Let us take a lucky guess and say that if you found our website by doing a Google search for Kruger National Park Luxury Accommodation or even Kruger Park Accommodation, you probably passed through or even visit a few very cluttered booking accommodation websites.

At Kambaku River Lodge, we are listed on a number of Kruger Park accommodation booking sites, to help our clients have another avenue to find us. We believe it is important to make sure that our guests have a little knowledge about how to get the most out of these sites, and how to be sure that the ones they are using are legitimate.

In recent years these websites have come to dominate the online booking world and they are often very helpful in assisting those looking for a specific type of accommodation. But if you are new to using a bookings website to find your preferred accommodation, this is what you need to know about using such a site.

In this article we are generalising the main things that you need to keep in mind before using any kind of bookings website.

Have an understanding of the cancellation and refund policy

This first point is also the most important point. Whether you are travelling on a budget or if you just don’t want to waste money, the last thing you’d want is to book and pay through a website that doesn’t allow you to cancel your booking or get a refund. So when making your booking, know what to expect with cancellations and refunds.

Point reward systems

If you are a regular traveller and you primarily book through bookings websites, you should find out if they have any type of reward point system. It’s always nice to get a freebie for spending your money when travelling and some bookings sites give their regular customers a paid for holiday.

Hidden charges

When you book directly through a lodge website, you won’t be paying for any additional charges. There shouldn’t be admin fees or any other types of processing fees involved, but on certain bookings websites, you could well end up paying more for your accommodation than you would have if you’d booked through the lodge website.

Guest Reviews

Good bookings websites will include reviews which can be very helpful when it comes to choosing the right kind of place. When making your booking through a booking site, make sure that you scan the reviews and determine which are generic and which are genuine.

Consider timing

The time of year you book your accommodation can have a big impact on the price that you pay. If you were to book directly when the lodge you have been eyeing, you might find that you end up paying less for your stay even when it is in season. So choose your time of year well and make sure that you also book ahead of time, if you suspect there could be a problem.