Karongwe Portfolio - Becks Safari Lodge

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.

Becks Safari Lodge is amazing. Johan and his wife, Adelina, are such gracious hosts. They have created the ideal resort to enjoy seeing the Big Five in the ultimate comfort. The rooms and their views are spectacular. The food and spa are both five stars. All of the staff are extremely friendly and welcoming. Our game drive guide, Matthew, and our tracker, Forget, were truly special. Not only for their incredible abilities, but also for their kindness. We have been to many places all over the world and Becks is one of a very few that we really can’t wait to visit again. When you get misty eyed when saying goodbye you know it’s a very special place.

Myself and my family recently stayed at Becks safari lodge for 1 night. From the moment we arrived at the lodge we were greated by the friendly staff, who kindly took our bags to our rooms (as a family of 4 we had 2 rooms). The lodge itself was absolutely stunning and had a great atmosphere, but the rooms were something else. The rooms over looked a river and were very well furnished. Johan and his wife ran the lodge amazingly well. All the staff were friendly and the food was tasty and excellently presented. The staff and all the people in the lodge made us feel like VIP's and could not have done more for us. On our 2 game drives, with Matthews and Forget, we saw 3 of the big 5, but by far the best sightings were the cheetah and leopard. I'm sure if we stayed longer we would have seen more. We would love to stay there again, I highly recommend it.

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!

What an exceptional experience, and 5 star all around. The staff are wonderful, you see up close animals on the safaris, the food is delicious, the pool is relaxing and the accommodations are gorgeous. Without breaking the bank (compared to other places) I have recommended this location over and over. Also, in November there are many animal babies!

Just a magical place. The people are just incredible and the property is fabulous. The food is always spot on and delicious. Would definitely recommend to anyone.