Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
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Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp

York 7, Olifants West Nature Reserve Greater Kruger Hoedspruit Limpopo Province, Kruger National Park 1380 South Africa
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Room & Suite (44)
Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
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Avg. AU$1,317 /night, 2/18 - 2/19
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AU$1,308
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About

#2 of 13 lodges in Balule Nature Reserve
4.9 of 5 bubbles
Location
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Value
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Service
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Nestled between the northern Drakensberg Mountains and vast swathes of African wilderness - the Olifants West Nature Reserve, Greater Kruger, an intimate and unimaginable Safari experience awaits you…Imagine...A herd of elephants quench their thirst at a nearby watering hole as you lounge next to an infinity pool overlooking the African wilderness. As you stretch out you hear a distant lion send out a guttural roar to let all know it is there. An excitement grows as you realize the time to go out approaches. The nearby idling of an approaching Land Cruiser signals the beginning of another adventure that defies imagination. At this intimate, family-owned lodge Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp, one can experience all the comfort and simplicity of contemporary living whilst at the same time feel completely immersed in the African wilderness. Nestled next to the welcoming reception area, a generous infinity pool offers a picturesque view of a nearby watering hole, a haven for many an elephant on a scorching day. An iconic Marula and surrounding flora are always host to a wide variety of delightful birding specimens, and one cannot but become engrossed in the cacophony of music the African bush has to offer. In the distance one can easily discern the vistas of the northern Drakensburg Mountains, offering remarkable opportunities for prospective photographers particularly at sunset. Opening up to the deck, a rustic, yet seemingly familiar bar welcomes you and give much comfort to the imagination. A traditional wood finish amidst an ancient Leadwood offer much for the thirsty, and many a hearty conversation if so desired. Sprawling under a professionally-crafted African thatch roof, a contemporary finish is complemented by hand-crafted African decor. An ambience of home is achieved by numerous comfortable seating areas for prospective book-lovers, where views of the surrounding serenity and artisanship leave little to one’s imagination. A central coffee station and freshly baked traditional rusks provide the perfect companion to an exciting early start if one so desires, with the surrounding wildlife and landscape delivering serenity as day breaks. A traditional “boma”, or dining area, adjoins the reception area and welcomes one to a hearty central fire, where one can relax with a drink under the African sky very amiably after an afternoon safari. In the evening the light allows for breathtaking views of the stars, and acoustics of surrounding African wilderness create a perfect ambience which leaves much to the imagination as to what could be but a short safari away. This all seamlessly blends in with the main lodge through a rustic yet elegant wooden finish, and one immediately feels familiar and at home. The luxury tented camp boasts five fully furnished spacious, elevated and air-conditioned canvas tents accommodating 2 people each that provide all the goodness and simplicity of contemporary living, without detracting from themajestic splendor of the surrounding African wilderness. Comfortable patio seating inside and outside and private coffee/tea/desk station allow for uninterrupted bliss and memorable intimate conversation. Each tent boasts a spacious private deck and an unrestricted private view of the northern Drakensberg mountains, allowing you to laze and watch the wildlife follow the sunset. Arustic, yet contemporary outdoor shower and spacious bath complement a seamless integration into nature. On entrance to the safari tent you are welcomed by two 3/4 extra length beds (can be converted to a super king on request) and ensuite bathroom facilities (including inside shower and toilet). This comfortable luxury safari accommodation stretches along on raised wooden walkways providing easy accessibility. The tents are surrounded by an assortment of indigenous flora that add to the beauty and ecological significance of the surrounding landscape. The tents are fully opento the acoustics of the surrounding wildlife, and often at night a cacophony of wildlife can be heard in its natural splendor. At Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp in Olifants West, Balule Nature Reserve, Greater Kruger… Imagination is a story that unravels itself.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Bar / lounge
Patio
Airport transportation
Gift shop
Secured parking
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Poolside bar
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Shared lounge / TV area
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Room features
Air conditioning
Desk
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Safe
Extra long beds
Walk-in shower
Bath / shower
Seating area
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Private bathrooms
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Mountain view
Pool view
Non-smoking rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Luxury
Romantic
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans
Hotel links

Location

York 7, Olifants West Nature Reserve Greater Kruger Hoedspruit Limpopo Province, Kruger National Park 1380 South Africa
5.0
5.0 of 5 bubbles178 reviews
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Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp has garnered high praise for its fusion of modern luxury and authentic wilderness experiences. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Drakensberg mountains, guests rave about the stunning views and wildlife encounters. The camp's accommodation, with its spotless, spacious tents and unique outdoor bathing, is frequently lauded for its comfort and high quality. The attentive service, from experienced guides to accommodating staff, creates a warm, family-like atmosphere that, along with the camp's thoughtful decor, contributes to an atmosphere of luxurious homeliness. Additionally, the gourmet dining experience at the camp has been a highlight for many travelers.
Location
Picturesque
Atmosphere
Luxurious
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Exceptional
Cleanliness
Spotless
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Luxurious

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Detailed Reviews
These reviews are machine translated from their original language. Show machine translations?
Natalie H wrote a review Sept 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mid-August we stayed in this fantastic lodge together with our sons aged 18 and 23.
Our stay at the safari lodge was an unforgettable experience, far exceeding our wildest expectations. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the friendly staff, who made us feel immediately welcome. Stepping into the lodge was a real revelation – the location in the middle of the wilderness, combined with an unprecedented luxury and refined look, blew us away immediately.

The accommodation itself was fully equipped and lacked nothing. Each space was decorated with care and attention to detail, contributing to a sense of exclusivity and comfort. We felt like the king too rich in our luxurious room, which overlooked the breathtaking, unspoilt nature.

Throughout our stay we were continuously pampered. Every moment of the day the staff was ready to spoil us with delicious dishes and excellent service. The food was a culinary highlight; every meal was catered for and delicious!

The highlights of our safari were the game drives led by our experienced ranger Hendrik and tracker Victor. For the cold mornings they provided us with a blanket and a hot water bottle! Their knowledge, passion and enthusiasm for nature and animals were contagious and made every outing exciting. We were lucky enough to spot a variety of wildlife as well as the BIG 5, which made every ride an adventure.

This stay is an absolute must for anyone who dreams of a luxury safari holiday that is both relaxing and adventurous. The combination of spectacular nature, exquisite accommodation and first-class service makes this safari lodge a destination we will never forget.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Automatically translated
Date of stay: August 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ka Kin wrote a review Nov 2024
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Imagine a modern contemporary designer's lodge, set amidst the bush with the silhouette of mountains in the backdrop. Hosted by the nicest people possible, with the opportunity to see lions, leopards, white & black rhinos, wild dogs, hyenas and many more up close! This is Imagine Africa!

We spent 4 nights at Imagine Africa in Nov 2024 and were absolutely in awe of the place. The lodge is really new just being 2-3 yrs old, and very tastefully done up. The owners swing by now and then, and had put in much thought into its design. We were received by Lani (front of house) upon arrival and shown to our tents. The luxury tent was beautiful and was one of the best accomodation we had stayed in all over the world. Tip: take an outdoor shower or bath when you're there, it is amazing!

We had 2 game drives a day with our guide Hendrick and tracker Victor, who are some of the best when it comes to finding animals. We were constantly amazed at their skills in finding animals (they found us the super rare black rhino, wild dogs and lion cubs), and were amused by their stories from the time in the bush.

Back at the lodge, Lani, Gary, Chef Orlanda and team took impeccable care of us. The food was always plentiful and delicious, drinks were constantly served, and the staff treated you just like family. We absolutely loved our time there and would be back in a heartbeat!
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Date of stay: November 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Imagine Africa, Owner at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
Responded 16 Nov 2024
Thank you for your extraordinary review! Reading your words made us smile from ear to ear — we can feel the joy you experienced, and it’s honestly the best compliment we could receive. You’ve captured the essence of what we’re all about at Imagine Africa, and we couldn’t be more grateful. From the moment you arrived, it was our pleasure to introduce you to the lodge and all it has to offer. We’re thrilled that you enjoyed the design and luxury of your tent — especially that outdoor shower experience (we agree, it’s pretty special under the African sky!). And Hendrick and Victor… we can’t help but be so proud knowing they managed to share their passion for the wild and their gift for tracking with you. There’s a kind of magic when you get to witness a black rhino or wild dogs up close, and we’re ecstatic you were there to experience it with them! We as the owners Richard and Amanda as well as Lani, Gary, Chef Orlando, and the whole team have all been so touched by your kind words. For us, it’s not just about providing excellent service, but about creating a space where you feel like part of the family.We’ll be waiting with open arms for your next adventure — more delicious food, more wildlife sightings, and more unforgettable moments await! Until then, thank you once again for being part of the Imagine Africa family! Warmly, The Imagine Africa Family
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Terra C wrote a review Oct 2024
Seattle, Washington
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Where to begin?

The setting is stunning with so many thoughtful details. The shared spaces allow you to enjoy the outdoors through the day (or indoors if, like us, you get a little wind and rain). The tents themselves are beautifully decorated and spacious, with the outdoor shower and bathtub being a highlight. You have all of the amenities of a lovely suite and we were lucky to also have a great view of the watering hole and its’ frequent elephant visits.

The food is varied, plentiful and I loved how the chef highlighted the local produce at every meal. We had a vegetarian in our group and his dishes were as well thought out and delicious as the other fare. You can tell the kitchen staff takes a lot of pride in creating a memorable dining experience at every opportunity.

The staff is what truly makes the difference here though. Victor and Hendrick made a point of ensuring we saw every animal during our 4 day stay. They are incredibly talented at what they do and we were in awe. They are so knowledgeable about the animals, we learned so much. It is clear to me now how critical having the best ranger and tracker are to your ability to get the most out of your safari. They are that and more! Cannot say enough either about Lani, she was a welcoming and warm host who set the tone for our stay (and kept our glasses filled : )).

We had the pleasure of meeting the owners Richard and Mandy during our visit (who are delightful) and it’s clear they have poured a lot of love into this place. Bravo to them on building an incredible place where people can make amazing memories.

We are already discussing how we can return and bring our friends and family along.
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Date of stay: October 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Imagine Africa, Owner at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
Responded 18 Oct 2024
Wow, we’re blushing... 6 stars ******!! It sounds like you had the ultimate adventure here with us! From the beautiful tents, exciting Safaris to the delicious local dishes, We’re so thrilled you enjoyed it all. Our team is like one big family thank you, and we're so glad their passion made a difference in your experience. We can’t wait to roll out the welcome mat again for your next visit—bring all your family and friends! Cheers to more wild memories ahead!
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KV1234 wrote a review Sept 2022
London, United Kingdom
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed 5 nights at this new lodge in Balule (opened earlier this year) which caters for up to 10 guests in 6 tents. The tents are large (50 sqm) and very well laid out. We especially liked the large bathroom/shower area with solid walls and floors which aided in keeping the temperature more constant in the rear of the tent even when the outside temperatures fluctuated. The design is rustic luxury and we liked the quirky design features such as the pipework taps/shower. The water pressure and supply of hot water in the shower was excellent.

Our room looked directly onto the lodge watering hole and although it wasn’t visited by lots of animals during our stay we did see an elephant on the day we arrived and watched two elephants arrive at dinnertime on the night before we left when the front of house ladies kindly arranged for us to have dinner on our terrace. It was a special end to the stay to watch these majestic animals.

There were two chairs on the terrace where you could sit and enjoy the views. The addition of loungers on the deck would be a bonus as we had these at another lodge and found them preferable to chairs as they allow you to stretch out, relax and snooze after game drives.

The game drives were the highlight for us. We experienced and saw something different each time we went out. Thanks to Gary, Hendrick and Victor for the excellent spotting and informative and focussed drives. We ticked off the big 5; leopard (which was a challenging character to photograph despite the serious off-roading), lion, hippo, buffalo, elephant as well as spotted hyena, giraffe, eland, springbok, kudu, blesbok, impala and others (that we have forgotten the names of). Additionally, we saw the rare African wild cat. Night spotting included flying jumping bush babies, a very well camouflaged chameleon and two elusive honey badgers. The highlights had to be the male lions chasing the younger challenger and following the leopard trying to take a photo of something other than its tail or a bush in front of it.

The food at the lodge is fine, and we thought breakfast was the best meal of the day, particularly the freshly baked muffins and eggs which were really tasty. The fruit salad was delicious. Lunches were ok although slightly on the heavier side for us. Dinners were variable. We really liked the Brai night with grilled meats in the Boma. We understood that the lodge is small and it may not be practical or cost effective to offer several pre-set meal options at dinner time, but it would have preferable to have an alternative option to stews/curries. Ideally a second lighter optional offering at dinner and lunch could be offered such as an omelette, salad, quiche or something simple for the kitchen to prepare.
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Date of stay: September 2022
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Room Tip: The first tent on the right from the main building has the best view of the watering hole
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Imagine Africa, Owner at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
Responded 23 Sept 2022
Thank you so much for a very detailed review indeed! Having been open since May 2022 it's been fabulous to receive comments and suggestions such as yours above and we will definitely take note! A pleasure it was to have you visit and we do hope that you will come back again for more relaxing sunny days by the pool here in the bushveld, and hopefully more photo opportunities of that Leopard! Safari greetings from Gary, Hendrik, Victor and the rest of the Team here at Imagine Africa!
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Kimberly F wrote a review Dec 2024
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Above and beyond incredible stay and experience at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp. I went with a group of 8 adults and a 4 month old baby over the xmas holiday and we were blown away by the property, the beauty and details of the rooms and the communal spaces. The friendly and gracious staff paid special attention to our visit being over xmas and had the communal spaces thoughtfully decorated and organized a special Xmas dinner AND lunch with Santa hats, gifts, and crackers! We felt the celebratory spirit and were completely blown away by the thoughtfulness and attention to detail. As other reviews have said, the daily menus, breakfasts, high teas, beverage offering--all delicious and excellent. The daily game drives were exciting and the team always anticipated the weather and provided blankets for cold mornings and water bottles. Our drive guide and spotter and were fun, knowledgable, and passionate about animals and the environment and answered our endless questions. I will recommend this place to everyone I know and cannot wait to be back!
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Date of stay: December 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: They've added a small gym equipped with a treadmill, other gym equipment, and yoga mats which was...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Imagine Africa, Owner at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
Responded 30 Dec 2024
Thank you so so much for your heartfelt review Katie and family! We’re absolutely and really beyond delighted to hear that you, your group, and even the little one had such a memorable Christmas with us here at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp. It's soooo warming to know that you felt the love, care, and attention to detail in every aspect of your stay—from the festive touches to the cozy game drives. Our goal is always to create more than just a holiday, but an experience that stays with you long after you leave. We’re so grateful for your kind words about our team, their knowledge, and passion, especially during such a special time of year. We’d love to welcome you back next year (or whenever your next adventure calls!), and we’ll be here, eagerly planning even more ways to make your return unforgettable. Thank you again for your support and for recommending us to your loved ones. Until next time!
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Grace G wrote a review Sept 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We stayed 4 nights at Imagine Africa in August of this year and as our first safari experience, we couldn't have been happier. The accommodation itself is practically brand new and the tents are beautifully laid out with an outdoor bath tub and shower, a comfy large bed and fresh drinking water always available. We had an amazing view of the watering hole from our deck where we were lucky enough to see zebra, giraffe and many antelope. The food was also fantastic. While all staff we encountered were an absolute pleasure we must give a special shout out to Hendrick who went out of his way to ensure we had amazing game drives each day. I certainly did not expect to see a pride of lions devouring a giraffe on our first drive! I was also lucky enough to see a honey badger which was a personal highlight. Thank you to the whole team for a wonderful experience.
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Date of stay: August 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Imagine Africa, Owner at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
Responded 5 Sept 2024
Hi Grace Wow, your review really has made our day! We're so happy to hear that your first safari at Imagine Africa was everything you hoped for and more. It’s great to know you enjoyed the tent's comfort and the amazing views. Hendrick and the team are over the moon that they could make your game drives so memorable, especially with those incredible wildlife sightings. Thank you for sharing your experience with us. It was a pleasure having you, and we’d love to see you back for another adventure whenever you’re ready! Warmly, The Imagine Africa Team
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Sidney M wrote a review Feb 2024
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Imagine Africa has become a place I will forever hold in my heart. I could not find a single flaw in this place. Where to even begin?

Food: The head chef is not only the sweetest man imaginable, but he knows how to dish up stunning plates of delicious African cuisine. We had all kinds of bush meat, decadent homemade desserts, tea time snacks, the list goes on! I appreciated the amount of fruits and vegetables offered throughout the day and I know that the lodge is extremely accommodating to any allergies or dietary restrictions. They will work with you! Also take advantage of the poolside bar, it is the perfect way to relax before your afternoon game drive.

Tents: The tents are much larger than the photos make them out to be! The bed was very comfortable and we loved the outdoor shower and tub. The housekeepers (who were always so kind) tidied the room during each of our game drives. Laundry service was offered as well! All the decor was so beautiful and well taken care of.

Staff: The staff was the best part of our entire time. The front of house staff was beyond accommodating, but in a way where they felt like family and not just staff. Always smiling, always asking how your day was going. The tracker we had all week for our drives was sweet and incredibly good at his job, I’m convinced he is part leopard the way he can track one down in the bush. Our guide we had all week was such a joy to be around, extremely knowledgeable and “married to the bush” as he says. He can ID any bird with just a glance and will share all kinds of entertaining stories during the group lunches and dinners. Even the owner came by a few times during our stay and was incredibly welcoming.

The Safari vacation we took at Imagine Africa was so incredible to us on our honeymoon, I don’t think we will ever take a better trip. You know a special time was had when tears were shed and hugs were had when it was time to leave ❤️
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Date of stay: February 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: There are transportation options from Hoedspruit and Johannesburg airports if you can’t get to...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Imagine Africa, Owner at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
Responded 17 Feb 2024
Dear Sidney, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience at Imagine Africa. Your amazing review truly means so much and reinforces our commitment to providing exceptional service and unforgettable experiences to our guests. We are thrilled to hear that you thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of your stay with us, from the delectable African cuisine prepared by our talented head chef to the spacious and comfortable accommodations in our tents. We are ecstatic to hear that our efforts to provide a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and other dietary options did not go unnoticed, and that you found our lodge to be accommodating to your needs. Your kind words about our dedicated staff members are greatly appreciated. We take immense pride in our team's professionalism and hospitality, and it's wonderful to hear that they made you feel like part of our Imagine Africa family. We will be sure to pass along your compliments to our front-of-house staff, tracker, guide, and the rest of our team. As the owner, it was truly a pleasure to have had the opportunity to welcome you during your stay. We believe that personal connections with our guests are invaluable, and we are delighted that you felt welcomed and valued throughout your time with us. Thank you for making Imagine Africa a part of such a special occasion as your honeymoon. We look forward to the possibility of welcoming you back in the future for more incredible adventures and cherished moments. Warm regards, Richard and the Team.
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Annekie Z wrote a review Jan 2024
Johannesburg, South Africa
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We visited the Balule game reserve and to experience a new lodge in the reserve. Imagine Africa is a pleasant and well setout lodge that makes one think this is a 5 star lodge and not 4 star. Out tent is luxurious and 91 meter square in size, you have lots of space with an inside and outside shower plus bath. Wifi is available in the tent and all electrical and charging points etc. The staff are friendly and professional and the game drive with Hendrik a real Africa bush experience. All meals were excellent and well prepared and we were spoilt with a proper lekker braai. Our last morning we were introduced to Richard the owner who spoke to all his guests and this was really nice. One gets the impression of luxury with a home feeling touch. Thank you to all the staff who spoilt us. We will visit you again and again.
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Date of stay: January 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Imagine Africa, Owner at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
Responded 31 Jan 2024
Dear Annekie and Henry Thank you for sharing your delightful experience at Imagine Africa - Olifants West Nature Reserve. We are thrilled to read about your positive impressions and appreciate your kind words. It's fabulous knowing that you found our lodge to be a pleasant and well-designed space, exceeding your expectations for a 4-star establishment. We take pride in offering spacious and luxurious accommodations, and we are pleased to hear that your Safari tent, provided you with ample comfort. Hendrik's game drive expertise and the genuine Africa bush experience he provided clearly left a lasting impact, and we are delighted that you enjoyed all aspects of your safari adventure. It's wonderful to hear that the friendliness and professionalism of our staff, combined with excellent meal preparations, contributed to your overall satisfaction. We do our very best to aim in providing that home feeling touch and running our lodge proudly as a family operation! Once again, thank you for choosing Imagine Africa. We can't wait to host your guests to come... again and again. Safari greetings and regards, Richard and the rest of the Team
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ckirby25 wrote a review Oct 2023
London, United Kingdom
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We chose to book 4 nights here after reading the fantastic reviews, and we weren’t disappointed. So much thought has been put into this accommodation, there is literally nothing we could think of that could have been better.

The food was delicious, beautifully presented and plentiful. I have some dietary requirements that meant not all the meals were suitable for me, and although I expressed that I would be happy to have the standard meal without the items I don’t eat, they went out of their way to create me beautiful individual meals so that I didn’t miss out.

The game drives were incredible, Henrik and Victor ensured that we not only saw a great variety of wildlife but also that we saw lots of different activity. Watching lion cubs play, lionesses hunting, elephants and hippos in the water, etc - we never expected to get so close to observe them although they were always respectful and mindful not to cause the animals any stress. We also saw hyena, wild dogs, black and white rhino, zebra, giraffe, impala, springboks, kudu, leopards, crocodiles, and many different birds.

The staff at the camp were incredibly welcoming and friendly. We spent lots of chatting with them and everyone went out of their way to ensure we had everything we needed.

We celebrated our wedding anniversary during our stay, and Amanda organised for us to have a most romantic private dinner. It was so special, it felt like our very own love island date and this day will be as memorable as our wedding day!

I can also recommend the full body massage I had, which was excellent and great value for money.

We have been fortunate in having many great holidays in amazing locations, including safaris in 5 different countries. We can honestly say that this surpassed them all - this is truly the most luxurious accommodation we have experienced, in a wonderful location with the best staff and service.

We rarely return to the same destination as there is a whole world to explore, however I really hope we will revisit Imagine Africa one day. And our memories from this trip will stay with us for life.
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Imagine Africa, Owner at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
Responded 8 Oct 2023
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience at Imagine Africa. We are absolutely thrilled to read your review and to know that your stay exceeded all expectations. It was our pleasure to have you as our guests, and we are delighted to hear that our accommodations, food, and service left such a positive impression. We are particularly happy to hear that we could accommodate your dietary requirements to your satisfaction, and it's fantastic that you had such a memorable wildlife experience on our game drives. Henrik and Victor will be pleased to hear your kind words about their guidance during your wildlife encounters. We're touched to know that the efforts in organizing your romantic private dinner added a special touch to your wedding anniversary celebration. Your recommendation of our full-body massage is greatly appreciated. Your compliments about our location, staff, and service truly warm our hearts, especially coming from well-traveled guests like yourselves. It would be our honour to welcome you back to Imagine Africa in the future, and we hope to create more unforgettable memories with you. Thank you once again for choosing Imagine Africa, and we wish you many more extraordinary adventures in your future travels. Warm regards from the Whole Imagine Africa Team
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Penelope Goodwyn wrote a review July 2022
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Wow! I don’t even know where to start with this glowing review. We were a party of 11 for an 80th birthday celebration, and took over all of the 6 luxury tents for five nights. From the time of arranging our booking, Mandy bent over backwards to accommodate our needs, including being an amazing social director, organizing spa treatments, visits to the Elephant Sanctuary, hiring a professional photographer for our family, and arranging a must-do boat cruise on the Blyde River, complete with fabulous snacks and a large cooler of adult beverages. On arrival, we were blown away by the luxury accommodations. Beautiful lodge with very large indoor and outdoor space, plus a pool and a fully stocked bar. The tents (more like a marquee really) are beautifully appointed and huge. Large bed and an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower, plus a bonus outdoor shower and an outdoor tub! My father was in a wheelchair and all the rooms and the main lodge are very accessible. The main lodge was were we spent most of our time as a group, and JD and her staff treated us like royalty. Big thanks to her, and to Sebastian, Evans, Hendrick and the chefs for taking such great care of us. Three delicious meals a day, plus teas, coffees etc before the game drives. Talking about game drives, our ranger Gary was extremely knowledgeable and was assisted by a highly skilled tracker Victor. We were fortunate to see 4 of the Big 5 (the elusive leopard was in Victor’s sights but we couldn’t quite see him). We saw loads of other animals in addition to the Big 5 including wild dogs, hyenas, bush babies, hippos, crocs, and many more. The lodge has a water hole right in front that can be viewed from main area and from each tent. We had many magical visits from the gentle giant elephants, and also saw a hyena there, as well as abundant bird life. Every part of this trip was perfect, thanks to Mandy, Richard, JD, Gary and their team. Would 100% recommend. Can’t wait to go back.
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Date of stay: July 2022Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Imagine Africa, Owner at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
Responded 23 July 2022
Dearest Penny... How lucky we were that James found us on Google and you all chose us for such a special occasion. We feel truly honoured to have been able to host you all. It was a pleasure to organise all your needs and we're so happy that everything was to your satisfaction. We're ecstatic to hear you are going to come back and we hope it won't be too long before this happens. Thank you, thank you, thank you again and again for a stunning review... so important to us. Sending warmest regards from the WHOLE Team here at Imagine Africa!
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Kimberly F wrote a tip Dec 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"They've added a small gym equipped with a treadmill, other gym equipment, and yoga mats which was greatly appreciated by many in our group!"
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Jim M wrote a tip Dec 2024
Sudbury, Canada
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Just relax and enjoy."
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Roam16168003742 wrote a tip Sept 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Perfect !"
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Lenka Pearce wrote a tip May 2024
Buntingford, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Bring warm clothes:) the game drives can be slightly cooler! "
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Freedom53549269654 wrote a tip May 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"We loved the spacious tents ... lots of room. Outdoor shower was awesome. Loved the bush walks to see the animals - unbelievable."
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Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Balule Nature Reserve area.
PRICE RANGE
AU$1,163 - AU$1,308 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaKruger National ParkBalule Nature Reserve
NUMBER OF ROOMS
5
Prices are provided by our partners for one room, with variable occupancy rules as provided by the property, and reflect total costs of the stay, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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IMAGINE AFRICA LUXURY TENTED CAMP - 2025 Prices & Reviews (South Africa/Kruger National Park) - Photos of Lodge - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp
What are some of the property amenities at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, a pool, and a lounge.
Which room amenities are available at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a desk, and extra long beds.
What food & drink options are available at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp?
Guests can enjoy a lounge, a poolside bar, and complimentary tea during their stay.
Is parking available at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp have airport transportation?
Yes, Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Imagine Africa Luxury Tented Camp?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Afrikaans.
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