About This Property
Loerie Escape is a beautifully appointed thatched bush house nestled in the unspoiled bushveld of Marloth Park, just 300 metres from the Crocodile River that forms the southern boundary of the Kruger National Park. This is one of those rare properties where wildlife literally comes to you.
Zebras graze on the front lawn, kudus browse through the garden, warthogs trot past the pool, and at night you'll hear hippos grunting in the river and the distant calls of hyenas from across the Kruger fence.
The house itself strikes a perfect balance between rustic bush charm and genuine comfort. A striking stone-and-thatch design with warm brick interiors, exposed timber beams, and generous living spaces, it feels like a proper home rather than a rental unit. The open-plan ground floor flows seamlessly from the fully equipped kitchen through the dining area to a spacious lounge with a comfortable daybed that doubles as sleeping space for children.
Two en-suite bedrooms, each with queen-size beds, quality linens, and powerful showers, provide private retreats after long days in the bush. The upstairs living area is particularly special, with soaring thatched ceilings, brick feature walls, and a cosy atmosphere that makes you want to linger over morning coffee.
But the real magic happens outside. The covered patio and braai area open onto the private swimming pool, where you can cool off while watching zebras wander past just metres away.
The stone boma with its built-in braai and outdoor fireplace is the heart of the evening experience. Here's where we always light a fire, pour a glass of Pinotage, and listen to the bush come alive as the sun sets over the Kruger.
Marloth Park itself is a unique residential game reserve where plains game roams freely through the streets. There are no fences between you and the wildlife (though the Kruger fence keeps the big predators on the other side). It's an extraordinary experience to walk, cycle, or simply sit on your stoep and watch nature unfold around you.
Why We Love It
We've lost count of how many times we've stayed at Loerie Escape. It's our happy place, and there's a reason we keep coming back.
There's nothing quite like sipping wine by the pool as hippos grunt in the river, or waking up to a kudu calmly munching outside your bedroom window. It's five-star luxury but without the uniformed staff, which is precisely the charm. Host Janda always make sure that you thoroughly enjoy you stay, in privacy and comfort.
The kids adore the daybed, chasing bush babies at dusk, and counting zebras from the pool. We recharge with the peace, the braai evenings under the stars, and the knowledge that Kruger's Crocodile Bridge gate is just a 25-minute drive away for a proper Big Five safari fix.
If you're looking for the most expensive glamping in Africa, this isn't it. But if you want an authentic, affordable bush experience where wildlife is part of your daily routine and the only traffic jam involves warthogs, Loerie Escape is hard to beat.
Rooms & Details
Bedroom 1
Queen-size bed with quality linens, en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower, built-in cupboards, air conditioning, and ceiling fan. Brick feature walls with warm, rustic finishes.
Bedroom 2
Queen-size bed with quality linens, en-suite bathroom with walk-in shower and hairdryer, exposed thatch ceiling with timber beams, air conditioning, ceiling fan, and a cosy sitting area. This is the more atmospheric of the two rooms, with soaring ceilings and an intimate bushveld feel.
Living Area
Open-plan lounge with comfortable couches, a daybed (ideal for two children), wi-fi, wall-mounted flat-screen TV with DStv and streaming services. The space flows into the dining area and kitchen.
Kitchen
Fully equipped for self-catering: stove, oven, fridge-freezer, microwave, ice machine, kettle, toaster, cutlery, crockery, and all cooking essentials. Breakfast bar with stools.
Balconies
The upstairs living area has two balconies, one on either side. Perfect for your morning coffee or watching the sunset over the bushveld.
Amenities & Features
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation is available on most dates. Cancellation and prepayment policies vary by season — check the booking partner's site for exact terms on your selected dates.
Photo Gallery
Rates
Prices start from $170 per night. Final pricing depends on season, room type, and availability. Check current rates on our booking partner's site for the most accurate pricing.
You'll need to let the property know your expected arrival time in advance. Cash payments only for extras on site. The property does not accommodate hen, stag, or similar parties. Minimum age for primary guest check-in is 18.
What's Included
- Wildlife viewing from the property (zebras, kudus, warthogs, giraffes visit daily)
- Private swimming pool
- Braai/BBQ and outdoor fireplace
- Walking and self-drive in Marloth Park game reserve
- Cycling through the reserve (bring your own bikes)
Self-catering property, no meals included. The fully equipped kitchen has everything you need. Stock up at the Spar in Malelane (20 km) or Komatipoort before arrival. Daily housekeeping is provided. Free Wi-Fi, DStv, and streaming services included.
Location
How to Get There
From Johannesburg (approximately 4 hours, 400 km)
Take the N4 east towards Nelspruit/Mbombela. Continue past Nelspruit on the N4 towards Malelane. Take the Malelane off-ramp and follow the signs to Marloth Park. Enter via the main Marloth Park gate — security will log your vehicle. Follow Porcupine Street to number 718. The owners provide detailed final directions upon booking confirmation.
From Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA — 95 km)
Take the R538 towards Hazyview, then join the N4 towards Malelane. Follow the same route as above.
Day trips to Kruger National Park
Crocodile Bridge Gate is approximately 25 km (30 minutes) from the property. Malelane Gate is approximately 20 km. Both provide access to the southern Kruger, which is renowned for its Big Five sightings and concentration of wildlife along the Crocodile and Sabie rivers.
Nearby Attractions
Kruger National Park (Crocodile Bridge Gate 25 km, Malelane Gate 20 km), Lionspruit Game Reserve (3.8 km), Leopard Creek Country Club (41 km), Bushveld Atlantis Waterpark, Riverside farm stalls and curio shops along the N4, Komatipoort border town (gateway to Mozambique), Kruger Pride Safaris (guided game drives), Honey Badger Safaris, Sasekile Africa guided tours and transfers
Things to Do
At the property
Wildlife watching is the main attraction: zebras, kudus, warthogs, giraffes, wildebeest, and bush babies are regular visitors. The private pool and braai area provide endless hours of relaxation. Evenings around the outdoor fireplace listening to the sounds of the bush are unforgettable.
In Marloth Park
Walk, cycle, or drive through the reserve to spot plains game. Visit the Crocodile River viewpoints along the Kruger fence for hippo and crocodile sightings. Several local operators offer guided game drives, sundowner cruises on the river, and bush walks.
Day trips
Kruger National Park is the obvious highlight. Enter at Crocodile Bridge or Malelane Gate for world-class Big Five game drives. The southern Kruger is renowned for its density of wildlife, particularly along the rivers. Full-day drives can cover Skukuza, Lower Sabie, and Berg-en-Dal camps. Alternatively, book a guided safari with local operators like Kruger Pride Safaris or Honey Badger Safaris for expert-led game drives.
Good to Know
Malaria: Marloth Park is in a low-risk malaria area. Consult your doctor about prophylaxis, especially during the wet summer months (October–March). Use insect repellent in the evenings.
Power: The property has a generator for load shedding, so you won't be left in the dark. South Africa uses Type M plugs (three-prong round pin) — bring an adaptor if coming from overseas.
Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is provided. Mobile signal (Vodacom/MTN) is generally good in Marloth Park.
Shopping: The nearest supermarket is the Spar in Malelane, about 20 km away. Stock up on groceries, braai meat, and drinks before arriving — there's no shop in Marloth Park itself.
Security: Marloth Park has 24-hour security at the main gate. The property has a private entrance and full-day security. It's a safe, family-friendly environment.
Wildlife safety: While the plains game in Marloth Park is generally docile, maintain a respectful distance. Don't approach or feed the animals. Keep food secured, as monkeys can be opportunistic.
Who It's For
Families, couples, or small friend groups seeking an affordable, authentic bush escape with wildlife on your doorstep. Perfect for anyone who wants a comfortable self-catering base near Kruger National Park without the price tag of a private game lodge. Ideal for repeat visitors to the Kruger area who want a home-away-from-home rather than a hotel room.
Best Time to Visit
May–October (dry season) for best wildlife viewing — animals concentrate around water sources, veget