Resorts are synonymous with relaxation, fun and quality time with loved ones, places where your biggest decisions will be whether to lounge around the pool or participate in the myriad leisure activities β making them perfect for family holidays.
One of the many swimming pools
Located in a wildlife reserve near Brits in the North-West province, Dikhololo is one of the most popular resorts near Johannesburg. Originally a cattle farm established in 1922, it was officially opened as a resort in 1983. Wildlife roam freely here and they often walk through the lodge especially in the evenings when they graze at the fringes of the bush near the chalets.
Reception area
We arrived at the resort on a Friday afternoon and were amazed at how busy it was, considering that it wasnβt a long weekend or school holidays. Staff at the gate took our temperatures and provided us with Covid-19 screening forms. We then proceeded to the reception area where we were checked-in efficiently and directed to our chalet.
Main Bedroom
Accommodation is grouped into several camps, which are clustered around rocky ridges and boulders, and range from two-sleeper to eight-sleeper thatch and stone units. We stayed in the Impala camp, and on arrival, the impalas turned up to welcome us as if on cue. Our comfortable 6-sleeper split-level unit had a main bedroom, a loft bedroom with twin beds, a lounge with two sleeper couches, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a bathroom with a bathtub and shower.
Loft bedroom
It opened onto a patio with a braai area and outdoor seating, where we were occasionally visited by vervet monkeys and beautiful birds.
Lounge and dining areas
There are so many things to do at Dikhololo that boredom is not an option. Although the multiple swimming pools are the biggest attraction in the scorching summer heat, there are umpteen other activities available, including game drives, tennis, volleyball, action cricket and mini-golf, as well as fishing and kayaking at the dam. The resort also has a spa, a fitness centre, an indoor heated pool and a supertube.
Activities at Dikhololo
The children have not been forgotten either. For the little ones, thereβs a playground, a playroom and a jumping pillow (which is like a huge trampoline), while the older kids have access to the teenage pad. GZ Adventures, the in-house adventure operator, offers quad-biking, horse-riding, archery and bicycle hire. Guests are handed a loaded weekly entertainment programme on arrival, listing events like quiz nights and movies at the outdoor cinema.
Activities for kids and teens
Although we didnβt have enough time to partake in all these activities, we did experience some of them. We went on a game drive where we saw many animals including zebras, giraffes, elands, sables and gemsboks. The animals were quite relaxed and we were able to get quite close to them. Later, we quad biked in the reserve surrounded by the wildlife. It was a first for us, and great fun.
Wildlife at Dikhololo
We also practiced our archery and mini-golf, and did a hike around the resort and up to one of the three look-out points where we were rewarded with a birdβs eye view of the sprawling reserve. In between, I found some time to go on a historic tour of the reserve and get pampered with a relaxing back massage at the Body Bliss Spa.
Body Bliss Spa
The resort is self-catering however there is a restaurant on site for those who donβt feel like cooking. Thereβs a convenience store that sells basic necessities too.
We only spent two nights here due to time constraints, but could easily have stayed for a week. Dikhololo Resort promises a fun-filled, affordable family getaway near Johannesburg in a beautiful bushveld setting. After having been there, itβs easy to see why itβs such a popular choice for so many.
The Dam
Good to know
Children of all ages are welcome.
Thereβs an 11 km gravel road leading up to the resort, however it is suitable for sedans.
Dikhololo Resort is 45 minutes away from Hartbeespoort.
For more information, visit Dikhololo or book here.
Follow Dikhololo on Facebook.
Win a 4-night stay in a self-catering unit for a family of 4 at Dikhololo Resort. The prize consists of a 4-night midweek out-of-season stay in a self-catering unit for 2 adults and 2 kids under 12.
Enter via the form below.
Competition is closed. Congratulations to Ullrie Van Zyl.
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Disclosure: 7
Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
Disappointing Experience at Dikololo β Misleading Accommodation
We recently stayed at Dikololo for our 6th Anniversary with our son, eagerly looking forward to a stay in one of their newly renovated studio apartments, as advertised on their website. Unfortunately, our experience fell far short of expectations.
The Booking Process
When we made our reservation, we were specifically drawn to the newly renovated studio apartments based on the modern amenities, fresh decor, and overall stylish appeal that were highlighted in the resort's promotional materials. We were excited for a contemporary, comfortable space to unwind during our getaway.
Arrival and Check-In
Check-in was smooth, but thatβs where the positives ended. We were assigned a room that looked nothing like the updated, sleek studios shown in the pictures. Instead, we were led to an old, dated apartment that seemed a far cry from the advertised renovations. The furniture was old, the decor felt tired, and the overall vibe was more "basic" than "modern retreat."
Room Condition
The room appeared clean, but it was clear that it hadnβt been refurbished in quite some time. The bathroom, in particular, showed visible signs of age β cracked tiles, a rusty faucet, and an outdated shower. The kitchenette was functional but lacked the polished, new appliances and finishes we had anticipated. We were left wondering if we'd been given the wrong room by mistake, according to the front desk that is how their system works, you pay for your room and the system assigns a room to you wether its the newly renovated studio apartment or an old outdated studio apartment. .
Misleading Advertising
What was most frustrating, however, was the clear mismatch between the photos on the resort's website and the reality of our room. The βnewly renovatedβ promise felt more like a marketing gimmick.
Customer Service
We brought our concerns to the front desk, where the staff was polite but not particularly helpful. They acknowledged that there had been some recent renovations, but were unable to offer us an upgrade or another room that was closer to what we had booked. We were told that the resort was "fully booked" and that no other options were available.
The Resort Itself
Despite the disappointing room, the resort grounds themselves were beautiful. The pool area was well-maintained. Itβs clear that the resort has potential, but unfortunately, the room was a major letdown.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while the resortβs location and amenities are lovely, the experience was tainted by being assigned a room that didnβt match the expectations set by the promotional materials. If youβre planning to stay at Dikololo, we recommend clarifying the type of room youβll be receiving before you book. As for us, weβll be looking for another option on our next trip, as we feel misled by the false advertising and lack of follow-through on what was promised.
Rating: βββββ (2/5)
Awesome Venue something for all age groups - ideal for family holidays
A stunning resort my favourite place in the bush. Has everything you need and a great gettaway.
We absolutely loved our time spent here and would go back anytime
We have never been here and desperately deserve a holiday after 5 years.
Looks amazing
Lovely place π
Been there last year
We really enjoyed it
They are so friendly, the place is clean. i wouldn't mind to go again and again.
What a lovely prize!
Absolutely one of the most beautiful parts of our country! The resort offers something for every member of the family and there are lots of opportunities to do fun things together as a family under the African skies. Those memories of the bush that involve all our senses can never be taken away from you! Big shout out to Dikhololo! One of a kind!
We love Dikhololo. Been visiting awith a friend that has timeshare there. Kids love the game visiting and lots to keep the whole family entertained
Beautiful breath taking scenic place...
Wow! Looks amazing and would really like to experience this amazing resort based on your reviews. It would make for an awesome birthday gift and sometime to catch a break after such a longtime being on lockdown.
We have been to Dikholo on various occasions, every time with different friends, staying in different size Chalets, and in different areas. It's an adventure every time. We love the animals, coming up close and personal. We enjoy participating in all the activities and games.
Oh how I would love to spend time in the bush once again, it has bern years since my last visit. Miss the sights, sounds and smells of the bush!ππΎ
i would love 2 go i just love the nature after everthing ive been throug a holiday would be nice yo just get away from everything it looks so beatifull and peacfully there
I would really love to win this, it would be such a great experience as I have never being there before. #FingersCrossed π€π»π€π»
the place looks spectacular, holding thumbs that I win this amazing giveaway! haven't been there before,would love to experience the hype!
Dikhololo Resort looks amazing! I love going to places that has something on offer for everyone in the family, and the kids activities look amazing.
It a beautiful place I would really enjoy going in here with my family.it would be th best holiday.
Wow this looks like such a beautiful holiday destination , I will love to go to it
Extremely grateful to enter..inshallah if it's meant for me I will be overjoyed with tears of joy as I'm a working single parent renting a flat.. my 2 kids boys and I & widowed mum would really appreciate this win as we haven't been anywhere in 19years..I really feel totally exhausted mentally physically emotionally drained if Allah wills inshallah jazakallah
Would love to go on this family break in this wonderful place
Wow this looks like such a beautiful holiday destination. This would be ideal after a long semester .
After a terrible year out family has had, I know this trip would do is good. Would love to win and catch a break!
Looks amazing.would love to go there .we have not been on a holiday or getaway since we got married.would be beautiful to spend our 28th anniversary in this wonderful place.inshaa Allah
The past year and a half has been a real challenge, a well deserved break with breath taking views with my family at this amazing resort will be really appreciated!
In Africa And Beyond Heard so much about this stunning place,,, WOW on my wish list for so long. Need to getaway from everything
it has been such a difficult year. I wish I could win this break God willing.
I've been never been at Dikhololo but I just love what I see and wish to experience it one day with my partner first.
I see the staff is very helpful and friendly, the food also looks yummy π
Havenβt been here before but this place really looks wonderful and what better BDay would my daughter ask for πΈlooks marvellous
Awesome place. Tons to do. Would love to go again asoon.π
Been there last year..what awesomeness to be so close to wild animals.
Loved the loft room u had.
Haven't been here in years but remember enjoying it thoroughly at this resort
Love the views and people's reviews. Just haven't have the chance to embrace this beautiful place....
Oooh this looks like the perfect way to end off a really long year ππππ
This is such a lovely place and the perfect getaway for my family. Holding thumbs I win this amazing giveaway.
We've been there before and we would love to take our grandkids on a holiday.
This resort looks absolutely amazing would love to take my family on holiday.
Peaceful and a place to be
Dikhololo is one of my favorite places to go on holiday.
I can see why - It's such a lovely family resort!