Stone Cottage - Mabalingwe Nature Reserve

Stone Cottage is a safari lodge near Mabalingwe Nature Reserve.

Location
Mabalingwe Nature Reserve, North West & Central Bushveld, South Africa, Southern Africa
Type
hotel
Coordinates
-24.685566, 28.190083
Elevation
1,505m
Price range
luxury
Phone
+353 87 751 7048
Email
[email protected]
Website
https://www.bateleurnaturereserve.co.za/
Activities
Game Drive, Birding, Fishing, Catch And Release, Spa
Amenities
Pool, Spa, Wi-Fi, Restaurant, Bar, Library

PlnrScore: 58/100

Community

school

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1697 species observed within 20 km, 57 mammals, 193 birds.

  • Bush Duiker (Mammalia, 73 observations)
  • Common Warthog (Mammalia, 55 observations)
  • Greater Kudu (Mammalia, 46 observations)
  • Southern Bushbuck (Mammalia, 44 observations)
  • Impala (Mammalia, 43 observations)
  • Southern Tree Agama (Reptilia, 43 observations)
  • African Civet (Mammalia, 41 observations)
  • African Red Toad (Amphibia, 36 observations)
  • Cape Porcupine (Mammalia, 36 observations)
  • Klipspringer (Mammalia, 35 observations)

Best Time to Visit Stone Cottage

The best months to visit Stone Cottage are September, January, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 21.78°C, rainfall 128.4mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 65.4%
  • February: Great, temperature 21.64°C, rainfall 95.9mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 66.3%
  • March: Great, temperature 20.89°C, rainfall 54.4mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 61.3%
  • April: Great, temperature 18.35°C, rainfall 62.5mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 60%
  • May: Great, temperature 16.26°C, rainfall 20.5mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 51.8%
  • June: Great, temperature 13.16°C, rainfall 2.4mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 48.3%
  • July: Great, temperature 13.35°C, rainfall 3.5mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 42.6%
  • August: Great, temperature 16.45°C, rainfall 1.1mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 39.4%
  • September: Great, temperature 20.43°C, rainfall 8mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 37.4%
  • October: Great, temperature 21.58°C, rainfall 42mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 45.2%
  • November: Great, temperature 22.12°C, rainfall 66.7mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 55.6%
  • December: Great, temperature 22.03°C, rainfall 143.1mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 64.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to experience the wildlife around Stone Cottage, and what should we realistically expect to see?

We always recommend booking the morning game drives; the light is magical and the animals are most active. While Mabalingwe is known for its rhino population, we've also been thrilled by sightings of giraffes, zebras, and a surprising variety of antelope on our visits. Don't expect lion or leopard here, but the sheer abundance of other species more than makes up for it.

Beyond game drives, what other activities does Stone Cottage offer that are truly worth our time?

We absolutely love the catch and release fishing on the property's dams; it's a wonderfully peaceful way to spend an afternoon. For those seeking pure relaxation, the spa treatments are exceptional, offering a luxurious escape after a morning in the bush. Birding is also fantastic, with numerous endemic species flitting through the gardens.

Considering Stone Cottage is a luxury lodge, what's the general price point we should be budgeting for, and are there any hidden costs?

Stone Cottage sits firmly in the luxury tier, so expect rates comparable to high-end boutique hotels in South Africa. While meals are usually included, we advise checking if drinks and premium spa treatments are part of your package to avoid surprises. It's an investment, but the quality of service and the serene atmosphere justify the cost.

When is the ideal time of year to visit Stone Cottage for the best weather and wildlife viewing opportunities?

We find the dry winter months, from May to September, offer the most comfortable temperatures for game drives and tend to concentrate wildlife around water sources. The summer months are warmer and greener, which is beautiful, but can make spotting animals a little more challenging. Either way, the sunsets are sensational.

What's the general safety and security situation like at Stone Cottage and in the surrounding Mabalingwe area?

We've always felt completely secure during our stays at Stone Cottage; the lodge is well-maintained and staff are attentive. The nature reserve itself is managed with safety in mind, and standard precautions apply, just as they would anywhere. You can relax and enjoy the tranquility knowing that your well-being is a priority.

Other Safari Lodges in Mabalingwe Nature Reserve

Parks in North West & Central Bushveld

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa