Birder Friendly Establishments

Serenity Mountain and Forest Lodge is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains.  It is 12km outside the town of Malelane, 19km from the famous Kruger National Park. The Lodge and Restaurant are nestled in a bio-diverse Forest type eco-system, a combination of KwaZulu Natal and Mpumalanga and surrounded by highland mountains.

Some of the forest trees date back to more than a 1000 years and with that comes an abundance of bird species, rare butterflies, tree orchards, dragon flies and natural roaming game which are found in this reserve.

Serenity promotes the African culture through the awakening of all your senses with: unique African gourmet cuisine, the smell of giant forest trees, the soothing sound of the cascading water that flows through the lodge, the endless different shades of green that surround you which gives rise to mystical forest tales.
There are two demarcated walking trails under the forest canopy along the river and numerous
cascading waterfalls as well as up and over the surrounding mountains.

• A bird watchers paradise includes the shy and illusive Narina Trogan which breed every year at
  Serenity.
• Game viewing on foot.
• Private, romantic picnics arranged in a secluded piece of the forest with hammocks to relax on.
• Swimming pool or immerse yourself in the many cascading waterfalls and natural rock pools.
• Wellness treatments available in the privacy of your own Suite – to be arranged and pre-booked.
• Explore our haven of butterflies and trees that are more than a thousand years old.

Tomjachu is a four star exclusive private estate set in over 1000 acres of game fenced mountain bushveld, located within the Crocodile Valley Nature Conservancy. Just 20 minutes from Nelspruit it overlooks the southern boundary of the Kruger National Park and the great Crocodile River. It is regularly remarked upon as being one of the most beautiful and serene locations, in an area where beauty abounds.

Whether you want to do nothing and unwind listening to the orchestra of over 265 bird species, play croquet or boules, walk amongst non-predatory animals, fish for bass, or go for a game drive in our safari Land Rover with our experienced ranger, or see fish eagles grab a bream on the wing, mountain bike at any level from 30 m to 1006 m above sea level, Tomjachu offers the variety of your choosing.

Set in its own valley with breathtaking views across the Bekker Mountains, Tomjachu Bush Lodge with its cottages, is surrounded by beautiful gardens, lawns and terraces, all sharing the greater splendours of nature.

We accommodate just 16 guests over The Homestead and three delightful cottages, Rock House, Keepers Cottage and Bush Cottage. Each has their own character and romance. We are additionally blessed with spectacular bush locations, for braais, bush dinners and picnics, under the stars, waterfalls or open thatch, or breakfast by the water’s edge; whether it’s just two of you or a party, self-catering or from our homely yet elegant kitchens, good food and great atmosphere are assured.

Valbonne House is the latest addition at Tomjachu Bush Lodges, being a stunning 5 star graded luxurious house perched on the edge of the most commanding position of the property, with six bedrooms en-suite. The infinity pool and vast covered terrace offer the most breathtaking views across the mountains and valleys.