Activities a plenty at Ekhaya

January 1, 2025

By : Mike Lawrie | African Safari Expert

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You won’t get bored in Hoedspruit!

So much to see and do on your Greater Kruger adventure

Getting away from it all is made easy at Ekhaya Bush Villa in the heart of South Africa’s Greater Kruger region. For a start we are based on the beautiful Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate which is a wilderness in its own right and home to a rich variety of game, including several local leopards!

Hoedspruit itself is the safari capital of South Africa and there’s a wealth of safari activities on its doorstep, offering you the chance to view the Big Five – elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard and lion – as well as a host of other amazing African wildlife species.

There’s a wealth of great tourism attractions in this beautiful corner of South Africa, so let’s have a look at some of the best things to do while you are staying at Ekhaya…

The Kruger National Park

The legendary Kruger National Park’s Orpen Gate is a short 40-minute drive from Hoedspruit, with most of the town’s surrounding private game reserves open to the park and forming the bulk of what’s now known as the Greater Kruger National Park.

There are guided day tours into the park in open safari vehicles or you can choose a self-drive option in your own vehicle, taking one of the many exciting game drive routes inside the park.

2. The Panorama Route

Take a guided tour along the Panorama route or opt to self-drive. The route is packed with exciting things to do and see from the Blyde River Canyon and the famous Three Rondavels to Bourke’s Luck Potholes – a fascinating geological anomaly formed at the confluence of the Blyde and Treur rivers where the swirling waters have carved huge circular shapes out of the sandstone rock.

End up at the wonderful Graskop Gorge Lift and plunge to the floor of a steep gorge to explore the amazing eco system you find there.

3. Eat out, Hoedspruit-style

Hoedspruit is famous for its range of wonderful restaurants, coffee shops and eateries from the legendary Sleepers and Thirsty Giraffe Pub and Grill to the Hoedspruit Café and Hat & Creek restaurant.

We also have a first-class food truck – the Yum Factory – making delicious thin-crust pizzas and the Hoedspruit Brew Co, with its great range of craft beers and spirits. Feel free to ask us for recommendations.

4. Hot Air Ballooning

Hot Air Ballooning is most certainly one of the best ways to experience the majesty of this region’s fantastic scenery. Soar over breathtaking landscapes at the foot of the Drakensberg Escarpment, which forms a natural amphitheatre, providing safe shelter from prevailing winds. Flights last approximately an hour.

5. Cruising the Blyde Dam

You’ll be blown away by the amazing views of the Blyde River Canyon from the dam on a wonderful guided cruise of this amazing body of water, where the Blyde River is temporarily halted on its journey to join the Olifants River.

The cruises, which operate from the Swadini Nature Reserve a short drive from Hoedspruit, take in the Kadishi Tufa waterfall and the magnificent Three Rondavels and allow full appreciation of this amazing “green” canyon.

6. Horse riding

Whether you’re a bird watcher, animal lover or just here for the ride, a horse back trail is the perfect way to experience the bush in its most natural form.

African Dream Horse Safaris are based on Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate and offer a range of outrides on the estate along game drive routes through the bush, where a variety of wildlife can be seen.

This is a great way to experience the bush, as wild animals do not react to the horses, carrying on with their usual activities, allowing you to view them in a completely different, more relaxed and personal way.

7. Hiking, kloofing and cycling

There is a rich variety of guided and non-guided hiking trails in and around the Hoedspruit area, both along ancient Lowveld pathways and up in the Drakensberg Escarpment, around the Blyde River Canyon.

Kloofing is a form of extreme hiking, taking in streams, waterholes, waterfalls and water-filled caves along the way. Ask us for more information. Or just hike or mountain bike on Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate with its variety of hiking and mountain biking trails.

Discuss what you are interested in with us.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top activities to do in Hoedspruit?
Hoedspruit offers a range of activities, including safari game drives, birdwatching, visiting wildlife rehabilitation centers, and enjoying adventure activities like zip-lining and hot air ballooning.
What is the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre?
The Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre focuses on the conservation of endangered species, including cheetahs and African wild dogs. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts and see various animals up close.
Are there any cultural experiences in Hoedspruit?
Yes, visitors can engage in cultural experiences with local communities, such as visiting nearby villages, participating in traditional dance performances, and learning about the local culture and history.
What adventure activities are available in Hoedspruit?
Adventure seekers can enjoy zip-lining, river rafting, and hot air ballooning over the beautiful landscapes. These activities provide thrilling experiences and unique views of the area.
Can I visit a local market in Hoedspruit?
Yes, the Hoedspruit Farmers Market is a great place to visit. It typically operates on the first Saturday of the month and features local produce, crafts, and food stalls, providing a taste of the local culture.
Are there any wellness activities available in Hoedspruit?
Many lodges and resorts in Hoedspruit offer spa services, yoga classes, and wellness retreats, allowing visitors to relax and rejuvenate in a tranquil setting surrounded by nature.
What should I do if I want to learn more about the region's wildlife?
Consider taking a guided tour or participating in a wildlife conservation program. Local organizations often offer educational experiences that focus on wildlife preservation and the ecological importance of the area.

Article curated and written by:

Mike Lawrie

Safari Expert

Meet Mike Lawrie, a seasoned Safari Expert with over 20 years of experience in the luxury safari industry. Mike has a remarkable track record in building, staffing, and operating prestigious safari lodges across some of Africa's most iconic destinations, including Kenya, Zambia, Botswana, and South Africa. His deep passion for wildlife and commitment to sustainable tourism have made him a respected figure in the field. Mike's extensive knowledge and hands-on experience enable him to create unforgettable safari experiences, ensuring that guests not only witness the beauty of the African wilderness but also appreciate the importance of conservation efforts.