A Story of Legacy, Love & Conservation
Heritage Lodge was once the cherished home of Basie Wessels, the visionary behind the transformation of Mabalingwe. Initially known as the farm “Boschpoort,” this land was acquired by the Wessels family in 1972 and grew into the celebrated reserve it is today. In the late 1980s, Basie turned his dream into reality by developing the farm into a premier wildlife and holiday destination, introducing hippos, rhinos, sable, and later rescuing elephants from Kruger National Park .
In April 2008, Basie lost his life in a gyrocopter (autogyro) accident on the property, along with a young photographer filming for the African Travel Channel.
In honor of his memory, the Wessels family lovingly restored his home and transformed it into Heritage Lodge—a boutique retreat that embraces both luxury and lineage.
The lodge houses a memorial garden that tells the story of Mabalingwe’s evolution and a memorial wall engraved with the names of those who helped build the reserve through the years—ensuring their contributions are forever remembered.
This house is rich with stories and memories for the family — generations have laughed, loved, and celebrated here. Now, it offers that same warmth, charm, and rootedness to every guest who visits.
Meet Your Host
At the heart of Heritage Lodge’s welcoming spirit is Welhemina “Mina” Kgatle. She’s not just the lodge’s host, she’s its custodian and a beloved member of the family.
Mina has known the Wessels family since 1994 and has played a nurturing role in the lives of the fourth generation. To them, she’s like a second mother.
She shares a close connection with the family, and today continues to carry
Basie's legacy with warmth and dedication.
Beyond ensuring every guest experiences comfort and luxury, Mina is also the keeper of Mabalingwe’s stories. She can share all the old tales and treasured memories of the reserve—from its early days and the vision of its founders, to the adventures of the wildlife that call it home.
Through her stories, Mina brings the history, spirit, and magic of Mabalingwe to life for every visitor.
GALLERY
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Discover the essence of African elegance — from hippos at sunrise to elephants at dusk, all from the comfort of Heritage Lodge.
DISCLAIMER:
- Heritage Lodge has multiple steps and three levels, and is not suitable for wheelchairs or guests with limited mobility.
- NO CHILDREN UNDER 16 will be accommodated at the lodge.
- The dam is seasonal and water levels might drop depending on season.
Heritage Lodge is a beautiful self-catering lodge situated on the Basie Wessels dam in the Mabalingwe Reserve.
Overlooking the dam, you can watch hippos wallowing in the water and see elephants quenching their thirst just meters away. This lodge is ideal for friends, couples, or corporate retreats.
The lodge features five beautifully appointed rooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom, ensuring comfort and privacy for every guest. Gather together in inviting communal spaces that include a spacious patio, a traditional boma braai area, and a heated swimming pool for year-round enjoyment.
Situated 1.2km from the main gate, this lodge gives easy access to the main road, game drive areas, activities, and the Skilpaddop convenience shop located in the Caravan Park.
CAPACITY
Heritage Lodge is designed for 1 - 10 people.
The unit consists of 5 bedrooms and rates are per person sharing.
If single rooms are booked, the rates will change. Please enquire from our reception for an updated quote.
LAYOUT
BEDROOMS:
Bedroom 1: 1 x Double bed / 2x Twin beds and en-suite bathroom (shower and bath)
Bedroom 2: 1 x Double bed / 2x Twin beds and en-suite bathroom (shower and bath)
Bedroom 3: 1 x Double bed / 2x Twin beds and en-suite bathroom (shower and bath)
Bedroom 4: 1 x Double bed / 2x Twin beds and en-suite bathroom (shower and bath)
Bedroom 5: 1 x Double bed / 2x Twin beds and en-suite bathroom (shower and bath)
LIVING AREA:
Spacious living room with Smart TV.
Opens onto outdoor patio and pool area.
DINING AREA:
Spacious dining area close to the kitchen.
Enough seating to accommodate a large group.
FULLY EQUIPPED KITCHEN:
Large spacious kitchen.
Appliances include:
Fridge - freezer combo, Chest freezer, Microwave, Kettle, Toaster, Gas stove, electric oven.
OUTDOOR PATIO AREA:
Patio overlooking the dam.
Built in braai.
Heated swimming pool.
PARKING:
Free parking
FACILITIES AND SERVICES
- Free Wifi
- TV with DSTV
- Boma with braai grid and tools
- Gas Stove
- Oven
- Air-conditioning
- Cleaning Service is available upon request or can be booked online @ R150 per service.
Service includes:
- Washing dishes
- Removing the trash
- Tidying the Kitchen
- Cleaning the braai
Wood and ice can be booked prior to arrival through our reception or when making a booking online @ R25 a bag.