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Hinda Mountain Lodge

Self Catering

Reviews

4/ 5

Based on 5 reviews

Very Good

Cleanliness
4.2
Location
4.6
Value for money
4.0
Service
3.4
Safety
4.0
Ephraim M
Short stay Family with young children
5.0
Aug 2025

It was good. It is a good place for vacation, we did enjoy our stay with family.

Cleanliness
5.0
Service
5.0
Location
5.0
Safety
5.0
Value for money
5.0

Nurit Rachael B
1 night stay Family with teenagers
5.0
Jul 2025

Amazing. We thoroughly enjoyed our short stay at Hinda Lodge—our only regret is that it wasn’t longer. The lodge is surrounded by an abundance of wildlife and birdlife, creating a truly beautiful and tranquil setting. Our stay was peaceful and very comfortable. Lynette and her team were professional, welcoming, and attentive throughout. The house was impeccably clean, and the housekeeping was maintained to a high standard. The rooms were spacious and well-appointed, and we especially loved the layout of the property, which offers both comfort and a strong connection to nature. We would highly recommend Hinda Lodge to anyone looking for a relaxing getaway, a chance to unwind and recharge. We are already looking forward to our next visit.

Cleanliness
5.0
Service
5.0
Location
5.0
Safety
5.0
Value for money
5.0
Lynette
Hinda Mountain Lodge
Thank you. It was lovely hosting you.

Dayne W
Short stay With partner
5.0
Jan 2025

What a gem. Peaceful stay with great views and tranquility. Our stay at this newly renovated, modern game lodge was nothing short of spectacular! From the moment we arrived, we were enveloped in total privacy and tranquility. The lodge seamlessly combines luxury and nature, allowing us to truly unwind. Relaxing in the pool or enjoying the outdoor shower made us feel completely at one with the surrounding wilderness. The wildlife experience was incredible—nyala came right up to our patio, and we even spotted zebra and elephants from the comfort of our seating area. It felt like a private safari! Even during a power outage, the solar generator ensured we hardly noticed any disruption. Its easily identifiable outlets made everything simple and convenient. The fully equipped kitchen, complete with an ice-making machine, was a delightful bonus. The loft was a pleasant surprise, with its own bathroom boasting great water pressure, and the pool table downstairs became an instant favourite with the teens. The jacuzzi next to the boma was the perfect spot for relaxation under the stars—absolutely magical! While there were a couple of minor suggestions—better shades in the main bedroom to block the early sun and perhaps some fumigation to manage the bugs common to the area—these didn't detract from our incredible experience. We had a fabulous family bonding time, with every age group catered for. Even the toddler was safe, thanks to the gated pool area. This lodge exceeded all our expectations, and we cannot wait to return. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a luxurious and nature-filled escape!

Cleanliness
5.0
Service
5.0
Location
5.0
Safety
5.0
Value for money
5.0
Lynette
Hinda Mountain Lodge
Thank you, Dayne. It was a pleasure to host you and your family. We hope your visit won't be the last.

Bernelee V
Short stay With partner
3.8
Sep 2025

Beautiful lodge, but experience spoiled by rude, arrogant behaviour of staff. We recently stayed at Hinda Mountain Lodge and overall had a wonderful experience. The bush setting is beautiful, the location is perfect, and the lodge itself seems either newly built or recently renovated. The accommodation was very comfortable, we slept well, and the balcony view was absolutely breathtaking. There are some minor maintenance points that could be improved — for example, a bathroom rail that was loose, a bathroom door that did not close properly, some water damage on the walls causing the paint to lift, and the lack of sharp kitchen knives. The cutlery also felt a little unusual. That said, none of these aspects would prevent us from returning, as the overall stay was enjoyable and restful. Unfortunately, what did leave us very displeased was our interaction with Eiker, who we were told is both head of security and a resident in the camp, also a member of the body corporate of that portion of the reserve. On Saturday evening, he approached us in a very rude and arrogant manner not even greeting any of us, despite my husband and brother specifically attempting to greet him, demanding that we put out our fire immediately. While we did receive one WhatsApp stating that open fires were not permitted, we had assumed this referred to fires in the bush (at pit stops or demarcated braai areas), not the residential braais. We apologised sincerely for the misunderstanding and cooperated fully, yet he continued to be unpleasant. He even mentioned a possible R5 fine — something never previously communicated to us. He emphasised that we should be incredibly thankful that he is not imposing the fine. If fire safety is such a critical matter (as it should be in the bush), it would be far more effective for the body corporate to take clearer measures. For example: signs at check-in, reminders at security, notices when buying wood, or even boards around the lodge and boma clearly indicating any open fire including at residential premises are not permitted. Instead, there was only one WhatsApp message, which left plenty of room for interpretation, a message which also made no mention of a fine. Our departure was also unnecessarily stressful. We had booked an extra night to avoid an early Sunday check-out at 10am and confirmed with a staff member that we could leave before 6am, he advised that they would be willing to open for us despite the gate hours commencing at 6am only. However, when we arrived at the gate early Monday morning, security called Eiker, who once again treated us rudely and dismissively, even revisiting the Saturday fire issue. He initially insisted we wait until 6am, then reluctantly allowed us to leave only after imposing a fine of R350 per car, we were 4 cars. His lack of people skills, condescending tone, and repeated hostility left us deeply disappointed. This is a real pity, as the lodge itself is wonderful — peaceful, well-located, and overall a fantastic bush escape. Sadly, Eiker’s behaviour overshadowed what should have been a lovely experience. My father was in SA from the USA with his American wife and daughter, who have been longing for the bush experience and so looked forward to those few days away. My father was even considering purchasing a property in this very camp. But after our experience with someone so involved in the camp, he has reconsidered. I strongly hope that the owners and board take note, as no guest should be treated in this manner at such a beautiful and otherwise welcoming destination.

Cleanliness
5.0
Service
1.0
Location
5.0
Safety
4.0
Value for money
4.0
Lynette
Hinda Mountain Lodge
Dear Bernelee, the trustees of the greater Mabalingwe and Cyferfontein are not associated with Hinda Mountain Lodge. They are responsible for the security of the reserve and its occupants. The Waterberg district is currently under an open fire ban due to the very dry and windy conditions and the recent fires that destroyed several properties, which explains the upfront communication and signage. The access gates are managed by the Body Corporate, and gate closure times are clearly communicated. We do not have the authority to override the Body Corporate's rules where our lodge is located. These rules are in place for a reason, and the person you mentioned as agreeing to other hours is unknown to us. Unfortunately, you did not inform us of your intention to leave during hours when the gate is closed. We were unaware of your private arrangements and cannot account for interactions between a trustee and guests, as we were not part of that conversation. You have signed the gate access form where you acknowledged the rules and that of the reserve. Please note that fines may be issued by the reserve if any of the rules are violated. We apologise for the impact this had on your stay. However, the issues raised could have been avoided if the rules had been read and followed.

Hilbert V
Short stay Large group
1.4
Dec 2024

Don't book! The lack of communication about the WiFi code, not enough sheets and towels was challenging. This was on top of all the other inconveniences during our stay, which we just ‘tried to live with’: broken front door, which only opens with a key and force; a leak into the downstairs bedroom which compromised the use of said bedroom completely. This was apparently already known by the owners, but we were not informed. A broken dishwasher, which does not pump away the water, resulting in a terrible smell when you don’t run the dishwasher for a few hours. A leak on the inside fireplace pipes created a water puddle in the living room. Electricity tripped at least five times randomly during our stay, also in the middle of the night. Jacuzzi piping that is leaking compromised the operations of the jacuzzi. The walkway to the braai area has been completely washed away and is unsafe for usage. Cracks and openings in the windows and doors left us with a massive plague of insects inside the house, even with everything closed up. A staircase that functions as a waterway after each little bit of rain is a slippery deathtrap considering the lack of railings. The lighting was being fixed with drills and hammers while we were already checked in, leaving us with a big mess and masking tape on both staircases, combined with the cleaning lady still cleaning after check-in. A 4x4 vehicle that was in a state of despair; with the first drive, we lost both handles already, not to speak of the lack of lighting, for which we paid more than enough. To top it all off, a door that breaks with the slightest bump into it. After communicating this, they didn’t even ask if everybody was alright. Due to terrible construction quality, somebody could have been hurt. These are just a few of the major things; the ‘less major things' were kept off the list.

Cleanliness
1.0
Service
1.0
Location
3.0
Safety
1.0
Value for money
1.0
Lynette
Hinda Mountain Lodge
Thank you for your feedback. We take all guest concerns seriously and would like to address the issues you raised. Firstly, it is unusual we did not receive any complaints regarding the property during your stay until the incident involving the sliding door panel. It was only after this, and after we informed you that the cost to repair the panel would be your responsibility, that concerns about the condition of the property were brought to our attention. With regard to the sliding door panel, we were made aware of its breakage and, upon investigation, discovered that the panel itself had sustained physical damage. We were concerned by the assertion that this damage resulted from a "slight bump," given that the door is designed to be shatterproof and such a panel would not typically break under normal use. Due to the weekend and holiday period, we were unable to arrange for an immediate replacement; however, we successfully coordinated with a suitable company to replace the panel the following Monday after the glass was cut. Additionally, our WiFi codes are clearly provided in the booking details, as well as in the check-in forms, so guests should have easy access to the information upon arrival. If there was any confusion regarding the WiFi, we regret that this was not communicated more clearly at the time. In terms of the reported leaks, we were not previously made aware of these issues, but we take them seriously and will investigate further. We understand that some thatched roofs can develop leaks, particularly after heavy rainfall, which has affected the entire area recently. We will look into this and address any concerns. As for the other items you mentioned, such as the broken front door, dishwasher, leaks, electricity trips, jacuzzi issues, and the safety concerns around the walkway and staircase, we find it strange that these were not communicated during your stay. In fact, the guest who checked out immediately before you did not raise any concerns regarding these matters. Nevertheless, we will conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate action where necessary. Regarding the jacuzzi, we would like to clarify that what you referred to as a jacuzzi is actually a heated tub – a "Col Col" – designed to provide a more authentic bushveld experience. It operates using firewood to heat the water, offering a unique and rustic feature of our property. If a pipe was leaking, it would likely have been the outlet pipe, designed to empty the tub, which may not have been closed properly. We will investigate this further. We also appreciate your feedback regarding the condition of the 4x4 vehicle. We want to clarify that it is a game viewer that is used regularly and is not intended to be a luxury vehicle. We will ensure that future guests are fully informed of the vehicle’s intended use. Regarding the sliding door incident, it is important to note that as the main guest, you were informed that the deposit would not cover the cost of the repair due to its insufficiency. While we empathise with your experience, we must clarify that the deposit was not sufficient to repair the damage, as the cost of replacing a shatterproof sliding door panel is significant. The landlords, at their own discretion, may proceed with any required legal action to pursue the balance due. Thank you again for bringing these matters to our attention. We take all feedback seriously and will work to resolve any outstanding issues promptly.

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4.3/5

Lynette New to LekkeSlaap!

Properties 24

Reviews 312

On LekkeSlaap 1 month

From R3 500
R 3 500 R 3 150
per night (sleeps 15)

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Reserve
From R3 500
R 3 500 R 3 150
per night (sleeps 15)
From R3 500
R 3 500 R 3 150
per night (sleeps 15)
Reserve
  • Capacity: 15 people
    10 adults, 5 children
  • All ages welcome
  • Check-in: 15:00 to 20:00
    Check-out: 10:00
  • Address: Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, Bela Bela, 4080, Limpopo
https://travelground.imgix.net/AAEAAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAA177b24832ac039ea4c67ecf465858a24f43397088a907492f5ed82a06ff8605d95953e5f56470d75af1d5baf9c19fec5f4f0?w=1440&h=960&fit=crop&auto=enhance,format,compress&q=80 was R3 500 nowFrom R3 150 per night (sleeps 15) 5 5 1 4 Mabalingwe Nature Reserve Bela Bela 4080 Limpopo 021 201 8901 15:00-20:00 10:00 -24.849335 28.0428314

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