Toro Yaka is an exclusive, quiet lodge nestled on the outskirts of the Greater Kruger National Park, in the Balule Nature Reserve, South Africa. The name translates to “My Dream” in Northern Sotho, and it is their goal to provide guests with a relaxed stay in the wild. This haven of peace and tranquillity was the dream of Steve and Nicole Bailie, the current owners, whose passion for nature inspired the creation of this one of a kind lodge. Together with their welcoming team, the Toro Yaka family carefully caters to the needs of guests, helping every guest create a home away from home in Africa for that photographic safari experience.
The biggest reason why guests return time and again to Toro Yaka is that they offer restful accommodation, natural, unrushed game drives and walks, and delicious wholesome food. Guests have a real safari experience and as the lodge is purposely never overbooked, guests have privacy, peace and quiet.
The original idea for our bush lodge began when owners Nicole and Steve decided to create a place where nature could take center stage. As a bush paradise, the lodge has everything you’d expect from a 5-star retreat: great food, exceptional hospitality, plenty of time spent in untouched nature, and a home away from home style of accommodation, where guests can truly relax and rejuvenate. Just 4 days after Steve and Nicole were married, they set foot in Toro Yaka for the very first time.
They had seen the lodge advertised in Africa Geographic, and while they were in the area, decided to pay an unexpected visit. Although at that time they worked at a different lodge, owning a lodge had never been far from their minds. On the 15th of June 2006, their dreams came to life. They bought Toro Yaka, which translates quite aptly to “My Dream” in Northern Sotho, and finally had the opportunity to create the tranquil African bush lodge they had always envisioned.
The staff at Toro Yaka are one of the reasons why time spent here is so rewarding. They spoil guests and ensure that they are always well taken care of. The staff are friendly and helpful, as well as tremendously skilled. From general maintenance and cleaning to running the lodge and preparing exquisite meals, our staff excel at customer service.
Conservation and care for the environment are always at the forefront of their minds as they realize it not only about them but all the game that surrounds them.
If you are interested in staying at this amazing lodge, please contact us at 1-800-940-9344 if you’re ready to start planning your African Safari Vacation. Or email us at hoainfo@hillsofafrica.com.