Experience the peace and quiet of Iketla Lodge, a place where the natural beauty of the South Africa unfolds before you. Our name, Iketla, meaning "be relaxed...be peaceful," reflects the essence of our lodge.
Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Iketla Lodge is set within a 540-hectare private nature conservancy along the Panorama Route, just 30 minutes from the renowned Blyde River Canyon. Rolling mountains, valleys, and rugged cliffs create a striking backdrop, while untouched African bush and indigenous forests provide a sanctuary for over two hundred bird species and a variety of wildlife. True to its name, Iketla invites you to slow down and embrace a peaceful retreat.
We welcome a maximum of 11 guests, ensuring a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Our attentive team focuses on providing a memorable experience through personalized service and attention to detail.
To maintain the quiet atmosphere, Iketla Lodge is best suited for adults. We can accommodate children under 12 only by prior arrangement.
Please note that we do not offer room service.
Iketla Lodge began its story in 2002 when Albert and Hennielene acquired this expansive 540-hectare property. While the land bears traces of historical African settlements, it remained undeveloped until their vision took shape. Prior to 2002, the area saw only occasional use as grazing land for local cattle. Albert and Hennielene recognized the potential of this untouched landscape and initiated the development of Iketla Lodge.
Albert and Hennielene began an ambitious journey to create this remarkable lodge from the ground up. They began this incredible project with a bare piece of land, just four months before welcoming their first guests. The challenge was significant: no existing infrastructure, no water, and no power. Starting with just four chalets, they poured their energy into building not just accommodation, but a welcoming experience. Over time, their dedication has led to continuous improvements and expansion up to eight well-appointed chalets which could comfortably accommodates up to 18 guests.
After celebrating their 10th anniversary of running the business successfully they decided to scale down and to sell. In 2015 the lodge was finally bought by Uwe and Silke who left their engineering career behind and made Iketla their new home away from home.
The original setup of the lodge was kept, but the new owners strived to make the lodge even better. In 2017 the Iketla became a certified member of Fair Trade Tourism, which we are very proud of and we do our best to really live the Fair Trade Tourism Concept.
When the Covid19 pandemic hit the world, we were forced to close the lodge temporarily and it was a long and hard way to recovery. We are very thankful that we have made it through those hard times, with all the support of our loyal agents and guests.
When the operations were nearly back to normal after the pandemic, we were faced with a huge veld fire that run through the lodge in August 2024. The fire destroyed 3 chalets completely as well as the Boma, the Lapa, the offices, public toilets, car park and staff accommodation.
Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the Iketla Team managed to open up the lodge for guests again in January 2025, even if we can accommodate only 11 pax at the moment. The rebuilding is still ongoing and it is a chance to improve even further.
