Title: Abelana River Lodge - Latest Reviews, Deals & Photos 2026 - Expedia.ca [See all properties](http://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?regionId=2789&destination=Phalaborwa%2C+Limpopo%2C+South+Africa&selected=42265747&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) # Abelana River Lodge ## Photo gallery for Abelana River Lodge ![Front of property - evening/night - Abelana River Lodge (Phalaborwa)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/43000000/42270000/42265800/42265747/9a050b71.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Luxury Suite, River View - Abelana River Lodge (Phalaborwa)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/43000000/42270000/42265800/42265747/5173e13b.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Terrace/patio - Abelana River Lodge (Phalaborwa)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/43000000/42270000/42265800/42265747/c2cb9644.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Lounge - Abelana River Lodge (Phalaborwa)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/43000000/42270000/42265800/42265747/abb0e4fd.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Breakfast, lunch, dinner served; local and international cuisine - Abelana River Lodge (Phalaborwa)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/43000000/42270000/42265800/42265747/047cbd30.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Rooms - Location - Policies Experience a tranquil retreat at Abelana River Lodge. Discover the surrounding wildlife on a game drive or unwind by the firepit with poolside relaxation nearby. Previous guests loved their stay, highlighting the lodge's warm atmosphere and welcoming staff. ## Reviews 10 Exceptional ## Popular amenities - Pool - Breakfast included - Parking included - Free WiFi - Restaurant - Air conditioning ## Room options ### Check availability for these dates Tonight [Apr. 8 - Apr. 9](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-04-08&endDate=2026-04-09&selected=42265747&PinnedHotelID=42265747&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-04-08&endDate=2026-04-09&selected=42265747&PinnedHotelID=42265747&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) Tomorrow [Apr. 9 - Apr. 10](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-04-09&endDate=2026-04-10&selected=42265747&PinnedHotelID=42265747&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-04-09&endDate=2026-04-10&selected=42265747&PinnedHotelID=42265747&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) This weekend [Apr. 10 - Apr. 12](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-04-10&endDate=2026-04-12&selected=42265747&PinnedHotelID=42265747&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-04-10&endDate=2026-04-12&selected=42265747&PinnedHotelID=42265747&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) Next weekend [Apr. 17 - Apr. 19](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-04-17&endDate=2026-04-19&selected=42265747&PinnedHotelID=42265747&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-04-17&endDate=2026-04-19&selected=42265747&PinnedHotelID=42265747&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ### View all photos for Luxury Suite, River View ![Luxury Suite, River View](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/43000000/42270000/42265800/42265747/dde0f051.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=800&quality=medium) ### Luxury Suite, River View - River view - 538 sq ft - 1 bedroom - Sleeps 2 - 1 King Bed ![Mod logo](https://a.travel-assets.com/pricing-claim/sparkle_dark.svg) Sign in to view eligible discounts and perks. More rewards for more adventures! [Sign in](https://www.expedia.ca/login?ckoflag=0&uurl=e3id%3Dredr%26rurl%3D%2FTzaneen-Hotels-Makubu-Lodge.h42265747.Hotel-Information)[Sign up, it's free](https://www.expedia.ca/signup?enable_registration=true&uurl=e3id%3Dredr%26rurl%3D%2FTzaneen-Hotels-Makubu-Lodge.h42265747.Hotel-Information) ## About the area Located in Phalaborwa, Abelana River Lodge is on a river. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Phalaborwa Gate and Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate. Discover the area's wildlife on a nearby safari, or try your luck with game drives and game viewing. [Visit our Phalaborwa travel guide](https://www.expedia.ca/Phalaborwa.dx2789) [View more Lodges in Phalaborwa](https://www.expedia.ca/Phalaborwa-Lodges.d2789-aaLodges.Travel-Guide-Accommodation) ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6&zoom=13&markers=icon:https%3A%2F%2Fa.travel-assets.com%2Ftravel-assets-manager%2Feg-maps%2Fproperty.png%7C-23.93767%2C30.91993&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=3ZrGfa5M32-F8ftfJlYPIKUs8mI=) R71, 35km from Gravelotte, Phalaborwa, Limpopo, 0895 ### Getting around - Phalaborwa (PHW-Hendrik Van Eck) 28 min drive ## About this property ### Abelana River Lodge Luxury lodge by the river At Abelana River Lodge, you can look forward to free English breakfast, game and wildlife viewing, and a firepit. The on-site local and international cuisine restaurant, Makubu, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In addition to a garden and conference space, guests can connect to free WiFi in public areas. Other perks at this lodge include: - An outdoor pool along with sun loungers and pool umbrellas - Free self parking - Luggage storage, multilingual staff, and game drive on site - Coffee/tea in the lobby and concierge services Room features All guestrooms at Abelana River Lodge feature perks such as premium bedding and air conditioning, as well as amenities like separate sitting areas and safes. Other amenities include: - Free tea bags/instant coffee and electric kettles - Bathrooms with showers and free toiletries - Balconies or patios, wardrobes/closets, and separate sitting areas ## Similar properties ![Standard Room](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/9000000/8770000/8762200/8762150/d7d1072e.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Sediba Luxury Safari Lodge Vaalwater - Pool - Hot tub - Breakfast included - Spa 9.6 Exceptional 9 reviews CA $894 CA $1,035 total includes taxes & fees Apr 9 - Apr 10 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-04-09&endDate=2026-04-10&selected=8762150&PinnedHotelID=8762150&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior detail](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/10000000/9790000/9784000/9783965/6a4b6b09.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Fusion Boutique Hotel Polokwane - Parking included - Free WiFi - Restaurant - Air conditioning 9.6 Exceptional 30 reviews CA $318 CA $366 total includes taxes & fees Apr 13 - 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Offsite parking; reservations required - Free self parking on site ### Food and drink - Free English breakfast available daily 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM - A restaurant - Coffee and tea in common areas ### Restaurants on site - Makubu ### Things to do - Game drive - Game viewing - Outdoor pool ### Family friendly - Outdoor pool ### Conveniences - Limited-hour front desk - Luggage storage ### Guest services - Concierge services - Housekeeping (daily) - Multilingual staff - Proposal/romance packages - Turndown service ### Business services - 1,076 square feet of conference space ### Outdoors - Firepit - Garden - On a river - Pool loungers - Pool umbrellas ### Accessibility - No elevator ### More - Communal living room - Designated smoking areas - Mosquito nets ## Room amenities ### Bedroom - Premium bedding ### Bathroom - Free toiletries - Private bathroom - Shampoo - Shower - Soap - Toilet paper - Towels provided ### Food and drink - Electric kettle - Limited room service - Minibar - Tea bags/instant coffee ### More - Air conditioning - Ceiling fan - Desk - Safe - Separate sitting area ## Policies ### Check-in Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 3:00 PM Early check-in subject to availability Late check-in subject to availability Minimum check-in age: 18 ### Check-out Check-out before 10:00 AM ### Special check-in instructions Guests must transfer via Shuttle to the property; guests must contact the property at least 48 hours before travel, using the contact information on the confirmation received after booking The front desk is open daily from 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staffed during limited hours To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 48 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation If you are planning to arrive after 3:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools ### Access methods Front desk (limited hours) ### Pets No pets or service animals allowed ### Children and extra beds Children are welcome ### Property payment types ## Important information ### You need to know Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted Cashless transactions are available Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room ### We should mention This property does not have elevators Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms No pets and no service animals are allowed at this property ### Property is also known as Makubu Lodge Abelana River Lodge Lodge Abelana River Lodge Phalaborwa Abelana River Lodge Lodge Phalaborwa ## Frequently asked questions ### Does Abelana River Lodge have a pool? ### Is Abelana River Lodge pet-friendly? ### How much is parking? ### What time is check-in at Abelana River Lodge? ### What time is check-out at Abelana River Lodge? ### Where is Abelana River Lodge located? ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## Reviews ## Abelana River Lodge Reviews 10 ### Exceptional All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.[More information](https://www.expedia.ca/lp/b/content-guidelines) ### 10 Cleanliness ### 10 Amenities ### 10 Staff & service ### 10 Property conditions & facilities 10 - Excellent 2 8 - Good 0 6 - Okay 0 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 ## Reviews Verified ### 10/10 Excellent #### Taryn Nov 29, 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities What an absolute experience! We were treated so well by all the staff from arrival to departure! We came with our parents and friends as part of our honeymoon and the manager and her team made some extra special touches to our room including a romantic dinner for 2 on the last evening - we loved it and so appreciate the lovely gesture. On the first evening I was feeling unwell from the flight and was attended to personally by the manager and offered some things to make me feel better which was really amazing as we didn’t even think to bring with Rehydrate or things like that. We had incredible sightings of elephant swimming in front of the lodge in the river as well as in the bush, hippos in front of our bungalows in the river, lions, cheetah (freshly released as we were ther), plenty buck and more. Do note that this park has thick Mopane bush so sightings are spread out but you do still see a lot and the ranger and guide make a big effort to ensure that. We even got to take part in a conservation darting exercise - which is a once in a lifetime experience- where a team of vets, conservationists, a helicopter and a group of tourists (us) went with the mission of replacing a male buffalos gps collar and a male lions collar that had a small snare on it. The darting was very professionally executed and so special to witness the conservation efforts of about 30 people and Abelanas team take part in. Thanks Abelana! ##### Taryn Verified ### 10/10 Excellent #### Larissa Oct 25, 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities Einfach nur WOW! Es geht nicht besser. Lodge, Safari, Food und vor allem das Team dort sind der absolute Wahnsinn! Unser Guide Duncan ist ein richtiger Herzensmensch und hat uns die beste Safari-Experience geboten, die es gibt. Das gesamte Team ist mit so viel Passion und Herzblut dabei und das merkt man jeden Tag! Es ist dort wie eine kleine Familie man fühlt sich so geborgen und gut aufgehoben. Nach 3 Tagen hat es sehr weh getan diesen Ort zu verlassen. Wir kommen definitiv eines Tages wieder!!! ##### Larissa Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023 ### Expedia's Latest Trends ### Hotels > - [Botlierskop Bush Villas](https://www.expedia.ca/Great-Brak-River-Hotels-Botlierskop-Bush-Villas.h11941327.Hotel-Information) > - [Bon Accord Farm Cottages](https://www.expedia.ca/Montagu-Hotels-Bon-Accord-Farm-Cottages.h44815240.Hotel-Information) > - [The Palace of the Lost City at Sun City Resort](https://www.expedia.ca/Sun-City-Hotels-The-Palace-Of-The-Lost-City-At-Sun-City-Resort.h392096.Hotel-Information) > - [Danlee Overnight Accomodation](https://www.expedia.ca/Polokwane-Hotels-Danlee-Overnight-Accomodation.h27251997.Hotel-Information) > - [Jock Safari Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/Kruger-National-Park-Hotels-Jock-Safari-Lodge.h1197267.Hotel-Information) > - [Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/Ladysmith-Hotels-Esiweni-Luxury-Safari-Lodge.h33761660.Hotel-Information) > - [Kiara Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/Clarens-Hotels-Kiara-Lodge.h1469372.Hotel-Information) > - [Thorn & Feather (Vermaaklikheid)](https://www.expedia.ca/Vermaaklikheid-Hotels-Thorn-Feather.h61102048.Hotel-Information) > - [Lighthouse Guesthouse & Cafe](https://www.expedia.ca/Groblersdal-Hotels-Lighthouse-Guesthouse-Cafe.h19269801.Hotel-Information) > - [Periwinkle Grove Cottage](https://www.expedia.ca/Clarens-Hotels-Periwinkle-Grove-Cottage.h13128123.Hotel-Information) > - [ATKV Klein-Kariba](https://www.expedia.ca/Belo-Horizonte-Hotels-ATKV-Klein-Kariba.h51259013.Hotel-Information) > - [Ukuthula Bush Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/Hoedspruit-Hotels-Ukuthula-Bush-Lodge.h40271242.Hotel-Information) > - [ANEW Hotel Witbank Emalahleni](https://www.expedia.ca/Emalahleni-Hotels-ANEW-Hotel-Witbank-Emalahleni.h111309.Hotel-Information) > - [The Cabanas Hotel at Sun City Resort](https://www.expedia.ca/Sun-City-Hotels-The-Cabanas-Hotel-At-Sun-City-Resort.h9459.Hotel-Information) > - [Leopard Tree Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/St-Lucia-Hotels-Lalapanzi-Guest-House.h18236837.Hotel-Information) > - [Alpha Hotel & Conference Centre](https://www.expedia.ca/Broederstroom-Hotels-Alpha-Hotel-Conference-Centre.h44455214.Hotel-Information) > - [Shangri-La Country Hotel](https://www.expedia.ca/Modimolle-Hotels-Shangri-La-Country-Hotel.h795703.Hotel-Information) > - [Zimbali Condo](https://www.expedia.ca/Ballito-Hotels-Zimbali-Condo.h14730767.Hotel-Information) > - [Buyskop Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/Bela-Bela-Hotels-Buyskop-Lodge.h13128346.Hotel-Information) > - [The RidgePoint Hotel](https://www.expedia.ca/Emalahleni-Hotels-The-Ridge-Point-Hotel.h92535499.Hotel-Information) > - [Nkambeni Safari Camp](https://www.expedia.ca/Kruger-National-Park-Hotels-Nkambeni-Safari-Camp.h2202798.Hotel-Information) > - [Mafigeni Safari Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/Gravelotte-Hotels-Mafigeni-Safari-Lodge.h3954755.Hotel-Information) > - [Eskulaap Hotel and Conference](https://www.expedia.ca/Polokwane-Hotels-Eskulaap-Hotel-And-Conference.h20796384.Hotel-Information) > - [Marlin Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/St-Lucia-Hotels-Marlin-Lodge.h6020379.Hotel-Information) > - [Rafiki Bush Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/Hoedspruit-Hotels-Rafiki-Bush-Lodge.h91839295.Hotel-Information) > - [Marula Cottage](https://www.expedia.ca/Thabazimbi-Hotels-Marula-Cottage.h14825159.Hotel-Information) > - [Mmakuba Private Game Lodge ](https://www.expedia.ca/Mookgopong-Hotels-Mmakuba-Private-Game-Lodge.h107148272.Hotel-Information) > - [Kogman and Keisie Guest Farm](https://www.expedia.ca/Montagu-Hotels-Kogman-And-Keisie-Guest-Farm.h15538127.Hotel-Information)