Great stay at Hippomoon! The reserve and rooms are unique, and we were treated like VIPs!

Stayed in July 2025

Great atmosphere, wonderful surroundings and excellent room.

Stayed in June 2025

We got a free upgrade to a room in the main house. To be honest I think it was as much for the hosts convenience as it was for ours since I think the room we booked was in the bush camp and all other guests were at the main house. The room we got belonged to the owner. It was large and well appointed, but there was no hot water in the bathroom. We had to trek across the main living space (where there were always people) to go shower in another room. I appreciate that it might have been unavoidable but given that this was our only experience of the place it wasn't a perfect one. I suspect this won't be a issue for many guests.

The is a really singular property. It's a work of art in some ways. There is a large wildlife estate attached to the accommodation and the animals come in for feeding in the evenings and the mornings which is perfect for viewing. We enjoyed running in the estate and driving around to see the animals. The owner Xavier was not there during our stay, we nevertheless heard a lot about him. The dinners were good and a great opportunity to socialise with other guests.

Stayed in May 2025

Could not think of anything

This lodge is absolutely spectacular and very unique. Xavier, the owner, is phenomenal. Peter and I had great discussions with him. Lots of fun and laughter. He is an extremely interesting person. Superb food. Great surroundings. The "golden wildebeests" and the "kissing giraffe" on the property are very special. Noteworthy are the 1928 Bugatti and the Triumph motorcycle in the living room. There are vintage cars all over the property. I have never seen a more interesting place like the Hippomoon Lodge. As a world traveller I must admit that this is one of the most spectacular, interesting and fun place I have ever stayed at. Highly recommendable!!!!!! Thanks Xavier!

Stayed in March 2025

I personally like a soft mattress, but that’s personal.

The trip at hippo Moon reserve would’ve been worth it even just for the breakfast it was that good! Xavier outdid himself! Well

Stayed in April 2025

Nothing :)

Our stay at Xavier's Hippo Moon Lodge was absolutely amazing, more than a stay, it was an experience. With great reviews and ratings so high, my partner and I were curious about the place - and we were so glad for the decision. Xavier, who we read so much about, is one of a kind in person. Entertaining, funny, wise and with life stories and experiences for days. We got amazing up close with his giraffe, and other game animals, and his army of loving dogs. The guesthouse itself is a work of art, with exquisite designs, artifacts, classic cars, and architecture in each room. We had the most amazing hospitality, food, and famous 5 course dinners cooked by Xavier himself. Our friends visiting Hoepsruit, also got to meet Xavier, and have an amazing dinner. All in all, this was the most memorable weekend we have had, and we hope to visit again. Thank you Xavier, Patricia, Pretty and the team HippoMoon- hope many more people get to have magic times at your lodge.

Stayed in March 2025

It was wild and beautiful. Xavier has created unique spaces that blend with and enhance the natural landscape. His passion is evident in the health and diversity of the wild animals that live in his refuge. He is an excellent chef, loves to entertain and it is clear that he is living his dream. You will not be disappointed.

Stayed in February 2025

Gun to my head? I would be nitpicky about the cleanliness in our castle/room. It was dusty. It is a thatch roof and while I am quite aware of the negatives of a thatch roof (especially in the wilderness), sleeping and facing up at spiders and spiderwebs gave us the mental creepy crawlies while we slept. But we truly loved the accommodation. I would suggest a thorough, mechanical spring cleaning of the castle atleast once a month. Where the cleaners are able to reach the high ceilings, pool and outdoor showers etc.

Let me be clear. I loved staying here! The HOSPITALITY??? Top tier. Xavier, Patricia, Patrick, Chantelle. It’s like we were visiting our estranged eccentric, rich uncle’s family. Home away from home. We met some amazing people who were also staying there and the staff facilitated our acquaintance effortlessly. The food? Xavier & Patricia cook the food and it was nothing short of amazing. Every single day. I particularly enjoyed the soup Patricia made as well as the pasta and sweet desserts Xavier spent hours making. I actually don’t know how they do it with such little staff. We genuinely felt at home and ALL our needs (& wants) were accommodated for. We even booked one more night and felt sad when we had to leave. Also… if they recommend an activity - DO IT!!! The eccentric interiors? What a sight! Everyday we were finding something new in the house to marvel at. lol. Thoughtfulness in every piece. Some of the art pieces were handmade by Xavier. Please read the reviews and look at the pictures to ensure you know what you are getting yourself into. We booked the castle and we could be secluded from other guests and still had the choice of joining in on the festivities in the main house. I am a dog lover and I was in heaven. Friendly dogs everywhere ready for belly rubs. Animals everywhere around the property. I could go on and on but we will definitely be back. I wish I could share more photos.

Stayed in January 2025

We loved everything and wished we could have stayed longer. There was no 11 to rate this place so we gave it a 10. Xavier and Patricia are awesome guests and make you feel at home. The reserve is incredible with animals at your doorstep. The Lodge is stunning and extremely well decorated and the food incredible. Thanks for everything - we will be back !

Stayed in January 2025

We only stayed for one night at the Hippomoon Lodge but were treated to quite an eventful time there. I was celebrating my 50th birthday and on meeting the colourful and effervescent Xavier, we were shown round our room which was nothing short of spacious, a large room with an equally large adjoining bathroom. I'm sure that Xavier would agree that the real star is lovely Patricia who was exceptionally kind and helpful. The hospitality here set the tone for our ZA experience, nothing was too much trouble. Xavier is a prolific raconteur so sit back with a drink and enjoy the anecdotes. The lodge is around 30 min drive from Hoedspruit Airport along an unmade road that will hopefully be completed soon. Around the lodge are a variety of animals that can be enjoyed at close quarters. Xavier took us out in his truck to explore the animals on the estate that included giraffe, zebra, ostrich and a variety of buck. In the evening, we were served with a lovely meal cooked to perfection, while appreciating the effort made to make my birthday really special. The electrical storm added a little sparkle to the evening. The lodge is a fun place to stay, roomy and very comfortable. You will be really well looked after and there is plenty to see just by relaxing within the outside space that includes a small pool and recliners. Thanks again to Patricia and Xavier for their warm hospitality and helpful advice that set us on our way on what was a memorable trip.

Stayed in November 2024

Nothing

Unfortunately, our stay at Hippomoon Lodge was limited to just one night, but the experience was truly unforgettable. The serenity of the bush was breath-taking. We enjoyed stunning sunrises and sunsets, and were fortunate to witness incredible wildlife at the water hole right by the lodge. The decor and furnishings were of the highest quality. The host was incredibly attentive and extremely knowledgeable. The 5-star meals were exceptional. Everything was perfect. We will definitely return for a longer stay.

Stayed in January 2025

There is no guarding at the main gate, ask about protocols around this during your stay. Otherwise there is nothing to complain about.

Beautiful calm surroundings, an array of animals to see on the property and full view of them at the waterhole with a beautiful backdrop of mountains as you take a swim in the lovely pool. Neighbouring property houses the infamous Jessica the Hippo, a very special experience. Close by the Blyderiverpoort Dam another memorable boating experience of nature in beautiful symbiosis. A beautiful room with unexpected treats. Staff took really good care of my dog and myself, although we found ourselves in tricky situations with the dogs on site and unwelcome insects. I’m thankful for the quick care and attention they provided us. The food was freshly prepared, delicious and in abundance much thanks to the hosts Patricia and Xavier. I thank you for one of my best experiences of our beautiful country. The guests were lovely to mingle with and I never felt like I was alone.

Stayed in January 2025

All was perfect.

Xavier and Patricia are amazing, gracious hosts, they made sure we had everything we needed, recommended and booked our activities. We loved the tranquility of the bush setting and being able to see animals on our walks and in front of our room. Very relaxing environment from the moment you arrive, you feel you can rest and just enjoy the time away. The room was beautifully decorated and very comfortable. We look forward to coming back.😃

Stayed in December 2024

all was perfect

extermly unique experince-located in the middle of the bush sournded with animals-very speical host

Stayed in November 2024

We only spent one night at the property, however we had the best time with Xavier and his animals. He was extremely warm and welcoming and cooked amazing food for us. We luckily got the presidential suite as an upgrade which was dreamy! Would definitely recommend to stay at this lodge.

Stayed in September 2024

Hippomoon Lodge is ideally located to travel to several attractions including Kruger park and other private parks and animal sanctuaries. Very importantly as well, our host Xavier went the extra mile to make us feel welcome. He gave us plenty of recommendations which proved very useful. He's an excellent cook (the portions also were very generous) and has a great sense of hospitality. Patricia also was a star (friendly, welcoming and efficient). The room is super nice and original and the amenities are very clean and comfortable. The icing on the cake was to accompany Xavier feeding the zebras and various antelopes. We also saw giraffes and ostriches in his domain. We could not have hoped for a better beginning of our holiday in South Africa.

Stayed in September 2024

The abundance of wildlife in close proximity to our accommodation was amazing. A wonderful collection of memorobelia in the dining room; very tasty food, and Xavier and his staff are wonderful hosts.

Stayed in September 2024

The style, interior, the whole house!

What a place! Something you see very rarely! Xavier is one of the best guest person I ever met, he has done everything we wished for. Location, Animals, his dogs, everything was een experience never to forget

Stayed in November 2023

We had a wonderfull stay. We did get a upgrade in room and may sleep in the Presidential Suite. Xavier welcomed us in a wonderful and friendly way, he waited by his gate. Please make sure you rent a SUV, you won't regret it. After a tour through the Lodge, Xavier made us a very delicious and tastefull diner. He is a real good chef. We had this diner in his garden close to all the animals! Just lovely! Also the breakfast in the morning was great, with homemade bread. We enjoyed our stay! The Lodge has all needed facilities you need. When you are near Hoedspruit this is the Lodge to be!

Stayed in August 2023

An amazing experience, the host Mr Xavier is extremely accommodating. There are many activities that Mr Xavier can organize, a suggestion would be to speak to him prior to booking any adventure safaris.

Stayed in May 2023

beautiful Mountain View fabulous decorations delicious French dinner unique African bush lodge

Stayed in May 2023

I think we were really lucky to stay in the main house as a family group. If we had been in the lodges they are beautiful but a little remote, involving a drive.

Breakfast was great at Hippomoon. We couldn’t have asked for more attentive service from Xavier. We stayed in the main house (not the lodges) which was huge with fantastic decor. The terrace, pool & fire pit with outlook onto feeding station for the wild animals eg Zebra & antelopes was spectacular. We opted for the additional charge to have dinner on the terrace at night. The food was excellent. Xavier is the most attentive host we have ever stayed with going way beyond what you would normally expect. He took the time to show us around his estate and share his animals with us. Memorable encounter with his giraffe. Expert at helping plan activities to do during our stay.

Stayed in March 2023

Xavier was the most impressive host imaginable. It was an unforgettable stay, thanks to his hospitality and culinary skills. We had the fortune of seeing two baby giraffes on his reserve and Xavier took us around in the morning on a safari. The rooms are an eclectic mix of art and beautifully interior design and the views in the morning out to the mountains are spectacular. Thank you for our stay it will forever be in our memories.

Stayed in March 2023

nothing

Xavier is an absolutely amazing host with a jaw-droppingly beautiful property. This isn’t a hotel, this is an experience. Each night, Xavier prepared a delicious dinner for us to enjoy and even took into account all dietary restrictions. Hippomoon was the highlight of our South African honeymoon.

Stayed in March 2023