Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your stay at Needles Lodge

What time are check-in and check-out?

Check-in is from 14h00 to 19h00 and Check-out is at 10h30

Is Wi-Fi included and is it reliable?

Yes — complimentary Wi-Fi is available for guests across the lodge, including rooms, pool and lounge areas.

Can we see wildlife right at the lodge?

Yes — warthogs, giraffe, zebra, kudu, wildebeest, monkeys, mongoose, and impala often wander through the grounds during the day. But bear in mind we are not in a zoo and the animals roam free, and thus may or may not visit continually. 

What meals are served and when?

Breakfast is served each morning from 07h00, if you are leaving early we will provide a packed breakfast.  Dinner is a three-course service dinner and is served on the deck in the evenings from 19h00/19h30. 

Are children welcome and is it family-friendly?

Children aged 6 and older are welcome.

Can you help with transfers or getting to the lodge?

Yes. We can assist with arranging transfers from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) or shuttle drop-off points like City-Bug in Mbombela (Nelspruit). This must be booked in advance so timings work smoothly.

Do you offer safaris, or do we need to organise them ourselves?

Yes, we organise Kruger safaris for our guests. You don’t need to arrange anything separately unless you want to.

What types of safaris can you arrange?

We offer full-day and half-day game drives, Sunrise Drives, Sunset Drives, as well as guided early-morning bush walks in Kruger National Park.

Are the safaris private or shared?

Safaris are typically shared with other lodge guests. Private drives can be arranged on request, subject to availability.

Where do the safaris start from?

Safaris depart directly from the lodge or from a nearby Kruger gate, depending on the activity. We handle all the logistics.

Do we need to pre-book safaris before arrival?

Yes, we strongly recommend booking safaris in advance, especially in busy periods, to secure availability and park entry slots.

Do we need a 4×4 to get there?

No. A normal sedan is perfectly fine. Roads to the lodge are accessible year-round.

Can we walk around the area on our own?

Yes, during the day and with awareness. Wildlife is present, so we explain where and when it’s safe to walk and when it’s not. There is a curfew between sunset and sunrise. 

Are there mosquitoes and should we worry about malaria?

Mosquitoes are present, particularly in the warmer summer months. Marloth Park is located in a malaria-risk area. We recommend guests consult their medical practitioner or travel clinic before travelling for up-to-date advice and appropriate precautions. Using repellent and wearing long sleeves in the evenings is also advised.

What should we pack for a safari?

Neutral-coloured clothing, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a light jacket for early mornings. Binoculars are a bonus.

Will we see the Big Five?

Kruger offers excellent wildlife viewing, but sightings are never guaranteed. Every drive is different — that’s part of the safari experience.

Do you cater for special dietary requirements?

Yes. We regularly cater for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free diets. Please advise us of any dietary requirements or allergies before arrival so we can accommodate them properly.