Balule Nature Reserve

Balule NR shares open borders with Kruger Park and is, therefore, part of a huge ecosystem and home to all major safari animals – including the Big Five. The Olifants River attracts an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, waterbuck, and giraffe. Lions are often nearby. Leopards and cheetahs are also present but less easy to see.Balule offers an authentic wildlife experience. All safari animals are present and are able to wander between the property and the neighboring Kruger. A large concentration of giraffes, waterbuck, and wildebeest attracts predators in great numbers. Large herds of buffalo and elephants often roam the area.

The dry months during winter (May through September) are the best time for wildlife viewing in Balule Nature Reserve. The vegetation is thinner, and animals gather around water sources. As winter progresses, animal spotting tends to improve. September is a great month, in particular, as it is warmer than the rest of winter. Prime wildlife viewing time happens to be in the ‘off-season’ for tourism, which makes it all the more attractive.

How to get to Balule Nature Reserve

O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg is the arrival point for most visitors to Balule. Once there, a connecting flight to Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) could be arranged. Most accommodations provide transport from Hoedspruit Airport, which takes up to an hour depending on the exact location of the lodge.

By Air

There are domestic flights to Hoedspruit Airport that allow you easy access to this region but people can also choose a self-drive option.

By Road

Renting a car in Johannesburg and driving to Balule Nature Reserve is another option. The reserve can be found on the R40 near Hoedspruit, and west of Kruger National Park. The 425km/265mi drive takes nearly five hours.