It is not a criticism to the lodge per se, rather that we picked a shoulder season for the visit - and got caught by a storm at night, which made driving back a little more challenging (we had Toyota Corolla with low ground clearance). However, Ryan and Danny did offer to drive us back with their car, while Ryan would drive our car without luggage (thus maximising ground clearance) to the gate. It worked out perfectly - separate huge thanks for the guys for going an extra mile here.

A very secluded lodge with fantastic views over the valley and the Drakensberg mountains. We picked Mackaya Bella based on its location and private atmosphere, as well as great past reviews - and we indeed can conclude that it was an amazing decision to stay here (it's a pity we only did 2 nights, having stayed here, I think the reasonable minimum is 3 nights to be able to enjoy the trails to the fullest - but we were really short on time). There are currently only 3 guest accommodations at the property, and we did enjoy very personalised service. Ryan reached out in advance to offer free transfer should we not felt that our car was able to pass on the countryside road (which is currently under upgrade to cater for cars with low ground clearance. However, we were perfectly able to make it with Toyota Corolla), as well as some details on the dinner menu (the food was really fantastic, we totally recommend picking up package with dinner included). The room was spacious, with enough space for several large suitcases, it featured fully stocked bathroom with shower and a separate toilet, as well as tea/coffee amenities and a fan (which we didn't need, as open windows provided enough ventilation). There were 2 WiFi networks (incl. one via Starlink), which worked rather well - compared to many other hotels we've stayed in South Africa (well, given the location, we were surprised that the internet was available at all....). The breakfast was great with numerous options to order as well as buffet - and we were able to make use of tea/coffee/water facilities in the shared lounge. Another good thing - there were plenty of table games available, which was a good opportunity to spend time after a hike. Finally, the folks running this lodge - Ryan and Danny - were absolutely friendly and forthcoming, Danny organised a private guided hike for us, and we did enjoy a bit of a discussion during the breakfast time. To wrap it up, it was a 5* experience.

Stayed in March 2024

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Everything

Stayed in December 2023

Access is only possible with a vehicle with high clearance / 4x4 in the wet season (some driving skill required). A charge for transport to / from the lodge is mandatory should visitors not have a suitable vehicle. The cost of dinner is prohibitive for SA visitors with a very limited offering. Rooms not serviced unless requested.

The secluded area has the most spectacular views - exactly what we were looking for. Charming hosts.

Stayed in January 2024

The property is in an amazing part of the Drakensburg with the soundings stunning and little to zero noise at most times of the day

Stayed in December 2023

I'll suggest that the book in must be accompanied with a shuttle

Everything, friendliness, food and the natural beauty

Stayed in January 2024

The road isn’t 2 lane highway but that’s also part of the charm.

Spectacular location recently taken over by Ryan and Danny. They have many plans but we already loved it and them. Perfect spot and wonderful hosts I’m sure there is much they can do, it but for now we loved its simplicity, its location and the fabulous welcome. We will come back.

Stayed in December 2023

We would have liked somewhere to sit outside in the shade in the afternoon, as the summer sun really streamed down. But this is a wishlist item and not a problem!

We had a very comfortable stay. The Lodge is located in a quiet valley with an exceptional view of the Drakensberg. While we didn't have enough time to fully explore the property, there are some lovely walks and the national park is close by. The hosts were warm and really made us feel welcome. We chose to have the dinners, which were delicious and also meant that we could enjoy the beautiful sunset views without dashing around.

Stayed in December 2023

We had a blast staying at this property. The host made us feel very welcome, there was a cozy atmosphere, and we enjoyed the beautiful views all around. The team prepared incredible breakfast and dinner. The place was clean and comfortable. We went on small hikes on the property area and saw a couple of animals such as baboons. Parking on the property is possible, the drive there is an adventure on its own which we thought was really a part of the experience of enjoying a hotel in a more rural place.

Stayed in September 2023

Everything was good!

Fantasic location! Mountains, rivers and amazing bird life. Friendly staff willing to go the extra mile.

Stayed in October 2023

N/A

Breakfast was excellent and more than enough. The location was so tranquil with a beautiful view of the mountain. Perfect for outdoors people and hikers.

Stayed in October 2023

Nothing.

Everything about it was just perfect for me. Ryan was a fantastic host, and the staff were very friendly. The food was delicious, and one will definitely not go hungry. Great ambiance all round. If one is looking for a little slice of heaven, this is definitely the place to go. It's very peaceful, beautiful, and majestic all in one. I will definitely be back and looking forward to my next visit there.

Stayed in September 2023

The inbound road requires SUV/4×4 but we were made aware of this beforehand and it adds to the experience. No complaints at all!

Mackaya Bella is a lovely mountain lodge offering B&B with exceptional hosts. The staff were equally superb and the food was outstanding. Ryan and Danny made us feel welcome and engaged, providing local insights and advice on activities nearby. Ntombi introduced us to some traditional cuisine and prepared a variety of fresh, locally sourced, meals which were delicious. We spent our honeymoon at Mackaya Bella and will definitely be returning!

Stayed in August 2023

The French coffee was good, but a proper espresso machine would top it!

Fantastic place with phenomenal view of the Drakensberg Mountains. Great smaller hikes starting direktly at the lodge. Best breakfast in the region, very creative. And if you like a bit of excitement, you also will enjoy the private "road" getting there. We were one of the first guests under the new owners, Ryan and Danny. They are lovely hosts who have a vision of making this place (which we think is already exceptional) a jewel in Drakensberg Mountains. Thank-you so much for the wonderful stay we had and all the best for the future.

Stayed in July 2023

Nothing, all good!

Everything- cosy, relaxed, perfect setting!

Stayed in August 2023

Nothing

The (new) owners Ryan and Danny did realy everything to make us confortable. They are realy very nice, tell you about the region, culture, they arranged food for us, heat the fire.The lady at the breakfast prepared us tasty dishes and very gentle. The place has i think the most beautiful view of Drakensberge. My husband even got goosebumps while entering . Highly recommanded

Stayed in August 2023

Nothing, it was perfect!

The hosts Ryan and Danny were very welcoming and friendly. It was as if we were visiting friends. They were so nice and we had many nice conversations. Every evening they made us a fire. They also ordered food for us, when we were very tired in the evening. The breakfasts were lovely and finally something else to choose besides bacon and eggs. They told us what nice trails you can walk from their place. We saw rock paintings for over thousands of years old and a beautiful old forest with lots of moss on the trees. Wow! Also the view from the lodge is absolutely gorgeous! Definitely recommended.

Stayed in July 2023

Location was stunning! Accommodation was very nice and the hosts were very friendly. Hope to come back to this place!

Stayed in July 2023

Amazing view and great staff

Stayed in July 2023

Nothing at all

Lynden and Pat were such great hosts

Stayed in April 2023

nothing

The lodge is in a spectacular location with a unique view of the Drakensberg Mountains. The hosts are very nice and friendly. We had a little damage to the car, so they helped us fix it. We are very grateful to them for this. We highly recommend staying here for those who want to spend time in beautiful nature.

Stayed in March 2023

Pat and Lyn where absolute wonderful hosts.the facility was quiet clean and tranquil.welll prepared and thoughtful in every regard . it was a unexpected and overall wonderful experience.and will be back

Stayed in March 2023

The road to the lodge can be a little tricky with some muddy uneven areas and an exciting bridge crossing but the hosts were extremely helpful in navigating this. I enjoyed a bit of off-roading fun and my car (not a 4x4) managed perfectly. Just a heads up for more timid drivers!

A lovely BnB in the most phenomenal location! Really stunning views and wonderful communal area to relax in. The breakfasts were delicious and the communal kitchen area is very well stocked to meet all your needs. The hosts were extremely accommodating and informative about the area with ideas of where to eat, activities to do in the area, hiking routes and a daily loadshedding schedule. I had a lovely stay at Mackaya Bella and felt very welcome! Thank you for having me!

Stayed in March 2023

Nothing to report.

We loved the location, beautiful views, hiking and fishing. The hosts were friendly and very helpful. Will certainly visit again. We really enjoyed our stay.

Stayed in March 2023

Lydnen and Patrick are super friendly.The Location is extremely good.

Stayed in February 2023