Kaaimans River Rustic Views

Loved the openness of the lodge and the fact one can just grab a kayak whenever they want and go up the river

The second smaller bedroom stank quite a bit, not sure if it was sewerage or old water but it was damp and a puddle formed in the room. It was so unbearable that our friends could not sleep there

A rustic paradise.

The adventurous experience of crossing the river. Kayaks for paddling. The fire pit. The bathroom was gorgeous.

The leaky rowing boat. The noisy traffic from the N2. The thread bare cushion covers on the deck. Sticky varnish on the kitchen counters. Noisy neighbour's.

The views, and water sports

Traffic noise

The location and the river is stunning. It’s also a beautiful concept to have an indoor/outdoor rustic feel. The bathroom is beautiful and looks just like it does in the photos. Francis the caretaker is wonderful and an absolute asset to the property.

The images on the booking.com site are not what the actual place looks like. It felt like the photos were taken years ago or selectively staged to hide the current condition of the place. Things are very warn and maintenance js needed. The view is not that of what is photographed, it has a large wooden fence which is not in any of the booking.com photos and the view is only seen if you climb to the top level. The bedroom is damp and it can become uncomfortable, especially in winter months. Be sure to have dry wood as the wet wood we were provided with did not light and smoked the bedroom out as that’s the only heating one has. More blankets should be supplied.

In general, this accommodation is great for disconnecting (there’s no wifi) and having a good times with friends. The view is spectacular and the area is really peaceful, even though the river is next to the main road. Two double-kayaks are available and the kitchen is well equipped. Good to know : there is a little restaurant by the river where you can get a snack while kayaking. But the most important part is how Francis, the main contact person, is the most kind, helpful and generous man we’ve met. He offered to lift us to George by night so we could catch a bus. He waited with us for the bus that actually never came and drove us afterwards to a nearby hotel so we could be safe. He stayed with us until we sorted our itinerary options, even though it was 2:30 AM. Thank you to the moon and back, Francis!

It gets pretty cold and humid this time of year (July) and there was no electrical heat. We tried to make a fire in the room (there is a functional fireplace without a door), but the wood was kind of wet and there wasn’t any paper. Francis’ wife came to give us fire starters later on. Overall, we were not fully prepared for a camping-style experience. In order to enjoy this accommodation you need to plan in advance and get proper groceries, warm clothes, matches and board games.

Location and rustic feel.

It's a spot that you really are staying put in as it requires rowing to the car park but that's what it's all about

Francis met us early to give us a lift over to the property by boat, he was very friendly and helpful and communicating with him and the owner was very easy.