Lalibela is very proud of what we do at the reserve – we are working continuously to protect our wildlife, conserve their habitats, and uplift our local communities. Of course, while doing this we want to ensure you have a wonderful stay. We thought for this blog, we’d put together our favourite top TripAdvisor reviews from October and November (2019). We think that hearing about Lalibela from the perspective of guests is a wonderful way to get an idea of what exactly happens at Lalibela – the unique and special moments that we pride ourselves on giving our guests.
We had been looking forward to a game safari in South Africa for 3 years or so and had been planning it for the last year. This was to be the centre-piece of our holiday and therefore the choice of game Reserve was very important. We couldn’t have chosen a better place in my view than Lalibela which lies east of the massive Addo Park, on the road between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown.
We chose Lalibela having read reviews and by comparing prices.
The stay is all inclusive, so you have a wonderful and large detached cottage, 4 meals a day, free drinks (including on the drives themselves) and two drives, each lasting 3 hours or so. Our Ranger was Ryno (sorry if I haven’t spelt it correctly) who was amazing. We felt safe at all times (even on the game walk he arranged for us) and were thoroughly entertained by his knowledge and expertise. They say never work with animals and children; animals can be so unpredictable and illusive, but Ryno and his colleagues were able to locate the animals over a very large and diverse Reserve.
At the lodge (Marks Camp) the whole team including Wendy and Junior were friendly yet professional ensuring the all guests were happy, well fed and comfortable. I would recommend Lalibela to everyone reading this review, a Garden of Eden, away from all outside cares. You will not be disappointed.
Simon F, United Kingdom
25 November 2019
We had an amazing stay as part of our honeymoon. The team were incredibly friendly and thoughtful, the food was great and the rooms were fantastic. Renee the manager of the lodge was very hospitable and made sure we had everything we needed, going above and beyond to make sure my pregnant wife was comfortable. The service at the lodge was 5-star.
Importantly, it was the ultimate safari experience. Our guide, Darren, was brilliant – he was a photographer as well so made sure we were always in the best position and with the best light for photos. He was relentlessly enthusiastic and taught us a lot about the wildlife and the management of the reserve. We saw all of the animals we wanted to and much more and came away with lots of fantastic memories and photos.
Thank you to everyone at the lodge, we would recommend this without any hesitation.
Philip M, United Kingdom
17 November 2019
Having thought things couldn’t get better our final stop was Lalibela and I was lost for words. From the moment we entered till the moment we left we had the most amazing experience, staff, food, rooms and just generally the park was outstanding. Our guide, Darren, who did all our drives was brilliant he was knowledgeable and passionate about the animals and over the 3 days we saw everything in the park.
Tree Tops, the lodge where we stayed, was set into the valley with stunning views from each tent, and the rooms where large and luxurious, as was the bed! There was a watering hole close by and we had an elephant visit plus other animals most days which was amazing. With lovely facilities and staff that where always keen to help and made sure the vegetarians were as well catered for as the rest of the guests, why would you want to go anywhere else?
Zarsims, United Kingdom
15 November 2019
I’m not sure I can say how much we loved our trip and the game drives! We have truly fallen in love with South Africa and especially with Lalibela! We stayed at the Tree Tops! Renee was so welcoming and anything and everything you could want, or even think you wanted, you could have! Her staff were all so kind! The biggest thing is of course the game drives! Darren our guide was wonderful! So much fun and informative! The Cheetah munching on a wildebeest, the elephant herd! Finding the lions! Having drinks with the giraffes was a highlight for me! This was truly an experience of a lifetime!
Mamagans, United States of America
2 November 2019
Photo credit: mamagans
We stayed at Lalibela, Mark’s Camp for 3 nights and just can’t find the words to express how special this place is. It was our first Safari and exceeded all expectations, from the warmth of the staff to the amazing freshly prepared food, beautiful lodges and highly skilled rangers who took us up close to the Big 5. This camp has an electrified fence round the perimeter and is so safe for children or first timers who are apprehensive.
The rangers at Lalibela are skilled at reading animal behaviour and tracking. Communication between the rangers is key to the guest experience and to ensure your safety on the game drives.
Diane, France
21 October 2019
Photo credit: 148Diane