Just simply the most perfect start to our African adventure!
Gerard picked us up at 5 a.m. from the Joburg airport following our flight from Perth and drove us to African Rock Lodge. As just an example of how exemplary he and his wife, Yvonne, are as hosts, Gerard had left African Rock around midnight, drove through the night to pick us up and drove us to the lodge. Poor guy must have been very tired, but certainly didn’t show it and gave us great commentary enroute.

Our room had the ‘wow’ factor with its African styling and the pool was very refreshing as we arrived on a 39 degree c day. The outdoor dining area overlooking the braai and pool was gorgeous and later in the week when it cooled down, we ate inside the lodge. The lodge is located within a wildlife estate with free ranging giraffes, warthogs, etc. but no lions or elephants allowed, so you can walk around with the animals to your hearts content. Trips to Kruger are easily arranged with Gerard as your driver/guide (very reasonable rates) as are many other outings that Yvonne and Gerard will share with you.

Yvonne and Gerard went out of their way to make our stay extra special- I was surprised on the morning of my Big Birthday by Yvonne bringing in a yellow pepper decorated with candles (she knew that I avoid sugar and love vegies!), a split of champers and a gift of an African Lodge lamp. Such a lovely surprise! The hosts ensure that all the guests easily become very comfortable with each other and a dinner or two out of the lodge at a local restaurant appears to be the norm.

Well I could say heaps more, and happy to be contacted if any reader wants more info, but suffice it to say, we left Huidspruit very sadly (after looking at real estate with Gerard), feeling as though we had made friends who we hope to keep in touch with!

Many thanks, Yvonne and Gerard!