Mbazo Safari Lodge

Look at our Special Offers for SA Residents under our special offers section!

Every Meal is a Delicious And Memorable Celebration

Dining, which is as much a part of your safari experience as the safari itself, provides you with the gourmet Big Five: Safari halt. Breakfast. Lunch. Tea in the afternoon. Dinner.

RESTAURANT SHONGOLOLO IS A GOURMET ADVENTURE
A Gourmet Adventure Awaits

From start to completion, dining at Restaurant Shongololo is a gourmet adventure. Guests are served various dishes in theatrical settings, sparking all their senses and making the dining experience thrilling and interactive.

To get to the gallery and the restaurant beyond, you must first visit a modern grange’s veranda. Mbazo House was deliberately constructed to set the tone for Restaurant Shongololo’s elegant dining experience. It was named after the Great Kruger Tusker, which inspired architect Francois van der Westhuizen’s dramatic modern safari style. Dining at Shongololo is a delicious adventure from start to finish with an emphasis on traditional African flavours. Guests are offered a variety of foods in theatrical settings, which stimulate all of their senses and make the eating experience exciting and participatory.

Restaurant Shongololo is only open for lunch to non-resident guests on occasion, depending on availability. Lunch appointments can be made up to three months in advance. Please contact the staff at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to make a reservation or for further information on arriving to Mbazo by road or air.

AN AUTHENTIC DINING EXPERIENCE
Flavours Inspired by the Traditions of Africa

With the addition of Restaurant Shongololo to the Mbazo dining guest experience, the culinary traditions, ingredients, and regional produce of the Northwest Province are the shining stars on a seasonal menu that is rooted not only in the remote and dramatic landscapes of Pilanesberg, but also in the resourceful and creative people of this remote, undiscovered region.

This seasonal menu was inspired not only by the dramatic landscapes of Pilanesberg, the culture of the people and the traditional African flavours of the region. The launch of Shongololo on the reserve has reinforced the culinary relationship between African-born Executive Chef Mpumeleleo and the Mbazo family. As part of its journey toward greater sustainability, Mbazo’s dedication to celebrating local origin, tradition, and culture makes it the ideal location for the renowned chef’s first home-town restaurant.

Celebrate Southern Africa Under the Stars
At Restaurant Shongololo, the dining experience places a strong emphasis on the telling of stories. Chef Mike collaborated with Mbazo’s culinary artist, The Don, and pastry chef Gladness to conduct extensive study on traditional African flavours, historical cuisines, and cultural practices over the course of several years.

The restaurant’s seasonal multi-course menu draws its inspiration from the use of locally sourced ingredients and sustainable purchasing practises. The Stargazing Gallery at Shongololo, which is positioned a few metres above the Tambotie Forest in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve, is the centrepiece of this modest design.

Our job is to ensure that a celebration reflects a client’s style, taste, vision, and yes – even their dreams. This belief has served us well for more than 40 years, and we have remained on the edge of culinary creativity, constantly refining ourselves and our food to make dreams become reality.

STRONG EMPHASIS ON STORYTELLING
Executive Chef Mpumelelo

At Restaurant Shongololo, the dining experience transcends mere meals; it’s a captivating narrative that pays homage to the rich cultural practices of the region. Our Executive Chef Mpumelelo, affectionately known as Chef Mike, is the storyteller behind each dish.

Positioned at the intersection of tradition, culture, and sustainability, Mbazo’s commitment to celebrating local origins aligns seamlessly with Chef Mpumeleleo’s vision for his first hometown restaurant. This collaboration is a testament to the shared values that elevate Shongololo to be more than just a dining experience—it’s a culinary journey grounded in heritage and sustainability.

Rooms: Five Two-Sleeper Chalets with King Sized Beds

Bathroom: Freestanding Bath & Outdoor Shower
 
Airconditioning:  Fully Fitted

In-Room Facilities: Telephone, Hairdryers and Safe in Room

Personal Fridge: In-Room Personal Fully Stocked Bar

WiFi: Free Superfast Uncapped WiFi

Spa: Expert Wellness Therapists provide in-room spa and beauty treatments

Pool: Serviced Guest Pool with Loungers and Towels

Dining: Gourmet Big Five: Safari halt. Breakfast. Lunch. Tea in the afternoon. Dinner. to enjoy at the Viewing Terrace

Mbazo Gallery: Wonderful souvenirs, art, apparel, and everyday necessities

Everyone’s Welcome: Suitable for Guests with Disabilities

General Facilities

• Bar / Lounge
• Secured parking
• Free parking
• Free airport shuttle
• Laundry service
• Restaurant
• Room service
• WIFI
• Wheelchair access

 The weather  

The average maximum temperature ranges from 21°C/70°F in July to 35°C/95°F in January, with the lowest average minimum temperature happening in July.

The region is semi-arid, with an average annual rainfall of 500mm (20in), the most of which falls during the summer months (December – February)

Rain is usually in the form of thundershowers, with a downpour that lasts no more than a few minutes.

Located

Mbazo Safari Lodge is located on Black Rhino, a privately controlled 2100ha part of the Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa.

Best Time to Visit

The animals in Pilanesberg National Park are non-migratory, as a result, rather than changing with the seasons, the safari experience continues to evolve throughout the year.

The optimal time to go birdwatching is from October to April.

Can the Whole Lodge be Booked?

Absolutely! The intimate lodging is inspired by the Red-Billed Buffalo Weaver. This bird has been observed in small family groups or in large flocks, thus you as a discerned guest can book the lodge as a couple, family or large flock, capable to serve up to 10 callers.
 
Is the Lodge Family Friendly?

Definitely! The resort welcomes guests of all ages.

There's also the Eco Garden's children's amusement and education area — the hub of fun and games.

Malaria Free Lodge

A Once-In-A-Lifetime Safari Adventure
There's no better place to celebrate your occasion than with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will provide you and your partner or friends with an unforgettable experience – and a Mbazo Safari is at the top of the bucket list.

Private dinners, private lodging, customized experiences, and leisure... we'll make it all you want it to be - and more, with a few surprises thrown in for good measure. All you have to do is send out invitations and pack your luggage, and we'll take care of the rest.

With only five full-service lodges on this 2100ha privately managed reserve, guests can expect a very personal safari experience. Being out here on your own, exploring the huge wilderness of mountains, plains, and the Pilanesberg crater, is humbling.
You'll get up close and personal with some of Africa's most spectacular animals.

Check-in from 14:00 Check-out befor 10:30

KINDLY NOTE

• Rates exclude a Black Rhino Reserve Conservation Levy per person per night
• Rates are quoted per night in South African Rand (ZAR) and are inclusive of 15% Value Added Tax (VAT)
• MBAZO SAFARI LODGE Terms and Conditions apply
• Exclusive use rate of MBAZO SAFARI Lodges is available on request and subject to availability
• Two-night minimum stay applicable
• Children OF ALL AGES are welcome at MBAZO SAFARI Lodge
• Children older than twelve years of age are seen as adult paying full rate
• If one adult and one child share a Villa: Adult pays per person sharing rate and child pays the CHILD rate*
• Two children under eleven years of age are allowed to share a room with 2 full paying adults
• Family Room: 1- 4 Guests (2 adults + 2 children OR 4 adults in total)

Rates Inclusions

• Accommodation at Mbazo Safari Lodge includes two daily game drives on an open Safari vehicle.
• Children under the age of 12 are not permitted on the morning and afternoon game drives. We do provide a 40 - 45-minute morning Bumble Bee Drive for children.
• Game Drives for Families with Children are offered for an additional fee.
• If parents prefer to participate in the game drives, child minder services are also offered at an additional cost.
• All meals and beverages excluding premium brands
• Wi-Fi connection is provided.

Rates Exclusions

• Purchases from the curio shop
• Premium beverage list
• Spa treatments
• Transport to and from the reserve
• Tourism levy, airport taxes and landing fees, where applicable
• Pilot accommodation
• Walking Safaris
• Black Rhino reserve levy per nighthildren of all ages are welcome.

Child Policy

• All ages welcome
• 12 years and older: ADULT rate applies and permitted on game drives

Deposit Policy

For all bookings made within 60 days of travel
Full payment Is required within 3 days of your booking.
For all bookings made more than 60 days of travel
A 50% deposit Is required within 3 days of your booking and the balance 60 days prior to arrival.
Payment can be made via bank transfer, credit card (Master/Visa) or bitcoin.

Cancellation Terms

All cancellations must be given in writing
Cancellation fees:

• If cancelled up to 61 days prior to arrival, 10% cancellation fee of the full booking value (inclusive of VAT) will be charged
• If cancelled 31 to 60 days prior to arrival, 25% cancellation fee of the full booking value (inclusive of VAT) will be charged
• If cancelled 15 to 30 days prior to arrival, 75% cancellation fee of the full booking value (inclusive of VAT) will be charged
• If cancelled 14 days or less prior to arrival, 100% cancellation fee of the full booking value (inclusive of VAT) will be charged

Our setting provides us an advantage in the healing stakes: we're in a tranquil hideaway surrounded by the boundless green of the Pilanesberg Crater — the color of wellbeing. There are in-suite spa therapies and yoga mats available, and you can keep the doors open in perfect seclusion, enabling the soundtrack of birdsong to stream in.

This sensation of well-being isn't restricted to massages and sun salutations; healthful food, luxurious accommodations, and personalized service round out the experience.

Admire the beauty and richness of our natural heritage as we embark on National Environment Month this June. With almost 10 percent of the world's bird, fish, and plant species, and an equally impressive presence of mammal and reptile species, South Africa stands as a beacon of biodiversity on the global stage.

Our ecosystems play a vital role in sustaining life itself. They are the guardians of our water, purifiers of our air, and custodians of our soil. They recycle precious nutrients, offer resources that shape the very fabric of our civilization and propel our economies forward, and provide sustenance for our minds, bodies, and souls. The undeniable truth is that the environment and its intricate ecosystems are irreplaceable treasures that hold the key to our future.

At Mbazo Lodge, we embrace the responsibility to safeguard our ecosystems. Our commitment to environmental conservation is interwoven into the fabric of our lodge. Every step we take is infused with eco-conscious practices, ensuring that our presence has a minimal impact on this delicate balance.
We invite you to experience the beauty of nature at Mbazo Lodge and discover the profound connection that binds us to our Earth.

Celebrate Father's Day in style and sophistication at Mbazo Lodge, where luxury meets heartfelt appreciation. Go beyond traditional gestures and treat your dad to an extraordinary experience surrounded by the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Pilanesberg National Park.

Our spacious and opulent accommodations provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable retreat. With breath taking views of the African wilderness, plush amenities, and attentive service, your dad will feel like a true king in his own kingdom.
Give your father the gift of a lifetime that reflects his remarkable presence in your life with an escape to Mbazo Lodge, where every detail is tailored to create memories that will last a lifetime. Let us create an unforgettable experience that will leave him feeling cherished and appreciated.

Celebrate Father's Day in style and sophistication at Mbazo Lodge, where luxury meets heartfelt appreciation. Go beyond traditional gestures and treat your dad to an extraordinary experience surrounded by the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Pilanesberg National Park.

Our spacious and opulent accommodations provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable retreat. With breath taking views of the African wilderness, plush amenities, and attentive service, your dad will feel like a true king in his own kingdom.
Give your father the gift of a lifetime that reflects his remarkable presence in your life with an escape to Mbazo Lodge, where every detail is tailored to create memories that will last a lifetime. Let us create an unforgettable experience that will leave him feeling cherished and appreciated.

Room Features

• King Sized Bed
• Reading Nook
• Blackout Curtains
• Shaded Veranda
• Large Wardrobe
• Freestanding Bath
• Walk-in & Outdoor Shower
• Complimentary Toiletries
• Hair Dryer
• Free Wifi
• Fully Stocked Mini Fridge
• Personal Safe
• Airconditioning & Ceiling Fan

Lodge Features

• Free Parking
• Gift Shop
• Children Activities
• Expert Wellness Therapists
• Couples Massage
• All Meals Included
• Large Outdoor Boma
• Pool with a View
• Bar / Lounge Area
• Twice Daily Game Drives
• Sun Loungers & Towels
• Handicap Friendly
• Wine / Champagne
• Outdoor Dining Area