TSHIKWALO LODGE
After what can only be called a “delicious” sleep in a comfortable king-size bed, I was woken by furious knocking on the glass sliding door. Thinking I’d overslept and it was the cleaners trying to get in, I fumbled my way to the door pretending to look like I’d been awake for hours. It wasn’t the cleaners, though – it was a family of hornbills pecking the glass with their monstrous schnozzles! All of the chalets have huge, modern kitchens and covered braai areas. They’re positioned in such a way that although you’re close to your neighbour, you don’t actually feel like you are. Giggles from the kids in the pool and braai smoke from the campsite give the lodge a family feel. Facilities: There are nine chalets (sleeping two or four). There’s also a dormitory that sleeps 14 and a campsite with about 25 stands. Game drives are available in the morning and evening: R220 per person including snacks and a drink; book in advance. The pool has some loungers and a nice play area for kids. The restaurant on site is open every night and serves a great steak (from R130). It has a view of a floodlit waterhole so you can see who comes to drink after sunset. At reception, there’s a tuck shop selling ice cream, ice, curios and wood (R25 a bag). Niggles? Tshikwalo is a big place. Besides the accommodation mentioned here, there’s also a function and conference venue on the property. Everything is spic-and-span, but it lacks the “mom and pop” appeal of an owner-operated establishment. The stands in the campsite are quite close to each other, although the vibe was friendly and sociable during my visit. How to get there: Take the Hammanskraal/Boekenhoutskloof off-ramp from the N1. Turn right just after the toll gate and go over the highway. Take the first road to the left: the D48/Rust de Winter road. Enter the DGR through the main gate ( Tau). Once through the gate you’ll see the Klipdrift Primary School. Just after the school, turn right onto the gravel road. The turn-off to Tshikwalo will be on your left, about 500 m further. Rates: Chalets from R700 per unit. Dorm accommodation R350 per person. Camping R140 per adult; R90 per child (max six people per stand). Pensioners get a 25 % mid-week discount on all accommodation. Contact: 060 988 0990; tshikwalo.co.za