LODGE ACCESS

Travel & Arrival at Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway

Getting Here, Transfers, Travel Tips, Maps & FAQs

Getting Here

Driving Time: Approximately 3 – 3.5 hours from Johannesburg

Distance: ± 285 km

  • Take the N1 North from Johannesburg or Pretoria.
  • After driving approximately 120 km north of Pretoria, you’ll reach the Kranskop Toll Plaza. Take the R33 off-ramp (stay in the left-hand lane) toward Modimolle (Nylstroom).
  • Continue straight on the R33 through Modimolle (Nylstroom), heading toward Vaalwater.
  • Once in Vaalwater, stay on the R517 (R520) toward Thabazimbi. You’ll pass a Spar and Total Garage on your left.
    Important: As you pass through Vaalwater, please call the lodge at 014 755 4920 (or 011 516 4367 if the landline is unavailable) to confirm your arrival and ensure timely collection at the EastGate. Note: You will lose cell signal after leaving Vaalwater.
  • Continue on the R517 (R520) for 24 km after Vaalwater. Watch carefully for the Welgevonden EastGate sign/turnoff on your left.
  • Turn left at the EastGate and proceed to the security boom, where you’ll park your vehicle. Your guide will be waiting to transfer you to the lodge.

  • Private vehicles are not permitted inside the reserve.
  • Park securely at the designated gate parking area.
  • Our Clifftop safari guide will meet you for your transfer in an open 4×4 safari vehicle.

  • Arrival Transfers (Check-in): Between 14h00
  • Departure Transfers (Check-out): Depart lodge after breakfast, reaching the gate by 10:00–11:00
  • After-Hours Transfers: Available on request, subject to a R1 500 vehicle surcharge for early/late transport

  • Charter Flights: To Welgevonden Airstrip (±1 hr from Johannesburg). Lodge transfer ±45 minutes.
  • Helicopter Landings: Approved helipad available at lodge; bookings require 72 hours’ notice.

For quotes, contact: res@extraordinary.co.za

Conservation fee: R295.00 per person, per day, is applicable and payable at the lodge upon departure.

Clifftop Exclusive Safari Hideaway romantic sunset 1

Travel Tips & Essentials

  • Best Times to Visit
    • Dry Season (May–October): Prime for wildlife sightings.
    • Wet/Green Season (November–April): Beautiful landscapes and birdlife.
  • Malaria-Free
    • Welgevonden is a certified malaria-free reserve—no prophylactics required.
  • Connectivity
    • Wi‑Fi: Available at main lodge.
    • Mobile Signal: Limited or none—perfect for unplugging.
  • Electricity
    • South Africa uses 220 V with plug type M. Lodge has inverters, and services continue during loadshedding.
  • Packing Recommendations
    • Neutral safari tones, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent.
    • Layers in winter (May–Aug), with light rain gear for summer.
    • Bring binoculars, camera, reusable water bottle, and swimwear.
  • Conservation & Sustainability
    • Clifftop operates on a low-impact tourism model within the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere Reserve (36 000 ha).
    • Guests contribute via all-inclusive stays, conservation levies, and responsible tourism.

What to Pack

  • Summer (Sep – Apr):
    • Light, breathable clothing
    • Rainproof jacket
    • Sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brim hat
    • Swimwear for private plunge pool
  • Winter (May – Aug):
    • Warm layers for morning game drives
    • Gloves, scarf, beanie
    • Comfortable walking shoes
    • Neutral-toned clothing for game viewing

Maps & Directions

GPS Coordinates:

  • Vaalwater Call Point: S 24° 17′ 50.10″, E 27° 55′ 16.84″
  • Lodge Coordinates: S 27.310349, E 27.91008

A digital Welgevonden Game Reserve map is available via email or at check-in.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Currently, use the Welgevonden Main Gate (not East Gate) until road repairs are complete. Please confirm with the lodge when calling from Vaalwater.

This helps us coordinate your exact arrival time for a seamless transfer into the reserve.

No. All guests must park at the designated reserve gate and transfer in a Clifftop vehicle.

Yes, but they must be arranged in advance and are subject to a R1 500 fee per vehicle.

No, Welgevonden is malaria-free.

Children under 13 years are not permitted. Guests aged 13+ pay full adult rates and must occupy a separate suite if not sharing with one adult in a suite.

Lodge Contact Information

Lodge Line (Call from Vaalwater): +27 14 755 4920
Reservations Office: +27 11 516 4367 | res@extraordinary.co.za