor swimming pool at River House Lodge is newly built, offering views of the river and the chance to spot wildlife while swimming. Sun loungers and sun umbrellas are placed around the pool area. The lodge provides spa facilities including body scrubs, facial treatments, and full-body massages, as well as beauty services.

Activities & Nearby Attractions

River House Lodge is located 10 minutes from the Malelane Gate entrance to Kruger National Park. The lodge arranges game drives, which guests report have shown the Big Five before 11 a.m. Nearby attractions include Blyde River Canyon and the Glass Lift in Graskop, and the lodge offers golf course access and trekking.

• Location: Bordering Kruger National Park on Crocodile River, 10 min from Malelane Gate
• Observatory Deck: Large thatched deck with free binoculars to view elephants, hippos, crocodiles
• Rooms: Private balcony with hill views; newly refurbished with feather pillows and coffee press
• Dining: Homemade set-menu dinners of traditional South African cuisine; full bar with cocktails
• Pool & Spa: New outdoor swimming pool overlooking river; spa with body scrubs, facials, massages
• Activities: Game drives (Big Five by 11 a.m.), golf course, trekking, Blyde River Canyon day trips
• History & Events: Converted pump house available for weddings and special events