
Tucked away and situated along the western boundary of the world-renown Kruger National Park, a pristine and untrodden wilderness awaits you within the Balule Nature Reserve.
This sub-tropical Lowveld eco-zone boasts an impressive biodiversity in both fauna and flora. With over 336 documented tree species in the region, ranging from ancient Baobabs to the massive Marula, the dominant woody savannah is accentuated with plenty to see and accommodates an impressive diversity of bird life. For the avid birder there are over 220 documented species to be found. Various raptors, such as the endangered Lappet-Faced Vulture, Pel’s Fishing Owl, and Martial Eagle, can be observed. This extends to larger birds, such as the Southern Ground Hornbill, Kori Bustard, and Saddle-Billed Stork, amongst a plethora of other species.
Rivers and occasional watering holes are sanctuaries for an eclectic array of wildlife…. pods of hippo, crocodile and frequenting elephants often make for an intimate viewing experience at Dean’s Dam. These interactions and more are often heard in the evening, where the characteristic whooping of scavenging hyena are also often complimented by the guttural roar of lions.
Located within close proximity to the conservation hub of Hoedspruit (20km), the reserve is easily accessible, yet the acoustics of the wilderness and striking visuals of the adjacent Northern Drakensburg Mountains cannot but make one feel secluded and very much attune with the surrounding wilderness.