Welcome to Tembo Guest Lodge, the home of cosiness, warmth and memorable experiences.
About Tembo Guest Lodge — Hazyview, Mpumalanga
Who We Are
Tembo Guest Lodge is a TGCSA-graded 4-star guest lodge located at 689 Tarentaal Lane in Hazyview, Mpumalanga. The name “Tembo” means elephant in Swahili, reflecting our connection to the wildlife heritage of this region and our proximity to Kruger National Park.
We opened our doors to provide safari travelers, adventure seekers, and business visitors with a modern, comfortable, and secure base in the heart of the Lowveld. Our lodge combines contemporary design with warm personal service, offering an experience that goes beyond a place to sleep.
Our Location: The Gateway to Kruger National Park
Hazyview is the closest major town to Kruger National Park’s southern section, which holds the highest wildlife density in the park. Tembo Guest Lodge is positioned to give you maximum time in the bush and minimum time on the road.
| Destination | Distance from Tembo | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Kruger National Park (Phabeni Gate) | 9 km | ~10 minutes |
| Kruger National Park (Numbi Gate) | ~15 km | ~15 minutes |
| Hazyview town centre | ~5 km | ~5 minutes |
| Lowveld Mall (restaurants and shopping) | 3 km | ~4 minutes |
| Panorama Route (God’s Window) | ~60 km | ~1 hour |
| Blyde River Canyon | ~70 km | ~1 hour 10 minutes |
| OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) | ~420 km | ~4.5 hours |
| Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) | ~55 km | ~45 minutes |
Being just 9 km from Phabeni Gate means you can be among the first vehicles entering Kruger National Park at sunrise, when predators are most active and wildlife viewing is at its best.
What Makes Tembo Guest Lodge Different
1. One of the Closest Lodges to Kruger’s Phabeni Gate
At 9 km from the gate, you spend your time on safari rather than commuting. Many lodges in White River or Nelspruit are 30 to 60 minutes from the nearest Kruger gate. At Tembo, you are 10 minutes away.
2. Direct Safari Partnership
Tembo Guest Lodge is the official accommodation partner of Africa Moja Tours and Safaris and Kruger Safari Africa. This means:
- Guided open-vehicle Kruger safaris with pickup directly from the lodge
- No separate transfer arrangements needed
- Experienced, certified guides with deep knowledge of Kruger’s southern section
- Sunrise, full-day, and afternoon safari options available daily
- Panorama Route day tours departing from the lodge
3. TGCSA 4-Star Grading
Tembo Guest Lodge holds a 4-star grading from the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa. This means independently verified standards for room quality, cleanliness, facilities, and service — a level of comfort and consistency that matches international expectations.
4. Modern Rooms with Safari-Ready Amenities
Every room at Tembo Guest Lodge is designed with safari travelers in mind:
- Eco-friendly air conditioning for the subtropical Hazyview heat (summer temperatures reach 35°C)
- Large luxury showers to freshen up after hours in an open safari vehicle
- Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi for uploading safari photos and staying connected
- Netflix-enabled smart TVs for evening entertainment and downtime after long safari days
- Lockable safes for cameras, gear, passports, and valuables
- Tea and coffee making facilities for early morning preparation before dawn game drives
- Percale white cotton linen for quality rest between active safari days
5. Swimming Pool
Cool off after a hot day on safari in our outdoor swimming pool. Hazyview’s subtropical climate means temperatures regularly exceed 30°C in summer, making the pool an essential recovery spot between morning and afternoon game drives. The pool area offers a relaxing space to unwind while overlooking the surrounding Lowveld landscape.
6. On-Site Restaurant and Terrace
After a day in Kruger or on the Panorama Route, enjoy a hearty meal prepared by our chefs without leaving the lodge. The terrace offers views over the Hazyview hills and surrounding Lowveld landscape — perfect for watching the sunset with a cold drink before dinner.
7. Gift Center
Before you leave, browse our on-site gift center for authentic African souvenirs, local crafts, curios, and safari memorabilia. Pick up something special to remember your Kruger experience without needing to make a separate shopping trip into Hazyview.
8. Secure and Peaceful Setting
Tembo Guest Lodge is situated in a quiet residential area with secure on-site parking for up to 8 vehicles. The property offers stimulating walking terrain around the premises and a tranquil environment away from the noise and traffic of main roads.
Lodge Facilities at a Glance
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Swimming pool | Outdoor pool for cooling off between game drives |
| Restaurant and terrace | On-site dining with Hazyview hill views |
| Gift center | African souvenirs, crafts, and safari memorabilia |
| Netflix-enabled smart TVs | In every room for evening entertainment |
| Secure parking | Free on-site parking for up to 8 vehicles |
| Complimentary Wi-Fi | High-speed internet throughout the lodge |
| Walking terrain | Stimulating paths around the property |
Our Rooms
Tembo Guest Lodge offers 5 room types to suit different budgets and group sizes:
| Room | Size | Ideal For | Price/Night |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Double Room | 24m² | Solo travelers, budget-conscious guests | R1,295 |
| Double Room | 30m² | Couples, friends sharing | R1,435 |
| Queen Room | 40m² | Couples wanting extra space | R2,310 |
| King Room | 50m² | Couples on a romantic getaway | R2,590 |
| Family Room | 100m² | Families with children | R3,150 |
All rooms include eco-friendly air conditioning, Netflix-enabled smart TV, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, tea/coffee facilities, luxury shower, hair dryer, and a lockable safe. View all rooms and compare.
All Rooms Include
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| Eco-friendly air conditioning | Climate control for the subtropical Hazyview heat |
| Modern ceiling fan | LED light and remote control |
| Netflix-enabled smart TV | Stream shows and movies after a day on safari |
| Complimentary Wi-Fi | High-speed internet throughout the lodge |
| Tea and coffee making facilities | Kettle, cups, tea, coffee, sugar, and creamer |
| Large luxury shower | Walk-in rain shower |
| Hair dryer | Available in every room |
| Lockable safe | For cameras, electronics, passports, and valuables |
| Room telephone | Internal and external calls |
| Guest essentials | Soap, shampoo, conditioner, body lotion |
| Percale white cotton linen | Quality bedding for a restful sleep |
| Bar fridge | Keep drinks and snacks cool (Standard Double and Double rooms) |
Who Stays at Tembo Guest Lodge
Safari Travelers
The majority of our guests are here for Kruger National Park. Whether you are on a self-drive safari or booking a guided open-vehicle tour through our partners, Tembo Guest Lodge provides the closest comfortable base to Phabeni Gate. After a full day in the bush, return to air-conditioned rooms, take a dip in the swimming pool, and stream Netflix while planning tomorrow’s route.
International Visitors
We welcome guests from across the world, including travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, and across Africa. Our staff speak English and are experienced in hosting international visitors with varied needs.
Couples and Honeymooners
Our King Room and Queen Room are popular with couples seeking a romantic Kruger safari experience. Ground-floor access, spacious layouts, and hill views create a comfortable retreat between game drives. End the day with a sunset dinner on the restaurant terrace, then relax with Netflix and air conditioning.
Families
The Family Room (100m²) accommodates families comfortably with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Kruger’s southern section is family-friendly, with excellent Big Five sighting density that keeps children engaged throughout game drives. Between safari days, the swimming pool provides a welcome distraction for kids while parents relax poolside.
Business Travelers
Hazyview serves as a regional business hub in Mpumalanga. Tembo Guest Lodge offers high-speed Wi-Fi, quiet working environments, and proximity to Lowveld Mall for meetings and dining.
Our Values
Personal service: We are a guest lodge, not a chain hotel. Every guest receives individual attention, local recommendations, and assistance with safari bookings and activity planning.
Quality without excess: Our 4-star grading reflects a commitment to genuine comfort. We focus on what matters to safari travelers: clean, modern rooms, reliable amenities, good food, and helpful staff.
Conservation connection: Located on the doorstep of one of Africa’s great wildlife reserves, we encourage responsible tourism. Our safari partners operate certified, ethical game drives that contribute to Kruger’s conservation economy.
Year-round availability: We operate 365 days a year, accommodating guests in every season. Whether you visit during the dry winter months (best game viewing) or the lush summer season (baby animals and migratory birds), Tembo Guest Lodge is ready for you.
Why Safari Travelers Choose Tembo Guest Lodge
| Need After Safari | How Tembo Delivers |
|---|---|
| Cool down from the heat | Swimming pool + eco-friendly air conditioning in every room |
| Freshen up | Large luxury shower with quality guest amenities |
| Relax and unwind | Netflix-enabled smart TV, swimming pool, restaurant terrace |
| Recharge devices | In-room charging points, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi |
| Upload and share photos | High-speed Wi-Fi throughout the lodge |
| Secure expensive gear | Lockable safe for cameras, lenses, passports, and electronics |
| Prepare for early starts | Tea and coffee making facilities for pre-dawn preparation |
| Buy mementos | On-site gift center with African crafts and safari souvenirs |
| Eat without driving | On-site restaurant with terrace dining |
Things to Do from Tembo Guest Lodge
| Activity | Distance | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Kruger National Park safaris (self-drive or guided) | 9 km to Phabeni Gate | Wildlife |
| Panorama Route (God’s Window, Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes) | 60 to 70 km | Scenic |
| Elephant Whispers | ~10 km | Wildlife interaction |
| Skyway Trails (zipline) | ~8 km | Adventure |
| Shangana Cultural Village | ~12 km | Cultural |
| Perry’s Bridge Trading Post (shopping and restaurants) | ~5 km | Shopping/Dining |
| Lowveld Mall | 3 km | Shopping/Dining |
| Sabie River tubing and rafting | ~5 km | Adventure |
| Chimp Eden (Jane Goodall Institute) | ~15 km | Wildlife/Conservation |
| Graskop Gorge Lift | ~40 km | Scenic/Adventure |
| Horse riding safaris | ~15 km | Adventure |
| Quad biking | ~10 km | Adventure |
Accommodation for Safari Packages from Johannesburg
Travelers arriving from Johannesburg, OR Tambo Airport, or other major cities typically book Tembo Guest Lodge as part of a multi-day Kruger safari package. The most popular combinations:
| Package | Days | Includes | Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-Day JHB + 2-Day Kruger Safari | 4 days / 3 nights | 1 night Sandton + 2 nights Tembo Guest Lodge | Private transfer from Johannesburg |
| 5-Day JHB + 3-Day Kruger Safari | 5 days / 4 nights | 1 night Sandton + 3 nights Tembo Guest Lodge | Private transfer from Johannesburg |
| 6-Day Vic Falls + Kruger Safari | 6 days / 5 nights | 2 nights Victoria Falls + 1 night JHB + 2 nights Tembo Guest Lodge | Flights + private transfer |
These packages include private road transfer from Johannesburg (4.5 hours through Mpumalanga), accommodation at Tembo Guest Lodge, open-vehicle Kruger safaris, and return transfer. All safari vehicles collect you directly from the lodge.
Seasonal Guide: When to Visit
| Season | Months | Weather in Hazyview | Safari Conditions | Lodge Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (Wet) | October to March | Hot and humid (25 to 35°C), afternoon thunderstorms | Lush vegetation, baby animals, bird migration. Harder to spot game in thick bush. | Swimming pool essential for cooling off between drives. Air conditioning in all rooms. |
| Autumn | April to May | Warm days (20 to 28°C), cool evenings | Vegetation thinning, excellent game viewing begins. | Comfortable weather, quieter season, pool still enjoyable. |
| Winter (Dry) | June to August | Warm days (18 to 25°C), cold mornings (5 to 10°C) | Best game viewing. Thin vegetation, animals gather at water. | Bring warm layers for early morning game drives. Cozy evenings with Netflix. |
| Spring | September | Warming up (20 to 30°C), dry | Good game viewing, wildflowers, impala lambing season. | Shoulder season with fewer crowds. |
Guest Reviews and Ratings
Tembo Guest Lodge is rated on TripAdvisor with reviews from international and local travelers. Common feedback highlights: proximity to Kruger National Park gates, clean and modern rooms with quality finishes, the swimming pool and outdoor areas, friendly and helpful staff, excellent value for money, a quiet and peaceful setting with hill views, and the convenience of Netflix and Wi-Fi.
How to Get to Tembo Guest Lodge
From OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg)
- By car: Take the N4 east toward Nelspruit/Mbombela, then the R40 north to Hazyview. Approximately 4.5 hours (420 km).
- By transfer: Book a private transfer through Africa Moja Tours for direct door-to-door service.
From Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA)
- By car: Take the R40 north through Nelspruit to Hazyview. Approximately 45 minutes (55 km).
- By transfer: Airport pickup can be arranged through the lodge or Africa Moja Tours.
From Cape Town
- By flight: Fly to KMIA (approximately 2.5 hours), then a 45-minute transfer to the lodge.
- By safari package: Africa Moja Tours offers Cape Town to Kruger fly-in packages with accommodation at Tembo Guest Lodge.
GPS / Address: 689 Tarentaal Lane, Hazyview, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “Tembo” mean? Tembo means “elephant” in Swahili. The name reflects our connection to Africa’s wildlife heritage and our location near Kruger National Park, home to over 12,000 elephants.
Is Tembo Guest Lodge inside Kruger National Park? No. Tembo Guest Lodge is located in Hazyview, 9 km from Kruger’s Phabeni Gate. This means you have the freedom to leave and return to the park as you wish, dine at the lodge restaurant, relax by the pool, and enjoy Hazyview’s other attractions between game drives.
What star rating does Tembo Guest Lodge have? Tembo Guest Lodge holds a 4-star grading from the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA).
Can I book a Kruger safari through the lodge? Yes. Tembo Guest Lodge partners directly with Africa Moja Tours and Safaris and Kruger Safari Africa. Guided open-vehicle Kruger safaris depart daily with pickup from the lodge.
Is there a swimming pool? Yes. Tembo Guest Lodge has an outdoor swimming pool available to all guests. After morning game drives in temperatures that can exceed 30°C, the pool provides a refreshing place to relax before heading back into Kruger for afternoon drives.
Is there a restaurant on site? Yes. The Tembo Guest Lodge restaurant serves meals prepared by our chefs. A terrace with Hazyview hill views is available for dining and relaxation.
Do the rooms have Netflix? Yes. All rooms are equipped with Netflix-enabled smart TVs. Connect to our complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and stream entertainment during your evening downtime after safari days.
Is there a place to buy souvenirs? Yes. Our on-site gift center stocks authentic African crafts, curios, and safari souvenirs. No need to make a separate trip into town.
Which room is best for families with children? The Family Room (100m², R3,150/night) is designed for families. It features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and is located on the first floor with views of the Hazyview hills. The swimming pool is also popular with families between safari activities.
Is the lodge suitable for couples? Yes. The King Room (50m², R2,590/night) and Queen Room (40m², R2,310/night) are both on the ground floor with spacious layouts, king-size extra-length beds, and two bathrooms — the most popular choice for couples.
Is there secure parking? Yes. Free, secure on-site parking is available for up to 8 vehicles, including space for rental vehicles and safari vehicles.
What is the check-in and check-out time? Contact the lodge directly for current check-in and check-out times. Early check-in and late check-out may be available on request depending on occupancy.
Is the area safe for international travelers? Yes. Tembo Guest Lodge is located in a quiet residential area of Hazyview with secure premises. The lodge area is well-established for tourism and is frequented by international visitors year-round.
Do I need a car to stay at Tembo Guest Lodge? Not necessarily. If you book a safari package through Africa Moja Tours or Kruger Safari Africa, all transfers between the lodge and Kruger National Park are included. Private transfers from Johannesburg or KMIA airport can also be arranged. However, a rental car provides flexibility for self-drive safaris and exploring the Panorama Route independently.
Is there Wi-Fi in the rooms? Yes. Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available in all rooms and common areas — strong enough for video calls, streaming, and uploading high-resolution safari photographs.
Book Your Stay at Tembo Guest Lodge
Contact us to check availability and book your Hazyview accommodation near Kruger National Park.
- WhatsApp: +27 79 915 7514
- Phone: +27 013 001 2750
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 689 Tarentaal Lane, Hazyview, Mpumalanga, South Africa
