The area offers an unforgettable safari experience from any of the numerous small lodges. Balule Game Reserve forms part of the Greater Kruger Park area which consists of 3 000 000 hectares. The Olifants River features prominently in a number of places which, in turn, is a drawcard for game as well as water birds. The Pels Fishing Owl is found along some stretches of the river. Balule offers great overall birding with more than 250 species recorded.  Wildlife is always drawn to the rivers. Apart from the Big 5 (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard), other game is the same as found throughout the Kruger Park as well as the other surrounding open areas. As all the areas, including Timbavati, Klaserie and Umbabat, are all open and unfenced with Kruger, game can move freely and unhindered. 

Two of the main gates of the Kruger National Park – being Phalaborwa and Orpen Gates – are within close proximity.

Balule consists of mixed woodland eco-zone, one of several eco-zones in the lowveld, and the one with the greatest variety of fauna and flora. The landscape is rolling with seasonal rivers draining the area. The region is of granitic origin, with quartz and dolerite intrusions and outcrops.

The reserve has an impressive hippo population which can be found wallowing in the river during the day. Crocodiles can be seen lying quietly along the river bank. They look like they are asleep but don’t dare venture too close. Civets and honey badgers are just two of the rarer creatures sometimes encountered.

Parsons and Grietjie are two of the areas of Balule that I most likely can assist with.