The drive from Johannesburg to the Mhondoro Safari Lodge takes about 3 and a half hours while direct access to the Welgevonden reserve's airstrip by private charter plane is also available.

Upon arrival at the Main Gate of the reserve, guests are welcomed with snacks and drinks before being transferred to the lodge.

The Mhondoro lodge's beautiful chalets overlook the waterhole and adjacent plains, alongside the ridge. Each cottage provides its elegant sense of style and décor, designed to make guests feel pampered, spoiled and extraordinary. Large double sliding doors lead onto the private viewing sundeck. The en-suite bathrooms at Mhondoro have a choice of the indoor shower and a hippo-sized bathtub.

The chalets are spacious and offer a beautiful viewing deck which invites a relaxing time watching the animals meander past. The en-suite bathrooms offer showers and bathtubs while the outdoor showers complete the luxury of the chalets.

Ideal for couples, honeymooners as well as families travelling with children alike, the lodge features an outdoor swimming pool from which scenic bushveld views can be admired. Weather permitting, meals are served on the large, wooden deck or in the boma which makes for unforgettable dining experiences. Rejuvenating spa treatments can be enjoyed in the wellness centre while the energetic guests may continue their exercise routine in the well-equipped fitness centre.

Thrilling wildlife viewing activities await guests during a stay at this five-star lodge in Welgevonden. Safari drives are enjoyed in the early mornings and the late afternoon/evenings while adventurous walking safaris are also on offer. Enjoy close encounters with lions, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo, rhinos as well as zebras, giraffes and zebras to name but a few of the reserve's many animals.

Refreshing sundowners and snacks are served during evening safari drives. The game rangers, who are all fully qualified, usually choose magnificent spots such as at the top of the mountain ridge where one can stand and stare at the majestic beauty and enjoy an excellent South African Chardonnay. For those early morning drives, hot drinks and snacks are available for all guests to keep them nice and warm.

The Mhondoro health and beauty spa, which is adjacent to the main lodge, provides a tranquil and secluded paradise for pure relaxation. Dedicated spa therapists provide a wide choice of treatments which include deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages as well as aromatherapy, manicures and pedicures.

Two massage beds can be placed on the private deck or inside depending on the guest's preferences. The outdoor deck st this exclusive wellness retreat features an open-air bath, where guests may relax in the heart of nature overlooking the waterhole.

The star deck at the lodge offers an exceptional vantage point from which to admire the vast African sky by night. View the constellations of the southern hemisphere from the elevated wooden deck which offers custom-made seating. These different seats are equipped with seatbacks angled at 45 degrees which allow for easy star-spotting. The high-powered telescope is connected to a sophisticated computer programme which allows for an exciting, detailed search of the cosmos.

Known for its child-friendliness, kids enjoy swimming, playing in the safe, secluded playground (protective elephant fence) as well as exploring the bush on thrilling bush walks. The spacious Family Suite, as well as the exclusive-use Villa, are ideal for families.

The Family Suite can accommodate four guests in its two bedrooms. It features a shared bathroom, a lounge as well as a dining area. From the private viewing deck, guests enjoy beautiful views over the waterhole. A separate building, this suite offers direct access to all the facilities of the main lodge within short walking distance.

Guests who prefer exclusivity, the villa is most ideally suited. Meals and selected local drinks are served here while Villa guests enjoy their own, private pool, gym and yoga room as well as their safari vehicle with a personal ranger, a private chef, a private butler and housekeeping staff. Accommodating a family of six, it features a master suite and two additional bedrooms, all of which have en-suite bathrooms.

Family accommodation:

• Family Suite (four guests)
• The Villa (six guests).

Chalet features:

• En-suite bathroom
• Shower and bath
• Outside Shower
• Verandah balcony & deck
• Air Conditioning
• Tea and coffee making facilities
• Safe and fan
• Mhondoro Dressing gowns
• Pure cotton linen
• Hairdryer
• Minibar
• Mosquito nets