At Pepper we often enjoy the smaller privately run reserves as they often pay greater attention to detail and are ecologically managed a lot better than the national parks. Welgevoden is one of these reserves and is 36 000 hectares of unspoilt African bush in the Limpopo province. It is a Big 5 reserve with lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant as well as an abundance of bird species and antelope. The landscapes are incredibly diverse as they range from rocky outcrops to large open savannahs.
Mhonodoro Lodge is a great base from which to enjoy your safari experience as it is small with a maximum of ten guests at any given time so you really are getting a unique and personal experience.
There are four private double chalets as well as one two bedroom family unit. All of these sit atop a ridge and look out over a water hole so you can do some game viewing from your own private sundeck. One of our favourite features is the secluded outdoor showers where you can stand under steaming hot water amongst the sounds of African bush.
Game drives and bush walks are offered with qualified rangers who all have extensive knowledge as well as many personal stories about the bush. Sundowners and snacks are served on the evening game drives at various spots overlooking wide open plains or meandering rivers. On the early morning game drives, hot drinks are available to keep you warm while spotting the game.
In peak season prices for 2011 start at £300 per person sharing per night. This would include all meals, local drinks and two game drives a day.