We spent two weeks in the Limpopo Province, a great introduction to South Africa’s northernmost province. A tropical paradise, it’s surrounded by rocky outcrops, lush fruit plantations and magnificent baobab trees.
After an intense training program for a client, we ventured west of Polokwane for 2.5 hours to discover the hidden gem Palala Boutique Game Lodge & Spa. It can also be reached from Johannesburg in an easy 4-hour drive (the last few kilometres are on a gravel road).
A landing strip and helipad cater for guests who prefer to fly in.
About Palala Boutique Game Lodge
We were welcomed by lodge owner Maria and her beloved Jack Russell, Coco (named after Coco Chanel). The friendly lodge staff came bearing ice-cold drinks, much needed in the humid heat of the area.
The public areas are airy and inviting; couches are soft and comfy on the shady stoep (terrace) with views over the dam. The sounds of the weaver birds building their nests in the fever trees is calming. There are two large swimming pools at the main lodge and lots of shade so guests won’t find the heat too intense during the day.
The nearby island is a perfect spot, which can be used as a private event space for a maximum of 20 guests. Think welcome cocktails, team building or an exclusive picnic lunch.
Palala Boutique Game Lodge Accommodation
Palala can accommodate 76 guests in the 5-star luxurious suites. It can accommodate an additional 48 guests in the adjacent 4-star Boloka Rooms, a few steps from the main lodge with its own pool and restaurant.
Perfect for large groups, the Tree of Life ballroom and Oryx conferencing venue can cater for a maximum of 200 guests; it has modern AV equipment for conferences or meetings.
There’s also an exquisite chapel (not as small as the name suggests, more a church) with seating for 100 people. The chapel has high ceilings and Moroccan lamps adorning the walls. A Baobab tree in centre stage framed by the large glass window – perfect for those who wish to tie the knot in the tranquillity of the bush.
Cuisine at Palala Boutique Game Lodge
Exclusive group meals can be held at the rustic boma called Oom Dup se Witgatwortel Lapa. The boma has a capacity of 80 guests, with a crackling fire at night and a relaxed safari atmosphere.
The dining options are endless at the property with a bush breakfast or lunch sites as well as the Matoppie Fine Dining Restaurant in the Main Lodge. I enjoyed a delicious steak and tender salmon at our two-nights spent with exceptional, attentive service by staff (and even a stool for your handbag!).
Palala Boutique Game Lodge Activities
There’s a buzz of activities that include game drives, guided walks and bicycle trails, for the more energetic, and a fitness centre. Other options are angling on the banks of the Limpopo River. Or a river cruise, which meanders along the Limpopo River whilst you sip a G&T and savour delicious snacks.
The area is a birder’s paradise with over 300 different species found there. We were fascinated by the huge Maribou storks, resting silently atop large trees, with their scruffy “hairdos” and long spindly legs. A bird hide allows for close-up viewing of vultures at feeding time.
Sediko Bush Spa
Last but not least, the utterly jaw-dropping Sediko Bush Spa is named after the Northern Sotho word for circle. I have visited many spas across the African continent but nothing compares to this! Facilities include 2 swimming pools, a bar, relaxation area, hair salon, mani/pedi room and restaurant for light meals.
The spoils include 8 individually decorated treatment rooms, Hammam, Vichy and Razul chambers, flotation pools, sensation showers, outdoor natural stone baths, saunas and steam rooms. I could spend a week of pure bliss here!
We arrived with little knowledge of this magnificent property and left absolutely sure that we can confidently send our clients to this unique little slice of heaven, to be completely taken care of by Maria and her capable team.
Contact us should you have any queries or questions about a holiday in Limpopo or South Africa.
Written by Charlotte Smith