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A Wild Yet Mild Winter Breakaway at Bakubung Bush Lodge
Who would have thought that just a two-hour drive from Joburg lies one of the most unforgettable bush getaways South Africa has on offer? Bakubung Bush Lodge, conveniently located on the border of the Big Five Pilanesberg National Park, is the ideal bush breakaway for all sorts of travellers – from MICE groups to families or friends – looking for a relaxed holiday destination with mild to warm weather this winter.
Location, location, location!
When it comes to location, topography and game viewing, the Pilanesberg is a cut above some of the other national parks in South Africa. Close to Joburg and an easy drive from Lanseria International Airport (for those flying in from around the country), the park and Bakubung form part of the ecologically rich transition zone between the Kalahari and the Lowveld. The Pilanesberg is not only home to an abundant wildlife population. In fact, it boasts more than 360 bird species and 7 000 animals (including the notorious Big Five) and there are a plethora of roads from which to view them. The park itself is part of an extinct volcanic crater and houses a picturesque spread of undulating hills, rocky outcrops and grasslands. With just over 57 000 hectares of territory, the Pilanesberg is the fourth largest game reserve in South Africa. Bakubung is found right at the entrance to one of its main gates, making it easy for guests to enjoy the park at any time of the day.
Family comes first
Bakubung and its facilities and activities make it an easy choice for families. Kids can spend hours just frolicking in the pool, playing on the jungle gyms, or taking part in the resort’s special Junior Rangers programme. The programme aims to educate children about the fauna and flora of the local area and comprises of a fun range of activities for them to actively take part in. The resort also offers ever-popular snake demonstrations and activities such as archery and tennis. Meal times are always fun for kids with a daily dessert station filled with all sorts of delicious goodies for them to build their own waffles and pancakes with.
Where to sleep?
The choice of accommodation at Bakubung ranges to suit each guest and their individual needs. For those looking for a real break from the daily routine and not having to worry about grocery shopping or cooking, there are various hotel rooms to book on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis. The choices range from pool-facing twin, king or family rooms, with easy access to the cool waters on a hot summer day, or game park-facing rooms overlooking the hippo pool below. In addition, all rooms have a balcony or patio from which you can enjoy your morning coffee while soaking up the sounds of the bush beyond.
Set just outside the main resort and perched upon an undulating hill, are luxurious villa-style homes. These are the perfect choice for guests looking for a more intimate destination. Each villa differs in size, but all of them have their own private pool and the option to hire in a personal chef to whip up some delectable cuisine. The villas, although separate from the resort, have unrestricted access to Bakubung Bush Lodge and its facilities. They are the ideal vacation spot for groups of friends or sharing families.
What to do?
Whether you are on vacation to just unwind and relax, or whether you are looking for an action-packed holiday, Bakubung Bush Lodge caters to all. Start the day off with a game drive while its still cool. You can self-drive or join one of the resort’s experienced rangers on an open game vehicle. The choice is yours.
After a scrumptious breakfast in the restaurant overlooking the hippo pool, go for a game of tennis with your partner. Then, take a dip in the pool and soak up the sun for a while from the comfort of your lounger.
Live on the wild side and experience a game walk on foot with a qualified guide, or book into the world-class Legacy Balance Spa for a massage while you listen to the sounds of the African bush. Nestled into a hillside just above the lodge, the spa is an enchanting escape from the busyness of reality. Its tranquil interiors blend perfectly with nature and Legacy Balance spas are known for their personalised treatments, award-winning products and highly trained therapists. Ultimately, they will ensure that you leave feeling elated and, well, a little more balanced.
Finally, end the day off with a short game drive into the park where you can enjoy a delicious boma dinner around the fire while being completely immersed in nature.
Mouth-watering cuisine
In addition to its renowned boma dinners, Bakubung’s restaurant caters for all meal times and offers a choice of buffet or an a la carte menu. The layout of the restaurant gives guests a variety of seating areas across both the interior and exterior sections of the restaurant. Exterior seating areas look onto the reserve with the hippo pool below and guests are often spoiled with visiting elephants coming for a late afternoon drink. Tables outside are either set up under a covered patio, or out on the grass and under the stars. The cuisine comprises of an extensive selection of dishes to suit all tastes, including some traditional favourites specially prepared by the team of chefs.
How to book
Winter in the bush is prime game-viewing time. In fact, it’s known as the secret season exactly for that reason. With the Pilanesberg’s mild winter climate, it makes for the ideal time to visit. Bookings are essential, especially ahead of the upcoming holidays. So, for more information on Bakubung Bush Lodge and to book your holiday, visit the Bakubung Website. A wonderful, winter breakaway awaits.
