IVORY TREE GAME LODGE

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Ivory Tree Game Lodge

Important Information

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1. Check-In and Check-Out

  • Check-in: From 14:00
  • Check-out: By 11:00
    Early check-in or late check-out is subject to availability and must be arranged in advance with reception.

2. Meal Times

  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at set times and may vary seasonally. Please confirm current meal times at check-in or with reception.
  • All dietary requirements must be communicated in advance to ensure we can accommodate your needs.

3. Game Drives

  • Two daily guided game drives are included in your stay. Times are scheduled according to seasonal sunrise and sunset.
  • Please arrive at the departure point 10–15 minutes early.
  • No children under 6 are permitted on game drives unless on a private vehicle, which can be arranged in advance (subject to availability and an additional cost).
  • Guests who are six months pregnant or more are not permitted to participate in game drives. If you are less than six months pregnant, a medical certificate from your doctor confirming that you are fit to join the activity is required prior to the game drive
  • Guests are advised to wear neutral colors and bring warm clothing for early morning or evening drives.

4. Children Policy

  • Children of all ages are welcome at Ivory Tree Game Lodge.
  • Families with young children are encouraged to book Family Suites.
  • Children must be supervised at all times, especially around wildlife and swimming areas.

5. Smoking Policy

  • Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas.
  • All indoor areas, including rooms, dining areas, and vehicles, are strictly non-smoking.
  • Improper disposal of cigarette butts in the bush is a fire hazard and strictly prohibited.

6. Alcohol Policy

  • Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the bar and restaurant.
  • No alcohol may be brought into the lodge without prior approval.
  • We reserve the right to refuse service to any guest who appears intoxicated or behaves in a disruptive manner.

7. Noise Policy

  • As we are located in a natural wildlife environment, we ask all guests to keep noise levels to a minimum, especially during early mornings and evenings.
  • Quiet hours are observed after 21:00 in respect of other guests and the surrounding wildlife.

8. Wildlife & Safety

  • Do not approach or feed any wildlife.
  • Keep doors and windows closed when not in your room.
  • Read and adhere to all safety guidelines provided in your room.

9. Valuables & Liability

  • A safe is provided in each room for storing valuables.
  • Ivory Tree Game Lodge is not responsible for the loss, theft, or damage of personal items not secured.

10. Payments & Cancellations

  • Full payment is required as per your booking terms.
  • Cancellation fees may apply in accordance with your booking’s cancellation policy.
  • Major credit cards are accepted.

Medical Health and Safety Information

Your safety and well-being are our top priority. We kindly ask that you take note of the following important guidelines to ensure a safe and comfortable stay at Ivory Tree Game Lodge.

Medical Emergencies

  • Should you experience a medical emergency, please contact reception or any staff member immediately.
  • The lodge has trained first-aid staff on site and maintains a first-aid kit for basic medical needs.
  • For serious medical situations, arrangements can be made for transport to the nearest medical facility or emergency evacuation, depending on the nature of the incident.

Health Guidelines

  • The lodge is located in a malaria-free area; however, guests are advised to take standard health precautions and consult with a healthcare provider if concerned.
  • We recommend staying hydrated and using sun protection (hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses) during outdoor activities.
  • If you have specific medical conditions, please inform reception upon check-in so that we can provide appropriate assistance if needed.

Lodge Security

  • Ivory Tree Game Lodge is situated within a fenced area of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Monkeys, squirrels, snakes and other reptile insects have free access to the lodge
  • For your safety, please:
    • Keep your doors and windows closed when unattended, especially at night.
    • Do not attempt to approach or feed any animals that may come near the lodge.
    • If you spot an animal or reptile in your room, immediately phone reception.

Valuables

  • While every effort is made to ensure guest safety, the Lodge cannot be held responsible for the loss of personal items.
  • We recommend storing valuables such as passports, cash, and electronics in the in-room safe provided.
  • Please ensure safes are properly secured before leaving your room.

Fire & Safety Procedures

  • In the unlikely event of a fire or emergency evacuation, please follow the instructions of lodge staff.
  • Familiarise yourself with the emergency exits and evacuation meeting points, as indicated in your room information folder.

Gratuity Policy/Guideline

At Ivory Tree Game Lodge, we are proud to offer warm hospitality and exceptional service through the dedication of our entire team—from our field guides and trackers to housekeeping, kitchen, and front-of-house staff. Should you wish to show appreciation for the service you’ve received during your stay, gratuities are warmly welcomed and deeply appreciated.

Guideline for Tipping (Optional)

Gratuities are entirely at your discretion. However, for your convenience, the following general guideline is suggested based on industry standards:

  • Rangers: R500 per suite/room
  • Waiters & Barmen: R300 per suite/room
  • General Staff (housekeeping, porters, kitchen, etc.): R200 per suite/room

Please note: These are simply guidelines. The amount you choose to tip should reflect your personal level of satisfaction and is by no means obligatory.

How to Tip

  • Envelopes are available at reception for guests who prefer to tip in cash.
  • If you’d like to leave a general staff tip, this can be placed in the communal tip box at reception. Gratuities collected here are shared equally among all behind-the-scenes team members.
  • We also have tip box for the Rangers situated at reception
  • Electronic tipping via credit card or bank transfer is also available upon request at reception.

Transparency and Fairness

Ivory Tree Game Lodge ensures that all pooled gratuities are distributed fairly and equitably among the team members who work hard to make your stay exceptional.

At Ivory Tree Game Lodge, we are deeply committed to preserving the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and biodiversity of the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Our sustainability policy reflects a long-term dedication to environmental stewardship, community development, and the promotion of responsible tourism.

1. Environmental Responsibility

We strive to operate in harmony with the surrounding environment by:

  • Minimising our ecological footprint through efficient use of energy, water, and natural resources.
  • Implementing waste reduction and recycling programs to manage solid and organic waste responsibly.
  • Using eco-friendly cleaning products and sustainable amenities wherever possible.
  • Supporting indigenous landscaping and avoiding the introduction of invasive plant species.

2. Wildlife Conservation

Located within a Big Five reserve, we are actively involved in protecting and conserving local wildlife:

  • Supporting anti-poaching initiatives and collaborating with park authorities on wildlife monitoring.
  • Promoting ethical wildlife viewing practices that respect the animals’ natural behavior and habitats.
  • Educating guests about the importance of conservation through guided experiences and interpretive materials.

3. Community Engagement

We believe that sustainable tourism must benefit the people who live closest to it. We proudly support:

  • Employment and skills development for local community members, particularly the Bakgatla-Ba-Kgafela people.
  • Sourcing goods and services from local suppliers, helping stimulate the regional economy.
  • Community upliftment programs focused on education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

4. Cultural Preservation

Ivory Tree Game Lodge respects and celebrates the rich cultural history of the Pilanesberg region:

  • Supporting local arts, crafts, and traditions by incorporating them into the guest experience.
  • Protecting archaeological and historical sites found within and around the reserve.

5. Responsible Guest Experience

We encourage guests to travel responsibly and make informed choices by:

  • Offering eco-friendly lodging options and encouraging water and energy conservation during their stay.
  • Providing information on local conservation efforts and how guests can contribute.
  • Ensuring our activities promote awareness, appreciation, and protection of our natural environment.

Ivory Tree Game Lodge is committed to ongoing improvement and transparency in our sustainability practices. Through collaboration with conservation bodies, community partners, and our guests, we aim to create a lasting positive impact on the land and people of the Pilanesberg.

“Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories.”