We went to Kruger National Park in 2016 and stayed at the Needles Lodge, which is located within a 30-minute driving distance. Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) is the nearest airport to Kruger National Park with daily nonstop flights (link) from Johannesburg (JNB) and Cape Town (CPT).
What brought on this travel memory?
We were talking about all the wildlife viewing at Kruger National Park and how we enjoyed our stay at the Needles Lodge. The dinners were prepared fresh and served next to a bonfire with mouth-watering desserts.
Award Booking Flights to Johannesburg
The only nonstop flights from the US to JNB are from Atlanta (Delta) and New Jersey (United), and it is difficult to find business class award space for two passengers on them.
Flying Blue
Virgin Atlantic and Flying Blue miles can be used to book Air France, albeit with high taxes (see the images below). A free one-way stopover in Paris is possible by calling Flying Blue customer service.
Qatar Avios
Qatar Airways business class is the best way to travel to Africa from the US and Avios can be used for redemption 360 days ahead of time (review).
Needles Lodge, Marloth Park
Needles Lodge (link) is located an hour away from the MQP airport and over 4 hours from the JNB airport.
The rooms are air-conditioned and have a private bathroom with a large bath, shower and free toiletries. There is an outdoor pool with a large deck where you can eat breakfast and dinner sitting with other guests.
Needles Lodge Dining
Needles Lodge serves free breakfast and a delicious 3-course gourmet dinner can be purchased for a very reasonable price (see image below). The cook prepares the steak to your liking and the owner discusses the menu and takes requests for dinner dishes. You have the option to either sit with other guests (engage in conversations) or sit in isolation to enjoy a peaceful time.
Wildlife viewing from the Needles Lodge
We went on several game drives (arranged by the Needles Lodge) to see the big-5 at Kruger National Park. On the days we chose to relax at the lodge, we were greeted by several visiting animals.
Conclusion
I can’t think of another budget all-inclusive stay inside Kruger National Park other than the Needles Lodge. After visiting the place in 2016, I am happy to see that Needles Lodge still maintains high ratings from Booking.com.