Amava River Lodge
Amava River Lodge, formerly Bundox River Lodge, is a small tented camp on the southern bank of the Olifants River in the northern reaches of the Balule Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger. Hideaways Africa took on the property as its first Greater Kruger lodge, set within roughly 5,000 hectares of Big Five traversing area with about eight kilometres of river frontage.
IMPORTANT: Amava River Lodge is temporarily closed. The lodge was hit by severe flooding on 15 January 2026, several units were destroyed, and Hideaways Africa has confirmed it is closed with a planned reopening by December 2026, subject to change. Africa Compass Collection is not currently taking bookings for Amava and will not sell the property until its reopening is confirmed. The description below reflects the lodge as it operated before the flood, for planning and future-booking reference only — five tented suites raised on wooden walkways, each with a river-facing private deck and en-suite bathroom, two shared game drives daily in open 4x4s, guided bush walks, and Olifants River boat cruises as an optional add-on.
Frequently asked questions.
Is Amava River Lodge currently open?
No. Amava River Lodge is temporarily closed after severe flooding on the Olifants River on 15 January 2026, which damaged several units. Hideaways Africa expects to reopen the lodge by December 2026, subject to change. Africa Compass Collection is not taking bookings for Amava until the reopening is confirmed.
Where is Amava River Lodge located?
Amava River Lodge is located in the northern Balule Nature Reserve, Greater Kruger, South Africa, on the southern bank of the Olifants River.
What type of property is Amava River Lodge?
An intimate, five-suite tented riverside safari lodge operated by Hideaways Africa — currently closed for flood repairs.
How many rooms does Amava River Lodge have?
Five tented suites (three twin, two queen configurations) raised on wooden walkways, each with a river-facing private deck and en-suite bathroom with shower. Several units were damaged in the January 2026 flood.
What is the children's policy?
Under normal operation the minimum age is 12. Confirm current policy once the lodge reopens.
What activities were available before the closure?
Two shared game drives daily in open 4x4s, guided bush walks, bush coffee and sundowner stops, with Olifants River boat cruises available as an add-on.
What facilities were available before the closure?
A swimming pool, two communal lounges, a boma, and a multi-level river-view deck.
What's the power and Wi-Fi situation?
The lodge normally runs on solar power (220v) with limited Wi-Fi, mainly in public areas. Confirm current status once reopened.
How do I book Amava River Lodge?
Amava River Lodge is not currently bookable due to the temporary closure. Contact Africa Compass Collection for updates on the reopening timeline, expected by December 2026, or to discuss alternative Balule properties in the meantime.