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African Wildlife

The Warthog: Adaptable Survivor of the Savanna

Posted by Denis on Tue December 2, 2025 in Gamedrive, Safari, Kruger National Park, Marloth Park, Fauna and Flora of Kruger National Park, Needles Lodge, and African Wildlife.

Discover the quirky charm and ecological role of warthogs in Kruger National Park and Marloth Park. Learn about their habits, social lives, and where to spot them near Needles Lodge.

How Many Days Do You Really Need on Safari in Kruger National Park?

Posted by Denis on Thu October 23, 2025 in Big Five, Safari, Kruger National Park, Marloth Park, Birdwatching, Needles Lodge, and African Wildlife.

Planning a Kruger safari? Discover ideal 2‑, 3‑ and 5‑night itineraries based from Marloth Park / Needles Lodge. Maximize wildlife, rivers, and the bush’s rhythms. 

Jackalberry: Shade Tree of the Riverine

Posted by Denis on Tue October 21, 2025 in Trees of Southern Africa, Kruger National Park, Marloth Park, and Needles Lodge.

Discover the Jackalberry tree (Diospyros mespiliformis) in Marloth Park and Kruger — its ecology, wildlife role, conservation, and why you’ll remember it on safari.

The Spirit Beasts of the Bush: African Folklore, Real Encounters, and the Magic of Marloth Park

Posted by Denis on Tue September 23, 2025 in Big Five, Marloth Park, Needles Lodge, and African Wildlife.

Leopard on Needles Lodge Kruger Park safari

Discover the deep African myths behind lions, leopards, elephants, and hyenas — and learn how Marloth Park and Needles Lodge offer a safari experience rich with cultural storytelling and wild encounters.

The European Bee-eater – A Jewel Over the Bushveld

Posted by Denis on Tue September 9, 2025 in History, Big Five, Nightlife, Kruger National Park, Nature Conservation, Birdwatching, and Needles Lodge.

Discover the vibrant European Bee-eater in Kruger National Park. Learn about its migration, hunting behavior, and where to spot it during your stay at Needles Lodge in Marloth Park.

Guest Reviews

SIMPLY AMAZING

My family stayed at Needles recently. We were traveling with my three daughters. The stay with Needles was fantastic, it not only met, but far exceeded our expectations Being a small lodge, we were welcomed like valued guests. Lyn was our host for the four nights we stayed, she was absolutely delightful. Evening meals were a highlight, sharing our meals with other guests and Needles staff and owners was... Read More

- Ian , December 2025

Melbourne Australia
A wonderful experience

Although we were here for one night, it was a wonderful experience. The rooms were luxurious, well-maintained and welcoming, with special attention to detail. Food was excellent and hearty. Denis and Philip really bring the whole place together. Memorable stay!

- Shalaka Deshpande, June 2025

India
What a fantastic place!

What a fantastic place to spend some time in South Africa. The location is beautiful, the rooms are splended and very tasteful. The service is excellent, nothing is lacking at Needles Lodge. Cosy living room setting in the evening while enjoying delicious meals. We would love to come back again. Thank you so much for your hospitality.

- Familie Levering en Kerkhof, May 2025

The Netherlands
Needles is our home away from home

We have been coming to Kruger regularly for years and in 2020 Needles was recommended to us by a friend. In October 2020, the only month this year in which one could travel from Germany to South Africa, we had our first stay there and it has now become our favorite place outside of Kruger. Our whole family loves the familiar and cozy atmosphere. The entire team is very... Read More

- Ines & Mike Marcinowski, November 2024

Germany