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Bird Watching

African Jacana: The Elegant Lily-Trotter of the Lowveld

Posted by Denis on Tue January 20, 2026 in Kruger National Park, Marloth Park, Birdwatching, and Fauna and Flora of Kruger National Park.

The African Jacana - Actophilornis africanus

Explore essential biological facts about the African Jacana. Learn about their unique "lily-trotting" feet, unusual breeding habits, and life in the Lowveld wetlands.

Secretarybird: The Stalking Raptor on Stilts

Posted by Denis on Tue November 18, 2025 in Safari, Kruger National Park, Birdwatching, Fauna and Flora of Kruger National Park, Needles Lodge, and African Wildlife.

Discover the unique hunting style, behaviour, and habitat of the Secretarybird in Kruger and Marloth Park. Learn where to see these tall, terrestrial raptors near Needles Lodge.

The Ideal 8-Day Safari Itinerary from Needles Lodge

Posted by Denis on Wed July 23, 2025 in Gamedrive, Kruger National Park, Marloth Park, Wildlife Photography, and Needles Lodge.

Discover the perfect Kruger safari plan with this 8-day itinerary. Explore game drives, Blyde River Canyon, bush walks, and local tours from Needles Lodge in Marloth Park.

The Spotted Eagle-Owl: Silent Sentinel of the South African Night

Posted by Denis on Mon May 26, 2025 in Nightlife, Marloth Park, Nature Conservation, Birdwatching, Fauna and Flora of Kruger National Park, and Needles Lodge.

Discover the elusive Spotted Eagle-Owl near Needles Lodge in Marloth Park. Learn where and how to spot this majestic nocturnal bird on your next Kruger safari.

The African Hoopoe: Kruger’s Most Distinctive Bird

Posted by Denis on Wed March 5, 2025 in Gamedrive, Safari, Kruger National Park, Marloth Park, Wildlife Photography, Birdwatching, and Fauna and Flora of Kruger National Park.

Discover the fascinating African Hoopoe in Kruger National Park! Learn about its striking crest, unusual feeding habits, and where to spot this unique bird on your next safari.

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