Title: Ekuthuleni Lodge - Latest Reviews, Deals & Photos 2026 - Expedia.ca [See all properties](http://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?regionId=&selected=3178225&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) # Ekuthuleni Lodge Escape to this serene provincial park lodge where you can unwind by the outdoor pool or indulge in reflexology at Rare Earth Massage Therapy. ## Photo gallery for Ekuthuleni Lodge ![Luxury Suite | Bathroom - Ekuthuleni Lodge (Vaalwater)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/4000000/3180000/3178300/3178225/937d868b.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Aerial view - Ekuthuleni Lodge (Vaalwater)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/4000000/3180000/3178300/3178225/b26fea0c.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Terrace/patio - Ekuthuleni Lodge (Vaalwater)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/4000000/3180000/3178300/3178225/d04c255e.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Exterior - Ekuthuleni Lodge (Vaalwater)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/4000000/3180000/3178300/3178225/ef488d23.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Luxury Suite - Ekuthuleni Lodge (Vaalwater)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/4000000/3180000/3178300/3178225/a920a62b.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Rooms - Location - Policies Nestled in a provincial park, Ekuthuleni Lodge offers an upscale retreat with a poolside bar and free continental breakfast. Unwind at the onsite spa or enjoy game and wildlife viewing while soaking up the sun on the outdoor pool deck with loungers and umbrellas. ## Reviews 10 Exceptional ## Popular amenities - Pool - Breakfast included - All-inclusive - Spa - Parking included - Restaurant ## Room options ### Check availability for these dates Tonight [Jan. 8 - Jan. 9](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-08&endDate=2026-01-09&selected=3178225&PinnedHotelID=3178225&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-08&endDate=2026-01-09&selected=3178225&PinnedHotelID=3178225&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) Tomorrow [Jan. 9 - Jan. 10](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-09&endDate=2026-01-10&selected=3178225&PinnedHotelID=3178225&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-09&endDate=2026-01-10&selected=3178225&PinnedHotelID=3178225&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) This weekend [Jan. 9 - Jan. 11](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-09&endDate=2026-01-11&selected=3178225&PinnedHotelID=3178225&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-09&endDate=2026-01-11&selected=3178225&PinnedHotelID=3178225&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) Next weekend [Jan. 16 - Jan. 18](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-16&endDate=2026-01-18&selected=3178225&PinnedHotelID=3178225&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-16&endDate=2026-01-18&selected=3178225&PinnedHotelID=3178225&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) All rooms 1 bed Showing 1 of 1 room ### View all photos for Luxury Suite ![Luxury Suite](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/4000000/3180000/3178300/3178225/ded1844b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=800&quality=medium) ### Luxury Suite ### Highlights Balcony or patio Soundproofed Heating Connecting rooms available Pillow menu Separate bedroom Ceiling fan Premium bedding - 484 sq ft - 1 bedroom - Mountain view - 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%2FVaalwater-Hotels-Ekuthuleni-Lodge.h3178225.Hotel-Information)[Sign up, it's free](https://www.expedia.ca/signup?enable_registration=true&uurl=e3id%3Dredr%26rurl%3D%2FVaalwater-Hotels-Ekuthuleni-Lodge.h3178225.Hotel-Information) ## About the area ![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-24.28050%2C27.81880&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=aG9mGRr1ooj__snAesaq0Ub9hF8=) Welgevonden Main Gate, Road R510, Vaalwater, Limpopo, 530 #### What's nearby - Waterberg Biosphere Reserve \- 1 min walk \- 0.0 km ## About this property ### Ekuthuleni Lodge Upscale all-inclusive lodge in a provincial park Free continental breakfast, game and wildlife viewing, and a poolside bar are just a few of the amenities provided at Ekuthuleni Lodge. Indulge in a Swedish massage and reflexology at Rare Earth Massage Therapy, the onsite spa. A terrace, a coffee shop/cafe, and a garden are available to all guests. You'll also find perks like: - An outdoor pool along with sun loungers and pool umbrellas - Free self parking - A safari, a roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge), and massage treatment rooms - A front-desk safe, a TV in the lobby, and 1 meeting room Room features All guestrooms at Ekuthuleni Lodge feature thoughtful touches such as premium bedding and pillow menus, as well as amenities like sound-insulated walls and bathrobes. Other conveniences in all rooms include: - Heating and ceiling fans - Bathrooms with separate tubs/showers and free toiletries - Balconies or patios, wardrobes/closets, and electric kettles ### All-inclusive details This lodge is all-inclusive. Onsite food and beverages are included in the room price (some restrictions may apply). ## Similar properties ![Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, sun loungers](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/5000000/4240000/4234800/4234798/56d88cf0.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Nedile Lodge Vaalwater - Pool - Breakfast included - Spa - Parking included 10 Exceptional 11 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-22&endDate=2026-01-23&selected=4234798&PinnedHotelID=4234798&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Luxury Suite, Park View, Mountainside](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/14000000/13130000/13128600/13128578/ea0af8ab.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Makweti Safari Lodge Vaalwater - Pool - Breakfast included - Parking included - Free WiFi 9.8 Exceptional 6 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-22&endDate=2026-01-23&selected=13128578&PinnedHotelID=13128578&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![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 $932 CA $1,077 total includes taxes & fees Jan 16 - Jan 17 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-16&endDate=2026-01-17&selected=8762150&PinnedHotelID=8762150&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Outdoor pool, sun loungers](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/2000000/1910000/1900900/1900812/f5e4039f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway Vaalwater - Pool - Breakfast included - All-inclusive - Spa 9.6 Exceptional 21 reviews CA $914 CA $1,101 total includes taxes & fees Jan 12 - Jan 13 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-12&endDate=2026-01-13&selected=1900812&PinnedHotelID=1900812&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![View from property](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/101000000/100860000/100859800/100859789/180080a1.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Ilanga Lodge Vaalwater - Pool - Breakfast included - Parking included - Free WiFi [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-22&endDate=2026-01-23&selected=100859789&PinnedHotelID=100859789&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Front of property](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/105000000/104070000/104060800/104060765/77166002.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Ndlovu Safari Lodge Vaalwater - Pool - Breakfast included - All-inclusive - Spa 10 Exceptional 1 review [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-22&endDate=2026-01-23&selected=104060765&PinnedHotelID=104060765&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Couples treatment rooms, hot stone massages, Swedish massages](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/4000000/3180000/3176600/3176511/41a76054.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Tshwene Lodge Vaalwater - Pool - All-inclusive - Spa - Parking included 10 Exceptional 2 reviews CA $1,138 CA $1,336 total includes taxes & fees Feb 8 - Feb 9 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-02-08&endDate=2026-02-09&selected=3176511&PinnedHotelID=3176511&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Tent | View from room](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/7000000/6940000/6931000/6930997/aa465afa.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Kwafubesi Tented Safari Camp Bela-Bela - Pool - Breakfast included - All-inclusive - Spa 9.8 Exceptional 8 reviews CA $672 CA $803 total includes taxes & fees Jan 11 - Jan 12 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-11&endDate=2026-01-12&selected=6930997&PinnedHotelID=6930997&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/102000000/101030000/101025000/101024903/d6cbc778.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Shekinah Lion and Game Lodge Vaalwater - Pool - Breakfast included - Spa - Parking included [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-22&endDate=2026-01-23&selected=101024903&PinnedHotelID=101024903&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Terrace/patio](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/97000000/96760000/96758700/96758602/dfcb2635.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Letamo at Qwabi Private Game Reserve by Newmark Thabazimbi - All-inclusive - Spa - Restaurant - Gym [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-01-22&endDate=2026-01-23&selected=96758602&PinnedHotelID=96758602&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ## Property amenities ### Parking and transportation - Roundtrip airport shuttle (surcharge) during limited hours on request - Free self parking on site - Wheelchair-accessible parking available - Onsite parking includes off-street options ### Food and drink - Free continental breakfast available daily - A bar/lounge - A coffee shop/cafe - A poolside bar - A restaurant ### Things to do - Full-service spa - Game drive - Game viewing - Library - Outdoor pool - Safari - TV in common areas ### Conveniences - Laundry facilities - Luggage storage - Safe at front desk ### Guest services - Dry cleaning/laundry service - Housekeeping (daily) - Turndown service ### Business services - Meeting room ### Outdoors - Barbecue grill - Garden - In a provincial park - Pool loungers - Pool umbrellas - Terrace ### Full-service spa - Couples treatment rooms - Hot stone massages - Hot tub - Reflexology - Spa open daily - Swedish massages - Treatment room ### Accessibility - If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking. - In-room roll-in shower - No elevator - Wheelchair accessibility - Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations) - Wheelchair-accessible lounge - Wheelchair-accessible parking - Wheelchair-accessible path of travel - Wheelchair-accessible registration desk - Wheelchair-width doorways ### More - Banquet hall - Communal living room - Designated smoking areas ## Room amenities ### Bedroom - Pillow menu - Premium bedding ### Bathroom - Bathrobes - Free toiletries - Hair dryer - Private bathroom - Separate bathtub and shower - Slippers - Towels provided ### Food and drink - Coffee/tea maker - Electric kettle - Free bottled water - Limited room service ### More - Access via exterior corridors - Ceiling fan - Connecting rooms available - Desk - Heating - Soundproofed rooms ## Policies ### Check-in Check-in start time: noon; Check-in end time: 12:30 PM Early check-in subject to availability Early check-in is available for a fee Late check-in subject to availability Late check-in fee: ZAR 1500 for check-in between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM Minimum check-in age: 18 ### Check-out Check-out before 11 AM Late check-out subject to availability A late check-out fee will be charged ### Special check-in instructions Guests must transfer to the property via required shuttle and must arrange the transfers by contacting the property before travel, using the contact information on the booking confirmation This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 72 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation There is no front desk at this property The check-in location differs from the property location; go to: \[Welgevonden Main Gate\] Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; your host will greet you To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation If you are planning to arrive after 12:30 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools This property is located within Welgevonden Private Game Reserve. Private vehicles are not permitted in the reserve. Guests are picked up at the main gate by the property's rangers at 12:30 PM and driven to the lodge (approximately 45-minute drive). Guests must contact the property in advance to arrange transfers. Fees apply for late arrivals. ### Access methods Host will greet you ### Pets No pets or service animals allowed ### Children and extra beds Children 6 and younger are not allowed at this property; All guests older than 6 are welcome Rollaway/extra beds are not available Cribs (infant beds) are not available ### Property payment types ## Important information ### Fees You'll be asked to pay the following charges at the property. Fees may include applicable taxes: - Resort fee: ZAR 165.00 per person, per night The resort fee includes: - Internet access - Pool access We have included all charges provided to us by the property. ### Optional extras - Early check-in is available for a fee (subject to availability) - Late check-in fee: ZAR 1500 for check-in between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM - Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability) The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change. ### You need to know Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit 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, debit cards, and cash Cashless transactions are available Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit 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 Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property ### We should mention This property does not have elevators Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments; reservations can be made by contacting the property prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation Children 6 years old and younger are not permitted at this property Only registered guests are allowed in the guestrooms The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation No pets and no service animals are allowed at this property A car is not required for transportation to and from this property This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly) ### Property is also known as Ekuthuleni Lodge Vaalwater Ekuthuleni Lodge Ekuthuleni Vaalwater Ekuthuleni Lodge Lodge Ekuthuleni Lodge Vaalwater Ekuthuleni Lodge Lodge Vaalwater ## Frequently asked questions ### Does Ekuthuleni Lodge have a pool? ### Is Ekuthuleni Lodge pet-friendly? ### How much is parking? ### What time is check-in at Ekuthuleni Lodge? ### What time is check-out at Ekuthuleni Lodge? ### Does Ekuthuleni Lodge provide a shuttle to the airport? ### Are there all-inclusive benefits at Ekuthuleni Lodge? ### Where is Ekuthuleni Lodge located? ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## Reviews ## Ekuthuleni 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) ### 9.6 Cleanliness ### 8.0 Location ### 10 Staff & service ### 9.6 Property conditions & facilities 10 - Excellent 4 8 - Good 0 6 - Okay 0 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 ## Reviews ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jarle Dec 31, 2019 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Amazing! Everything met our expectations and more. Staff was very helpful with everything. Very exiting game drives. Truly amazing. The lodge is beautiful and the rooms are definitely 5 stars. Food was outstanding most of the time. You have a luxurious feeling when there is a limit of 10 occupants on the lodge. Recommended 100% from our side! ##### Jarle Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Desiree, Groningen Oct 8, 2016 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort #### Prachtige lodge in een wildreservaat Prachtige lodge met mooi ingerichte cabins en gemeenschappelijke ruimtes en een geweldig uitzicht. Het team werkt ontzettend hard om het verblijf voor de gasten een onvergetelijke ervaring te maken. De service is warm en persoonlijk. De game drives zijn indrukwekkend en het eten heerlijk! ##### Desiree ### 10/10 Excellent #### James, Fresno, CA Apr 29, 2016 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort This is, of course, a bush camp, ina private game reserve about 3 hours drive from Joburg. We were droppped off at the main gate by a driver arranged through the African Pride Hotel in Melrose Arch-all went well. We were met by Jonad, from the loghe, and for the next three days he and his staff looked after everything and did a spectacular job. Game drives with Jonas, meals prepared by Steven and served by Clifford were all just great. The remaining staff of housekeepers, etc. were largely unseen but their work was evident and efficient. Frankly, my familt coudn't figure out how so few people could provide such great service. Highly recommended. ##### James ### 10/10 Excellent #### Torsten Oct 10, 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities ##### Torsten Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025 ## Expedia's Latest Trends ### Hotels > [Ottawa Embassy Hotel ](https://www.expedia.ca/Ottawa-Hotels-Ottawa-Embassy-Hotel-Suites.h74806.Hotel-Information) > > [Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa](https://www.expedia.ca/Touws-River-Hotels-Aquila-Private-Game-Reserve-Spa.h6347327.Hotel-Information) > > [Ti Kaye Resort & Spa - Adults Only](https://www.expedia.ca/Anse-La-Raye-Hotels-Ti-Kaye-Resort-Spa-Adults-Only.h908267.Hotel-Information) > > [Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Airdrie-Calgary North by IHG](https://www.expedia.ca/Calgary-Hotels-Holiday-Inn-Express-Hotel-Suites-Airdrie-Calgary-North.h1222157.Hotel-Information) > > [The Dilly](https://www.expedia.ca/London-Hotels-The-Dilly.h21538.Hotel-Information) > > [Acron Villas](https://www.expedia.ca/Paros-Hotels-24-Estate-Villas-Paros.h36784758.Hotel-Information) > > [Hotels in Shediac](https://www.expedia.ca/Shediac-Hotels.d57800.Travel-Guide-Hotels) > > [Hotels in Monti](https://www.expedia.ca/Monti-Rome-Hotels.0-n6185346-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) > > [Luxury Hotels in Downtown Montreal](https://www.expedia.ca/Downtown-Montreal-Montreal-Hotels-Luxury-Hotel.0-n6058201-0-tLuxuryHotel.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) > > [Hotels in Midtown](https://www.expedia.ca/Midtown-New-York-Hotels.0-n6203489-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) > > [Mafigeni Safari Lodge](https://www.expedia.ca/Gravelotte-Hotels-Mafigeni-Safari-Lodge.h3954755.Hotel-Information) > > [Park Inn by Radisson Polokwane](https://www.expedia.ca/Polokwane-Hotels-Park-Inn-By-Radisson-Polokwane.h17771611.Hotel-Information) > > [Thorn & Feather (Vermaaklikheid)](https://www.expedia.ca/Vermaaklikheid-Hotels-Thorn-Feather.h61102048.Hotel-Information) > > [Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Brampton West](https://www.expedia.ca/Toronto-Hotels-Hilton-Garden-Inn-Toronto-Brampton-West.h35675028.Hotel-Information) > > [Oceanfront Hotels in Gaspe Peninsula](https://www.expedia.ca/Gaspe-Peninsula-Hotels-Oceanfront-Hotels.0-0-d6058128-tOceanfrontHotels.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) > > [Cabin Rentals Loon Lake](https://www.expedia.ca/Loon-Lake-Cabins.d6349406-aaCabins.Travel-Guide-Accommodation) ### Flights > [Flights from Hounslow (LHR) to Hamilton (YHM)](https://www.expedia.ca/lp/flights/lhr/yhm/london-to-hamilton) > > [Flights from calgary intl airport](https://www.expedia.ca/lp/airports/yyc/flights-from-calgary-intl-airport) > > [Flights from Grande Prairie (YQU) to Calgary (YYC)](https://www.expedia.ca/lp/flights/yqu/yyc/grande-prairie-to-calgary) > > [Flights from Niagara-on-the-Lake (YCM) to Ottawa (YOW)](https://www.expedia.ca/lp/flights/ycm/yow/st-catharines-to-ottawa) > > [Flights from Hamilton (YHM) to St. John's (YYT)](https://www.expedia.ca/lp/flights/yhm/yyt/hamilton-to-st-johns) > > [Philippine Airlines](https://www.expedia.ca/Philippine-Airlines-Flights.cPR.Travel-Guide-Airlines) ### Cars ### Packages > [Acapulco Vacations](https://www.expedia.ca/Acapulco.d179991.Destination-Travel-Guides) > > [Belize Vacations](https://www.expedia.ca/Belize.d18.Destination-Travel-Guides) ### General