Toro Yaka Bush Lodge

About the Accommodation

Toro Yaka Bush Lodge is nestled in the heart of the Balule Nature Reserve, a 38 000 hectare conservancy, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park biosphere. Toro Yaka, which means “My Dream” in Northern Sotho, is a one-of-a-kind lodge situated in the unforgettable pristine bushveld of Balule, a 30 000 ha nature conservancy in the Greater Kruger National Park. Toro Yaka is owner-managed by husband and wife team, Steve and Nicole, who will personally ensure your stay to be something to remember.

Steve has spent more than a decade sharing his knowledge and love for the bush with clients from all over the world at luxury game lodges throughout South Africa. All bush activities are conducted by Steve, who is a professional SKS trails guide, qualified through the Field Guide Association of South Africa (FGASA). His 12 years of experience and specialised knowledge of all aspects of nature make all bush experiences truly unforgettable. In excess of 350 species have been recorded in the Balule Nature Reserve.

Nicole is a qualified holistic massage therapist and takes care of all the tiny details. Together with the Toro Yaka Staff, they will ensure your stay to be a memorable one.

About the Nature

Balule is home to a large variety of plants and animals. From the smallest spider to the largest elephant, from the tiniest flower to a 1000 year old Leadwood tree, owls at night and eagles by day, every aspect of the ecosystem is explored.

The Olifants River, which flows year round through the Balule, is home to hippos and crocodiles, and the whole area is one of scenic splendor, with the northern tip of the Drakensberg mountain range being visible from many points.

Birding in the Balule Nature Reserve is very rewarding and Steve’s Balule Bird List to date is 250+ species long. A large variety of birds are found in Toro Yaka’s garden, including sunbirds, kingfishers, owls, francolins, cuckoo’s and many more. The Region, with its diverse habitat of mountainous forest, riverine forest and bushveld savannah, hosts 80% of the country’s raptor species. All of the birding “Big 6” (Kori Bustard, Southern Ground-Hornbill, Lappet-faced Vulture, Pel’s Fishing Owl, Martial Eagle and Saddle-billed Stork) have been recorded here.

In addition to birding, Toro Yaka offers a number of other activities including visits to the Kapama Cheetah Breeding Project, Moholoholo Animal Rehabilitation Centre, Swadini Reptile Park, White river rafting, hot air ballooning and the Nyani Cultural Village.

Contact details:

Toro Yaka Bush Lodge
Hoedspruit, Limpopo
Mobile: +27 (0)82 308 5763
E-mail: info@toroyaka.co.za
Web: toroyaka.co.za