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Could have easily stayed way longer. It is so beautiful and relaxing. The peace and quiet, wow, so beautiful. The kids, (saying kids, they're in their early 20's) didn't want to leave, that speak volumes as far as I am concerned. We all loved it and wished we could have stayed longer. xxx

There is much good to say about Mabula Bushtime but the comments below would have me think twice about booking at Mabula Bushtime. Wifi - 1) No wifi in the unit. Whilst this was OK, it would have been helpful to have been informed about this, at least at check-in. Wifi is an expected service and lack of wifi has implications. 2) There was wifi at the hotel, but one had to purchase a wifi voucher for 24 hours only. Again, at a minimum, basic wifi should be available for free. Game Drives - This is not a self-driving reserve - there is no other option but field guides and their vehicles. 1) I had NOT been advised to book in advance, so the slots available at the time of check-in, for game drives was limited. 2) The included game drives are limited to the number of beds in the unit - for the entire stay. With no self-drive option, we had to pay for additional drives and these were not inexpensive, at unexpected further cost. 3) We were not informed that the lion enclosure was an extra cost game drive. Again, lack of communication led to frustrated expectations 3) There is no stopping nor offer of tea/coffee/rusks on the game drive for Bushtime guests, which for the cost of the game drive, would be expected. 4) And be aware that the field guides vary greatly in knowledge and experience. Pools - There was inadequate information on which pools were heated and which pools were open. We had to drive around until we found a heated pool at one of the camps. On the whole, the communication with guests prior to and at check-in was inadequate. There is a business WhatsApp number which would be the ideal platform to provide real-time information and communicate with guests. The people in my group had expectations of wifi and at least a daily game drive, with access to the lion enclosure included in the cost of the accommodation. At the start of our stay I had a tough time managing these expectations.

We were in the Zebula estate, which was great for viewing the plentiful wildlife and for golf. We were going to have some meals at the restaurant, but after seeing their menu pricing and paying R32 for a 200ml coke and R70 for a normal bread roll with some bacon and cheese, we decided to prepare all meals at our accommodation. Even at the little convenience store, you paid a premium for the convenience of being able to shop there. I would suggest that travellers make sure that they are well provisioned before they get there,.

Our stay at Mabula was great - the staff when we arrived were amazing. Their email system and reservation person on the phone can be a little more knowledgeable. I called a couple of times to find out what was included in the reservation we did - and I got different answers every time. I emailed to ask and my question was not answered. I wanted to know how many game drives were included in the booking. I was told 1 game drive - then I was told no game drives. When we checked in the check in lady said to me we only had 1 game drive with our booking - when I went to book the game drive - the activities lady said to me we had 2 game drives with our booking. So if the reservation person can get the story right then we can plan our activities a little better beforehand. Otherwise everything else at Mabula was great.

A great place just at our doorstep with a great focus on conservation and sustainability. The safari vehicles follow protocols and coordinate with each other to ensure the viewing spot is never overcrowded with vehicles. Rangers are very well-informed and they share their knowledge. All the staff is super friendly. A warm welcoming place.

The region is a great area to escape to from the busyness of Joburg life. Being in the bush, close to nature, with beautiful blue skies during the day and star-filled skies during the night. This short left escape is everything you need to rest, refresh and recharge!