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Birds

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 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.

The Martial Eagle – Kruger’s Mighty Sky Hunter

Posted by Denis on Fri July 11, 2025 in Safari, Kruger National Park, Wildlife Photography, and Birdwatching.

Meet the Martial Eagle – Kruger’s largest and most powerful bird of prey. Discover its hunting skills, conservation story, and where to spot it near Needles Lodge in Marloth Park.

The Thunderous Voice of the Bush: Meet the Southern Ground Hornbill

Posted by Denis on Thu June 19, 2025 in Safari, Marloth Park, Nature Conservation, Birdwatching, and Needles Lodge.

Discover the biology, behaviour, and conservation of the Southern Ground Hornbill in Kruger National Park. Learn how guests at Needles Lodge can help protect this iconic bird.

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