Botlierskop Bush Villas

Summary: Definitely worth a stay as the villas are breathtaking, especially if you get the SA resident rate off-peak (we stayed late August). The service offering/approach needs to improve to reflect the beauty of the lodge, and especially if Botlierskop is to to become a destination in itself - bearing in mind the location. Pros: Villa (we stayed in the Deluxe, Villa 8) is spacious, decorated well and very comfortable. Three large, double and very comfortable bedrooms, all with own bathrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen. The terrace area is breathtaking with a backdrop on a small watering hole and hill where you can watch the sunrise and sunset from a heated plunge pool. The game drivers are exceptionally knowledgeable (shoutout to Robert/Robbie) - we learnt many new facts despite having done many safaris in the past. The restaurant (see comment below) at the main lodge has one of the most amazing views I've seen anywhere, and the breakfast and lunch there is exceptional! Cons: In general, the service approach felt more focused on telling you about the many restrictions e.g., a text on the morning of checkout warning of late checkout fees. We were told we cannot visit the restaurant at the main lodge despite it being near empty, which they eventually permitted us to. The 1,000 ZAR/3h pp game drive, with a strong recommendation to do multiple feels like extortion, particularly since it's a small reserve and the animals are not truly wild and easily found. With 4 hours for cleaning, would expect that housekeeping clean under furniture - there was a water bottle under the bed and quite a bit of dirt underneath the furniture.

We had a terrible stay. The waterhole has a huge plant overgrowth and we did not see one animal drink water from the water hole. The staff were really rude at reception and they did not organise a transfer to the spa which was promised and you have to make your own way on a terrible gravel road to find the spa. We have stayed here before and our previous experience was absolutely wonderful.