A little history… The original homestead ~ recently renovated into Bucklands Lodge which opened its doors in April 2010 ~ was thought to have been erected in about 1872 by Alf Buckley, still consists of a house built of green brick, a double-storey stone fort with loopholes and a small pitched roof storeroom with a dung floor. The outside concrete staircase, leading to the upper level of the tower was added sometime after 1936, replacing a wooden staircase, which in its turn, had been put in after the fort was constructed. It has been suggested that Alf Buckley might have built it to protect his family during the frontier wars, but it is not typical of a fortified farmhouse and it seems more probable that it was built as part of a military outpost on the frontier defence line, serving as protection between Fort Brown and Double Drift. This would assume that the fort pre-dates the house which Buckley probably attached to the fortification as a safety measure in uncertain times.

The renovation of this historic homestead, into what is now Bucklands Lodge, is of significance to the area as there are many such buildings in need of attention in the district, hence we are proud to form part of the preservation of a cultural heritage that is rapidly being lost to future generations. Bucklands Lodge is completely solar powered offering 4 luxury double suites, all of which have modern en suite bathrooms. Each suite has been individually designed and has been classically furnished with the highest quality crisp linen and soft furnishings.

Bucklands Lodge has a comfortable sitting room, with other guest areas being the formal lounge and dining room, verandas and swimming pool offering majestic views over the rolling valleys all the way to the Hogsback, Gaika's Kop and the Winterberg in the distance. A huge wild fig tree in the garden is the perfect place to spend a quiet afternoon with a book or you could have a drink with friends and family in our rustic pub in the historical fort. Game can also be viewed grazing on the planes from the comfort of the verandas! Our chef prepares traditional South African brunches and high teas and serves a delicious three course dinner in the elegant dining room each evening. Take a guided game drive to view our extensive variety of wildlife and spectacular scenery or if you prefer to walk, our rangers will be happy to show you all the special historical sites of interest on Bucklands Private Game Reserve.

What to bring: Bird & mammal books, binoculars, photographic equipment, sun block, insect repellents, hats, books, your own fishing tackle (or you can hire from us) and good walking shoes.

Bucklands Lodge ~ Rates

Bucklands Lodge offers a Fully Inclusive Rate, which is quoted in South African Rands; should you require these rates in a foreign currency, kindly contact us for assistance. Bucklands Lodge Rates are valid from the 1st March 2017 until 28th February 2018 and are subject to the Terms and Conditions of Bucklands Private Game Reserve. Please check our Summary of Rates page for any current specials.

Fully Inclusive Option ~ R2 100 pppn sharing or R2 500 pppn single

Inclusive of:-      
Bucklands Lodge Accommodation, 2 game drives a day, Early morning tea, Brunch, Afternoon high tea, Game drive snacks, Three course dinner.

Exclusive of:-
Additional activities, All beverages, Transfers to Bucklands Private Game Reserve, Items of a personal nature.

Child Policy:-
Children 6 years and over are welcome at Bucklands Lodge, 
Children ages 6 - 12 years accompanied by parents 
stay at 50% of the full tariff rate

Please note that our rates are subject to change, without notice.