Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge

We had an amazing stay at Becks Safari Lodge in Karongwe Private Game Reserve, arranged through Platinum Holidays. The game drives were well-organized and exciting, giving us the chance to see the Big Five, other incredible wildlife, and abundant bird species. The lodge, with its stunning riverbed and plains views, offered luxurious accommodations. Villa #7 was a delight, and the meals were exceptional, especially the standout breakfasts and delicious South African dishes. The outstanding staff, including our guide and tracker, made the experience truly magical. We highly recommend Becks Safari Lodge for an unforgettable safari adventure!

We booked an Africa trip through Platinum Holidays, and the Karongwe Portfolio is one of the properties that they book. That's how we ended up at Becks. We loved it! LOCATION: The Reserve is very large. We were there 4 days and mights for a total of 7 game drives and every drive saw new territory that we had not seen before. We flew into Hoedspruit and departed from Nelspruit (this was due to traveling on to Zambia) which was a three hour drive from Becks. ANIMALS: We saw the Big 5 multiple times (except buffalo, only once). On one game drive, a group of lions walked right along and in front of the vehicle! We saw two different rhino cow/calf pairs, and at least three different leopards. Additional mammals included hippos, zebras, wildebeest, babboons, vervet monkeys, mongoose, jackals, warthogs, all antelope except eland, wild dogs, hyena, and cheetahs. There is also abundant birdlife, and our guide and tracker, Jack and Raimondo were both very well studied in bird id and willing to stop for birds. LODGE: The Lodge and most of the villas overlook a riverbed and grassy plain. At breakfast and lunch we would bring binoculars and bird watch. The other two or three villas overlook a watering hole, and some young men from Spain saw a lion at the watering hole while we were there. The lodge is very well cared for and the villa we stayed in, #5 was extremely comfortable and had a wonderful view of from the deck. FOOD: Breakfast is stunning. The crescent rolls were phenomenal. They also had fresh fruits and cheeses and a menu to order from. The lunches and the dinners were also outstanding. Because game drives are the main event and the first drive is at 0530, that drives the meal schedule. Breakfast after morning game drive, lunch at 1300, and dinner after evening game drive 1930 or so. Two of the dinners were grilled meats and South African dishes. And for vegans, they always have options that sounded great although we did not try any.

Appsolutly fantastic experience, our perfect hosts Johan & Adeline , our number one guide Thomas & our top notch chef Kezias who takes food to another level, they all cater to your every requirement, should you experience a stay here you can't help but be impressed!

Great value, food and service was superb, rooms were well appointed and very comfortable with great views of the wildlife.

Overall had an incredible experience. All staff members are generous, kind, attentive, and caring! Telemundo and Jack are great and we loved how they led the game tours! We were lucky to have the best tracker and tour guide we could not say more great things about all the staff at becks! Worth the price. The rooms are large and the cleaning staff is so kind. The bartender organized a gin tasting for me that was amazing. So attentive and overall once in a lifetime experience!

The staff at the lodge were absolutely outstanding—helpful, friendly, and always going above and beyond to ensure our comfort and cater to every need. From the night "escorters," Thomas and Ben, to the knowledgeable guides and trackers, Jack, Raymondo, and Ezekial, every interaction was exceptional. Johan and his wife are an incredible duo, seamlessly managing every aspect of the lodge with professionalism and warmth. The chefs, kitchen staff, and waitstaff delivered an exceptional dining experience, serving 5-star quality meals that truly elevated our stay. The reception staff were always friendly and ensured a smooth check-in and check-out process, making our arrival and departure effortless. There are also many other staff members who contribute to the overall luxury and comfort of the lodge, whose names we unfortunately did not take, but their efforts are clearly noticeable. The premises are impeccably maintained, and the cleanliness of the rooms is truly commendable, adding to the overall exceptional experience.