Hoedspruit
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ExploreThis little town is a laid-back gem and it’s a happy moment when you see Hoedspruit’s distinctive ‘welcome’ signs. It is no coincidence that they feature warthogs, as these endearing little animals are the town mascot. You’ll see them on the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate, but also eating grass and foraging for roots on the verges of streets and even in the parking lot of the Pick ‘n’ Pay.
The area around Hoedspruit that lies between the Greater Kruger National Park and the Blyde River Canyon is a mix of protected areas, forestry and farmland. Hoedspruit itself offers an array of authentic, quality restaurants, coffee shops, curio shops and art galleries that will make you want to spend time exploring.
While this booming Lowveld town is a popular gateway to some of South Africa’s best safari destinations and private nature reserves, as well as the iconic Kruger National Park, Hoedspruit also has a growing reputation as a conservation, research and training hub. Known as the wild heart of the lowveld, it is also a haven for artists, photographers, film-makers, writers and environmentalists inspired by nature.
The town’s economic life has traditionally centred round tourism and agriculture, but its laid-back lifestyle also appeals to a diverse mix of people, giving Hoedspruit its unique character. Its two large supermarkets stock everything you may need, and there are banks, doctors rooms, dentists, beauty salons, workshops and all the services that one could need when travelling internationally. Indeed, a large percentage of Hoedspruit’s population is made up of foreigners who have visited and invested in a second, or even a permanent home here.
Hoedspruit also has an active air force base, is the centre of operations for many aerial anti-poaching, conservation and research initiatives and many people train here to become recreational pilots. It also has an airport with daily flights to Johannesburg and regular flights from Cape Town.
Activities in and around Hoedspruit
There are several activities, day trips and fun ways to spend your time in and around Hoedspruit. Ubuntu Luxury Villa is offering special guest rates in collaboration with several partners which can be found in our information guide in the villa:
- Massage therapy at Africology Spa,
- Day trips to Kruger National Park or Blyde River Canyon / Panorama route with Selley Safaris.
Some of our favorite spots, businesses and services include:
Africology Spa – If you’re looking for a relaxing treatment using African and organic products, this spa is located just at the entrance to the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate. We also use their natural products throughout Ubuntu Luxury Villa. You may love them so much you want to take some home with you too.
Fruitful Living– This health shop in Hoedspruit is a rare find for any one interested in holistic living, vegan food, gluten-free, lactose-free and other specialty foods. It also stocks supplements, organic produce, and beauty products.
The Farmer’s Market – Held on the first Saturday of every month at the Bosveld Centre on the R40, this is a true gathering of local entrepreneurs, crafters, artists and cooks. It will give you a real taste of local life! Also Look out for the recently launched Night Market at Francine’s Venue. It takes place once a month.
Khaya Ndlovu Manor House– Just a few kilometers from the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate, this is a great place to book a guided game drive through a private reserve. Not only can you enjoy the bush and see many different animals close to Hoedspruit, including the big game we don’t have on the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate, but you can combine your drive with a lunch or dinner at their restaurant, which has one of the best views in Hoedspruit (aside from our viewing deck!).
Other activities you can book independently include:
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