Nibela Lake Lodge by Dream Resorts

On a sweltering January morning, under a deep blue near cloudless sky, I made my way through the entrance gate for False Bay and into the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. My plans had changed as I intended to drive to my destination but an email from the lodge I was heading to offered me a ferry transfer. Following the directions, as per my email, I found the car park from where the ferry would pick me up. I stood on the shoreline of the great St Lucia Lake gazing out across the vast expanse of water wondering from where my ride would appear. Right on time it appeared in the distance and cruised towards me. After exchanging some polite waves with the crew, the ferry turned and reversed right up to me before coming to a halt on the shallow lake’s edge. I was not sure what to expect when I was invited to travel by ferry. The last ferry I had been was to the Isle of Wight, here at home in England, along with hundreds of other people. This was a far more personal experience, as this ferry, captained by Vincent, joined by assistant lodge manager Sebeh and chef Diego, only had seating for around a dozen people. There were seats indoors, on the stern of the boat and on the roof. I tested all three seating areas during the forty-minute transfer. From the ferry you get amazing views of the lake and its lush green vegetated surrounds. There are beaches, rocky shores, dunes and thick bush. And if you are lucky you will get to spot hippos, Nile crocodiles, or some of the abundant bird life, from African fish eagles to flamingos, that reside here in the World Heritage Site, iSimangaliso Wetland Park. I must mention as well that Diego, a real bonus and surprise, served up a basket meal lunch of fried chicken, samosas, meatballs in a sweet spicy sauce and chips. As Vincent slowed the boat’s engines the lodge jetty and moorings came into view looking up. beyond our mooring, sat Nibela Lake Lodge, beautifully nestled into the natural coastal forest. To the African beats softly playing over the ferry sound system, which reminded me of the music of the late great Johnny Clegg, Sebeh departed, or rather danced, her way from bow to jetty. Then all eyes on me. I moved my feet and arms to the sounds in my head but not those of the music coming from the sound system. Even in the loosest sense of the word this was not dancing. But this set a good tone as Nibela is as much about fun as it is about getting away from it all and total relaxation. This is a place that can be whatever you want it to be. After checking in the fun continued. This fun was a first for me and all ‘firsts’ get a mention in my articles. I was a little apprehensive about the afternoon’s excursion, but I can honestly say it was fun and a great experience. Quad biking was never something I had ever considered but after a lesson, from guide Sipho, which included some riding tips, do’s and don’ts and basic safety we were off. Sipho led the way, followed by myself and Sebeh, through the lodge gates and out on

Very disappointed with this accommodation. Started badly when we couldn’t get in the gate. There was an intercom, turns out it doesn’t work but there was no sign to tell us that it wasn’t working. Had to phone reception, they then phoned security guard to let us in. Parked car and lugged our bags all the way along a rickety boardwalk to the reception - turns out if you leave bags at car they will take them to your room. Friendly reception staff who greeted us with a welcome drink. Given key to our lodge - expected a beautiful view over the lake but disappointed to find there was very little view due to the vegetation. Room was shabby and small. You can’t drink the water so have to have the water they provide. Our room wasn’t turned down the first night so water wasn’t topped up which meant a trek to reception to get some drinking water. Menu was poor and provided in a shabby plastic folder. Food wasn’t great, reminded me of a Wetherspoons. Husband hired a mountain bike but chain kept coming off and gears didn’t work. One hour boat trip out over lake was worth doing and we saw a hippo. Staff friendly and try their best but place need an injection of money to bring it up to standard. This was the forth place we stayed on our two week trip and really disappointing.

Not quite 4 star! Nibela Lodge unfortunately didn’t live up to the 4 star rating. We stayed at the lodge for 3 nights in July 2023. Despite the welcoming staff and warm smiles, this hotel left us wanting and disappointed. We took the breakfast and dinner option. The food was average. Well presented. But don’t expect much more. With a few exceptions, most of the food on offer is basic. Expect to wait a long time for meals - we even waited over an hour! Received mains before starters. And got chicken in a vegetarian pasta. The restaurant was out of stock of many things - including bread. The rooms although, comfortable don’t seem to be well maintained. The air conditioner didn’t work and took more than one request to get it fixed. We did not have hot water twice in a 3 night stay. The hotel does not have blankets. It was a cold and uncomfortable couple of nights. There was no wifi in the room contrary to what we were told on arrival. After reporting it to the hotel it was finally resolved, 2 days later. If you’re looking for 4 star comforts, luxuries and attention to detail, this is not the place. The place seems to be poorly managed. And perhaps staff need more training. They are well intentioned but clearly lack experience. There are onsite activities like quad biking, nature walks, nature drives, fishing and a boat ride. We did the quad biking and a boat ride. The boat ride was just around the lake, didn’t see any crocs. R500 per person for a ride around the lake for an hour. I don’t think this lodge offers value for money. Based on our family’s experience I would not recommend this resort to family and friends. Our experience overall was underwhelming. And I believe over priced for what is on offer.