The luxurious suites of Hoyo Hoyo have been designed in a traditional African style. These rondavels (round huts with thatched roofs) depict the rich history of the indigenous Tsonga people of southern Africa. The luxury ethnic-themed suites have been meticulously designed and decorated in rich fabrics, creating an ambience of opulence and relaxation. The earthy tones of the interiors and the bright decor exude a spirit of warmth.
Kruger Park Travel
Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge
Amid lush leadwood trees in the heart of the African wilderness, the thatched tips of burnt-orange rondavels are just visible above the tree line. Welcome to Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge on the banks of the Mluwati River in the heart of the world-famous Kruger National Park in South Africa. The lodge is located on the 10,000-hectare Mluwati Concession.
3 Days
3 Day Hoyo Hoyo Lodge Fly-In Safari from Johannesburg
Kruger National Park
from
ZAR 32,060.00
5 Days
5 Day Hoyo Hoyo Lodge Fly-In Safari from Johannesburg
Kruger National Park
from
ZAR 52,545.00
Overview
Hoyo Hoyo is designed in the style of a traditional Tsonga village. Staff dressed in traditional clothes gives this lodge its signature atmosphere of a bygone era.
Hoyo Hoyo offers the discerning nature lover an authentic African safari experience in extraordinary bushveld surroundings within the Kruger National Park, which is home to the majestic Big Five (elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and buffalo).
Each new day heralds a unique feast for the senses. From the gorgeous hues of an African sunrise and the quivering mirages in the distance at the heat of the day to the cheerful chirping of a wide array of bird species just before dusk. One cannot help but be mesmerized by this natural beauty which is wild Africa.
Spend relaxing afternoons in the infinity pool or siesta on the deck while observing the wildlife going about their daily business; from the majestic elephant herds to select members of the cat family such as lion, cheetah and leopard, or zebra quenching their thirst at the waterhole – they are all here.
Guests can indulge in a tasty Tsonga feast, or enjoy a soothing massage to revive body and mind. At Hoyo Hoyo, authentic Tsonga hospitality will rejuvenate the spirit and ease away the stress of urban life.
Experience the magic of local tradition and the tranquil essence of your natural surroundings. Passionate staff cater to your every need, ensuring a once-in-a-lifetime African safari experience. Sit on the deck around the fire and delight yourself in the magic of the vast expanse of African sky.
The private concessions within the iconic Kruger National Park are areas of land where carefully selected operators have a license to offer all the benefits of a luxury safari lodge on a private reserve. Guests staying at Hoyo Hoyo Tsonga Lodge enjoy game drives in an open safari vehicle within the private concession as well as the Kruger Park itself. Glorious days at Hoyo Hoyo Tsonga Lodge are spent exploring the vast wilderness region on sunrise and sunset game drives and enjoying hours of relaxation and pampering back at the lodge, as well as a magical “sofa safari” from the privacy of their own viewing deck.
Things to do at Hoyo Hoyo
Bird Watching
The guides at Hoyo Hoyo are more than happy to share their unrivalled knowledge of the varied bird species in the area. There is so much to learn about birds on the Mluwati Concession. From the fierce Marshall Eagle to the smallest and most delicate blue waxbill. With more than 400 recorded bird species in the Kruger National Park, Hoyo Hoyo is a true birder’s delight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What bird species can guests expect to see at Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge?
Guests can spot a wide variety of birds, including African fish eagles, lilac-breasted rollers, hornbills, kingfishers, and many seasonal migratory species.
Is bird watching suitable for beginners at Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge?
Yes, guided game drives and walks are led by knowledgeable rangers who help beginners identify birds, understand their calls, and learn about their habitats.
Bush Dinners
Enjoy a lovely starlit braai (barbeque) at a secluded bushveld spot. This is a privilege that is unique to guests staying at a luxury lodge in a private concession in Kruger Park. Nowhere else in the Kruger are you able to dine so up close with the Big Five!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bush dinner at Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge like?
A bush dinner is a private, candle-lit dining experience set in the African wilderness, featuring traditional cuisine, open fires, and the sounds of nature under the stars.
Are bush dinners safe and suitable for all guests?
Yes, bush dinners are carefully planned and hosted by trained staff with safety measures in place, making them a comfortable and memorable experience for all guests.
Dining and Cuisine
Your reward for a hard day’s safari is the delicious dishes created by Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge’s talented chef, who is an expert at preparing delicious cuisine to tantalise the taste buds.
Home-made delicacies, including an impressive array of light salads and local speciality dishes such as beetroot salad and ostrich steak, are served in a relaxed environment. The authentic sounds of the African bush complement each meal to perfection and make dining at Hoyo Hoyo a truly memorable experience.
A hearty buffet breakfast with a variety of fruits, nuts, yoghurt, breads, pastries, and cheese – or a full English breakfast with bacon, sausage, eggs, freshly squeezed orange juice, and strong coffee – awaits you after your morning game drive.
Lunch is a light, informal affair with a buffet of tasty salads and a wide variety of meats. High Tea in the afternoon is a festive gathering where a delicious selection of cakes and pastries, baked freshly at the lodge, can be enjoyed in the company of good friends.
After the thrill of the evening’s safari, Hoyo Hoyo’s open-air firepit is the perfect place to share the experiences of the day while indulging in a scrumptious three-course dinner under the stars. Good conversation, accompanied by the finest vintages and the enchanting sounds of the bush at night, will round off the evening’s magic to perfection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cuisine is served at Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge?
The lodge serves Afro-inspired gourmet cuisine, blending traditional South African flavors with modern culinary techniques, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Can dietary requirements be accommodated at Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge?
Yes, the chefs can cater to most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-specific requests, when guests inform the lodge in advance.
Wellness Treatments
Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge offers indulgent spa treatments and a soothing massage on your private deck, where the scents of ylang-ylang, vanilla, and cedarwood help soothe body, mind, and soul. There is no Wi-Fi or cell phone signal at this exclusive and remote safari lodge, allowing our guests to enjoy complete relaxation. The suites do, however, have a radio link to the manager at the lodge.
Please book your treatment with the wellness therapist or ask the camp manager to arrange an appropriate appointment time for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What wellness treatments are available at Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge?
Guests can enjoy relaxing in-suite wellness treatments, including massages and body therapies inspired by African traditions, designed to rejuvenate both body and mind.
When is the best time to book wellness treatments during a stay?
Wellness treatments are best booked in advance or upon arrival, allowing guests to schedule sessions around game drives for a perfectly balanced safari experience.
Private Safari Experience in the Kruger Park
Mluwati Concession is a private concession within the Kruger National Park that boasts three ultra-luxury safari lodges: Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge, Imbali Safari Lodge, and Hamilton’s Tented Camp. The Mluwati Concession was born from a shared vision to ensure the future sustainability of the national park and preserve this heritage for future generations.
As one of the first private concessions in the Kruger National Park, the management of Mluwati has worked tirelessly to ensure the protection and sustainability of this pristine wilderness that, for more than a century, has been a sanctuary for over 114 reptiles, 34 amphibians, 336 tree and 147 mammal species, including Africa’s Big Five.
Avid birders will delight in the hundreds of bird species that call the Kruger National Park home. More than 500 species have been recorded here, many of which occur in the Mluwati Concession.
Guests have the opportunity to traverse some of Kruger’s most spectacular landscapes and view an extraordinary variety of wildlife, birdlife, and plant life in this natural wilderness. At Hoyo Hoyo, each safari experience is unique.
A Typical Day at Hoyo Hoyo
Your thrilling day in the bush will commence with an early-morning wake-up call. After enjoying a steamy cup of coffee and some rusks, you will depart on your morning game drive with your assigned ranger.
Winter Safari Times: 1 May to 31 August
- 05h30 Wake-up time and morning tea
- 06h00 Morning safari departs
- 09h00 Return for breakfast
- 13h30 Lunch
- 15h00 High Tea
- 15h30 Afternoon safari departs
- 19h30 Return from safari & dinner is served
Summer Safari Times: 1 September to 30 April
- 05h00 Wake-up time and morning tea
- 05h30 Morning safari departs
- 08h30 Return for breakfast
- 13h30 Lunch
- 15h30 High Tea
- 16h00 Afternoon safari departs
- 19h30 Return from safari & dinner is served
Please note: Guided walking safaris need to be requested in advance and are subject to the discretion of management.
Watch as the bush awakens around you; the dew glistens on the webs of the golden orb spider and lilac-breasted rollers flash their startling sky-blue bellies as they flit past your game vehicle.
View the shy African wild dogs under the acacia trees and the elephants chomping through the lush vegetation at a leisurely pace. Steal a glance at the leopard eating its prey high up in an old tamboti tree, zebra foraging alongside large herds of wildebeest and impala flashing their characteristic “M” as they disappear into the thick brush.
Upon your return, a hearty breakfast will await you, after which you can retire to your suite while the day away at your own pace. Whether by immersing yourself in a good book or lazing in the pool, the choice is entirely yours. The more energetic can request a bush walk to explore the wonders of Africa from a whole different perspective.
Lunch is always a relaxed and informal affair. Served on the deck with majestic views of the surrounding bushveld, guests can indulge in light salads and tasty desserts before retiring for a brief afternoon siesta.
A soothing massage in the privacy and comfort of your private deck will soothe your body, mind and soul. Our trained therapists all hail from the local community and provide a range of massages, including full-body aromatherapy, foot massages and Swedish back and neck massages with scents of ylang-ylang, vanilla and cedarwood, among others.
Afternoon tea served on the deck heralds your imminent departure on a special late afternoon/ early evening safari through the Mluwati Concession. Spotting a pride of lazy lions in the tall grass at dusk with the associated warning call of nature’s own tattletale, the grey loerie, is a thrilling experience in the extreme.
Sip a sundowner at a scenic spot en route as you watch the sky’s transformation, from the rich colours of sunset into the wide expanse of stars. Nocturnal creatures waking up in the bush at night get ready for the hunt. The glare of a pair of eyes, caught in the spotlight, will keep you upright in your seat. The persistent call of frogs, owls, and nightjars alerts you to a new kind of magic – that of the bush at night. Once-in-a-lifetime sightings on this unique bush safari will be etched into your memory forever.
Back at the lodge, a traditional Tsonga dinner feast will round off the day’s excitement to perfection. Dishes to suit all palates served around the blazing fire will set the stage for the evening’s Shangaan entertainment. The magic of authentic African beats will thrill and excite you and leave you in awe of this land’s rich history.
After sharing your experiences of the bush in an exchange of pleasant banter, while sipping on a glass of wine, all that’s left is to retire to the comfort of your traditional Tsonga homestead with nothing but the reassuring sound of the bush to lull you to sleep.
Accommodation at Hoyo Hoyo
Guests are accommodated in 6 luxurious and air-conditioned suites, tastefully decorated in traditional style. The vibrant colours of the walls, tapered thatched roofs, and folding glass doors with breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness appeal to the senses of the discerning nature lover in search of seclusion and relaxation.
From the warmth of the brightly-coloured walls and traditional ornaments to the intricate embellishments on the lamps, the tasteful decor of each suite merges effortlessly with the natural surroundings to bring the traditional Tsonga culture to life.
Savour a tasty Tsonga feast, treat yourself to a lazy afternoon siesta, or indulge in a rejuvenating massage on your private deck whilst soaking up the stillness of the bush landscape. Your stay here is designed with ultimate relaxation in mind.
Relax on your private deck with breathtaking views of the bush, take a long, leisurely shower in the open air or melt into your comfortable king-size bed for an afternoon siesta. It’s your relaxing, informal bush experience that dictates the terms.
Room Facilities and Amenities include:
- Safe
- Hairdryer
- Separate large stone bath and outdoor shower
- Bathroom amenities
- Insect repellent
- Umbrellas
- Air-conditioning
Facilities at Hoyo Hoyo
Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge offers indulgent spa treatments and soothing massages in the seclusion of your private deck with the scents of ylang-ylang, vanilla, and cedarwood to soothe body, mind, and soul.
There is no Wi-Fi or cellphone signal at this exclusive and remote safari lodge in the Kruger National Park, allowing for complete relaxation and seclusion from the outside world. The suites have a radio link to the manager at the main lodge for help if needed.
The sparkling swimming pool promises a refreshing dip while providing the opportunity to view the rich and varied wildlife that comes to the river for a cooling drink.
Facilities and Amenities include:
- Free toiletries
- Toilet
- Bath or shower
- Towels
- Hairdryer
- Towels/sheets (extra fee)
- The entire unit is located on the ground floor
- Linen
- Air conditioning
- Safety deposit box
- Electric blankets
- Tile/marble floor
- Private entrance
- Ironing facilities
- Iron
- Heating
- Fan
- Laptop safe
- Electric kettle
- Desk
- Seating Area
- Dining area
- Terrace
- Outdoor furniture
- Patio
- Socket near the bed
- Wake-up service/Alarm clock
- Wake-up service
Traveling and Booking Information
Hoyo Hoyo Child Policy and Rates
Many of the accommodation establishments that Kruger Safari Co books for tours have a strict child policy. It is your responsibility to disclose the age of each child in the travelling group to the Kruger Safari Company agent and confirm that he/she is the appropriate age for tour accommodation. Kruger Safari Co cannot be held liable for an accommodation establishment refusing entry to an underage child where a child policy is strictly enforced.
Kruger Safari Co reserves the right to request a copy of a birth certificate for any child in the tour group who is confirmed to be 12 years or younger.
A children’s rate is available on request. Not all accommodation establishments offer a reduced rate for children, but where applicable, Kruger Safari Co will confirm in writing at what rate a child 12 years and younger will be charged.
Children 12 years and older are welcome at Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge.
0 -11 years: Not permitted at the lodge unless the lodge is booked on an exclusive-use basis.
Entrance Fees
Guests staying at Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge will be charged a once-off access fee of R83.00 per person per stay as of 1 April 2018. The fees are payable at the point of entry. You will be required to hand back your receipt to the gate attendant upon your departure.
✅Hoyo Hoyo Rate includes:
- Accommodation
- Three meals per day
- Local beverages (soft drinks, water, beer, selected wines & spirits)
- Two game drives
❌Hoyo Hoyo Rate excludes:
- Scheduled domestic and international flights
- Transfers not specified in the rate
- Imported beverages
- Entrance gate fee
Imbali Safari Lodge, Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge, and Hamiltons Tented Camp offer a complimentary transfer from either Skukuza or Hoedspruit Airport, subject to availability. It must be booked with the Extraordinary Reservations Team before quoting. The transfers are subject to the availability on the required transfer dates.
Kruger National Park Gate Entrance Times
Please be aware of gate entrance times into the Kruger National Park as they vary throughout the year, depending on the season. Entrance into the park via Orpen Gate should be no less than two hours before gate closure time, and via Kruger Gate should be no later than three hours before gate-closure times.
Getting to Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge
By Air
✈️️Johannesburg to Hoedspruit
SA Airlink offers flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Skukuza Airport in the Kruger National Park. Transfers from Hoedspruit or Skukuza can be booked at the time of reservation, at an additional charge.
Federal Air from Johannesburg or Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport in Mbombela (KMIA Nelspruit).
Guests will fly to the Manyeleti airstrip, where they will be collected by the lodge. Transfer time from the lodge is approximately an hour and a half. Transfers are charged at R60 per vehicle and R40 per person.
✈️Johannesburg to Skukuza or KMIA
SA Airlink offers flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town directly to Skukuza Airport and KMIA (Nelspruit).
By Road
🚗ORPEN GATE ENTRY (Estimated driving time: 1.5 – 2 hours)
- Take the H7 towards Satara
- Drive for approximately 6.7 km
- Turn right onto the S106 (dirt road)
- After 1.6km, turn right onto the S140 towards Talamati
- After 19.5km, turn right onto the S145
- After 10km on the road, you will see a no-entry sign, turn right to Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge
- After 3.5km, you will reach a T-junction, and turn right to Hoyo-Hoyo Safari Lodge.
🚗KRUGER GATE ENTRY (Estimated driving time: 2.5 – 3 hours)
- Take the H1-2 towards Skukuza
- Pass Skukuza and take the H11 towards Satara
- After approximately 20km, turn left onto the S36 (dirt road), it is signposted. Carry on along the S36 for approximately 39km.
- For Hoyo-Hoyo Safari Lodge, keep right at the Hamilton’s Tented Camp no entry sign, continue on the S36/S125
- After 2km, you will reach a T-junction, turn left onto the S36/S125
- After 4.5km, you will reach a T-junction, turn right onto the S36
- After 6.5km, turn left onto the S145
- After 2.3km, turn left at the no-entry sign for Hoyo-Hoyo Safari Lodge
- After 3.5km, you will reach a T-junction which is signposted, turn right for Hoyo-Hoyo Safari Lodge.
🚗SKUKUZA AIRPORT TO HOYO HOYO SAFARI LODGE (Estimated driving time: 2 ½ hours)
- Follow the exit road from the airport
- At the T-junction, turn left towards Satara, H1-2 (tar road)
- After approximately 20kms, turn left onto the S36 (dirt road) – it is signposted. Carry on along the S36 for approximately 39km
- For Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge, keep right at the Hamilton’s Tented Camp no entry sign, continue on the S36/S125
- After 2km, you will reach a T-junction, turn left onto the S36/S125
- After 4.5km, you will reach a T-junction, turn right onto the S36
- After 6.5km, turn left onto the S145
- After 2.3km, turn left at the sign for Hoyo-Hoyo Safari Lodge
- After 3.5km, you will reach a T-junction which is signposted, turn right for Hoyo-Hoyo Safari Lodge.
🚗KRUGER MPUMALANGA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – PAUL KRUGER GATE (Estimated driving time: 3 hours)
- After exiting the airport follow the R538 north towards the White River
- From White River, follow the R40 towards Hazyview
- In Hazyview, turn right at the second traffic light onto the R536
- Follow the R536 straight to Paul Kruger Gate of the Kruger National Park.
🚗KRUGER MPUMALANGA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – ORPEN (Estimated driving time: 3- 4 hours)
- After exiting the airport follow the R538 north towards the White River
- From White River, follow the R538 towards Hazyview
- From Hazyview follow R40 towards Bushbuckridge
- Drive through Bushbuckridge and Acornhoek, remaining on the R40
- Turn right onto the R531 Orpen Gate road
- After 40km, you will reach the Orpen Gate of the Kruger National Park.
⛔Speed Limit
Motorists in the Kruger National Park are requested to adhere to the legal speed limit of 50km per hour on tar roads and 40km per hour on dirt roads.
⚠️Safety Precautions
Please adhere to the Kruger National Park safety precautions, and do not alight from your vehicle unless you are in a designated area.
📱Cellphone Reception
Reception is only available at the entrance gates, and in the vicinity of Skukuza, it is therefore recommended that guests make any necessary calls at the gate upon entry.
💧Water
The water at the lodge is safe to drink; however, we also provide complimentary bottled water in the suites for your convenience.
🗝️Fences
As the lodge does not have fences, it is not advisable to walk around alone after dark. A Hoyo Hoyo guide will escort you to and from dinner.
👶🏻Young Children
Children 12 years and older are permitted at the lodge and occupy their own room at the full rate.
Please note that Hoyo Hoyo allows a maximum of 2 people per suite. No THIRD adult or child can share the suites at Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge.
Booking Procedure
Confirmation of a booking is made in writing via email once it is agreed upon by the client and the Kruger Safari Co. agent. A 100% non-refundable deposit is required within 48 hours of written confirmation of a booking. Where applicable, the balance of payment of a booking is required 40 days before departure. All travellers will be required to complete our online booking form to ensure that Kruger Safari Co, the reserved establishment, and all service providers have the correct information required.
No quotation issued by Kruger Safari Co and accepted by the client (provisional or final), or booking made (provisional or final), shall be binding until such time as a final invoice has been issued and full payment received by Kruger Safari Co.
Payment Policy
All Kruger Safari Co require a 100% non-refundable deposit to the value of 50% of the total tour price. A non-refundable deposit is required to secure the booking of a tour. Full payment of the non-refundable deposit is required on written confirmation of the booking.
Terms and Conditions
Please feel free to view all of our terms and conditions.
Itinerary
📆Arrival Day
- Check into the Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge (check-in time is from 14:00 pm)
- Afternoon guided open vehicle safari drive
- Dinner
☀️Days on Safari
- Morning guided open vehicle safari drive
- Breakfast
- Optional activities*
- Light Lunch
- Afternoon guided open-vehicle safari drive
- Dinner
⏰Departure Day
- Morning guided open vehicle safari drive
- Breakfast
- Depart from the Lodge (check-out time is up to 10:30 am)
*Optional Activities – additional charges apply
What's Included:
- Accommodation in the Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge
- Morning and Afternoon 3-hour game drives in the Kruger National Park
- All meals as per itinerary
- Selected Local beverages
What's Excluded:
- Conservation fee of R100.00 per person per stay (Subject to change)
- Scheduled flights and transfers to the lodge
- All purchases of a personal nature
- Beverages not stated
- Gratuities
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Any activity not specified in the itinerary
- Visa fees if required
Frequently Asked Questions
Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge is situated in the Mluwati Concession within Kruger National Park, offering an exclusive and private safari setting.
The lodge features luxurious, traditional rondavel-style suites with authentic African décor and modern comforts.
Yes, the lodge is ideal for honeymooners seeking privacy, romance, and immersive wilderness experiences.
Guests have the opportunity to see the Big Five, along with giraffes, zebras, hyenas, and numerous other animals.
Yes, guided morning and afternoon game drives in open safari vehicles are included in most stays.
Guests enjoy two guided game drives daily in open vehicles through the private concession, with opportunities to see the Big Five and diverse birdlife; guided bush walks can be arranged subject to management discretion and conditions.
The lodge generally caters to adults, and age restrictions may apply to ensure guest safety and tranquility.
The dry winter months offer excellent wildlife viewing, while summer brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
Yes, the lodge is located in a malaria-risk area, and guests are advised to consult a healthcare professional before travel.
The lodge features a main-area swimming pool, indoor/outdoor dining spaces, a lounge and deck, in-room spa treatments, and limited or no cellphone reception for a true wilderness feel; Wi-Fi may be available in designated areas.
Yes, the lodge provides reliable electricity, hot water, and modern amenities while maintaining a wilderness feel.
Limited Wi-Fi is available in designated areas, allowing guests to disconnect and enjoy the natural surroundings.
The lodge supports conservation initiatives within Kruger National Park, including wildlife protection and sustainable tourism.
Yes, each suite includes a private deck overlooking the bush, offering peaceful wildlife viewing from your room.
Gratuities are not mandatory but are appreciated for exceptional service from guides and lodge staff.
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