Bulge River accommodation from NZ$1,017

Everything was 6 stars. Located inside the private game reserve - you are picked up at the gates - being 30 minutes rough terrain drive from Sediba and thereafter are made to feel like special guests. Only 6 lodges in use (8 max) means total of 12 guests when the park was fully booked. The staff could not be more friendly, helpful, and genuinely interested. The rooms truly luxurious and spacious. Fluffy white towels changed several times a day. We had an entirely private deck overlooking the valley, bathtub inside, hot tub outside. The communal pool was very cold (early Sept) but most people stayed in their lodges when not in the restaurant or on the drive. The chef is talented and although a set menu, happy to offer alternatives. Our guide, Mike, was friendly, passionate about everything around him and entertaining and very talented - driving whilst tracking and spotting and commentating on animals, birds, plants, everything. It's a smaller reserve with rocky terrains, making the driving an off road experience and spotting animals a little more challenging than some of the open parks but thoroughly enjoyed our 5 night, 12 drive experience (we saw animals to and from the gates). Martha, Martin, Nadia and all of the staff were exceptional.