How many beds can a lodge have?

The number of commercial beds allowed is generally determined by the Game Reserve’s rules, the size of the property, and the municipality. Generally, larger properties are permitted more commercial beds. For example, in the Klaserie Game Reserve, a landowner needs 50 hectares per commercial bed, as per the Klaserie Constitution. Thus, an 800-hectare property would allow only 16 commercial beds. However, on some 21-hectare properties in Balule, the reserve rules allow for an 8-bed, 10-bed, or 12-bed lodge. When the municipality grants lodge or resort rights, they also set a limit on the number of commercial beds, which can be quite high, such as 26 or 30 beds even on a small 21-hectare property. Within the Hoedspruit area, 21-hectare properties are considered small and are likely to be allowed between 9 and 12 commercial beds. The municipality also has a capped number of commercial beds that must align with their municipal bylaws.