The Balule's shared border with the National Park means guests have easy access to some of the best predator viewing in South Africa.
Animal Viewing
There is no shortage of predator viewing in this region of the Kruger Park. You can expect to see an impressive variety of predators, including lions, the king of the jungle. Hippos love the Olifants River, which courses through the reserve, and can be seen bobbing in the water or basking on the riverbanks. The many trees and waterholes surrounding the lodges attract big tusker elephants, famous in the area. The predators in the Kruger Park are habituated to vehicles and tourists, making sightings of big cats and wild canids a pleasure.
Bird Watching
The bird life around Billy’s Lodge is both varied and prolific. With the Olifants River, flowing close by a number of water birds can be easily spotted. The mature trees of Natal mahogany and wild fig in the camp attracts many species of bird. Listen to the sweet call of the black headed orioles, and search for black backed puffback hiding amongst the leaves.The summer months tend to be better for bird watching due to the many migrants that feed in this area. However, the bird life is prolific all year round with its many residents.
Here you can tick many raptor species off your list including brown snake eagles, short tail eagles (Bateleur) and hawk eagles. Many owl species can also be found. Listen to the scops owls calling to each other as you sit by the fire at night, and see if you can find their perch. Or, the haunting call of the fish eagle first thing in the morning as you get ready for your game drive.
Additional Activities
Game DrivesSelf drive safari and tour options
Swimming in the lodge pool
Star gazing and bird watching
Team building sessions
Golf courses within 15 – 30 minute drive
Tiger fishing
Golf
Chimpanzee sanctuary
Kingdom of Swaziland
Scenic Panorama Route
Balule may not be one of the better-known Big Five reserves on the Western side of the greater Kruger National Park, but that makes for more...