Set on a plain overlooking the Pongola River as it enters the Pongolapoort Dam, Mpalane Fishing Lodge is a self-catering lodge situated 9km from the Pongola Game Reserve Leeukop Gate, along a gravel road and can be reached by most sedan vehicles.

Few exclusive yet affordable private getaways combine the scenic variety of bushveld, mountains, major water bodies and a range of leisure activities that make the best of all the natural features. This combination, an abundance of space and the results of a "light footprint" development philosophy are key ingredients of the special experience offered by Mpalane Fishing Lodge, Pongola Game Reserve in northern KwaZulu Natal.

Mpalane has its own slipway and jetty for guests to launch and moor their boats.

Pongola Game Reserve is located 450km from Johannesburg and 350km from Durban.

Mpalane Fishing Lodge consists of 12 twin units, sleeping a maximum of 24 people. It is available for exclusive use by one group at a time. Accommodation is self-catering.

Pongola Game Reserve extends over part of the original area that, in 1894, was declared the Pongola Game Reserve by Paul Kruger, President of the old Transvaal Republic. The original reserve has since been re-proclaimed, in part, as the Phongolo Nature Reserve, which is the present Pongola Game Reserve's immediate neighbour.

The Pongola River, broad and perennial, meanders through the centre of the reserve before entering the man-made 13 276 hectare lake. It provides a leisure environment unique for a South African bushveld destination. Safari cruises, canoe adventures, birding and tiger fishing are among the main activities.

The area is home to many typical plains game species, four of the Big Five (excluding lion), Hippopotamus and crocodile. It is also a birding "hotspot". Over 350 species have so far been recorded here. One can also enjoy the experience of tracking rhino on foot and participating in the elephant monitoring programme.

• Mvuba Spa
• Guided game drives
• Boat safaris
• Canoeing
• Rhino tracking on foot
• Guided walks
• Tiger fishing charters.

The minimum daily rate is ZAR 2520.