Mopane Bush Lodge
Mopane Bush Lodge, a luxury retreat on the Mapesu Private Game Reserve in Limpopo, South Africa, offers travelers an ideal base to explore the region’s natural and cultural heritage. The lodge is situated just minutes from Mapungubwe National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its archaeological significance, sandstone cliffs, and baobabs. Mopane Bush Lodge is especially popular for birdwatching, drawing enthusiasts with its prime access to the Soutpansberg-Limpopo Birding Route, which supports over 540 species across diverse habitats.
Accommodations at the lodge include various chalet options, each designed with privacy, comfort, and an immersion in the bushveld. Guests can choose from deluxe, family, and self-catering chalets, each featuring amenities such as air conditioning, a mini-bar, tea and coffee stations, and private outdoor showers. Some chalets offer splash pools and garden views for added luxury. The main lodge area includes a spacious pool with a wooden deck, a cozy lounge with a library, and dining spaces that showcase seasonal meals in settings that range from the boma under star-filled skies to poolside lapa dining.
The birding here is exceptional, with multiple hides and guided excursions through the reserve and surrounding areas. Birders can spot iconic species such as the Pel's Fishing Owl along the Limpopo River, as well as rare and region-specific species like Meve’s Starling, Tropical Boubou, and Broad-billed Roller, which are more common in neighboring countries but rare within South Africa. Mapungubwe National Park, classified as an Important Birding Area (IBA), is home to globally threatened species including the White-backed Vulture and Kori Bustard, and supports other remarkable species like the Saddle-billed Stork, Greater Painted-Snipe, and White-crowned Lapwing.
In addition to birding, Mopane Bush Lodge offers a range of activities: game drives, nature walks, cultural tours to local San rock art sites, and even conservation-focused excursions, where guests can learn about local wildlife protection efforts. For a more relaxed experience, the lodge also provides wellness spa treatments.
Bird Specials
