south african safari lodges

14 Top-Rated Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

Written by Becca Blond and Karen Hastings Updated Jan 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Imagine sitting in an open-topped Land Cruiser on a morning safari drive, watching the sun rise beyond a line of elephants clomping their way through the bush. Or falling asleep to the not-so-distant roar of a lion from a mosquito net-draped bed in the most luxurious canvas tent you've ever slept in. Both are experiences you'll likely encounter while staying at one of South Africa's most exclusive luxury safari lodges. These are some of the very best resorts in Africa.

South Africa has safari lodges in national parks and private reserves scattered across much of the country. But many of the most luxurious lodges are in the private game reserves bordering Kruger National Park , such as Sabi Sands, with abundant wildlife and few other tourists. Expert guides and trackers take you right to the action in open-air safari vehicles, with regular sightings of the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos), as well as an astounding diversity of other wildlife.

Luxury safari lodges are also found in other parts of South Africa including the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve at the edge of the Kalahari Desert in South Africa's northwest on the border with Botswana. The Northern Cape and KwaZulu Natal provinces are also home to fantastic lodges.

Remote and intimate, these exclusive and eco-conscious lodges offer a true small-group luxury wilderness experience, with exceptional service. It's a good idea to split your time between two or more lodges in different areas to maximize the diversity of game viewing. Families will be pleased to learn that many of these camps welcome children.

Note that all of these safari lodges are all-inclusive . Rates include your meals and game drives.

1. Singita Sabi Sand

2. royal malewane, 3. ulusaba rock lodge and safari lodge, 4. singita sweni and lebombo, 5. londolozi, 6. lion sands, 7. jaci's lodges, 8. sabi sabi, 9. &beyond ngala safari lodge, 10. tswalu kalahari reserve, 11. cheetah plains, 12. jamala madikwe, madikwe game reserve, 13. &beyond phinda vlei lodge, 14. shamwari private game reserve.

Bordering Kruger, in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, the oldest of South Africa's private reserves, Singita Sabi Sand oozes safari chic. You can choose from three different luxury lodges here: Boulders, Ebony, and Castleton.

Singita Boulders Lodge , on the banks of the Sand River, is one of the world's best lodges. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows encase each luxurious suite, with decor inspired by the tones and textures of nature. Think rustic elegance, with tribal motifs, stone accents, sculptural tree trunk supports, and open-air rooms that bring the outdoors in.

Equally elegant, Singita Ebony Lodge has a tented camp feel with exposed thatch roofs and beige canvas accents. Each of the 12 suites here come with their own private plunge pool, and the two-bedroom suites are perfect for families.

Overlooking a water hole, Singita Castleton recalls a country farmhouse with communal living areas, albeit one with a swimming pool, tennis courts, and spa treatment rooms. Guests here sleep in separate cottages sprinkled around the grounds, and children of all ages are welcome.

The property covers 45,000 acres of wilderness with a high concentration of game, including the Big Five, and frequent close-up leopard sightings.

As well as the twice daily game drives, the lodge offers mountain biking safaris, walking safaris, visits to local villages, and archery for those so inclined. A fitness center with beautiful bush views is also on-site.

In Thornybush Game Reserve, bordering Kruger National Park, Royal Malewane is not only one of South Africa's best safari lodges, it's one of the top all-inclusive resorts in the world .

A classic old-world feel sets the scene here for a safari that could come right out of Hemingway's journal. Animals roam freely around camp, and this particular reserve, north of Sabi Sand, is known for its spectacular game viewing and abundance of lions.

Decorated in an eclectic colonial style, the eight air-conditioned suites (including two separate two-bedroom Royal Suites ) exude a seemingly effortless elegance. Jewel-toned oriental rugs cloak the floors, thatch peeks out between ceiling beams, private plunge pools beckon on expansive decks with views over the bush (and sometimes visiting elephants), and you can wash off the African dust in private open-air showers.

Africa House, a six-bedroom, exclusive-use villa with a private chef, is also available for families and groups.

Expert teams of trackers and guides scour the bush to bring you Big Five action. When you're not watching animals, you can enjoy a pampering treatment at the award-winning bush spa , or work out at the fully equipped gym.

Many guests like to combine a stay here with one of the lodges farther south, such as Singita Boulders Lodge, but book as early as possible, as Royal Malewane often fills up a year in advance.

Children aged 10 years and older are welcome in the luxury suites, and children of all ages are welcome in the Royal Suites and Africa House.

Owned by Sir Richard Branson, Ulusaba Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge lie in spectacular locations at the Western end of Sabi Sand. Game viewing is excellent, with all the Big Five in abundance, as well as wild dog, baboons, impala, cheetah, and many species of birds.

Ulusaba offers unique accommodations in two dramatic settings: Ulusaba Rock Lodge sits high atop a koppie (rocky peak), with breathtaking views over the sweeping wilderness below. Its conical, thatched roofs jutting up from the peak of the koppie evoke a whimsical African-style palace.

Each of the eight rooms is uniquely decorated with textural tribal elements and natural materials, and some are split between multiple levels and come with their own private infinity pools. Rock Lodge also includes deluxe Cliff Lodge suites , which are ideal for families. Book them both, and you score your own private chef, safari vehicle, spa, and gym.

Ulusaba Safari Lodge nestles in a canopy of trees on a dry riverbank, where a parade of animals wanders past to drink at a nearby waterhole. At Safari Lodge, some of the rooms are built like treehouses, perched high on stilts among the leaves. Rope swing bridges connect some of the rooms to the common areas, creating a sense of adventure as soon as you step out the door.

Spa treatments, tennis, workouts at the gym, and pool time fills the post-safari hours. Guided walking safaris are also available, and guests with a social conscience also have the option of volunteering at local schools and villages.

Children aged 12 years and older are welcome at Safari Lodge, and kids of all ages are welcome at Rock Lodge.

Near the border with Mozambique, Singita Sweni Lodge and Singita Lebombo Lodge are, like their sister lodges in Sabi Sand, eco-sensitive and extraordinarily beautiful.

The lodges occupy a 33,000-acre exclusive concession on the southeastern side of Kruger National Park, meaning the density of guests here is extremely low. The area spans four different ecological zones, creating fantastic opportunities for diverse game viewing. All the Big Five are in abundance, as well as four big prides of lion.

The two lodges here occupy spectacular locations. Suspended in the canopy along the Sweni River, Singita Sweni Lodge is a series of light-filled luxury treehouses wrapped in glass for prime viewing of the animals along the river below. The interior tones and textures blend seamlessly with the environment, and expansive decks jut out into the wilderness. The main lodge includes an inviting pool, spa, gym, and the Singita Boutique & Gallery.

Perched on a mountain above the N'Wanetsi River, and inspired by the eagles' nests found up high here, Singita Lebombo Lodge overlooks the magnificent wilderness below. It has a contemporary yet textural and earthy feel and offers 13 open-plan suites and a fully-staffed villa on the riverbank. Perfect for groups, the villa comes with two interlinked two-bedroom suites that share a pool and kitchen.

Other highlights at Lebombo include a panoramic roof terrace with a library, an espresso bar, help-yourself deli, inviting pool, and expansive indoor/outdoor decks.

As with all of Singita's lodges, conservation is paramount, and the company strives to leave the lightest possible footprint on the Earth. Children 10 years and older are welcome.

Set along the Sand River in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, family-run Londolozi has welcomed guests for almost a century and is one of the most famous safari lodges in South Africa. It lies within the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park, a wilderness area of six million acres that also incorporates Kruger National Park.

White rhino and lion live here in some of the highest concentrations found anywhere in Africa, but Londolozi is best known for its leopards, one of Africa's most elusive predators. Londolozi is a Zulu word meaning, "protector of all living things," so it's not surprising that conservation is a focus here, with features like open-air, electric safari vehicles.

You can choose between five different camps, all of which boast prestigious Relais & Châteaux status. The adults-only Londolozi Private Granite Suites is the most luxurious, while Londolozi Tree Camp and the nostalgic and romantic Londolozi Pioneer Camp are not far behind. Stylish decor, abundant glass, large living rooms, spa-like baths, and private heated plunge pools, are typical features.

Londolozi Founders Camp , along the banks of the Sand River, and the venerable Londolozi Varty Camp are larger and more family-orientated with features like thatched roof bungalows, interlinked "skywalk" rooms, and private outdoor pools.

Besides game drives, other activities available here include walking safaris, yoga classes, massage therapies, and workouts at the fitness center.

Both of these camps, as well as Pioneer Camp, welcome children six years and older.

The only lodge with access to the perennial Sabie River, Lion Sands, in the Sabi Sand game reserve, offers a collection of sumptuous safari lodges, each with its own inspiration and style.

Game viewing is excellent in this game-rich area, and the lodge boasts one of only four master trackers in the world to help you find the best sightings.

A unique feature at Lion Sands is the opportunity for guests at the lodges to combine their visit with a romantic overnight stay, sleeping under the stars in one of their luxurious treehouses . Guests snuggle up in plush four-poster canopied beds on towers raised high above the wilderness.

Each of the luxurious Lion Sands lodges has a unique personality, from organic chic to mid-century modern, so you can choose a lodge that matches your style.

Lion Sands River Lodge is the largest, with 20 thatched rooms dressed in soothing textures and tones of creme and white.

Overlooking the Sabie River, the villas of Ivory Lodge are grounded in an eco-minded, mid-century-modern aesthetic, incorporating tribal touches and natural materials such as thatch, steel, wood, and sand. Light streams in through the walls of glass, and the two-bedroom Fish Eagle suite comes with its own private Land Rover, pool, spa, and gym.

Tinga Lodge on the Sabie River has a "contemporary colonial" theme, and Narina Lodge has a treehouse feel, with nine villas suspended high in the canopy and linked by raised walkways.

Typical features at all the lodges include personal butlers; luxury bathrooms, some with outdoor showers; sitting areas with fireplaces; and private pools.

Post-game-drive activities include pampering treatments at the Africology Spa, helicopter rides over the Blyde River Canyon, and trips to Hippo Pools.

Children aged 10 years and older are welcome here, but only select lodges offer babysitting services.

Jaci's Lodges in the spectacular Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa's North-West Province are a collection of family-owned boutique properties that offer guests an intimate, highly personalized safari experience. Madikwe, which sits on the border with Botswana and the edge of the Kalahari in a malaria-free area, is known for its thriving wild dog population.

The second most endangered carnivore in Africa after Ethiopian wolves, seeing a wild dog on safari is a rare experience anywhere else in South Africa. But in Madikwe there are three hunting packs roaming the park, and it's not uncommon to see these enigmatic pups here.

If you don't have a DSLR camera with a wildlife photography-sized lens, don't worry. You can still capture the wild dogs and all the other animals (the park also has healthy lion and rhino populations) you see in crisp, close-ups by renting a Nikon from Jaci's for the duration of your trip (highly recommended).

Jaci's is comprised of two adjacent camps, each offering a slightly different sleeping experience .

At Jaci's Safari Lodge , there are six tented suites, including two that are suitable for a family or a small group of friends. The tents have thatched roofs, hardwood floors, and canvas side panels that can be completely rolled up. The interior design features bright African colors and patterns as well as bathrooms with soaking tubs and indoor and outdoor showers.

There are also two Starbed Suites at this camp. The lodge's newest builds, these have a more contemporary look and are a good choice for people who want to sleep within walls instead of the more exposed canvas tents. The suites are two-level affairs with the second level being an open-air rooftop deck where you can sleep in a proper king-sized bed under the stars.

Downstairs you'll find a second king bed in case you prefer sleeping indoors (or it rains). The Starbed Suites are especially popular with honeymooners and couples on romantic getaways .

Jaci's Tree Lodge is the adjacent property. Here you'll find eight treehouse suites built on stilts and connected by elevated walkways that offer fabulous views of the surrounding forest and glimpses of the Marico River. Guests here also have access to a hide for photographing animals without their knowledge and a public treehouse space with a hot tub facing an active waterhole.

As the name suggests, Sabi Sabi is also in the Sabi Sand game reserve, abutting the southwestern border of Kruger National Park. This area is famous for its diversity and density of wildlife, including the Big Five and up to 350 species of birds.

Each of the four separate lodges here exudes its own personality. Steeped in colonial charm, Sabi Sabi Selati Camp is the most romantic, with a style inspired by the movie, Out of Africa .

Family-friendly Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge and Little Bush Camp are more contemporary in feel. Bush Lodge has a children's center and spa, and at the intimate Little Bush Camp , each room comes with a private terrace and hot tub.

True to its name, the more minimalistic Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge has won accolades for its environmentally-sensitive design. It blends effortlessly with the surrounding landscapes, with plenty of neutral tones and sleek lines. All the lodges come with swimming pools, but Earth Lodge suites come with private plunge pools, and the lodge has its own library, art gallery, meditation garden, and spa.

Day and night safaris are available here, as well as walking safaris with experienced guides and trackers.

Children are welcome, though only those older than six years are allowed on game drives unless a private vehicle is reserved.

On a private game reserve inside Kruger National Park , &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge offers superb Big 5 game-viewing and warm and welcoming staff members who treat guests like family.

Nostalgic safari elegance sets the tone in the 20 thatched-roof cottages. Bush views bleed into the interiors through floor-to-ceiling windows, and private verandahs offer popular spots to watch the passing parade of animals. Still can't tear yourself away from the wilderness views? Every room comes with an alfresco shower.

Families are welcome and are comfortably accommodated in three spacious cottages with interconnecting rooms, as well as in a family suite with a private swimming pool. Interactive kid-focused activities and childcare also provide parents with some alone time.

Besides twice-daily game drives and walking safaris, guests here can relax with a spa treatment; paddle in the pool; or sign up for a conservation experience, working directly with some of the wildlife.

Honeymooners should opt for a romantic evening in the magical Ngala Treehouse .

Eco-conscious guests will be pleased to know that &Beyond works collaboratively with local groups and communities on conservation initiatives and sustainable business practices.

Covering 1,000 square kilometers in the less-visited Kalahari region, family-friendly Tswalu is the largest private game reserve in South Africa. Conservation is key here, and the owners' mission is to restore newly acquired lands back to their natural existence and fund multiple conservation and community-minded projects.

Hauntingly beautiful landscapes of red sand, golden grass, and wind-sculpted acacia trees characterize this region, and the wildlife is uniquely adapted to the harsh environment. Among the many animals here are the magnificent black-maned Kalahari lion, endangered desert black rhino, meerkats, sable and roan antelopes, wild dogs, porcupines, aardvarks, aardwolves, honey badgers, and cheetah.

Safaris are tailored to each individual party, with no set schedule. Best of all, this lodge lies in a year-round malaria-free zone .

Adorned with natural earthy materials and an abundance of textural elements, the freestanding thatched villas blend beautifully with their surrounding environment. You can choose from two locations: The Motse , a "village" of nine air-conditioned luxury suites overlooking a waterhole at the foot of the Korannaberg Mountains, and Tarkuni , the owners' family home, with five impeccably furnished suites, a pool, personal host, and a private five-star chef.

At Motse , the cottages mix modern comforts with an African feel. Thatched roofs and walls of stone, red clay, and desert sand echo the surrounding environment. Other features include spacious bedrooms with open fireplaces, indoor/outdoor showers, and large decks with sweeping vistas of the vast desert. Three two-bedrooms cottages, are perfect for families, with large living rooms and two bathrooms.

At the communal area here, you can take a dip in the infinity pool, curl up with a book from the library, or enjoy a relaxing spa treatment. Other things to do include hikes to nearby attractions such as ancient rock art; horseback safaris; and sleeping under the stars at The Malori, a raised platform with weather-proof blinds.

Tswalu hosts children of all ages, and offers a nanny service and Junior Ranger program to keep the little ones engaged.

Staying at Tswalu, with its contrasting landscapes and unique species of wildlife found only in this region, is a great complement to visiting the lodges near Kruger National Park.

In Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Cheetah Plains offers a sustainable, ultra-luxe safari experience catering to multi-gen families or groups of friends . This is the lodge to book if you want a very private and personalized holiday. There are just eight elegant sleek villas, each of which can accommodate up to eight people in four bedrooms and must be rented exclusively regardless of your group size .

These villas have a modern look with lots of glass window walls that are far removed from the canvas-tented camp vibe found at many lodges. All are luxuriously appointed with curated art collections, a chef's kitchen, indoor and outdoor living and dining spaces, and a private swimming pool on a large deck.

You'll be assigned a personal hospitality team upon check-in. This includes a personal chef, spa therapist, and expert guide and tracker that will be dedicated to your villa for the length of your stay, allowing for an extremely personalized experience.

Cheetah Plains also prides itself on being carbon-negative. Your twice daily game drives take place in electric Land Cruisers for a completely silent ride.

Set around a game-rich waterhole in South Africa's North West Province, Jamala Madikwe is known for its superb wildlife viewing, luxurious lodgings, and friendly staff.

It lies in the Madikwe Game Reserve , a malaria-free area along the Botswana border that once consisted mainly of cattle farms before it was transformed into a wildlife reserve in the early 90s.

Today, the reserve supports an incredible diversity of species due to the fact that it lies in an ecological transition zone, between the Kalahari and lowveld wilderness. Game drives regularly bring sightings of the Big Five, as well as brown hyena, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, oryx, African wild dogs, and even the rare aardwolf.

Best of all, the lodge's orientation around the waterhole means you can enjoy a "Sofa Safari" here and watch all the action from the villas and common areas, without even leaving the camp.

Accommodation is in five air-conditioned, freestanding villas that blend a colonial feel with African artifacts. Typical features include four-poster netted beds, crisp linens, outdoor showers, spa-like indoor bathrooms, living rooms with fireplaces, dining areas, and expansive decks with rim-flow plunge pools.

When you're not out on game drives, you can enjoy a luxury treatment at the Royal Spa, look for wildlife from the watchtower perched above the waterhole, or relax at the main lodge with a book from the library.

In South Africa's diverse northeastern province of Kwazulu Natal, family-friendly &Beyond Phinda offers a winning combination of private and spacious villas, superb service, and fantastic Big Five game viewing. Cheetah and antelopes such as nyala are also plentiful here. This is one of several &Beyond lodges in Phinda Reserve, an area of rehabilitated farmland now brimming with wildlife.

Tucked amid trees on the edge of a vlei (wetland), the six freestanding thatched villas at &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge could easily be at home in Bali if it weren't for the parade of African animals wandering past.

Louvered windows and large glass doors slide open to create seamless indoor/outdoor living areas, and each villa has a sitting room with a fireplace and a rambling deck with a private plunge pool. Elephants sometimes come to drink from the pools, and antelope graze on the lush grass.

Walking safaris and river cruises are other fun ways to explore the wilderness.

One of the bonuses about choosing a safari at this lodge is that you can complement your bush experience with several day trip adventures, such as a scuba safari at Sodwana Bay, about an hour's drive away; swimming with whale sharks; a Zulu village tour; black rhino tracking; and visits to an endangered wild cats project.

Kids are welcome, and the lodge offers a fun children's program and special family safaris tailored to the ages of each child.

Considered one of South Africa's most successful private conservation initiatives, Shamwari Private Game Reserve is a favorite with celebrities and has hosted everyone from Brad Pitt to John Travolta and Tiger Woods.

Away from the main safari areas, it is located off the N2 in a malaria-free area of the Eastern Cape between the cities of Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown. It can be reached easily by private vehicle with just 7 kilometers of driving on a gravel road. If you prefer to arrive by plane, there is also a private airstrip.

One of South Africa's largest private game reserves, it is home to the Big Five as well as cheetah. The reserve hosts six luxury lodges , each of which offers a different style. Long Lee Manor is a newly redesigned lodge with elegant Edwardian-styled suites and a beautiful rim-flow swimming pool.

Sindile is Shamwari's newest luxury tented camp in a secluded locale. It has nine very posh, free-standing tents elevated above the surrounding bush that offer stunning views and dark night skies for stargazing. These tents are designed to leave as minimal of an environmental footprint as possible.

For something even more adventurous book Explorer Camp. Open only during the summer season (between October and May), the wilderness bush camp is located on a granite and basalt plateau and has lodging in tents that truly make you feel you are staying in the bush – expect to hear lots of animal sounds at night (the camp is, however, discreetly fenced for safety). Guests staying here do guided walking safaris that allow you to get up close and personal with wildlife.

Whichever accommodation you choose, expect twice-daily game drives led by guide and tracker teams that will get you very close to the animals. There are also spa treatments (extra fee) available at many of the lodges.

More on South Africa

Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

South africa’s best luxury safari accommodation.

Looking for the best luxury Safari lodges in South Africa ? There aren’t many travel experiences that come close to spending time in the African bush spotting wildlife on safari.

And if you’re looking for luxurious safari lodges and super-indulgent places from which to take it all in for a night or two, you could do a lot worse than check yourself into one of the luxury safari lodges in South Africa below.

There is no shortage of luxury safari lodges on offer in South Africa and we haven’t tried them all, so we’ve asked travel bloggers from around the world to help us out, and nominate their favourite luxury South African safari lodges.

The below list is made up of travel blogger nominations, plus lodges we’ve stayed at ourselves and can vouch for as providing ultimate safari luxury.

If you find that they’re a little over budget, find out how to organise your own cheap safari holiday .

So read on below for our collection of the most indulgent South African luxury safari lodges:

Luxury safari lodges in South Africa…

Nottens Bush Camp

Sabi Sands, South Africa

If you are looking for a really special stay during your safari in South Africa, you should consider Nottens Bush Camp in Sabi Sand Reserve. It is one of the most luxurious safari lodges in South Africa.

The lodge has, unlike many others, no fence and no electricity so you are really staying in the bush (in one of the nine exclusive, private suites).

A guard brings you to your room after dark and we experienced why they do so. One night we almost stumbled over a hyena on our way to our room.

We were so shocked and happy that we had a guard with us. Another night my parents woke up and heard a strange noise in front of their room.

They got out of bed to take a look and there was an elephant eating the plants that stood on their porch.

From your room in African style, you are overlooking an open area with a waterhole, so sit on your porch and enjoy the panoramic views and the wildlife passing by. You will see zebra, elephants, antelopes, and many other animals pass by.

Nottens Bush Camp is one of the original game lodges in South Africa and is known for its highly experienced rangers. and the area is great for spotting leopards.

This family-owned lodge goes the extra mile. After our first safari, we entered our room. All the candles and lanterns were burning, the bathtub was filled, rose leaves everywhere and a bottle of South African Vonkelwijn (champagne) was waiting for us.

In the evening all the guests are sitting at a big table to share the most thrilling stories about their safari.

They organize two game drives a day. One at 05.30 in the morning and one at 15.30 in the afternoon. In between those safaris you can relax beside the pool or enjoy a massage at the Nature Spa.

Sabi Sands is also home to Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge which is one of the most family-friendly safari lodges in South Africa .

Phinda Mountain Lodge

Phinda Game Reserve, South Africa

Phinda Game Reserve , in KwaZulu Natal, is home to some of the most beautiful, luxurious lodges in South Africa.

The best by far is Mountain Lodge. As the name says, this is located in such a way as to afford beautiful views across the bushveld to panoramic mountains.

The lodge is blissfully isolated on top of a hill. Once there, you will walk to the common areas where you will find the dining area, where a decadent breakfast and lunch, as well as afternoon tea are offered every day.

So much care is taken in the selection of the ingredients that you even have a choice of several types of coffee and roasts. The common area is also where the bar is located, with a seating area directly facing the mountains, for incredible views.

On the way to your room, you will find the beautiful pool and the spa, perfect for a relaxing afternoon – before you drive away on one of the game drives.

Rooms are incredibly comfortable, with large beds with a pillow menu; a sitting area with a fridge and all sorts of drinks and snacks.

There is a deck with a plunge pool – a favorite of local wildlife which is free to roam the grounds. It is not uncommon to spot nyalas and at times even elephants drinking from the pool!,

There is also a very spacious bathroom with a large shower and a Victorian-style bathtub.

At Phinda Mountain Lodge you will feel welcome, pampered and you will be able to fully relax while enjoying nature and the unique wildlife of this part of the country.

Singita Sweni Lodge

• Kruger National Park, South Africa

Contributed by sustainable travel bloggers Oksana & Max from Drink Tea & Travel

Singita Sweni

Located in Kruger National Park,  Singita Sweni Lodge  epitomizes the definition of a lux eco-safari stay.

The lodge is located on 33,000 acres of exclusive concession land on the banks of the Sweni River. This meant that hippos, crocs, elephants, and other wildlife can often be spotted meandering past the lodge.

Singita Sweni Lodge offers an intimate setting far away from the crowds associated with Kruger National Park .

There are only seven large luxurious suites on-site and each one is designed to bring the outdoors in.

They have large floor-to-ceiling windows, big wooden decks, and modern decor with natural elements incorporated into the design.

For us, one of the highlights of staying at Singita Sweni was their strong focus on sustainability.

They have an ethos of “touching the earth lightly” and their efforts were visible in every element of our stay. All meals are crafted with seasonal produce and sourced from local suppliers.

Plus, Singita Sweni Lodge is involved in a number of conservation and social initiatives in the community. One such project was the creation of their solar power plant. Its implementation has meant the lodge can save close to 1,000 tonnes of carbon emissions a year.

Of course, we also loved the morning and afternoon game drives. We had many wonderful sightings of lions, giraffes, zebras, elephants, buffalos, hippos, waterbucks, and other antelopes.

Plus we came across the most unique sighting of them all – a unique white lion, spotted only in this part of Kruger National Park!

If you are looking into a safari in Africa we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Singita Sweni Lodge for an eco-lux experience. It’s a truly one of a kind destination.

Zebra Hills Safari Lodge

Manyoni Private Game Reserve

Zebra Hills is nestled in the private game reserve of Manyoni in Zululand, and is a sure shot delight for wildlife enthusiasts.

Being part of a private reserve gives the lodge owners and guides a lot of flexibility in terms of game-watching and safari hours.

This is one of the highlights, alongside the spectacular zebra-themed decor in the bedrooms, common areas, bar, and dining room.

The perks of living in a private reserve are aplenty, but my favorite bit was enjoying traditional braai in the evenings whilst you wait for the lions to come for a refreshing sip of water in the adjoining water hole.

This is the only place where I have watched lions on foot. Yes, that’s right. The waterhole is just across the swimming pool/barbeque area and if you stay put, it is easy to spot a few thirsty beasts loitering around to quench their thirst.

With no restrictions on safari hours, the night safaris offered umpteen nocturnal sightings with our top game sightings of the day being three cheetah cubs on a kill followed by a charging black rhino.

Such sightings are a dream for true wildlife lovers and Zebra Hills, with its ultra-luxury sleeps and skilled naturalists, made our dream vacation come true.

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

A male lion strolls the bush of Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Big 5 destination Kwandwe Private Game Reserve covers 54,000 acres of private wilderness area. The reserve includes 30 kilometers of the Great Fish River, meaning a diverse landscape and varied wildlife sightings.

The reserve has some great family-friendly safari options offering child-focused wildlife activities such as making plaster casts of animal footprints and visits to animal orphanages, to help make your safari more meaningful.

It is one of the best places to go on safari in South Africa with kids .

Accommodation at Kwandwe: There are four properties in the reserve with 22 beds in total, meaning not too many other people or safari trucks around when you’re doing your game drives. Melton Manor and Uplands Homestead are exclusive-use lodges for families or small groups. Find prices & book >>

Samara Private Game Reserve

A herd of Eland at Samara, South Africa, looking for danger

Set among wildlife-rich rivers, mountains, and open plains, luxury private game reserve Samara offers guests some of the most breathtaking landscapes in South Africa.

Home to a very successful cheetah regeneration program, the reserve gives a good chance of spotting these beautiful cats, alongside the big 5 and large herds of eland.

Accommodation at Samara: Samara offers two exclusive onsite lodges – the Karoo Lodge and Manor House. Find prices & book >>

Amakhala Game Reserve

Giraffe-spotting on a game drive

The Amakhala Game Reserve is an 18,000-acre joint conservation effort where a former farming area has been rewilded.

Wildlife likely to be encountered on game drives in the reserve includes the big five, as well as cheetah , giraffe , zebra, wildebeest, and plenty of antelope species.

Accommodation options: There are 10 owner-managed properties across the reserve, ranging from restored country homes to tented camps, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

An all-inclusive safari experience and a range of wildlife-focused activities are offered at each property. Find prices & book >>

Kariega Game Reserve

Three luxury safari lodges at Kariega, South Africa

Kariega is a family-owned and run big five reserve incorporating 10,000 hectares of pristine African wilderness and two large rivers – the Kariega and the Bushmans rivers – giving access to the sea.

The reserve offers abundant game viewing, and in addition to the big 5, game to spot at Kariega includes hippo, hyena, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, eland, kudu, waterbuck and a variety of other antelope, as well as a myriad of bird species.

Kariega is a particularly family-friendly game lodge offering a daily children’s programme at the Kids on Safari center.

Accommodation at Kariega Game Reserve: The reserve offers five safari lodges at a variety of price points, though all are at the high end, with quality and service to match. Find prices & book >>

Shamwari Game Reserve

One of Shamwari’s waterside lodges

Big five reserve Shamwari prides itself on being both friendly (the name means “my friend” in Shona), and child-friendly.

Childminding services are available on request, along with a host of kid-specific activities to keep them occupied – including the conservation focussed ‘Kids on Safari’ program.

What’s particularly nice (and somewhat unusual) about Shamwari for young families is that children from four upwards are permitted on game drives. Just a 2-hour drive from Port Elizabeth, Shamwari is easily accessible.

Accommodation options: Shamwari has seven lodges and one explorer camp, each with a distinct vibe. From exclusive tranquillity, effortless family enjoyment, or the back-to-nature appeal of a luxury tented camp. Find prices & book >>

Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve

The pool area at Tswalu, South Africa

Tswalu Kalahari is the largest privately owned game reserve in South Africa – 100,000 hectares located in the Southern Kalahari, close to the Botswana border.

Although the reserve is huge, visitor numbers are kept to just 30 at a time, with all guests enjoying a private guided experience to optimise their time there.

Aside from the excellent game drives, activities include horse riding, habituated meerkat colony walks, sleep-outs under the stars, and black rhino walking safaris.

Children of all ages are welcome, and for families, Tswalu makes for a truly unique and memorable (malaria-free!) safari experience.

Accommodation options: Accommodation is luxurious with a choice of two lodges, the secluded Tarkuni (a private home with 5 suites), and The Motse (a spacious lodge with nine suites). Find prices & book >>

Madikwe Game Reserve

Views of the bush from a Madikwe balcony

Located on the Botswana border a 3.5-hour drive from Johannesburg, Madikwe is a wild and remote reserve that’s home to the big five, and is famous for its thriving population of wild dog, as well as gemsbok, springbok, zebra, giraffe and over 340 species of birds.

It is a great option if you are looking for a safari in a non-malarial area .

Accommodation options: The reserve has a large selection of camps and lodges, including the lovely Jaci’s Lodges, Mateya Safari Lodge, Madikwe Safari Lodge, and Little Madikwe Hills. Find prices & book >>

The Ant Collection

Horseback safari at the Ant Collection, South Africa

Two family-owned and operated lodges – Ant’s Nest and Ant’s Hill – located in their own spectacular private game reserve.

The reserve is a real haven for animals (over 40 species) and people looking for a wonderful, malaria-free safari. As well as game drives, there’s horse riding, elephant safaris, and swimming available, amongst other activities.

Accommodation options: The Ant’s Nest and Ant’s Hill offer very family-friendly, luxurious accommodation that is intimate and homely. Find prices & book >>

Entabeni Safari Conservancy

Three of Entabeni’s rhinos grazing in front of a signature rocky outcrop

Entabeni means ‘place of the mountain’, a private reserve spread over five ecosystems including wetlands, grass plains, craggy escarpments, and cliffs.

Large animals such as elephants and rhinos are plentiful, along with leopards, cheetahs, and buffalo.

There’s a choice of activities other than game drives to keep you entertained, such as bush walks, sunset lake cruises, horse riding, and helicopter air safaris.

Children are welcome but must be six or over to join a game drive.

Accommodation options: Lodging includes Lakeside Lodge on the shores of Lake Entabeni and Wildside Safari Camp. Find prices & book >>

Leobo Private Reserve

Bush views from open lounge area at the Leobo lodge

Leobo Private Reserve  is encompassed by rugged rocks, mountains, bushveld savannah, rivers, gorges, and an abundance of wildlife.

It is one of only a handful of sole-use private reserves in Africa – allowing guests full access to the entire estate and all its facilities.

Teeming with plains game, as well as hippo, there’s also a wide array of activities for all ages including paintballing, quad bikes, shooting, fishing, and more.

Accommodation options: The lodge has luxury 9 chalets with views over the Palala valley – and a stunning swimming pool built into the side of the mountain.

It’s fully staffed and rented exclusively, so is perfect for families or groups of friends. Find prices & book >>

Mabalingwe Nature Reserve

Main Mabalingwe lodge at sunsetThe Mabalingwe biome , made up of 8,500 hectares of bushveld, provides wonderful game-viewing opportunities year-round.

The reserve is very family-friendly, and the rolling grasslands make game-viewing a breeze. Home to the big five, and also hippo, giraffe, hyena, and sable, the reserve has a variety of family and child-friendly activities to go alongside their day and night game drives.

Accommodation options: There are many types of accommodation available including chalets, campsites, and bush lodges. Find prices & book >>

Welgevonden Game Reserve & Marakele National Park

Drinks time at Welgevenden’s pool area

Adjoining areas Welgevonden Game Reserve  and Marakele National Park are in the process of removing their fences to allow the game to roam in a larger area.

Both parks are home to the big five, as well as 30 more mammal species and over 250 species of birds.

Marakele is more for intrepid safari-goers than luxury safari seekers – you’ll definitely need your own four-wheel-drive car, whilst Welgevonden as a private game reserve has a focus on high-end luxury.

Accommodation options: Are plentiful and varied inside the reserve, with a host of luxurious and extremely hospitable lodges and camps to choose from. Find prices & book >>

That’s your lot for luxury safari lodges in South Africa. Have you stayed at one of these lodges, or know of any others that should be on the list? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below.

Top countries for safaris

• Botswana safaris
• Kenya safaris
• Namibia safaris
• South Africa safaris
• Tanzania safaris
• Uganda safaris

Safari basics

• Safari animals
• How to find the right safari company
• When to go on safari
• What to take on safari
• Safari clothing – what to wear
• Safari rules & etiquette
• Wildlife spotting tips

Most read articles

• All about the ‘big five’ animals
• Collective nouns for animals
• Safari movies to watch before you go
• The world’s fastest land animals
• Apex predators
• 10 Fascinating African tribes
• The biggest animals in the world
• 17 Epic hybrid animals
• The world’s ugliest animals
• Why are flamingos pink?

Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Etosha National Park, Namibia
• Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

• You are here:

Best Safari Lodges and Camps in South Africa

Harriet is a zoologist with more than 20 years’ experience. She has the privilege of working with the world’s top wildlife photographers and photo-guides.

South Africa is blessed with a wonderful variety of game reserves, wildlife, spectacular scenery and lodge options from five-star luxury to rustic simplicity. This list of the best safari lodges in South Africa features a selection of my favourite lodges in diverse locations and with a variety of styles.

1. Tanda Tula Safari Camp (Timbavati Private GR)

Every visitor to South Africa should go on safari in one of the private game reserves in the Greater Kruger Area where close encounters with the Big 5 are almost guaranteed. So how do you choose from the dozens and dozens of lodges – particularly when they all offer roughly the same activities and wildlife viewing experiences?  Tanda Tula, in the Timbavati , is a very special place indeed.  First of all it is tented – albeit it has the most stylish, luxurious tents. Sleeping in a tent allows you to hear the noises of the African night, giving you a more intimate experience than spending the night sealed inside a brick chalet. There are very few tented options in the Greater Kruger area, so Tanda Tula stands out.  Tanda Tula is owned and run by a dynamic couple who care passionately about their staff. Most of the staff have worked there for many years – you can feel the positive, happy atmosphere as soon as you arrive. It sounds corny, but you really do leave feeling you have made new friends and have become part of the family.

2. Nkorho Bush Lodge (Sabi Sands)

When compiling a list of the best safari lodges in South Africa, it is important to include a lodge at the more affordable end of the scale, or rather less eye-wateringly expensive. This is especially so in Sabi Sands , perhaps the best leopard spotting location in all of Africa. Most of the luxury lodges in Sabi Sands offering spas, vintage wine lists and pillow menus come at a hefty price. Nkorho is a small, simple lodge that offers fantastic game viewing experiences but without some of the lavish frills. It accommodates a maximum of 12 people in delightful, thatched chalets and dinners are enjoyed together around the fire in the boma.  They have exceptional guides and almost guaranteed leopard sightings.

Nkorho Bush Lodge Tours

3. Jaci’s Tree Lodge (Madikwe Private GR)

Madikwe Private Game Reserve is only a 3½ hour drive from Johannesburg and it is malaria-free, making it perfect for families. It is a Big 5 reserve, and it also has a good reputation for wild dog sightings. There are two Jaci’s Lodges: Jaci’s Safari Lodge features two exclusive star-bed suites, six luxury tented suites and two private family suites and Jaci’s Tree Lodge has eight unique treehouse suites, custom-built on wooden stilts and connected by raised walkways high above the ground. Both lodges are owner-run by the eponymous Jaci, and are renowned for their bright, vibrant and colourful interiors. Photographers will love the underground Terrapin Hide for eye-level wildlife viewing at the waterhole. Jaci’s Lodges also offer the opportunity for ‘conservation safaris’, enabling guests to contribute to on-the-ground wildlife conservation efforts taking place in the greater Madikwe Game Reserve.

Jaci's Safari Lodge Tours

4. Tswalu (Northern Cape)

This would have to be top of my list of the best safari lodges in South Africa – for its stunning location, special wildlife and luxury guest experience. Tswalu is South Africa’s largest private game reserve, situated in the southern Kalahari – a vast, pristine wilderness. It is famed for its rare and extraordinary wildlife. Here you can see the magnificent black-maned lions, African wild dogs and critically endangered desert black rhino. Another highlight is spending time with habituated meerkats. Tswalu is probably one of the best places in Africa to stand a chance of seeing the elusive pangolin or aardvark. This is very much an exclusive, five star safari experience.  You are allocated your own game drive vehicle, guide and tracker so that you can enjoy a completely flexible itinerary. Between game drives, there are boma feasts, bush dinners, sundowners, wine tastings, champagne breakfasts and dune picnics. Activities include horse riding and walking safaris. Off course luxury spa treatments are on offer as well.

5. Grootbos

Finally for something completely different, I’ve included Grootbos in this list of the best safari lodges in South Africa. Grootbos is a luxury eco-lodge located in a pristine, private reserve close to the southern tip of Africa, tucked between mountains, forest and sea. It is just 2 hours from Cape Town. Although you won’t see big game here, you can take a trip to see the Marine Big 5 (great white shark, penguin, whale, seal and dolphin). The reserve is located in the Cape Floral Kingdom with 800 plant species and 1000-year-old milkwood forests. Grootbos has won every travel award going (Fodor’s Top 100 Hotels and Tatler’s Best Family Hotel in the World to name just two). It has two stylish, super-luxury lodges located in either the fynbos or milkwood forest. You can go on botanical tours, marine safaris, ride horses, relax in the spa, visit Grootbos’ award-winning social upliftment projects or just enjoy the stupendous coastal views.

Want To Visit South Africa?

Click on the button below to compare South Africa safaris offered by top rated tour operators.

802 South Africa Safaris

About SafariBookings

SafariBookings is the largest online marketplace for African safari tours. Easily compare offers from top-rated tour operators. Make decisions like a pro by using our 103,567 reviews and 223 destination guides. More About Us

South Africa

• Country Overview
• Parks & Reserves
• Popular Routes
• Tour Operators

South Africa Safaris

5-Day Luxury Kruger Park and Sabi Sand Safari

$2,921 pp (USD)

4-Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

$976 pp (USD)

7-Day South Africa Luxury Tour

$3,122 to $3,628 pp (USD)

South Africa Safaris by Type

• Budget Safaris
• Luxury Safaris
• Self-drive Safaris
• Family Safaris
• Camping Safaris
• Private Safaris
• Group Safaris
• Fly-in Safaris
• 7-Day Safaris
• 10-Day Safaris
• 14-Day Safaris

Best Time To Visit South Africa

Parks & reserves south africa.

Kruger National Park

MalaMala Private Game Reserve

Phinda Private Game Reserve

Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve

Photo gallery south africa.

Map of South Africa

Most Popular Blog Posts

• Best Time for African Safari
• Best Safari in South Africa
• Family Safari in South Africa
• African Safari Tips
• Game Reserves Near Cape Town
• What to Pack for a Safari
• Best African Safari Parks
• Top 5 Best African Honeymoon Safaris
• Top 5 Best Tanzania Family Safaris
• Best Places to See Cheetahs in Africa
• How Much Does an African Safari Cost?
• Best Places To Visit In Africa in 2024

Blog Categories

Safari tours to south africa.

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Chalet

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

4.7 /5  –  186 Reviews

South Africa: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Wildlife Safaris

4.9 /5  –  259 Reviews

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Franschhoek (Cape Winelands) , Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger) , Hoedspruit Airport (Hoedspruit) , Hoedspruit (End)

Wayfairer Travel

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

• [ April 26, 2024 ] Travel news: this month (April 2024) in luxury travel Travel news
• [ April 24, 2024 ] Review: Etihad A380 The Residence (Abu Dhabi to London flight) Flight reviews
• [ April 22, 2024 ] Top 10 best luxury hotels in Singapore Top 10 lists
• [ April 19, 2024 ] Sneak peek inside the new ultra-luxe Four Seasons Yachts Uncategorized
• [ April 17, 2024 ] Review: Etihad First Class Lounge at Abu Dhabi International Airport Flight reviews

Top 10 most luxurious safari lodges in South Africa

Monday newsletters  always feature  top 10 travel lists  to inspire.

Today: Top 10 most luxurious safari lodges in South Africa

Whether you are a safari virgin hoping to catch your first glimpse of the Big Five or a safari aficionado with a specific sighting in mind, South Africa will rarely disappoint. Although the country is a year-round destination, the extended Southern African winter (April to October) is the best time for a safari, because the shrinking vegetation and wildlife converging on waterholes make for better sightings.  Kruger Park is South Africa’s most famous safari destination and even allows visitors to hop around in their own car, although spotting the Big Five on a self-drive safari involves a lot of luck. South Africa’s private game reserves – such as Sabi Sand – offer a far more superior safari experience though since there are no restrictions on access or driving times, only specialized safari vehicles with guides are permitted (and they can go off-road in search of the wildlife) and a maximum of two vehicles at a time are permitted on a single sighting, allowing fantastic photographic opportunities. On top of that, the private fame reserves offer exeptional accommodation that matches the exceptional wildlife experience. Here’s my selection of the 10 best ultra-luxury safari-lodges in South Africa.

There is more information (with reviews & Youtube videos) below the slide show. Think I missed one? Share your favorite South African safari lodge in the comments section .

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

*** Follow me on  Instagram ,  YouTube ,  Twitter  or  Facebook  for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

10. KRUGER SHALATI – THE TRAIN ON THE BRIDGE, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

Permanently stationed on the historically-rich Selati Bridge above the Sabie River in Kruger National Park, Kruger Shalati offers the most unique luxury accommodation in a re-envisioned train which pays homage to the guests who explored the park nearly 100 years ago. The train celebrates where the first visits to the iconic park were allowed in the early 1920s: the train would park overnight in the exact spot where Kruger Shalati is positioned. The hotel offers 31 rooms, consisting of 24 carriage rooms and 7 Bridge House rooms, all of which provide a deeply visceral experience, tailored for immersive comfort. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure, an enthralling break or to simply immerse yourself in earth’s finest creations, Kruger Shalati welcomes you on a journey of discovery with nature in the most extraordinary way imaginable.

• Hotel website : Kruger Shalati – The Train on the Bridge
• Review : read my review of Kruger Shalati here .

9. ULUSABA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, SABI SAND

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, member of Virgin Limited Edition’s award-winning collection of retreats, is Sir Richard Branson’s safari lodge located in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. Ulusaba means “place of little fear”, so named because the koppie, or hill, on which Rock Lodge sits provided the ancient Shangaan tribal warriors with the perfect lookout point. Ulusaba has 20 rooms and suites spread over two lodges: Rock Lodge, including the beautiful Cliff Lodge, and Safari Lodge. Rock Lodge has the best view in the Sabi Sand: perched high on the summit of a koppie, with panoramic views over miles of bush, you should grab a pair of binoculars to see what you can spot. Ulusaba’s other resort, Safari Lodge, is built along the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed and some of the rooms are built treehouse-style and you really get the feeling of being in the heart of life in the bush. Safari Lodge’s rooms provide fascinating views of the animals as they stroll past on their way to the nearby watering hole.

• Hotel website: Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
• Travel tip : get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD gift shop or spa credit).

  8. THANDA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, KWAZULU NATAL

With a name that means “love” in isiZulu, Thanda Safari offers an authentically South African wildlife experience matched with sincere commitment to the Zulu culture and passionate conservation of the environment. Located in northern Zululand in KwaZulu Natal, Thanda is home to abundant wildlife, including Africa’s magnificent Big Five. Visitors spend their days on game drives or bush walks and are encouraged to engage in a selection of conservation and cultural programs. Evenings are reserved for fine dining, enjoying wines from the well-stocked cellar, relaxing around the bonfire and star gazing. The luxurious accommodations range from Thanda’s flagship product, Thanda Safari Lodge, which encompasses 9 bush suites, to the exclusive-use Villa iZulu and the ruggedly elegant and utterly romantic Thanda Tented Camp, comprising 15 luxury tents.

• Hotel website : Thanda Private Game Reserve

7. KAPAMA KARULA, KAPAMA GAME RESERVE

Set on the banks of the perennial Klaserie River, Kapama Karula is the flagship five-star lodge of Kapama Game Reserve. Meaning ‘place of peace’, this ultra-luxurious and prestigious lodge exudes calmness and depicts the pinnacle of elegant safari accommodation, with wraparound views of the African bush enhancing the overall sense of tranquillity. Modern whitewashed wood and vast sections of glass, complemented by a neutral colour palette, give Kapama Karula a contemporary African feel. The open-plan lounge and bar are spacious yet cosy, with skylights drawing in natural daylight and moonshine. Kapama Karula has twelve suites, each exquisitely decorated and with generous private space. Each suite has its own outside deck area, full-sized heated swimming pool and sun loungers for relaxation.

• Hotel website :  Kapama Karula
• Review : read my review of Kapama Karula here .

6. TSWALU KALAHARI, NORTHERN CAPE

Tswalu Kalahari is South Africa’s largest and most remotely loctaed private game reserve, now protecting over 110,000 hectares of spectacular grasslands and mountains. The owners, the Oppenheimer family, take conservation as their absolute priority and have a vision to “restore the Kalahari to itself.” No more than 30 guests at a time can discover the beauty of this arid savannah, its diverse wildlife and the serenity of what may well be South Africa’s last great wilderness. You can choose to stay at either Tswalu Kalahari’s main property, designated “The Motse”; the nearby personal home of the Oppenheimer family, so-called “Tarkuni”; or one of Loapi’s six ultra-luxury tented homes. At all three camps, a private safari vehicle, guide and tracker is guaranteed with each booking. The total number of beds across the three camps represents the lowest ratio of guests to space in a privately protected area in South Africa.

• Hotel website :  Tswalu Kalahari

5. ROYAL MALEWANE, THORNYBUSH PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Royal Malewane is a luxury safari lodge with only seven one- to six-bedroom villas, located in Thornybush private game reserve on the western border of the Kruger National Park. The lodge, which has Bill Gates, Bono and Elton John among its repeat guests, exudes the romance and beauty of a bygone age while offering every modern comfort and convenience. Besides exhiliriating Big Five safaris, guests can also indulge in relaxing treatments at the tranquil waters of Royal Malewane’s bush spa and enjoy nightly feasts under the African stars. Royal Malewane also operates two other luxury lodges within the same private game reserve – Farmstead and Waterside, each one embodying an exquisite vision of contemporary design and ultimate hospitality.

• Hotel website :  Royal Malewane
• Travel tip : get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD gift from Royal Malewane).
• Review : read my review of Royal Malewane here .

4. LONDOLOZI GAME RESERVE, SABI SAND

Londolozi Game Reserve, Member of Relais & Châteaux, is one of the original safari camps in South Africa. Four generations of family-run hospitality and 40 years of experience hosting ecotourism have culminated in an entirely unique and transcendent bushveld experience for the discerning guest. Guests can choose from one of four small camps or stay in one of just three exclusive Private Granite Suites, each built with nature in mind and designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding habitat. Londolozi offers some of the most spectacular game viewing in an ideal setting, with the some of the highest densities of wild leopards in the world. The Londolozi Healing House experience also offers guests to combine the core safari excursions with artful resting, curated bodywork and yoga in the surrounds of the expansive wilderness presence of Londolozi.

• Hotel website : Private Granite Suites

3. SINGITA LEBOMBO LODGE, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

Singita Lebombo Lodge is a celebration of cutting-edge design in an African context where everything defers to nature. This dramatic lodge comprises 13 suites and one villa that give guests a front row seat to the Kruger National Park with bold, contemporary open plan suites suspended above the N’Wanetsi River. The exclusive concession is a richly diverse habitat, teeming with game, beneath endless African skies. Other highlights of the lodge include a roof terrace and wine studio (a multi-level retreat which boasts a library, multi-media room, wine studio and rooftop viewing area), an interactive kitchen, and a lovely lap pool. All communal areas of the lodge have been pushed out to ensure that the outside bursts in, offering elegant, calm and meditative spaces immersed in a dramatic landscape of giant euphorbia trees.

• Hotel website :  Singita Lebombo Lodge

2. IVORY LODGE LION SANDS, SABI SAND

Set along the banks of the Sabie River and attracting abundant “big five” wildlife from Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park, Lion Sands has four luxurious lodges: River Lodge, Ivory Lodge, Tinga Lodge, and Narina Lodge. Ivory Lodge, which was complety renovated in 2017, is the understated jewel in the Lion Sands crown and the most exclusive safari lodge of South Africa. The ultra-luxe lodge is all about elegance, with an aura of sophistication yet simplicity, boldness yet balance, ebony and ivory, perfect harmony, exclusivity, sensitivity and complete privacy. The 8 one-bedroom Villas and 1 two-bedroom Fish Eagle Villa have their own private rim flow plunge pools with magnificent views over the Sabie River, allowing guests to cool down from the hot African sun while watching animals as they quench their thirst a mere stone’s throw away.

• Hotel website :  Ivory Lodge Lion Sands
• Other accolades : Ivory Lodge Lion Sands also features in my top 10 lists of the  world’s most amazing outdoor hotel rooms , the world’s best honeymoon resorts , the  best hotels in South Africa , and Africa’s most insanely beautiful safari lodges .
• Review : read my review of Lion Sands Ivory Lodge here .

1. &BEYOND TENGILE RIVER LODGE, SABI SAND

Situated in a perfect position on the banks of the Sand River – in the heart of the world-famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve – lies &Beyond Tengile River Lodge. The magnificent lodge features nine enormous, air-conditioned, secluded suites, dotted in the dappled shade of the bushveld, each with panoramic river views. In addition to a master bedroom, bathroom and outdoor shower, there is a lounge, dining area, fully-stocked bar, coffee station, and an outdoor deck with private lap pool. For families, two of the lodge’s suites are joined by a covered walkway to create a family suite. The lodge’s guest area offers a mixed selection of open, interactive and private places.  Bespoke furniture, lights and unique décor pieces have been created from skilled local artists and striking fabrics have been masterfully hand-painted.

• Hotel website : &Beyond Tengile River Lodge
• Review : read my review of &Beyond Tengile River Lodge here .

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Related Articles

Top 10 best honeymoon hotels in the world

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire […]

Top 10 best hotels in the world

Top 10 best luxury hotels in Vienna (Austria)

Ulusaba where we’re going is listed in top 10

Sent from my iPhone

Oh wow, these places look incredible. I’ve actually visited the Leopard Hills lodge before with my partner a few years ago. This made us to want to book another safari for our 11th anniversary. Last week, we booked a trip to the Mateya Safari Lodge via a luxury travel company called Berkeley Travel. This is where we are staying: http://www.berkeleytravel.co.uk/resorts/mateya-safari-lodge/ – Has anyone booked with them before? I’ve heard really good things so I hope it lives up to its expectations. Thank you everyone. – Evie

I’ve been to them all but the best is Tintswalo Safari Lodge http://tintswalo.com/safari/

I’ve never been to a safari before but these places sound like a dream 😌

Can’t believe Singita Boulders didn’t make the list. We loved Lebombo for the rugged safari experience but believe Boulders had the edge for the lodge product.

Thanda is definitelty the best Safari Lodge in South Africa!

This is definitely the best list. Check out Monwana Game Lodge in Thornybush. I believe it is also one of the best in South Africa.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

© The Luxury Travel Expert 2024

Discover more from the Luxury Travel Expert

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

TOP DESTINATIONS

• Kruger Park
• Okavango Delta
• Serengeti National Park
• Victoria Falls

TOP COUNTRIES

• South Africa

TRAVEL DEALS

View All Travel Deals

SOUTHERN AFRICA

East africa, indian ocean islands, top experiences.

• Beach Holidays
• Family Safaris
• Honeymoon Safaris
• Desert Safaris
• Luxury Rail Safaris
• Multi-Generational Safaris
• Positive Impact Safaris
• Photographic Safaris
• Walking Safaris

WILDLIFE SAFARI

• Big Five Safaris
• Birding Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking Safaris
• Migration Safaris
• Mobile Camping Safaris
• Horseback Safaris

FEATURED EXPERIENCES

Comfort levels, property types.

• Tented Camps
• Boutique Hotels

Featured Safari Collections

• Time & Tide
• Desert & Delta
• African Bush Camps
• Red Carnation

GET TO KNOW US

• Meet The Team
• Pricing Explained
• Traveller Reviews
• Traveller Stories
• Why Book With Us?
• HerdTracker
• Safari Cost Calculator
• South Africa In 360
• Trusted Safari Partners

What are you looking for?

• Safaris & Tours
• Destinations
• Experiences
• Accommodations
• Why book with us?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.

Alternatively, we recommend...

Schedule a phone or Zoom call with one of our safari planners

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

The Top 10 South African Safari Lodges to Visit in 2024

Author: Lana Goodwin - 9 February 2023

Last Update: 30 January 2024

Part of the South Africa Safari Holidays & Travel To South Africa & African Safari Collection

Located in the stunning African wilderness, the best South African safari lodges to stay at in 2024 embody ethical and sustainable luxury.

Eco-consciousness is the name of the game at these one-of-a-kind locations, where conservation efforts and unobtrusive construction blend with the natural environment to deliver an unspoiled experience of the African bush.

Embracing conservation, luxury, and unparalleled hospitality, they promise an unforgettable safari adventure, marrying the thrill of wildlife with the serenity of nature’s unspoiled beauty.

Here’s our collection of the Top 10 South African safari lodges in 2024.

Londolozi Private Granite Suites

Londolozi Granite Suites, a 5-star luxury safari lodge in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve adjacent to Kruger National Park , is renowned for its unique blend of experiential luxury and natural beauty.

The Private Granite Suites, designed for elegance and comfort, offer a remarkable river setting with views of wandering elephant herds. These suites feature contemporary African design, integrating indoor and outdoor spaces with large doors and windows opening to the Sand River.

The double volume thatched central lodge includes lounge areas with comfortable seating, an extensive deck and dining area, outdoor boma and central swimming pool all with stunning river views.

Dulini Moya Lodge

Set in a peaceful riverine grove and embraced in a leafy canopy of giant Ebony trees, Dulini Moya’s six exquisite suites all offer private views of the Mabrak River and feature heated plunge pools, outdoor showers and shady decks. Interiors epitomise romance with canopies of billowing mosquito nets and beautiful bathrooms.

Fine wine and dining, enhanced by the culinary tradition of African flavours, complements the luxurious safari accommodation while personal butlers attend to guest’s every whim. Enjoy a workout in the well-equipped gym, relax in the guest lounge, dine under the ancient jackalberry tree, or steal away for a romantic private dinner at your suite.

Enjoy a workout in the well-equipped gym, relax in the guest lounge, dine under the ancient jackalberry tree, or steal away for a romantic private dinner at your suite.

Elephant Plains Game Lodge

Situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve , adjacent to the Kruger National Park, Elephant Plains Game Lodge offers comfortable, stylish and affordable luxury.

Attention to detail, warm hospitality, and personal service make Elephant Plains Game Lodge an accommodation guests keep returning to. While the Big Five and a host of other game roam this area, it’s also famous for its vast array of bird species.

Indulge in stargazing excursions, twice-daily guided safaris and ultra-immersive bush walks, between fine dining and sampling the lodge’s impressive wine cellar. Elephant Plains boasts an abnormally high concentration of leopard sightings, so if you’re aiming to spot this elusive big cat, look no further.

Kapama River Lodge

Kapama River Lodge, located in Kapama Private Game Reserve , offers a luxurious safari experience with 64 spacious bedrooms. Each room has an en-suite bathroom and terrace with views of the Big 5 game reserve.

Key features include a large rim-flow swimming pool, sun loungers, and a relaxation lounge with a bar. The lounge, boasting a double-volume thatch and a large double-sided fireplace, creates a cozy yet open atmosphere for guests.

Considered one of the finest safari spas in Africa, the spa situated at River Lodge has six sumptuous treatment rooms in a setting surrounded by stillness and sweeping bushveld. Arranged around a generous central lap pool the spa evokes a sense of calm.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

One of the most eco-friendly safari lodges in South Africa, Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge in the Sabi Sabi Game Reserve was conceived to blend in with its natural environment from every angle. Get in touch with nature’s restoring tranquility while soaking up undisturbed views of the endless bushveld.

Notable features include a meditation garden, an underground wine cellar with 6000 bottles of rare wines, a spa that offers holistic treatments, and a one-of-a-kind outdoor boma. Local Shangaan trackers and highly experienced guides are on hand to take you on daily game drives for a wilderness experience you won’t soon forget.

Each of the suites at this luxury lodge features individually designed furniture, a private plunge pool, an enormous, ensuite, glass-fronted bathroom and both an indoor and outdoor shower.

Greater Kruger Safari Short and Sweet

From $ 1360 /USD

Affordable Sabi Safari

Southern Africa South Africa Sabi Sands

From $ 1490 /USD

Sun City Adventure and Pilanesberg Safari

South Africa Johannesburg Sun City Pilanesberg

Singita Boulders Lodge

Located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve next to the world-famous Kruger National Park, Singita Boulders Lodge takes its name from the Shangaan phrase ‘places of miracles’. Twelve luxurious glass-fronted suites blend into the boulder-strewn banks of the Sand River, each featuring a private deck, heated pool, fireplace, and outdoor shower.

Vast decks and walkways continue the immersion in nature, while various experiences and activities offer exclusive access to 45,000 acres in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

After a day out spotting elephants, lions, cheetahs, hippos, wild dogs, and other game, tuck into the lodge’s extensive collection of wines – it’s renowned for being one of Africa’s most prolific collectors.

Ulusaba Rock Lodge

As one of Sir Richard Branson’s collection of lodges within Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, Ulusaba Rock Lodge represents the peak of style and comfort.

Uninterrupted panoramic vistas over the African bushveld will have you shaking off your city blues in no time at all. Located on a hilltop, each suite is individually decorated and offers up sumptuous accommodation.

Whether you’re relaxing at the pool, getting an aerial perspective on a helicopter flip, or being guided through the bush be an expert tracker and guide, you’re never far from the tranquility of nature.

Rock Lodge features ten individually designed rooms and suites as well as a swimming pool, gymnasium, a wine cellar, Aroma Boma spa with panoramic views, a Bush Observatory perfect for stargazing and tennis courts.

Lion Sands River Lodge

The only private reserve sharing access to the perennial Sabie River with Kruger National Park, Lion Sands Game Reserve features stunning views and incredible wildlife viewing. Apart from the Big Five, the area is renowned for its record number of leopard sightings, a rare treat when it comes to this elusive big cat.

Safari lunches, boma dinners, and sundowners on the deck will have you blissfully slipping away into the sights, sounds, and scents of the African bush, while highly trained trackers and guides will share their knowledge on twice-daily game drives.

Do not miss the creative lab to print your personal photos onto high-quality canvas, and create a special keepsake or pass on as gifts.

Tintswalo Safari Lodge

Serene and delightfully secluded Tintswalo safari lodge is located next to Kruger National Park in the Manyeleti Game Reserve. Every suite is kitted out in 19th-century charm, with a private pool, all the creature comforts you could desire, and stunning views of the waterhole, guaranteeing spectacular wildlife sightings.

Featuring one of the lowest vehicle densities in the Greater Kruger, Tintswalo offers up the ultimate in safari exclusivity. Enjoy uninterrupted game viewing, guided by expert local trackers who know the environment like the back of their hands. Special trips include guided game walks, hot-air balloon rides, and stargazing excursions.

Tintswalo Safari suites all situated along a seasonal river bed among an ancient sycamore tree grove. The exquisitely appointed main lodge overlooks a waterhole frequented by a large herd of elephant and other big game.

Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge

Situated on the banks of the Mluwati River, Hoyo Hoyo safari lodge blends traditional Tsonga style with the ultimate in luxury. The lodge is steeped in modern day comfort and blends into the surrounding bush perfectly.

Hosting a maximum of 12 guests at a time, exclusivity is guaranteed, and hospitality is supreme. Indulge in spa treatments, tuck into three-course dinners and enjoy the privacy of your own deck.

The Mluwati concession was one of the first private concessions in the Kruger National Park and you won’t have to look far to see the benefits of its conservation efforts. Apart from the Big Five, Hoyo Hoyo boasts some 500 bird species and you’ll be able to see all of them on a guided walking safari .

Top 7 Safari Tours for Seniors in Southern Africa

The Top 25 Best Safari Lodges and Camps in Botswana

Related Safari Tours

These popular itineraries can be customised to match your budget and how many people you're planning to travel with..

Best of South Africa and Botswana Safari

Southern Africa South Africa Cape Town Kruger National Park Johannesburg Botswana

From $ 7450 /USD

Bespoke Luxury Safari in South Africa

South Africa Cape Town Johannesburg Kruger National Park

From $ 13100 /USD

A grandiose journey through Cape Town, the Wine...

South Africa Cape Town Franschhoek Sabi Sands

From $ 14000 /USD

Keep discovering...

Kruger National Park Kruger National Park Karoo Madikwe Game Reserve Thornybush Game Reserve

10 of the best safari destinations in south africa.

South Africa’s best safari experiences stand unparalleled, offering thrilling encounters with the...

5 Of The Best Spots For Bird-Watching In South Africa

South Africa, celebrated for its diverse ecosystems and rich birdlife, offers birding...

Why travel with us?

Recent reviews from travellers who planned and booked their africa trips with discover africa safaris, adelle was responsive, informative, and persistent.

A 11 Day Greater Kruger & Okavango Delta Safari Review

Terrie Hayward, British Virgin Islands 23 Feb 2024

A seamless experience with expert/objective advice and terrific communication..

6 Day Luxury Sabi Sand Safari Review

Caroline, United States 04 Aug 2023

Hassle free and very professional service from start to finish..

Motswari Game Reserve & Cape Town Tour Review

Debbie, Australia 16 Mar 2020

We found serenity on our amazing kenya safari..

Kenya Safari Review in December

Cheryl, United States 07 Jan 2020

The staff was very helpful.

Wildlife Safari Review

ag, United States 02 Apr 2019

The sound of the lion roaring still rumbles through me. absolutely amazing....

Masodini Lodge Review

Shaina Herman, United States 25 Feb 2014

Registered Members of these Organizations

USEFUL LINKS

• Safari Tours
• Accommodation
• Why Book with us?
• Content Collaborations
• Safari Cost Estimator Tool
• Wildebeest Migration
• Privacy Policy
• Website Terms of Use

POPULAR COUNTRIES

• View All Countries

POPULAR DESTINATIONS

• View All Destinations
• Cape Town Holidays
• Kruger National Park
• Etosha National Park
• Chobe National Park

TRAVEL BLOGS

• Travel News Digest, 26 April: Namibia Adds Visa-on-Arrival in Walvis Bay, Uganda Deforestation Concerns
• The Best of Kenyan Cuisine: 10 Dishes to Savour on your next Safari
• Norse Atlantic Adds New Direct Flight to Cape Town
• Travel News Digest, 19 April: SA Airports Celebrated, Rhino Poaching Concerns, Cape Town ‘Big Six’ Appeal
• FastJet Adds Surcharge to Vic Falls Route

OUR LOCATION

• 2nd floor, Tygervalley Chambers One, 27 Willie van Schoor Avenue, Bellville, Cape Town , 7530

• The Best Of
• Destinations
• The Hotel Guru

The 25 Best Safari Lodges in South Africa

To go on safari is to experience one of life’s greatest adventures but finding the best safari lodges in South Africa, can be a journey in itself. Whether a 4x4 safari is on your bucket-list or you're a budding conservationist at heart, from the Western to the Eastern Cape, up to the plains of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and the Kruger Park we’ve hand-picked the best safari lodges in South Africa for spotting 'The Big 5'. Looking for a family stay, a couple’s retreat, a five-star stay, or a spa-fari experience? We've got it covered! Our collection of the best safari lodges in South Africa ensures that all you have to worry about is keeping your eyes open for one of Mother Nature’s most incredible performances.

For a family stay

• Kwandwe Private Game Reserve , located in the Eastern Cape is a refuge for endangered animals, not to mention travellers with children! A luxurious private game reserve, five different lodges are dotted amidst 54,000 hectares. Choose between exclusive-use villas and stylish suites – whatever suits your families needs. Without a doubt one of the best safari lodges in South Africa for families.
• Excellent family safari lodge, Kapama Southern Camp is ideal for exploring the Kruger Park. Plenty of activities and flexible accommodation (including catered villas with pools) ensure it’s perfect for a get-together. A great choice if heading on safari with all the family.
• Family-owned, family-led, Madikwe Safari Lodge is a five-star stay suitable for all ages. It offers lots of activities including walking and driving safaris, as well as bird-watching. Alternatively grown-ups can indulge in a spa treatment. A well-recommended family safari experience.
• Priced for families, Khaya Ndlovu Manor House is filled to the rafters with antiques and local curios. It feels more like a home than a hotel. All of the rooms are cosy with sink-into-sofas, antique books, quirky artwork, and plenty of board games to keep all ages entertained.
• Kids will love waking up at Gorah Elephant Camp , without a doubt one of the best safari lodges in Addo Elephant National Park for families! Relax in the cosy setting of your colonial-style tent as these gentle giants pass by, en route to the watering hole. Bask in your very own watering hole, in the form of a glistening infinity pool.

For a five-star luxury lodge

• One of South Africa’s best safari lodges, Jabulani Safari is a favourite amongst honeymooners and well-heeled travellers. A “homage to the elephant”, it is located just outside the Kruger National Park and is on the front doorstep for spotting The Big 5. Stunning suites include four-posters, roll-top baths, and sprawling views. For total privacy, the Zindoga Villa is available on an exclusive basis.
• An award-winning lodge, Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve , located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve provides a five-star stay with private pools, an impressive wellness menu, and opulent suites with four-poster beds and luxurious bathrooms. Sample your choice of 'bush cuisine' or Western flavours, paired with an excellent wine list.
• With numerous awards under its belt, Royal Malewane does not disappoint. The safari lodge of dreams, its recently added Farmstead provides unrivalled luxury and total privacy. Colourful rooms are designed by the owner herself, Liz Biden. Though it bears a hefty price tag, once you’re there it’s an all-inclusive stay.

For sustainability

• Set amidst 26,000-acres of private reserve, Gondwana Game Reserve provides the ultimate Out Of Africa experience, all in a convenient location – just a 4-hour drive from Cape Town. Committed to conservation, this is one of the best safari lodges in South Africa for an environmentally friendly stay. Their mission is to use education, training, and community involvement to create employment for the local community while actively protecting the endangered flora and fauna within the region.
• Boasting excellent value as well as commendable conservation efforts, Hitgeheim Country Lodge & Eco-Reserve is a collection of 16-cottages just a short drive from Addo Elephant National Park. In particular, their Cheetah Project and Elephant Conservation offers educational guided tours and contributes to the preservation of these beautiful animals.
• A lifelong project for the Tompkins family, at 1.3 million acres, Samara Private Game Reserve is South Africa's third-largest protected area. Home to all of The Big 5, they are committed to preserving the local ecosystem. Very luxurious, it’s also one of the best safari lodges in South Africa for families.

Sleep under the stars

• Total romance at Motswari Private Game Reserve . This stunning family house turned safari lodge - with interiors by famed designer David Strauss and artwork by Marion Geiger-Orengo is an aesthete's haven. And the very best bit? You can sleep out in the wild.
• Spa, dining, and sumptuous interiors, Klaserie Sands is a grown-ups only lodge amidst the Kruger Park. Made for romance, it's loved by honeymooners, many of whom opt to try their ‘Star Bed’ experience. One of best safari lodges in South Africa for couples.
• A five-star stay with commendable conservation efforts, immersive spa treatments, and a long list of activities, but what sets Tswalu Kalahari is the opportunity to sleep al fresco, under the Milky Way, in The Motse camp. An unforgettable stay.
• Voted one of Condé Nast Traveller’s ‘Top 20 safari lodges in Africa’, there’s a lengthy list of reasons that make Lion Sands Game Reserve . Its prime location amidst The Kruger Park, restaurant quality dining and five-star spa treatments are all up there, but the piece de resistance has got to be their treehouse stay – the ultimate romantic sleepover.

For a couples stay

• A much more modern setting than most safari lodges in South Africa, Kapama Karula Camp offers 12 suites, including private pools and indoor-outdoor living, as well as an impressive wellness menu and fine dining; it truly is one of South Africa’s most romantic safari lodges.
• Roll-top baths, al-fresco showers and candle-lit bush dining, Tanda Tula wows with design-led interiors and tents with private sit-outs. Set in the heart of the Timbavati Game Reserve there’s no better place to experience wildlife with romance, and service to match.
• Nestled amidst the Kruger Park, Hamiltons Tented Camp is an adults-only safari lodge and unforgettable couples’ stay. Choose from candlelit dining served alongside a colonial setting and fine wines or indulgent spa treatments or why not opt for both!
• Set amidst the stunning Sabi Sands Reserve, Nkorho Bush Lodge is great for couples, but also one of the best safari lodges in South Africa for families (and adults looking for some alone time)! Babysitting services are available, whilst you dine by candlelight or indulge with a spa treatment.
• All-out luxury, Kariega Settler's Drift is a contemporary, architecturally beautiful lodge, providing chic accommodation in a rugged setting. Sprawling rooms boast sink-into bathtubs and epic views. Utterly romantic.
• Camp Ndlovu is a very intimate stay with just three suites – the best boasting private pools. Adults-only, their offering includes pampering spa treatments, sophisticated interiors and capacious four posters. A very romantic experience.

For a spa-fari experience

• With its award-winning spa, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat is a sanctuary in itself. Utterly romantic, enjoy an open-air massage in the Riverside Gazebo, perched alongside the tranquil waters of the Boontjes River. Using signature B|Africa products, facilities include crystal steam room, heated outdoor pool, health bar, fitness centre and tranquillity lounge – all the hallmarks of a five-star spa set amidst the African wilderness.
• With a more contemporary feel than most lodges in Limpopo, Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa has an excellent wellness offering, including juice cleanses and yoga breaks. It’s also reasonably priced, compared to other safari lodges, and provides excellent children’s facilities, including a kid’s club and babysitting services. Highly recommended.
• Light and airy interiors abound at Esiweni Luxury Lodge , off-the-beaten-track in Nambiti Game Reserve, KwaZulu Natal – home to all The Big 5, without the safari footfall of The Kruger Park. A member of the Relais & Chateaux collection, gourmet dining is guaranteed, but what sets it apart from the rest is the comprehensive spa menu, including immersive outdoor treatments, overlooking the reserve.
• Boasting an extensive Africology wellness programme (as well as a fully-fitted gym) Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge has all the facilities of a five-star hotel, in the privacy of its very own reserve. Superb conservation efforts ensure guests look after themselves, as well as the local environment.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include all our recommended safari lodges in the Kruger Park, Addo Elephant National Park , Sabi Sands, and The Karoo
• or widen the net even further and take in all the best safari lodges in South Africa including the Western , Eastern , and Northern Cape , the Free State , KwaZulu Natal , the North West Province , and Limpopo and Mpumalanga (for the Kruger Park).
• Alternatively you can contact one of the gurus for advice .

Hitgeheim Country Lodge & Eco-Reserve Addo 16 rooms from $133

Traditional African style huts, with thatched roofs, concealing luxurious interiors and quirky bathrooms. Each includes its own private sit out from which to watch the birds and wildlife pass by. There's a pool, excellent safari opportunities, as well as a strong environmental ethos. See More

Khaya Ndlovu Manor House Hoedspruit,, Limpopo 8 rooms from $423

Filled to the rafters with antiques and local curios, all of the rooms are very cosy with sink-into-sofas, antique books, and quirky artwork. Bask in the panoramic views from the infinity pool and decking area. An excellent breakfast is served each morning; lunch and dinner à la carte. See More

Samara Private Game Reserve Graaff-Reinet,, Eastern Cape 9 rooms from $441

Surrounded by thousands of acres of wild terrain, with 360° views across the Plains of Camdeboo. Choose from cheetah tracking to walking safaris, and picnic out in the wild. With admirable sustainability efforts, this property is passionate about conservation. Beautiful suites and fine dining. See More

Gondwana Game Reserve Western Cape 28 rooms from $547

A four-hour drive from Cape Town airport, this 26,000-acre private game reserve provides the ultimate Out Of Africa experience, in a convenient location. Rustic luxury lodges are perfect for couples and the family. There's a spa, fine dining, as well as enough activities to keep you busy for weeks! See More

Motswari Private Game Reserve Mpumalanga 15 rooms from $733

Stunning family house turned safari lodge - with interiors by famed designer David Strauss and artwork by Marion Geiger-Orengo it is an aesthete's haven. Each of its suites boasts a private sit-out where you can listen to the sound of the bushveld. Superb dining, infinity pool, plus daily safaris. See More

Hamiltons Tented Camp Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga 6 rooms from $765

Nestled amidst the Kruger Park, this adults-only safari lodge boasts luxurious suites and superb wildlife opportunities. An utterly romantic stay choose from candlelit dining and indulgent spa treatments. Delicious freshly baked cakes and pastries are served - as are gourmet dishes and fine wines. See More

Nkorho Bush Lodge Limpopo, Mpumalanga 7 rooms from $769

Beautifully appointed suites nestled amidst the private Sabi Sands reserve. Great for couples and families. Babysitting services are available as are indulgent spa treatments. A buffet feast is served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus there's a great wine list. Excellent safari opportunities. See More

Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa Limpopo 6 rooms from $797

Luxurious hotel providing excellent wellness packages and family facilities. Billowing four-poster beds gaze out across the wilderness, some rooms include private pools. Gourmet dining makes for a very romantic stay. From kids' clubs to juice cleanses, there's something to keep everyone happy. See More

Kapama Southern Camp Hoedspruit (R40 Klaserie River) 22 rooms from $840

Excellent family accommodation boasting private pools and your choice of activities. Flexible accommodation and dining mean it's perfect for children, whilst adults will love the spoiling spa treatments. Modern suites include stylish accommodation with private sit outs and some have private pools. See More

Camp Ndlovu Limpopo,, Limpopo 3 rooms from $880

This adults-only hotel provides the ultimate romantic stay. Private terraces look out across the bushveld (the best include their own private pool). Daily guided safari drives allow you to soak up the local wildlife. Superb dining, opulent suites, and pampering spa treatments - a spoiling stay. See More

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat Clanwilliam,, Western Cape 16 rooms from $883

An utterly immersive experience. This hotel is committed to its conservation efforts, from protecting the local wildlife to ensuring that almost all of your cuisine comes straight from their organic garden. Boasting an indulgent wellness centre, a long list of activities, and stunning suites. See More

Gorah Elephant Camp Addo 11 rooms from $937

Five-star stay amidst the famed Addo Elephant National Park. Relax in the lavish setting of your colonial-style tent to the sound of the plains. Candle-lit dining is the height of luxury - every creature comfort is taken care of. There's an inviting pool (the guest's own watering hole) to unwind. See More

Klaserie Sands Mpumalanga 5 rooms from $942

This five-star stay, nestled amidst the Kruger Park provides lavish interiors in a very grown-up setting. Choose between lounging by the pool, head out on an expertly led safari drive, or relax with a spa treatment - you can even 'sleep under the stars'. Superb dining. A great stay. See More

Esiweni Luxury Lodge Ladysmith, KwaZulu Natal 5 rooms from $1007

Utterly luxurious safari lodge in the heart of the Nambiti Game Reserve. This five-star stay provides guests with a romantic and indulgent base from which to head off in search of the Big 5. All inclusive, two safari drives are included in your stay. Modern and opulent suites are very romantic. See More

Madikwe Safari Lodge North West Province 20 rooms from $1043

A family-owned lodge that welcomes yours. This five-star stay is suitable for all ages and offers luxurious rooms and bathrooms alongside plenty of activities. Gourmet dining, al fresco and by candlelight is an unforgettable experience. A lavish and well-recommended stay. See More

Kariega Settler's Drift Kenton-on-Sea,, Eastern Cape 9 rooms from $1063

All out luxury this contemporary, architecturally beautiful lodge provides chic accommodation in a rugged setting. Sprawling rooms provide a lavish stay with sink into bathtubs boasting epic views. Superb dining, an inviting bar, and a picture worthy infinity pool. See More

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve Grahamstown,, Eastern Cape 26 rooms from $1235

Private game reserve comprised of five different properties, all different, all equally as luxurious. Choose between exclusive use villas and stylish suites. Superb wildlife opportunities, gourmet dining, spa treatments, and plenty to keep the little ones busy. Excellent eco credentials. See More

Tanda Tula Limpopo,, Mpumalanga 12 rooms from $1602

Five star stay in the midst of the Timbavati Game Reserve provides opulent interiors with colonial style tents filled with antiques. Each includes a private sit out with unparalleled views and bathrooms with roll-top baths. Fine dining plus excellent activities. An indulgent stay. See More

Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge Madikwe Game Reserve,, North West Province 10 rooms from $1855

Luxurious ten bedroom lodge boasting extensive wellness menu. Rooms juxtapose organic materials, stone and wood, with capacious four-posters and white linens, opening out onto a private terrace and pool. Restaurant quality dining in the middle of the African bush. Superb conservation efforts. See More

Lion Sands Game Reserve Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga 12 rooms from $2095

One of South Africa's finest safari lodges guests are pampered beyond imagination. Gourmet dining, indulgent spa treatments, there is even treehouse accommodation for the ultimate romantic sleepover. Suites boast impressive views, indoor-outdoor living and enormous baths. Divine. See More

Kapama Karula Camp Hoedspruit 12 rooms from $2424

Modern safari lodge providing separate suites nestled in the heart of the African bush. Boasting private pools and indoor-outdoor living, it's a truly wild stay. Enormous suites spill over into luxurious bathrooms. An impressive wellness menu, fine dining, and excellent game drives. Wonderful. See More

Jabulani Safari Hoedspruit 7 rooms from $2474

Sumptuous five-star suites boasting private pools, opulent four-poster beds and baths that are meant for lingering - with views out across the savannah. Gourmet dishes are on the menu, from a hearty breakfast spread to candlelit dinners. Immersive spa and plenty of activities. Sublime. See More

Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve Hazyview,, Mpumalanga 8 rooms from $2501

Award-winning lodgings, located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve provides a five-star stay with private pools, an impressive wellness menu, and opulent suites with four-poster beds and luxurious bathrooms. Sample your choice of 'bush cuisine' or Western flavours, paired with an excellent wine list. See More

Tswalu Kalahari Northern Cape 15 rooms from $3340

Five-star lodge with excellent conservation efforts and immersive spa treatments. Choose from riding, walking, or 4x4 safaris to spot the local wildlife. Rooms are very romantic, and there's even the option to sleep under the stars. The full package, an unforgettable stay. See More

Royal Malewane Hoedspruit 6 rooms from $3459

Winner of countless awards, Royal Malewane is one of, if not the most luxurious stay in South Africa. With a hefty price tag it's one to truly spoil yourself, though once you're there, it's all included. Colourful rooms are designed by the owner herself, Liz Biden. Gourmet dining. A sublime stay. See More

Written by Megan Lambert

Search the best hotels in South Africa

• Where To Stay
• Holiday Rentals
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Ask the Guru

Sabi-sands.com

Sabi sands is the best place in the world for a safari..

A little bit about Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Spanning 65,000 hectares, the Sabi Sands Nature Reserve is a testament to the vision of local landowners in the 1950s. It stands proudly adjacent to the globally acclaimed Kruger National Park, forming a vast wilderness teeming with wildlife.

The legacy of these founding families, now in their third and fourth generations of stewardship, resonates in the successful conservation of South Africa's richest density of big game. A unique feature of Sabi Sands is its 50-kilometer unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park, creating a harmonious coexistence that allows wildlife to roam freely. This has led to remarkably close encounters with the local fauna, including prolific sightings of the elusive leopard. The dynamic landscape is further enriched by the Sabi and Sand Rivers, weaving their way through the reserve, enhancing the rich biodiversity of this extraordinary habitat.

Going on safari in Sabi Sands

Embark on an incredible journey to Sabi Sands Nature Reserve in South Africa, but before you go, there are some important details you should know.

Curious about the travel duration? Wondering if this destination is accessible to everyone? Intrigued by the unique aspects that make this place truly special? And what essentials should you pack? In the following sections, you will find answers to these queries and more. If there's a question left unanswered, feel free to reach out to us using the contact form below, and our team will be thrilled to assist you!

About Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve near Kruger National Park in South Africa is one of those very special places in the world and is the ultimate African safari destination.

Sabi Sands special offers

Searching for that one special offer that makes all your safari dreams come through? Our Sabi Sands special deals offer excellent value for money. We hope to see you soon!

Getting to Sabi Sands Reserve

The Sabi Sands is one of South Africa's best accessible game reserves. We have multiple daily flights, three access gates and a lot of world-class roads leading right to us.

So incredible, we started to plan a return trip during the flight home!

The food was spectacular - budget on gaining a kg or 3! Good, fresh South African food, prepared and served in style. You will love it!

...the highlights being following a pack of wild dogs and watching a leopard and her cub jumping from branch to branch high up in the trees.

Sabi Sands Game Reserve lodges

Set off on a journey to Sabi Sands Nature Reserve, a captivating destination that offers a unique safari experience. After a day filled with discovery and exploration in the African bush, you'll appreciate a tranquil haven to relax and recharge.

Sabi Sands caters to every taste and budget with its varied accommodations. From cozy bush camps tucked away in the wilderness to luxury options beneath the stunning African night sky, there's a unique experience for every traveller. A stay in the Sabi Sands not only promises unforgettable moments, but also fosters a lasting bond with the pulsing heart of the African bush, leaving an enduring memory long after your journey is over.

• Price $$$$$

Chitwa Chitwa Lodge

lodge style Art-inspired African

Chitwa Chitwa Lodge overlooks one of the largest lakes in the Sabi Sands. It is designed as a spacious yet intimate camp - presenting sophistication in a relaxed atmosphere. The eight very spacious suites all have plunge pools.

from ZAR 26,550 per person per night

Ulusaba Rock Lodge

lodge style Tranquil hill & trees

Ulusaba Rock Lodge is built high on the summit of a small hill overlooking the South African bushveld. The rooms and suites offer views over a waterhole in front of the lodge, allowing you to view wildlife from the privacy of your room.

from ZAR 14,159 per person per night

Notten's Bush Camp

lodge style Down to earth elegance

Notten's is one of the original family run lodges in Africa, and a true gem within the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. As one of the original lodges, it has a magical bush atmosphere and offers a truly authentic safari experience.

from ZAR 9,975 per person per night

Lion Sands Game Reserve

lodge style Riverside serenity

The award winning Lion Sands is the only private reserve to have access to the perennial Sabie River, which it shares with Kruger National Park. You will find five beautiful lodges here, so there's always one that suits your taste!

from ZAR 23,800 per person per night

Sabi Sabi Game Reserve

lodge style Present, past & future

Within the Sabi Sands Reserve, Sabi Sabi has created three unique worlds through its four first-class camps: one of yesterday's vintage romance; today's classic bush experience; and tomorrow's African renaissance.

from ZAR 15,969 per person per night

Singita Sabi Sand lodges

lodge style A very private affair

At the Singita lodges, guests share the privilege of experiencing this wonderful part of Africa. Spanning more than 45,000 acres, Singita is renowned for high concentrations of big game and frequent leopard sightings.

from ZAR 39,954 per person per night

Dulini Game Reserve

lodge style World class luxury

Dulini boasts several extraordinary safari lodges, including Dulini River, Dulini Leadwood, and Dulini Moya, where sumptuous accommodations offer a strikingly elegant contrast to the rugged bushveld.

from ZAR 26,800 per person per night

Elephant Plains Lodge

lodge style Bushveld simplicity

Elephant Plains Lodge offers comfortable style and affordable luxury. This lodge is family owned and sleeps a maximum of 24 guests. As such, you can be sure to expect personal service and a warm atmosphere.

from ZAR 5,500 per person per night

Arathusa Safari Lodge

lodge style classic lakeside safari

Arathusa offers an affordable wildlife and Big 5 Safari experience in a traditional safari camp. In front of your chalet is a lake that attracts lots of game throughout the day: perfect for game viewing from your lazy chair!

from ZAR 9,045 per person per night

Tengile River Lodge

lodge style Tranquil river views

Tengile River Lodge is the latest addition to the Sabi Sands. Extremely spacious suites offer incredible views over the river in incredible luxury. Of course the sounds and views of the African bush are best enjoyed from the privacy of your own plunge pool.

from ZAR 34,799 per person per night

Jaci's Sabi House

lodge style Group and family home

This is the ideal bush retreat for small groups and families alike. Jaci's Sabi House accommodates six guests only in a completely private setting. Explore the Sabi Sands from the comfort of your private safari vehicle and take home some unforgettable memories.

from ZAR 48,174 (sleeps four)

Ulusaba Safari Lodge

lodge style Under a canopy of trees

Sir Richard Branson's Ulusaba Safari Lodge overlooks a dry riverbed and is shaded by ancient trees. The nearby waterhole guarantees great game viewing. The eleven luxury rooms provide a luxurious safari experience in complete privacy.

Leopard Hills Lodge

lodge style Hilltop splendour

Expect to enjoy some amazing views over the African bush when staying in Leopard Hills Lodge. Eight luxury suites offer only the best safari accommodation. Enjoy the sunset from your viewing deck or plunge pool.

from ZAR 22,714 per person per night

&Beyond Kirkman's Kamp

lodge style Victoriana delight

Kirkman's is a well known historic camp which was originally built in the 1920s. It airs a feeling of an early rural homestead, with a vintage style and gracious ambience. All cottages have a deck overlooking the Sand River.

from ZAR 18,394 per person per night

Nkorho Bush Lodge

lodge style stylish modesty

To ensure travellers of the best possible attention, Nkorho only sleeps a maximum of twelve people in six stylish thatched chalets. The spacious rooms have en suite bathrooms, contemporary interiors, and offer complete privacy.

from ZAR 9,379 per person per night

Londolozi Game Reserve

lodge style Magical lodge collection

Londolozi is one of the pioneering Private Game Reserves of the ecotourism industry in South Africa and an unashamedly family run, stand alone operation. There are five beautifully appointed lodges to choose from.

from ZAR 22,564 per person per night

Savanna Game Lodge

lodge style Classic semi-tented savannah

A longtime favourite and much loved true South African safari lodge. Savanna Lodge is situated in an area where 'Big Five' sightings are so common that it is not unusual to see all of them during a single safari activity.

from ZAR 16,015 per person per night

Idube Game Lodge

lodge style affordable african safari

Idube is situated in prime game area. Many animals are seen close to the lodge on a daily basis. The lodge is family owned and offers just ten luxury suites. Each suite has its own private wooden deck, great for wildlife viewing!

from ZAR 11,309 per person per night

Inyati Safari Lodge

lodge style Classic bush experience

Inyati Game Lodge is situated on the banks of the Sand River, providing stunning river views. All chalets have been refurbished recently, now offering perfect luxury safari accommodation in the midst of the Sabi Sands Reserve.

from ZAR 12,584 per person per night

Silvan Safari Lodge

lodge style Luxury safari redefined

An innate understanding of the bush and a deep love for Africa: these two elements define Silvan’s story. Book yourself a stay in this new, luxury lodge and leave with an uplifted spirit and a firmly rooted love for this land.

from ZAR 29,129 per person per night

Cheetah Plains Lodge

lodge style Ultrachic retreat

Characterised by modern design, this three-villa lodge offers privacy and exclusivity, accompanied by superb service. The ideal setting to relish in the untamed wilderness, and unparalleled wildlife encounters.

from ZAR 33,869 per person per night

Umkumbe Safari Lodge

lodge style Affordable elementary Bush

Umkumbe Safari Lodge is owner-managed and run; ensuring guests enjoy a personal, rustic and real South African safari experience. The lodge consists of six chalets with most overlooking the Sand River.

from ZAR 5,145 per person per night

Mala Mala Game Reserve

lodge style Classic family owned reserve

Many years of superb service -and experience- has resulted in the satisfaction of many guests. Relax in the unpretentious elegance and style of one of the finest safari experiences in Africa at Mala Mala Private Game Reserve.

from ZAR 19,664 per person per night

Simbambili Game Lodge

lodge style moroccan style Lakeside

Simbambili Game Lodge is a destination for the discerning traveller. Sophisticated yet simple, each suite has spectacular views whether from the unique en-suite bathrooms and salas or individual plunge pools.

from ZAR 18,895 per person per night

Sabi Sands Video

The best way of getting an idea what the Sabi Sands Game Reserve is about is by seeing some incredible footage from the area. We went out with our video camera and spent a lot of time outdoors to get you some of the most beautiful shots of the reserve imaginable.

Visit our Sabi Sands videos overview page for more videos and get inspired for your Sabi Sands safari.

We were off road and moving with the animals or quietly sitting watching them playing or feasting....magical.

The staff went out of their way to make our wedding and honeymoon as special as it could ever be. We were blown away.

Great place for viewing big cats!

Send your enquiry

We hope you have found all information needed to decide that the Sabi Sands Game Reserve is the perfect place for your next travel adventure. Still have questions? Or perhaps you would like more specific information about one of the topics on this page? Please fill in the contact form and we will get back to you soon!

• Sabi Sands Game Reserve
• Mpumalanga, South Africa
• [email protected]

The 10 Best Safari Lodges in South Africa

When you think of traveling to Africa for your first safari, chances are you think of visiting South Africa. This country is full of some incredible safari lodges, and indeed has the highest concentration of luxury safari lodges on the continent. So, where are the best safari lodges in South Africa? We’ve listed the 10 best of the best.

1. Singita Boulders, Sabi Sands

Set along the idyllic Sand River, Singita Boulders is one of the most sought after lodges set on the edge of the Kruger National Park. Not only is the location enviable, with game consistently spotted nearby the lodge, but the rooms are delightfully inventive. Each suite comes with a private pool, oversized deck, and the occasional elephant passing by to drink from your pool (yes, really!)

Related: Checking In to Singita Boulders Safari Lodge

2. Ivory Lodge, Lion Sands Game Reserve

As one of the most uniquely designed lodges in the Sabi Sands, Lion Sands Game Reserve is perhaps the most photogenic safari lodge in all of South Africa. Located on the banks of the Sabi River, this lodge offers one of the most exclusive and private lodge experiences anywhere on the continent. So, what makes it so unique?

Each luxury villa is set apart from the next, by a distance of twenty metres. The bedrooms are separated from the living area in each suite, by an oversized outdoor deck. Then there are the floor to ceiling windows, which make it not only possible but likely that you will witness wildlife from the privacy of your own room.

3. Londolozi Lodge, Lion Sands Game Reserve

As one of South Africa’s original private game reserves, the legacy that is Londolozi Lodge attracts visitors from all over the world, year after year. The word Londolozi comes from a Zulu word and means ‘Protector Of All Living Things’.  This accurately reflects the ambition of the lodge to commit themselves to meaningful conservation efforts, so you can rest assured your visit contributes directly to conservation of the land, wildlife and communities in the region you are visiting. Oh, and did we mention that bathtub view!?

Related: These are the 12 best bathtubs in Africa

4. Royal Malewane, Thorny Bush Game Reserve

Royal Malewane is one of the most popular all-inclusive lodges, especially for the American market. The lodge hones in on the traditional safari experience – with beautiful villas and suites that blend seamlessly into the bush surrounds. The highlight of this lodge stay was in fact an exquisite bush dinner, whereby guests were ushered to a remote tent after an evening game drive. Believe me – this lodge is something extra special, at every turn!

Related: Checking In to Royal Malewane, South Africa

5. andBeyond Rock Lodge, Phinda Game Reserve

Phinda Game Reserve is a private reserve located in northern KwaZulu-Natal, not too far from the eastern coast of South Africa. Including all food, beverage, accommodation and game drives, andBeyond Rock Lodge is one of the most surreal settings with all of the trimmings attached. As far as lodges go, andBeyond possess some of my favourite lodges of all time across their collection. And their lodges in South Africa are no different – with a commitment to conservation at the same time as providing guests with the ultimate in luxury travel experiences. Truly, they can do no wrong!

6. Tree Tops Safari Lodge, Lalibela Game Reserve

Lalibela Tree Tops is one of the more ethereal safari lodges, perfect for the dreamers among us. If you’re looking for a lodge that is extra special, tree tops is your best bet. The luxury safari tents are perched high over the game reserve below, making for incredible sunrises to wake up to in the early mornings.

7. Singita Sweni, Kruger National Park

As I mentioned earlier, Singita lodges are considered the creme de la creme in luxury safari lodges. And if you are looking for a lodge that is a little more discreet and secluded, you will find just that at Singita Sweni. Overlooking the Sweni River, each of the tented suites provides an opportunity to not only listen to, but sometimes witness hippo’s down below. Being this immersed in the wildlife of the African bush is an experience that not many other things in the world can add up to!

8. Madikwe Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

As a family owned business, Madikwe Safari Lodge pride themselves on giving guests a more grass roots experience, yet still with all the luxurious finishing touches. The lodge is also perfect for families, as there is plenty of room to bring the whole tribe. Being more family friendly, the lodge has a much more approachable feel and offers panoramic views over Madikwe Game Reserve down below.

9. Lukimbi Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park

Offering a typical Kruger style safari, Lukimbi Safari Lodge is a great choice for travellers who want all the trimmings but with a slightly more appealing price tag. Lukimbi also host more than the ordinary game drive, with walking safaris on offer to discover the bush with an experienced game ranger.

10. Ulusaba Rock Lodge

Chances are you have heard of Ulusaba Rock Lodge before. And if not, let me fill you in! Ulusaba is Richard Branson’s lodge set on his Private Game Reserve in the Western sector of the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. With just ten individually designed rooms and suites, this is a beautiful lodge for couples looking to get away and enjoy a private oasis. And that rounds out our list for the best safari lodges in South Africa! Happy travels in South Africa.

More like this

Checking in to Jonkmanshof in Montagu, South Africa

The Best Things to do in Cape Town, South Africa

These are the 12 best bathtubs in Africa

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Los Angeles

Plan a trip

First trip solo

Packing guide

20 Best Places for Solo Female Travel

Travel after a break up

20 Places in your 20’s

WAYS TO TRAVEL

Solo travel

Adventure travel

Luxury travel

Learn a language

Become a blogger

• Experiences
• Conservation

Office Hours: 8am To 9pm SAST/CAT

• [email protected]
• +27 12 460 7348

After Hours:

• +27 15 793 1261
• +27 82 922 0120

Book Direct

For direct booking and live availibility

Traveller Enquiry

Your stay organised by our reservations team

A Soulful Safari Experience

Jabulani, where luxury and purpose meet.

It’s not every day that you get to go on safari. And choosing a safari lodge is about more than just game drives and a high thread count – it’s about the feeling it evokes in you, the memory that remains ingrained in your heart long after you’ve returned home. A Jabulani safari promises nothing but the best in luxury, but the highlight of your trip will no doubt be sharing a space with the gentle presence of our famous elephant herds.

The eyes never forget what the heart has seen

5-Star Luxury in Kruger National Park

As a proud Relais & Châteaux member and 5-star luxury lodge in Kapama Private Game Reserve in Kruger National Park, a Jabulani safari promises nothing but the best experience from start to finish. And you’ll get to share a space with the gentle presence of Jabulani’s famous elephant herds, a highlight of our guests’ trips.

Experience the extraordinary

Meeting our rescued elephant herd ranks at the top of our guests’ favourite experiences. But there are also plenty of other things to do, such as game drives, walking safaris, bird-watching, exploring the little creatures, helicopter flights, hot air balloon rides, and spending time at our onsite facilities.

A Relais & Châteaux dining experience

Jabulani offers a one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive dining experience. We don’t just believe in constantly innovating with the freshest ingredients, but also in switching up our locations. Enjoy fine cuisine in the best setting, from breakfast bush picnics and sundowner canapés, to star-lit private dinners or gatherings in the boma.

Explore our full offering

There’s no better setting for a spa than the bush. The calmness of your surroundings is contagious, soothing even the most stressed soul.

Wine Cellar

Swirl and sip some of South Africa’s premier red and white cultivars during a private wine tasting or cosy dinner at our chic onsite wine cellar.

Gym & Sauna

Stay in shape while still indulging in our culinary delights and get your endorphins flowing at our open-air fitness center with a view.

Browse our highly curated boutique for treasures and trinkets to take souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home.

Watch Jabulani Live on Africam

Conservation & community, elephant conservation, sustainability, xilaveko day care, pack for a purpose, rhino conservation.

We built Jabulani on the foundation of rescuing and reintroducing orphaned elephants to new herds. This can be tricky, as elephants decide whether they accept a new elephant to their herd. However, over the past 20 years, we’ve successfully reintroduced orphaned elephants into new herds.

Everything we do and build is centred around leaving a light ecological footprint and making a difference. This includes our eco-friendly lodge design, bana grass plantation project, elephant dung eco-projects, water conservation, recycling, and wildlife conservation.

The Jabuladies project was initiated by Jabulani owner, Adine Roode, and aims to inspire, enlighten and empower women from our local communities to create a unique collection of hand-embroidered items.

We believe that looking after our planet has many sides to it, including managing our human consumption and production. That’s why we believe in using fresh seasonal ingredients in our kitchen as much as possible to limit our dependence on external fresh produce suppliers. We do this by growing our own produce onsite with our innovative aquaponics system that combines aquaculture and hydroponics.

One of our highly respected butlers at Jabulani, Obert started a new venture outside of working hours, paying forward the opportunities he’s been given and opening a not-for-profit daycare in his garage with his wife.

We’re proud to be members of the Pack for a Purpose initiative that strives to uplift local communities through tourism. We call on our guests to save some space in their suitcase for supplies as outlined in our wishlists for our HERD Elephant Orphanage, Mpisi Primary School, or Hlokomela Clinic to make a difference in our community.

Discover more about rhino conservation on safari, with greater insight into the rehabilitation and rewilding of rhinos affected by poaching.

At Jabulani, we work together with the communities around us in Hoedspruit in various ways, because conservation can go so much further when the people who share the land are involved or benefit from it in a way that uplifts them.

Witness the elephants

For an insightful experience that will stir you deeply, join us in observing our herd and learning about their highly emotional, relatable nature. By doing this, you directly help us to support them and build a better future.

Share your special moments with us

Whether it’s your proposal, wedding, honeymoon, wedding anniversary, babymoon, or an occasion worth celebrating, we’d like to go the extra mile to make it special.

Become a JabuJunior

We believe that little ones should not have to sit out on the excitement of a safari. And that they’re never too young to learn about the soulful secrets of the African wild and its animals.

Reviews & Visitor Experiences

The staff and the rooms were great, and the food was superb. The staff did their best to please and to make sure each day had variation. The chefs and guides were superlative. We had a fantastic time. It felt like we had traveled back in time to a pleasant remnant of the British Empire. - Nakorsakov

What a great place and a great stay. Stephan and Chantelle are fantastic managers with an awesome team working at the lodge. Our guide Jason is so knowledgeable and an absolute pleasure to drive with. I cannot begin to describe the fantastic room where we stayed in absolute luxury. The two Chefs Alex and Dylan - oh my word, the food these guys make is unexplainable fantastic and one has to experience this to really appreciate good taste. We fell in love with the place. We loved our stay and will recommend Jabulani to anyone who takes a good stay, good food, lots of animals and great people in the bush serious! - Wilma V

Attention to detail is incredible. I could not fault Jabulani on one thing. Elephant experience is very moving and spiritual. All staff very friendly Ruan the best of the best. Absolutely loved every minute. - Carrylvanbassen

The place, the staff, the elephants, all authentic and exciting. It was a magical, charming, calming and elevating experience. I can’t wait to bring my two daughters next time to share this corner of the Earth with me. - FPocorn

The place was amazing - extremely well run and totally welcoming. Highly recommended for anyone wanting luxury combined with lifetime trip experiences we will remember forever. Staff and Management should be congratulated for leaving no stone unturned with respect to care service and the full Safari Experience. Thanks for making this trip one we will never forget - Special mention to Ruan - Our Safari ranger and tour guide! Thank You - ADunn

Favorite place on earth! Yeap, if someone were to ask me which is my favorite place on earth, Jabulani would be the place. We discovered this gem in 2017 and have been back every year, being this our fourth visit. We have always felt the warmth and the kindness of everyone here, from the wonderful managers, Chantel and Stefan to every single staff member, who are always ready to pamper you and help you in any way. - CGriffiths

Chantal, Stefan and the team were awesome and made our stay a memorable experience. a SPECIAL thanks to Dylan, the chef, Songs our butler, and of course, Ruan, our ranger. The three of them are what made the lodge and stay a 5 star soulful experience. Ruan was absolutely amazing! The big 5 in 2 days and then some rare sightings of very special wildlife. Not to mention Jabulani and the boys. We will return soon! - DSmith

The wilderness and our hospitality

• Wildlife Experience
• Game Drives
• Walking Safari's
• Community Tours
• Trackers & Rangers
• Dining Experience
• Relaxation & Wellness
• Birding Safaris
• Photographic Safaris

Our Lodges, About us & The Reserve

• EleFun Centre
• Luxury Suite
• Mandleve Suite
• Luxury Villas
• Lourenco Marques
• Ivory Presidential Suite
• Amber Villa
• Our History
• Community Initiatives
• Sabi Sabi Private Reserve
• Conservation Philosophy

Learn more & be inspired

• Media Gallery
• Sabi Sabi Calendar
• Stories from the bush
• Weekly Sightings
• Highlights of the month
• Photography Tips

Rates, Packages & Info

• Booking Terms
• Stay 4 Pay 3
• Fly-In Package 2024
• Family Package
• Safari Programme
• Getting Here
• Health & Safety
• Seasons Weather
• Lodges Fact Sheet
• Travel & Visa
• Photographic Rentals
• Digital Media Request
• START MY SAFARI
• Enquire Now

The Sabi Sabi Reserve

Our hospitality, special occasions, special interests.

Book Sabi Sabi online

Luxury Lodges

• Selati Camp

An ode to the great African safari era of the late 1800s, Selati Camps suites recapture the essence of yesteryear.

The original lodge in our collection, Bush Lodge pulses to the rhythm of Africa’s heartbeat.

• Little Bush Camp

Little Bush Camp’s secluded riverside location and intimate atmosphere make its charms impossible to resist.

• Earth Lodge

One-of-a-kind in design, Earth Lodge is innovative, sophisticated and it redefines the new frontier of luxury African safaris.

Our Reserve

Be inspired, the bush vine, rates & info, packages & specials, helpful info, agents & trade.

Escape to our world

Sabi Sabi is a wildlife-rich private reserve in the Greater Kruger area with 4 luxury lodges, each with its own character and style

An unforgettable safari experience shaped by over 40 years of caring and passion.

What makes our safari experience so memorable and unique?

Experiences to treasure forever.

From intimate game sightings and expert guides to luxurious suites and authentic South African hospitality and fare, Sabi Sabi has perfected the art of indulging your senses.

Feel enlightened, refreshed and at peace

Escape to nature and gain a new understanding and appreciation for life. The bush is a transformative place where life slows down, relationships deepen and there’s time to reconnect with yourself. 

Share in our commitment and passion to protect the wilderness

Our love and respect for sustainable conservation runs deep. We actively find ways to protect the land, the flora and fauna and promote local community development. It’s authenticity you can feel.

You are out in the middle of the bush, yet treated to every luxury imaginable.

Your golden circle ticket to the African wilderness

Get up close and personal with all the bush has to offer..

Our collection of luxury safari lodges

Since 1979, sabi sabi has grown our portfolio to include 4 luxury lodges, each with its own character and style that collectively express our philosophy of yesterday, today and tomorrow..

Turn of the century elegance

Selati Camp is ideal for enthusiasts of the past and of unspoiled nature. An ode to the great African safari era, Selati recaptures the essence of yesteryear glamour in true luxurious style. Each suite is decorated with authentic railway memorabilia and is named after bygone stations – artfully weaving an ambience and character of Yesterday.

Your luxury home in the bush

The original lodge in our collection, Bush Lodge pulses to the rhythm of Africa’s heartbeat. Known for its vibrancy and contemporary mix of safari-themed furnishings, Bush Lodge welcomes friends, colleagues and families to celebrate nature’s beauty, relax in luxury and revel in the joy of Today.

A deeply intimate affair

Little Bush Camp seamlessly bridges the space between the contemporary Today and the Avante-Garde of Tomorrow. Nestled deep in the African wilderness with only 6 luxury suites, Little Bush is a desirable oasis for couples or exclusive use by small groups and friends.

A glimpse into the future

Earth Lodge is the Sabi Sabi of Tomorrow.  Unique in design, it’s where minimalism meets high comfort in a series of sensory experiences. The lodge redefines the new frontier of the luxury African safari and is a must for those who appreciate the art of luxuriating in the wilderness.

Our conservation philosophy

We aim to conserve the decreasing wilderness areas that form part of South Africa’s heritage and be an example of a business that balances tourism with conservation and local communities.

We do this by promoting community development, employing members of staff from neighbouring areas and empowering individuals through training and personal development.

Arrive on safari . Experience so much more

Whether it’s dining under the stars, visiting our local villages, soaking up the african sun on a poolside lounger or simply celebrating uninterrupted time with those you love – you will forever remember these moments..

“ Sabi Sabi's ethical approach to safaris and conservation has always been part of our vision.”

There is always something new to discover

The day a leopard changed my life.

As a Sabi Sabi Ranger, you go through a very strict training program, which starts off with a six-day interview process called Nkombe Camp. Upon arrival, I could see that all the applicants were from very different backgrounds, and all had very different levels of experience, but we all had one thing in common and that was the fact that we loved nature and guiding

Learn interesting details about animals and the environment in which they live.

LEARN MORE ABOUT

• Other Animals
• Plants And Trees

Photography Guide

Get top tips on how best to capture the magnificent beauty of the wilds.

• Recommended Equipment
• Accessories
• Settings and Tips
• Wildlife Photography
• Post Production

Explore a host of tales from the bush. Delve into our general library of various interesting topics from African tales to local wine guides

• Birds of Sabi Sabi
• Cats of Sabi Sabi
• African Tales
• Photographic
• Monochrome Monday
• Stefs Guide to Wine
• Weird and Wonderful
• Ranger Sightings
• Animal Species

Let’s plan your dream safari!

Our reservations team is waiting to help you, contact details & availability, +27 11 447 7172, [email protected], sabi sabi lodges, sabi sabi social media.

Welcome to Sabi Sands Private Reserve

Add exceptional service and hospitality, and fine cuisine, to this already incredible experience and you have a luxury South African safari that will linger in your memories forever.

Luxury Sabi Sands Safari Lodges

With our selection of luxury Sabi Sands Safari Lodges , think rim-flow pools with endless bush views, fluffy percale linen beds, gourmet cuisine and lantern lit dinners beneath the stars. Lets not forget about the 4x4 off-road game viewing away from the crowds.

Romantic Honeymoon Safaris

Nothing says "I love you" more than a South African honeymoon safari in Kruger. Sabi Sands offers up that "Out of Africa" romance with secluded honeymoon lodging, private decks, thrilling game drives and pastel-hued sunsets with a glass of bubbly.

Classic Safaris

Witness the magic of Kruger on a South African safari with our range of classic packages that will reward you with a genuine, value-for-money Kruger safari . Up-close game viewing on off-road 4x4 game drives and fire-lit dinner served under the African Sky.

Classic Safari Lodges

Are you looking for affordable safari accommodation in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve? Look no further than these classic Sabi Sands safari lodges . Expect value-for-money accommodation options with 4x4 game drives, excellent wildlife sightings and friendly service.

Premier Sabi Sand Safari Collection

If you are looking for an exceptional safari experience away from the crowds with exquisite service and ultimate quality, then these award winning Sabi Sand safari lodges renowned for their superior luxury and style, promise you the safari of a lifetime.

Family Safari Holiday

School Holiday Inspirations. These South African family safari packages include dedicated meal menus, child minders and nature activities designed to interest children in wildlife...

Getting to Sabi Sands

Getting to Sabi Sands is easy, by daily scheduled flight, or private air charter. By road you have the choice of private road transfer if you do not wish to drive your self. Flight times are approximately one hour, whilst travel by road varies between 5 - 7 hours depending on which Sabi Sand entrance gate you need to reach.

The Sabi Wildlife Experience

Sabi Sands Game Reserve is adjacent to Kruger National Park and so shares the same wildlife diversity that makes the Kruger famous. For the avid bird or wildlife photographer, Sabi Sand must be the year-round African safari destination of choice. Read more about the wildlife of Sabi Sands Game Reserve .

Map of Lodges in Sabi Sand Reserve

• Customer Support
• Tel: +27 21 424 1037
• Fax: +27 21 424 1036
• Contact by Mail
• Business Hours
• Mon - Fri. 08:00 - 17:00
• Saturday. 08:00 - 12:00
• Reservations and Booking
• Booking Conditions
• Visa and Passport
• About Siyabona Africa (Pty) Ltd
• Most Popular Pages
• Where is Sabi Sands
• Classic Sabi Sand Safari
• Authentic Safari Experience
• Romantic Tented Safari
• Deluxe Sabi Safari Package
• Sabi Spa and Safari
• Sabi Photographic Safaris
• Extraordinary Vista and Wildlife
• Family Treasures
• Romantic Seclusion
• Bring the Whole Family
• Luxury Sabi Sand Safari Lodges
• Game Reserves
• Balule Game Reserve
• Manyeleti Game Reserve
• Sabi Sand Game Reserve
• Thornybush Game Reserve
• Timbavati Game Reserve
• Near Kruger National Park
• Private Game Reserves
• Birding in Kruger Park
• Kruger National Park

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• World's Best

The Top 10 Safari Lodges in Africa in 2021

Lila Harron Battis is a freelance writer and editor. She was previously a senior editor at Travel + Leisure .

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite safari lodges in Africa.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

The Western idea of Africa as a vast unknowable expanse of wilderness — rather than a living, breathing place with as much diversity and unique regionality as any other continent — has endured with stubborn longevity. Perhaps quintessential images like silverbacks in a lush mountain forest, giraffes and acacia trees silhouetted against a savannah sunset, and herds of elephants in the floodplains along a winding river stick with travelers because they are so unlike the nature scenes of the U.S., where centuries of human interference have left little trace of true wilderness or of the animals that once roamed freely.

Africa's rarefied natural spaces have compelled generations of adventurers to seek them out — and the hospitality world has kept pace. Today's safari-goers have little more to worry about than checking off the Big Five and whether to order red or white with dinner. And for the ultimate in service, comfort, and indulgence, they can't go wrong with the places that T+L readers voted onto this year's list of the best safari lodges in Africa.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels (including safari lodges) were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city hotel, resort, or safari lodge based on their locations and amenities.

The spots on the list are brimming with opulent touches and spectacular scenery. At No. 4 Angama Mara, in Kenya's Masai Mara , two 15-tent camps dot the edge of an escarpment about 300 yards above the game reserve. The views of the Great Rift Valley are so cinematic it's tempting to stay on property and just gawk at the scenery. Don't miss a visit to the on-site craft workshop, where Masai women teach guests the techniques and meaning behind their beading traditions, or the photography studio, where you can test out pro gear and polish up your safari snapshots with cutting-edge photo-editing software.

At No. 6 Singita Grumeti, in Tanzania , the lodging options offer something for every style: crystal chandeliers and gilded frames at Sasakwa Lodge, rattan chairs and campaign tables at Sabora Tented Camp, and breezy furnishings and basketry-inspired light fixtures at Faru Faru Lodge, among others. In South Africa, andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge (No. 9) has 20 cottages that blend light details — wide-slate bathroom floors, ceramic stools, pale patterned loveseats, high thatched ceilings — with the gravitas of deep-hued wood furnishings, muted flat-weave rugs, and antique-inspired wildlife illustrations. Overall, it feels grounded and traditional, but never stuffy. The property is situated on Ngala Private Game Reserve, which — thanks to the success of andBeyond's conservation work — is now part of Kruger National Park.

Many of the properties on this list held an emotional resonance for our readers, one that lingered long after returning home. Of the Bushcamp Company's Mfuwe Lodge, in Zambia, which came in No. 8, one reader wrote, "I dream about Mfuwe, the people, and the sounds of the animals at night. The experience I had was beyond everything I imagined." Another put it simply: "You truly connect with raw life." A reader who spent time at No. 5 Gibb's Farm, in Tanzania, called it "the most magical place I've ever stayed!" And at Sasaab, in Kenya, the property's do-good efforts made a mark just as much as the luxe environment: "Sasaab's culture is fabulous," a reader wrote of the No. 10 property, adding that "the hotel has an innate sustainable ethos."

But the best safari lodge in Africa, the Richard Branson–owned Mahali Mzuri, brings together every element readers expect in their experience, then amplifies it all tenfold. Read on to find out why it's so beloved and which other lodges join it on this year's list.

1. Mahali Mzuri, Masai Mara, Kenya

The 12-suite Mahali Mzuri sits on the edge of a lush bowl, and there's not a bad seat in the house: over breakfast, you can watch monkeys scrabble in the trees and grass; from the pool you'll spot giraffes wandering through to snack on the acacias; sitting on your private terrace you may catch a glimpse of a cat stopping to drink from the rocky stream that runs through. And the property's location is ideal for maximizing both wildlife spotting and privacy. It's set within the private, 33,000-acre Olare Motorogi Conservancy, which is part of the Masai Mara ecosystem but beyond the bounds of the national park. That means all the richness of big game, but no other cars in sight—you can get within feet of a lion pride and have the moment all to yourself, with no jockeying for position or tuning out the chatter of other safari-goers. "Mahali Mzuri is the best luxurious camp to visit on the African continent," declared one reader; "just perfect," wrote another. The team is small and familial, with the kind of warm, relaxed — yet flawless — service that gives guests the easy sense of being among friends; the guides are among the best in the business, many having worked at the property for years to develop intimate knowledge of the land and its wildlife. One reader put it best: "The hospitality at Mahali Mzuri resembles its name," he wrote, noting the translation of the Swahili: "the Beautiful Place."

Score: 99.73 More information: virginlimitededition.com

2. Savute Elephant Lodge, a Belmond Safari, Chobe National Park, Botswana

Score: 98.75 More information: belmond.com

3. andBeyond Phinda Vlei Lodge, Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Score: 98.50 More information: andbeyond.com

4. Angama Mara, Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Score: 97.73 More information: angama.com

5. Gibb's Farm, Karatu, Tanzania

Score: 97.63 More information: gibbsfarm.com

6. Singita Grumeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Score: 97.60 More information: singita.com

7. Khwai River Lodge, a Belmond Safari, Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana

Score: 97.47 More information: belmond.com

8. The Bushcamp Company's Mfuwe Lodge, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Score: 97.33 More information: bushcampcompany.com

9. (tie) andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park Area, South Africa

Score: 97.26 More information: andbeyond.com

9. (tie) Sasaab, Samburu, Kenya

Score: 97.26 More information: thesafaricollection.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021 .

No matter the destination, Travel + Leisure GO can turn your vacation dreams into reality. With nearly endless reservation options to fly or stay, book your next getaway — near or far — at Travel + Leisure GO .

The Best Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

When it comes to high-end lodgings, the best safari lodges in South Africa are a trifecta of luxury: outstanding architectural design, lavish amenities, and attentive, personalized service. When you arrive at any of our best lodges top picks, “exceptional” is the standard. Think: exclusive access to private tracts of unspoiled wilderness teeming with game, outstanding guides, gourmet fine dining, and wine cellars stocked with rare vintages. Ranging from three to 12 suites, each of these intimate properties offer joyfully secluded retreats into the South African veld . The only challenge is deciding where to lay your head.

The best safari lodges in The Greater Kruger

Kruger National Park is the largest national park in South Africa, spanning 7,523 square miles (roughly the size of Israel), but it’s just one part of The Greater Kruger , which includes outstanding private game reserves like Sabi Sand, Timbavati, and Thornybush, where you’ll find some of the best safari lodges in South Africa.           

Singita Boulders Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

At the ultra-luxurious Singita Boulders Lodge , guests are surrounded by the wild beauty of South Africa. There are just 12 exquisitely designed suites boasting glass walls, heated plunge pools, and private decks. Located along the Sand River’s boulder-strewn banks, the lodge offers guests the exclusive opportunity to explore Singita Sabi Sand Reserve and its 45,000 acres. In this untouched wilderness, you can encounter species like the Big Five, hyena, African wild dog, nyala, and reedbuck. After an exhilarating walking safari or game drive, mingle among fellow travelers at the Copper Bar, enjoy a personalized wine tasting in the cellar, or stay active in the fully equipped fitness center with its gorgeous bush views.

Highlights:

• Boulders is known for frequent sightings of elusive leopards.
• Secluded, glass-fronted suites offering river or bush views. 
• Visit the anti-poaching Sabi Sand Canine Unit for an interactive session.

Who it’s best for: Solo travelers, couples, and families with kids who want a private setting and many activities to choose from.

Dulini Leadwood Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Dulini Leadwood Lodge is situated within the 160,000-acre private Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Shrouded by the canopy of a riverine forest at the confluence of the Sand and Mabrak rivers, it features just four lavish suites. Take in views of the pristine bushveld and granite boulders while relaxing in a modern suite where you can book a restorative massage. Spend your days exploring the awe-inspiring wilderness on bush walks and game drives, during which you can see the Big Five, antelope, African wild dog, and hyena. Relax beneath the stars while dining in the Boma or on the Jackalberry-shaded Treehouse Deck.

• Ultra private, exquisitely designed suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows and open-plan bathrooms.
• Shares a 31-mile unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park and maintains traversing rights with the western sector of Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
• Photo safaris: A partnership with Africa Photographic Services provides equipment rentals for Photographic Safaris in open-top vehicles with camera mounts and storage boxes. (Arrange in advance.)

Who it’s best for: Couples, honeymooners, and multi-generational exclusive-use.

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, Sabi Sand Reserve

Constructed with natural materials and boasting an open design, you can immerse yourself in the untouched bush that surrounds you at the secluded Lion Sands Ivory Lodge . Featuring eight villas within the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, service is attentive, accommodating and detailed-focused, right down to the Champagne you prefer. From your private plunge pool, deck or lounge, soak in stunning views of the Sabie River. Enjoy guided bush walks and game drives to spot breathtaking wildlife from big cats to small birds.

• Private reserve spans 30,600 acres and is home to diverse and abundant wildlife, including endangered species like pangolin, African civet, and African wild dogs.
• Safaris have a six-guest limit per vehicle, enjoy traversing rights and make surprise stops at beautiful spots.
• A Signature Treehouse Experience lets you sleep under starlit skies.

Who it’s best for: Nature lovers, honeymooners, couples, and families who are looking for a luxurious adventure.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

The award-winning and family-owned Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge is tucked into the surrounding landscape, making it one of the best safari lodges in South Africa to feel grounded in nature. Expect the unexpected on a walking safari or game drive to view wildlife like giraffe, hyena, and the Big Five, or go on a community tour to learn about the local people and their culture. When you aren’t exploring, take a refreshing swim in your private pool, dine in the subterranean wine cellar or feel stress melt away at Amani Spa, which features a Pango Cave and Zen meditation garden. 

• 12 architecturally stunning and impeccably decorated suites offer bushveld views and boast panoramic windows, each with a private deck and an outdoor lounge.  
• Day Bar offers a refreshing dining experience in ankle-deep water.
• Some of the finest guides and trackers in South Africa

Who it’s best for: Couples, honeymooners, and anyone who wants to support eco-tourism.

Cheetah Plains, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Cheetah Plains Private Game Reserve offers an eco-luxury safari experience, with a focus on clean energy and conservation—ideal for travelers in search of the best luxury safaris in South Africa operating in an environmentally-friendly way. Located in the northeast portion of Sabi Sand Game Reserve, you won’t have to sacrifice comfort for sustainability. Here, you’ll find modern off-grid accommodation and electric Land Cruisers. Each of the three exclusive-use villas can accommodate up to eight people across four suites and feature shared living spaces. A hospitality team consisting of a host, spa therapist, field guide, culinary team, and tracker team will take care of everything from massages to bushveld dining.

• Just three exclusive villas, each with a chef’s kitchen, custom-designed wine gallery, and an outdoor boma area for dining.  
• Safari sightings include the Big Five, hyena, antelope, giraffe, and zebra, as well as endangered species like the honey badger, African wild dog, and ground hornbill. 
• Village visits are designed to teach you about the local Shangaan culture and its traditions.     

Who it’s best for: Families with kids, groups of friends, couples, and eco-conscious travelers. 

Saseka Tented Camp, Thornybush Reserve

Saseka Tented Camp is located in Thornybush Nature Reserve , which spans 37,000 acres. It’s also near the seasonal Monwana River, which attracts wildlife like waterbuck, kudu, blue wildebeest, impala, spotted genet, giraffe, and leopard. Guests stay in a luxurious tented suite that harkens back to those used by nineteenth-century safari-goers. Luxuriate in your own outdoor shower, pool or on a deck lounger while taking in the sights and sounds of the bush and riverbed. When you’re ready to emerge from your private retreat, head to the dining area and social lounge spaces to chat with fellow travelers.

• Nine spacious tented suites can accommodate two guests and feature glass doors and elevated views. 
• Thornybush Reserve is home to diverse wildlife, including the Big Five, hippo, zebra, warthog, and hyena.  
• Unique excursions include a personalized private vehicle safari, a three-hour walk along Immersive Guided Trails, and a visit to the Tango K9 Anti-Poaching Unit.  

Who it’s best for: Friends traveling together, honeymooners, and families in search of thrilling safari experiences.

Royal Malewane, Thornybush Reserve

At Royal Malewane in the Thornybush Reserve, you can choose from three safari lodges (Malewane Lodge, The Farmstead, and Waterside), each offering luxurious suites and villas. Main dining areas off all three overlook bustling waterholes so you can view wildlife while enjoying personalized menus serving gourmet cuisine and fine wine. We recommend feasting on savory meals under the stars at the Bush Tent. Explore the wilderness by land, water, and air alongside knowledgeable guides. In addition to game drives and walking trails, visitors can take a cruise on Blyde Dam or a helicopter ride to view Kruger from above. You can even participate in conservation activities to experience some of the ways experts help endangered species and habitats.  

• Specialized vehicles are spacious enough for photography equipment so you can capture awe-inspiring wildlife moments.
• Join conservationists for elephant tracking and rhino dehorning or support the APNR Ground-Hornbill Project and EWT Wild Dog Project.
• Tee off at Leopard Creek Country Club , considered one of the top golf courses in the country.

Who it’s best for: Couples, families, and travelers who want a lot of options when it comes to outdoor activities beyond game drives.

Tanda Tula Safari Camp, Timbavati Reserve

Located in the 131,000-acre Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Tanda Tula Safari Camp overlooks the Nlharalumi riverbed. With a focus on responsible tourism, this camp supports community development programs like the Tanda Tula Adult Literacy Class and conservation projects like rhino protection. Collaborating with architect Nick Plewman, the property reopened in mid-2023 with improved infrastructure that creates a lighter footprint. Accommodations boast a plunge pool, outdoor shower and outdoor seating.

• Ecologically sensitive, modern safari camp with nine hybrid canvas and glass suites in a bushveld setting. (Two family suites and seven one-bedroom suites.)
• Timbavati Reserve is home to a myriad of species that include the Big Five, wildebeest, impala, and giraffe. 
• Each guest stay makes a foundation contribution, directly impacting conservation projects and a scholarship program.

Who it’s best for: Couples, and families who want to support safari lodges that care about communities and conservation.  

Makanyi Private Game Lodge, Timbavati Reserve

Family-owned Makanyi Private Game Lodge in Timbavati Reserve is to the west of Kruger National Park, so it’s a fantastic destination for viewing wildlife, including the Big Five. Spacious suites boast panoramic views of the dam and surrounding bush. The Marula Suite has two bedrooms and roughly 4,000 square feet of space. Daily activities include game drives, bush walks, and stargazing, and you can also book off-property activities, such as hot air ballooning and helicopter rides to view the Lowveld from another perspective. Between all of the action, reinvigorate body and mind at the spa or book a private massage in your room. 

• Just seven large suites, including two luxury pool suites and one family suite that sleeps up to four guests. 
• Sharpen your wildlife photography skills with the guidance of a tutor on a photographic safari or hire a professional photographer to capture the moments you won’t want to forget. 
• Participate in conservation efforts like rhino notching and anti-poaching surveillance flights in Timbavati Reserve.  

Who it’s best for: Families, couples, and conservation enthusiasts.

The best safari lodges in the southern Kalahari

Spanning some 360,000 square miles, the Kalahari is the second-largest desert in Africa. The southern Kalahari , which falls within South Africa’s Northern Cape province, is an arid, sandy savannah home to a myriad of birds, mammals, reptiles, and plants. While on safari, you may see giraffes, big cats, hyenas, warthogs, and meerkats. 

Tswalu Kalahari, Southern Kalahari

Tswalu is the largest private game reserve in South Africa (measuring nearly a quarter million acres), known for remarkable ochre dunes and the striking Korannaberg mountains. Driven by sustainability, ecotourism, and conservation, it’s perfect for travelers interested in rewilding, biodiversity, and local communities. Tarkuni Homestead holds a maximum of 10 guests in five suites—great for families or small groups who want a home to themselves. Motse Camp accommodates up to 18 guests in nine suites, and there is a communal area at the main camp. Newer Loapi Tented Camp features six large “safari homes” designed as glass and steel pavilions, and distanced 165 feet apart for privacy; each comes with a butler and private chef. Southern Kalahari safaris provide opportunities to see rare, endangered and elusive wildlife like the black-maned Kalahari lion, cheetah, brown hyena, desert black rhino, ground pangolin, and aardvark.

• Three luxury safari camps are the only ones on the reserve. With no more than 40 guests at a time, its low guest-to-acreage ratio translates to elusively and privacy.
• Enjoy a sumptuous multi-course meal at Klein Jan, where the seasonally shifting menu is stewarded by Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen, the first South African chef to achieve a Michelin star.
• Explore the Tswalu Game Reserve at your own pace in a private safari vehicle with the help of a tracker and guide; horseback riding over the dunes, and visit groups of adorable, habituated meerkats.

Who it’s best for: Couples, families, friends, those wanting a malaria-free safari, and eco-conscious travelers who want to experience the inspiring beauty of the Kalahari.

The best safari lodges in the Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape has several private reserves offering superb game-viewing, some of which represent rehabilitated farm and ranchland conservation come-back stories. Located between Durban and Cape Town, a variety of species are found here, such as the Big Five, wildebeest, zebra, cheetah, and giraffe. Travelers who want to get their toes in the sand can get their fix on the Eastern Cape’s impressive beaches.

Shamwari Sindile, Shamwari Private Game Reserve

The Shamwari Private Game Reserve is a conservation effort that supports the biodiversity of the Eastern Cape, and Shamwari Sindile provides an escape that will invigorate and inspire even the most seasoned safari-goers. Set above the bush and plains in the African veld, guests stay in large luxury tents that provide unobstructed views of the environment and the wildlife that moves through it. Between game drives, dive into your private, heated plunge pool on your deck, book a soothing spa treatment, or relax by the fire pit. At night, there isn’t any light pollution, so it’s perfect for stargazing after dinner. 

• Nine secluded luxury tents offer enchanting views of the unspoiled surrounds, including Bushman’s River. 
• Bush walks and game drives in open vehicles allow you to view wildlife like the Big Five, kudu, bushbuck, and monkey. 
• In the summer, guests can add a walking safari to Sindile’s sister property, Explorer Camp. You’ll move through Shamwari on foot and sleep in a bush tent at night to experience a different type of safari that brings you even closer to nature.

Who it’s best for: Families, friends, couples, travelers looking for a malaria-free safari, and adventurers who cherish the environment. 

The best safari lodges in KwaZulu-Natal

In addition to safari, the coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal offers travelers the chance to swim, dive and snorkel in a majestic marine environment. Imagine: vibrant coral teeming with tropical fish, and turtles and dolphins surfing the currents. On land, “the garden province’s” pleasant year-round climate begs travelers to explore diverse landscapes like palm savannah and wetlands.

Phinda Vlei Lodge, Phinda Private Game

The Phinda Private Game Reserve spans 73,800 protected acres and includes seven habitats where you can find wildlife like the Big Five, cheetah, black rhino, and 436 bird species. Phinda Vlei Lodge , which is located on the edge of a sand forest that’s home to red duiker and suni antelope species, is designed to provide luxurious comfort—that is, when you aren’t on adventurous day trips like game drives and marine safaris. You can also participate in conservation experiences with pangolins, rhinos, and elephants, as well as cultural experiences like a Zulu village tour. During the summer, witness loggerhead and leatherback turtles lay their eggs on the beaches of Sodwana Bay.  

• Six peaceful suites located snug between grassland and forest feature a private lap pool, outdoor shower, and deck.
• Book a “Sleepout Under the Stars” experience, during which you’ll imbibe sundowners and a sumptuous meal, and relax next to a campfire before tucking into a starlit bush bed.
• Explore Maputaland above and beneath the waves on a day trip to the beach or on an ocean safari. Go scuba diving in Sodwana Bay to enjoy one of the best dive spots on the planet.

Who it’s best for: Families, friends, couples, and travelers who want to explore beaches and underwater environments as much as they want to pursue adventures on land.

The best safari lodges in Madikwe Game Reserve

Thanks to conservation efforts, 27 major species have been reintroduced to Madikwe Game Reserve . Among them, live the highest concentration of rhino in Africa. Spanning roughly 185,000 acres, Madikwe is the country’s fifth-largest reserve. South Africa luxury safari lodges in this area offer an array of incredible wildlife, such as the “Super Seven” (Big Five plus cheetah and African wild dog), impala, antelope, hippo, spotted hyena, serval and warthog.

Molori Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

The exclusive Molori Safari Lodge has just five suites, guaranteeing a peaceful and relaxing stay during which you’ll receive personalized attention. The elegant main lodge features a living room, infinity pools, spa baths, decks, dining areas, a bar, and a library. Mouthwatering meals are prepared by gourmet chefs and served with top-shelf liquor and fine wine. Overlooking a water hole that attracts frequent visitors, the viewing deck is a relaxing spot for watching wildlife.

• Five private, open-air suites boast a pool, deck and retractable glass walls that frame the picture-perfect surroundings, including Madikwe Valley and Dwarsberg Mountains.
• Guests can go on night game drives , outfitted with hi-tech torches to look for the “Super Seven” and other intriguing nocturnal wildlife. 
• Participate in rhino tagging and an African wild dog expedition for a hands-on conservation experience.

Who it’s best for: Travelers seeking ultimate privacy for a family vacation or romantic getaway; those looking for a malaria-free safari.

Tips for choosing the best South Africa safari lodges

Travelers typically spend 10 to 14 days in South Africa, enjoying time in their arrival city ( Cape Town or Johannesburg ) before flying or driving to their first safari destination. On a single itinerary, most people will visit two or three camps in a few different provinces. South Africa is popularly paired with a beach getaway in Mozambique , a visit to Victoria Falls ( Zimbabwe / Zambia ) or onward safari travel to Botswana and Namibia . Point being—you don’t need to restrict yourself to one lodge or a single reserve—in fact, far from it. With so many phenomenal accommodations and reserves, here are some tips for making the best choice for you: 

• Extraordinary Journeys safari specialists feel the best luxury safaris in South Africa are located within private game reserves and conservancies—especially when it comes to Greater Kruger. Exclusive by design, you won’t have to share your wildlife sightings with the crowds, especially in peak season.
• Be mindful of whether a camp or lodge has traversing rights with adjacent reserve or parklands. Where rights have been secured, you have a much broader range within which to experience game drives.
• South Africa is a year-round safari destination, but winters can be cold . It might not be worth splurging for amenities like a private plunge pool if you won’t be making good use of it.
• You’ll be spending a lot of time on game drives. Our best advice is to invest in the highest caliber of guiding your budget will allow.
• In South Africa, Kruger especially, some safari vehicles are nine-seaters (rather than six.) Consider that when full, at any time, two guests will be watching wildlife over the shoulders of others.

Plan your Trip

Ready to start planning your own incredible adventure? We make the process stress-free and enjoyable.

• &BEYOND LODGES
• South Africa
• Flying solo
• With my partner
• With my family
• Adventurous
• Responsible Travel
• Private Travel
• Slow Travel
• TRAVEL TRADE PORTAL
• MANAGE YOUR TRAVEL BOARD

Reawaken your soul

• Indian Ocean Islands
• South America
• Cape Whale Coast
• Cape Winelands
• Eastern Cape Game Reserves
• Garden Route
• Johannesburg
• Kruger National Park
• KwaZulu-Natal
• Madikwe Game Reserve
• Sabi Sand Nature Reserve
• Tswalu Kalahari

VIBRANT CITIES AND PRISTINE WILDERNESS AWAIT

The landscapes of South Africa are world-renowned – home to no less than 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Not only does the country boast highly acclaimed Big Five wildlife reserves but travellers are treated to flourishing winelands, with some of the best wines in the world. Idyllic beaches, craggy mountains, forested slopes, and hilly countryside give way to awe-inspiring canyons and gorges that are host to a multitude of adventure activities. Trendy nightlife, thriving cafe culture and dazzling cities, including Cape Town, are a major drawcard showcasing a cosmopolitan beauty and diversity.

Discover South Africa’s iconic destinations

Our favourite reasons to travel, from exceptional offers to not-to-be missed tours and experiences, here are our favourite reasons to explore south africa that matched your preferences, discover the best time to travel to south africa.

We’ve curated a ‘when to go’ calendar to help your guests decide when is the best time to explore vibrant South Africa. With so much on offer, every month boasts an array of happenings waiting to be discovered and explored. 

I dream of travel that leaves our world a better place

You’re just 5 easy (and fun) steps away from creating your ideal Travel Dream Board.

Step 1: Start with where

Step 2: Clarify what kind of traveller you are

Step 3: Tick off those grand bucket list experiences that will fire your imagination

Step 4: Log in to create and add to your Dream Board

Step 5: Share & start dreaming

TAILORMAKE YOUR STAY

Talk to one of our travel specialists to tailormake you stay to any of our destinations

Stories to inspire

Our selection of south africa stories from the bateleur magazine, our travel specialists, we're on hand to make your tailor-made adventures come true, leaving our world a better place for years, discover the impact legacy that your travel with &beyond is driving. just as the un’s sustainable development goals have been a touchstone for our vision 2020 group-operation sustainability audits, so they continue to guide and underpin our ambitiously scaled vision 2030 goals., we're sorry but this site doesn't work properly without javascript enabled., please enable it to continue., privacy overview.

Place of Miracles

Dedicated to environmentally conscious hospitality, sustainable conservation and the empowerment of local communities since 1993..

Singita's luxury safari lodges provide restorative sanctuaries and encounters in the bush that guests won’t find anywhere else. Sought-after locations, intuitive attention to detail and the utmost privacy underpin every stay. 

Find solitude in untouched natural surrounds

Our lodges offer guests the freedom to feel their senses awaken on safaris that enrapt and revive..

Awe-inspiring landscapes form the perfect backdrop for the stillness and privacy they seek with endless opportunities to truly slow down.

Singita, the Shangaan word for 'Place of Miracles’.

With limited guest and vehicle numbers, exceptionally consistent game viewing and warm-hearted hospitality, guests leave feeling transformed – with body and soul soothed by meaningful connections with loved ones, themselves and nature.

The start of a legacy

The singita story began in 1925 on a piece of land in sabi sand, owned by the bailes family..

It was the start of a legacy that unfolded over decades – and a brand entrenched in the same innovative spirit and family values. Singita is now a conservation and ecotourism brand offering guests exceptional safari experiences at 16 luxury, award-winning lodges and camps across four countries.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

.css-vurnku{box-sizing:border-box;margin:0;min-width:0;} A soul-restoring Singita experience. Find your sanctuary

Featuring unfiltered space & time, Singita’s award-winning luxury African wildlife safari lodges and camps offer remote locations, complete privacy and intuitive service at every turn. Each unique setting allows guests to truly connect with nature, and experience Africa’s most pristine wildlife & wilderness up close.

Singita Private Villa Collection

Sabi Sand, South Africa

Ebony Lodge

Ebony villa.

Boulders Lodge

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Lebombo Lodge

Lebombo Villa

Sweni Lodge

Malilangwe, Zimbabwe

Pamushana Lodge

Malilangwe House

Grumeti, Tanzania

Sasakwa Lodge

Faru Faru Lodge

Sabora Tented Camp

Serengeti House

Lamai, Tanzania

Mara River Tented Camp

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Kwitonda Lodge

Kataza House

Let us plan your trip, our expert in-house travel service embodies the singita experience every step of the way..

Contact Us Discover more

“To preserve and protect large areas of African wilderness for future generations”

Stay up to date, conservation, destinations, e. [email protected], t. +27 (0) 21 683 3424.

• FAIRVIEW HOUSE - The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route, South Africa
• FUGITIVES' DRIFT - Isandlwana, Rorke's Drift, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
• LEOPARD MOUNTAIN SAFARI LODGE - Manyoni Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
• MAKAKATANA BAY LODGE - iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
• SUNGULWANE PRIVATE GAME LODGE - Munyawana Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
• THREE TREE HILL LODGE - Van Reenen's Pass, Spioenkop Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
• Romantic Getaways
• Safari Holidays
• Cultural Tours
• Family Holidays
• Adventure Travel
• Photographic Safaris
• Safari and Beach
• FAIRVIEW HOUSE | Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route
• FUGITIVES' DRIFT LODGE | Rorke's Drift, Kwazulu-Natal
• LEOPARD MOUNTAIN SAFARI LODGE | Manyoni, KwaZulu-Natal
• MAKAKATANA BAY LODGE | St Lucia, KwaZulu-Natal
• SUNGULWANE GAME LODGE | Munyawana Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
• THREE TREE HILL LODGE | Spioenkop Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
• Join our Portfolio
• Events Diary

Return to life the way it should be lived. Grounded in nature and surrounded by majestic beasts and the Big 5. Sleep underneath stars that shine brightest here, while listening to the bush buzzing loud and clear. Traverse lands that have witnessed histories greatest battles, or explore private game reserves offering unscripted safaris in the heart of Zululand.

We're the simple choice for your dream safari of a lifetime.

Sustainable

Collectively, we do well by doing what's right for the world.

Spectacular

Our journeys deliver unforgettable experiences like no other.

Whether it's a Big 5 safari, romantic getaway, bush and beach break, family holiday or battlefield tour, we've pooled our favourite offerings to bring you the ultimate journeys in such unique ways.

Book your African Safari Collective experience, and see why we believe that inspiration lives here.

Contact Us      Book a lodge

Enrich your life with a stay at any of our independent premier lodges, stretching from the battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Big 5 safaris of Zululand, the wetlands of iSimangaliso, to the famed Garden Route.

Guest Reviews

Beautiful house with stunning views over the Keurbooms Forest and several mountain ranges!

Simeoné Kohrs via Google Reviews

Fairview House

Absolute heaven on Earth ... a beautiful getaway for the whole family ❤

Shana Giessing via Google Reviews

Three Tree Hill Lodge

“The location and history were wonderful. The staff were so kind and helpful and the guides were amazing with their detailed information.”

David via Booking.com

Fugitives' Drift Lodge

THIS PLACE IS ENCHANTING... breathing life back into ones soul with unending sceneries tied in with a great staff- especially the story telling & historian linguistics of our guides who have an unmatched skill, of bringing alive the Events that unfolded through the valleys and Mountains here at Rorkes drift area so many years ago. No wonder a head stand was the first event of our stay.Enjoy yours I'm... Read this review

Candace Couzens via Google Reviews

Superb location, exceptional hospitality, delightful experience in every way. Andrew is a gracious host and the setting, service and warmth combined for a memorable stay and dining experience. The House is also situated on one of the prettiest viewpoints overlooking the valley towards Uniondale in Plett. It's a favorite stop along the Alkantmooi MTB route (for the cyclists out there) and the freshly baked carrot cake is a must.... Read this review

Gustav Erlank via Google Reviews

Excellent game lodge in a private reserve. A real treat of a place to stay. Staff are excellent; always there to assist but without being in your face. The 2 game drives are brilliant and led by knowledgable guides who clearly care for the animals and love what their work, (but who wouldn’t!) Food and drink are both of a high standard. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, even afternoon tea are... Read this review

Simon via Expedia

Leopard Mountain Lodge

Thank you, we had the most wonderful stay. We stayed with friends in the Burchells cottage with breathtaking views of the Spioenkop reserve. The surroundings are just incredible and we enjoyed every moment. The interior was lovely, we enjoyed all the amenities and the wonderful fireplace for the cosy evenings. The outside ‘stoep’ was our favourite place for afternoon drinks. The old-world charm of the main lodge area with... Read this review

Steven via TripAdvisor

If there was a way to give six stars, this place would deserve it.The staff is super nice, we had an amazing time on our camp drives, both because of the landscape and our amazing driver (thanks, Alex! ♡)When we were shown our rooms, saying we were baffled would be one hell of an understatement. A more traditional African "setting" with all the advantages of modern life.Being able to... Read this review

Niklas Meuter via Google Reviews

Top class and definitely the best lodge in the area. Great for honeymoon couples as well as families with slightly older kids. This seems to be a popular destination for tourists looking for an upmarket 'all in one' venue ( sea, beach and bush). Highly recommend!

Brian Paine via Google Reviews

Makakatana Bay Lodge

“Everything was at it’s best, the rooms were clean, beds comfortable oh don’t want to talk about the pillows. Good was nice, their breakfast is excellent. Love everything about this place ”

Thembakazi via Booking.com

Latest Blogs

Enter your email address to download our What to Pack e-Book.

Enter your email address to download our Birding e-Book.

Coming Soon

ASC Choose yourself

Share This Page

Nature’s Stage

The silvan story, connect to the heart of africa.

Silvan Safari is centred around a complete celebration of unique and exceptional experiences. Our mindful approach honours the intricate manner in which all life is connected.

From witnessing the unrivalled spectacle of the African sunrise, feasting on sensational culinary delights to connecting with the heart and soul of Silvan, our extraordinary people.

Silvan is like nothing you’ve ever seen before, a wonder waiting to captivate the heart and connect it to the glorious African spirit.

The contemporary, modern architecture is slick, bold and alluring with a nuanced bohemian flair. Adding a sense of whimsical artistry, it gently weaves its magic into grand art collaborations and intricate hand-woven masterpieces alike.

The Silvan Story

Silvan is redefining the luxury safari in Africa, and our inspirational leadwood and jackalberry forest provide the ideal canvas for this ground breaking lodge.

Kierie Klapper

The Kierie Klapper Suite draws inspiration from the bushwillow, featuring warm amber accents and rich teal, reflecting Silvan Safari's character and ambience.

Any stay at Silvan is a celebration of the majesty of the bush, Africa's people, and the pure exhilaration of life.

We invite you to explore, share and connect with the true spirit of Africa.

EXPERIENCES

01 / game drives.

02 / ANSELLIA SPA

03 / WILDLIFE

The key ingredient to what makes Silvan truly extraordinary is the inspired team making up our Silvan family.

Hailing from all corners, with many coming from the very communities surrounding the lodge. This is their home, and their passion and love for curating unique luxury African experiences shine through in everything they do.

One of life’s greatest joys comes from the pleasure of forging new friendships and relationships. The smiles, laughs, and experiences shared bring people from all walks of life together in unison, forever connected by that personal moment in time. We welcome you.

All-inclusive Luxury African Safari Lodges, Resorts, Camps, Hotels (Where to Stay)

All-inclusive Luxury African Safari Lodges, Resorts, Camps, Hotels and Where to stay, Videos, Reviews for families, couple, seniors, couples.

The most Exclusive African Safari Lodges range from classic Big Five safari camps to sumptuous riverside retreats, the range of five-star African safari lodges, resorts, and Camps is nothing short of extraordinary. In no particular order, these are 100 of the continent’s best.

Our Trusted Luxury African Safari Lodges, Resorts & Camps

Some of the best chances in the world to see wildlife are in Africa. On a safari, the “ Big Five “—the lion, elephant, rhino, Cape buffalo, and the elusive leopard—take center stage, but it may also be fascinating and interesting to view the smaller, less famous species, such as impalas, zebras, and hyenas. Nothing compares to a safari that includes watching the Great Migration in Kenya’s Masai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti. The Okavango Delta in Botswana and Kruger National Park in South Africa are two additional fantastic safari locations . It seems sense that the 100 most opulent safari lodges in Africa are all found in these regions.

African Safari Lodges, Resorts, Camps & Hotels

The majority of them are run by the three most prestigious safari firms on the continent: &Beyond , Wilderness Safaris , Sanctuary Retreats, Asilia, African Bush Camps, Desert & Delta, Governors’ Camp Collection, Wild Horizons, The Bushcamp Company, The Zanzibar Collection, The Safari Collection, Saruni Lodges, Porini Camps, Alex Walker’s Serian Camps, Angama Mara, Azura Retreats, Babylonstoren, Chem Chem Safari, Chiawa Collection, Constance Hotels, MORE Family Collection, Natural Selection Camps, Cape Grace, Newmark Hotels, Simbavati Lodge Collection, Time + Tide, Thornybush Collection, and Singita .

South African Safari Lodges, Hotels & Camps

Top Luxury Lodges & Camps

Even the pickiest tourists can get everything they need in South Africa. The Rainbow Nation has it all, whether you want to spend your days relaxing on the beach, enjoying exquisite wine in picturesque vineyards, discovering culture-rich urban cities, or going on a traditional Big 5 African safari. Beginning your ideal vacation in the perennially popular Kruger National Park, travel to Cape Town, one of the most stunning cities in the world.

Explore Lodges in South Africa

Botswana Safari Lodges, Camps, Hotels 

Best Luxury Lodges & Camps

The Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park are two of the most well-liked safari locations in Africa, and both are located in Botswana. The Kalahari and Linyanti are two undiscovered jewels. Botswana is a safari enthusiast’s dream since it is teeming with a variety of species and has a varied terrain that varies from lush riverine forests to dramatic salt flats.

Explore Lodges in Botswana

Mozambique Beach Lodges & Hotels

Top Luxury lodges & Hotels

In and around Mozambique, a wide variety of lodging alternatives are available. These range from basic backpackers to wild camping, but the lodges we’ve chosen offer an opulent and unique experience. The beauty of Mozambique is that there aren’t many big resorts, so you can truly escape the city’s flashing lights. The majority of our guests choose to stay in opulent beach cottages in remote seaside locations rather than hotels.

Explore Lodges in Mozambique

Namibia Safari Lodges, Hotels, and Camps

Luxury lodges in Namibia

Luxury safari lodges and camps in Namibia are few and far between – the arid Namib Desert makes it one of the least densely populated places on Earth – but because we’ve been exploring this destination since 1998, we’re able to curate a definitive list.

Explore Lodges in Namibia

Zambia Safari Lodges and Camps

Top luxury lodges & camps

Both experienced and inexperienced safari travelers like Zambia. A Zambia safari has plenty to offer every kind of traveler thanks to wonders like South Luangwa National Park, which is famed for walking safaris across its wildlife-rich plains, and the legendary Victoria Falls.

Explore Lodges in Zambia

Zimbabwe Safari Lodges & Camps

Top luxury lodges and camps

With each region offering its own unique wonders, exploring the country’s top spots is highly recommended. To help you plan and find the best Zimbabwe accommodation, we’ve found the 19 best places to stay in Zimbabwe.

Explore Lodges in Zimbabwe

Kenya Safari Lodges, Hotels, and Camps

Top luxury lodges, and camps

Choosing a place to stay when embarking on a luxury safari in Kenya is almost as important as the national park or game reserve. To make things a little easier, we’ve rounded up the best spots for luxury accommodation in Kenya:

Explore Lodges in Kenya

Congo Safari Lodges and Camps

A unique safari lodges and camps

Stay in the most beautiful rainforest and bai sites in one of the many one-of-a-kind Congo safari lodges that are perfectly at home with the surrounding forest on a safari in the Congo that is centered on Odzala-Kokoua National Park. The best places to stay, eat, and wash your boots in between treks are listed here.

Explore Lodges in Congo

Rwanda Safari Lodges, Camps

Top safari lodges, camps, and hotels

Rwanda’s rainforests and savannahs, two of the country’s most spectacular regions, offer a wide variety of conservation tourism opportunities. Bisate, a town that has won numerous awards, is located on the edge of Volcanoes National Park in an eroded volcanic cone. And the sophisticated Magashi in Akagera National Park, where you can take in breathtaking views of Lake Rwanyakazinga and a wide variety of the famous animals that make Africa what it is.

Explore Lodges in Rwanda

Seychelles Safari Lodges, Hotels

Discover safari lodges and hotels

Welcome to blue safari Seychelles, We are blazing a trail for a new kind of unique lodging and experiential travel in the heart of the Indian Ocean’s last untamed frontier while also actively safeguarding this precious area.

Explore Lodges in Seychelles

Malawi Safari Lodges, Camps, Hotels

An unrivaled safari lodges, camps and hotels

Affectionate and laid-back Anyone interested in a safari and beach vacation should consider visiting Malawi. Malawi has a wide variety of places to stay, from little guesthouses on the shores of Lake Malawi to sprawling luxury hotels on its rocky islands and even in safari hotspots like Liwonde National Park and the Nyika Plateau.

Explore Lodges in Malawi

Mauritius Safari Lodges, Resorts, Camps and Hotels

Experience safari lodges, camps and hotels

In the middle of the Indian Ocean, surrounded by coral reefs and white sand beaches, is the island paradise of Mauritius. Along the island’s shoreline are luxurious resorts with ginormous pools, an abundance of water sports, and shady sun loungers just steps from the water. The beauty of a vacation in Mauritius is that it is simple and stress-free because everything you could possibly need is in close proximity to one another. The service at these resorts is good, the amenities are excellent, and all tastes are catered for.

Explore Lodges in Mauritius

Tanzania Safari Lodges, Camps, Resorts, hotels

Top safari lodges, hotels and resorts

Tanzania is home to a wide variety of ecosystems, from sun-drenched savannas and lush forests to pristine beaches and exotic islands. The variety of available lodgings, from rustic safari camps to modern eco-lodges and romantic getaways, is a reflection of the region’s rich cultural heritage. There are safaris that are suitable for families, others that are ideal for lone travelers, and still others that are tailored to larger groups or private excursions.

Explore Lodges in Tanzania

Uganda Safari Lodges, Camps, Hotels, and Resorts

Luxury Safari lodges, resorts, and camps

Forests, mountains, and river valleys are where you’ll find the most impressive resorts on your Uganda safari. Check out some of our top picks for the best safari lodges in Africa to decide where you want to stay.

Explore Lodges in Uganda

Ethiopia Safari Lodges, Hotels, Camps & Resorts

Luxury safari lodges, hotels and camps

There was a dearth of high-end lodging options in Ethiopia until very recently, and this is still true to some extent. Camps and safari lodges of varying degrees of complexity, some of which remain both basic and simply practical, make up the bulk of the country’s offering. There used to be a dearth of high-quality lodging options in Ethiopia, but that’s changing, especially in popular destinations like Lalibela and Addis Ababa.

Explore Lodges in Ethiopia

Tunisa Safari Lodges, Camps, and Hotels

Luxury lodges, camps and hotels

Tunisia, a country in North Africa on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, is a great vacation spot for people from all over the world. This tiny country is jam-packed with historical sites and breathtaking landscapes, making it a must-see for any adventurer. The country’s diversified geography is typified by the sandy Mediterranean coast and its beaches, the wide expanse of the Sahara Desert, forested coasts, dazzling salt flats, and busy cobblestone alleyways scented with jasmine and sea wind.

Explore Lodges in Tunisia

Egypt Safari Lodges, Hotels, Camps

Lovely Safari Lodges, hotels and camps

Some of the world’s most famous hotels may be found in Egypt. These hotels, many of which date back to the colonial era, were frequented by famous figures like Howard Carter, Winston Churchill, and Agatha Christie.

Explore Lodges in Egypt

Ghana Safari Lodges, Resorts, Camps & Hotels

Exclusive safari lodges, resorts, and camps

Although many visitors and would-be visitors associate Africa with safaris, the promise of gazing at gorgeous wild game is not true in the vast majority of Africa’s varied ecosystems. West Africa is an enclave of cultural tourism, where the people rather than the wildlife are the main appeal. This is in contrast to the eastern and southern extremities of Africa, which are characterized by various safari offerings in mystical natural surroundings.

Explore Lodges in Ghana

Morocco Safari Lodges, Resort, camps, spa and hotels

Luxury safari lodges, spa, hotels and camps

There are numerous sides to Morocco, each reflecting the country’s extensive history and diverse cultural traditions. This primarily Muslim nation is well-known for its mouthwatering cuisine, stunning buildings, exotic souks, and vibrant Berber culture. Morocco’s varied landscape includes towering mountains, lush oasis towns, historic walled seaports, and stunning deserts. It is one of just three countries in the world to have both an Atlantic and Mediterranean coastline.

Explore Lodges in Morocco

13 Safari Eco Lodges in South Africa

• By Emese Maczko
• May 10, 2023 December 18, 2023

South Africa is a beautiful country and is home to stunning coastlines, pristine beaches, and wonderful scenery. However, the country is most famous for its wildlife, ethical safari tours , and the many game reserves that can be found in this area of Africa.

So, as you can imagine, there are plenty of safari eco-lodges in South Africa. This ranges from luxurious tented camps to safari bungalows, so there is something for everyone! We have researched each safari eco-lodge on this list to make sure they’re operating sustainably, and are taking the utmost care when it comes to the environment.

What are eco-lodges?

Eco-lodges are accommodations in undisturbed, remote natural areas where both construction and operation have the lowest impact possible on the environment. They are not only part of the local community, but they are active participants in protecting nature and culturally sensitive areas.

Garonga Safari Camp

Garonga Safari Camp creates an eco-friendly safari experience for guests and continuously invests in reducing its carbon footprint. This is done through several ongoing measures, including environmental impact management, using solar energy wherever possible, and keeping track of water usage.

Located in the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve, this safari eco-lodge offers guests the opportunity to see Africa’s big 5 in a natural environment. There are three different accommodation options on-site, including the Garonga Safari Camp, the Little Garonga Safari Lodge, and MCH Private Tented Camp. This safari lodge also has great facilities, including a sleep-out deck and a safari bush bath.

Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge

Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is part of Isibindi Africa Lodges and their primary focus is to preserve the environment. Not only does the lodge have joint community ownership, but there are several sustainable measures put in place. This includes removing single-use plastics where possible, investing in solar farms, and serving ethically harvested food.

If you’re looking for luxury eco-lodges in South Africa, then this is a great choice. Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is located within Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park, which is home to the Big 5 and a variety of other mammal species. Aside from the fantastic game drives, there is also an infinity pool that overlooks the African bush!

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is one of the top luxury safari lodges in South Africa. It’s also a world leader in sustainable tourism and has been certified as carbon-negative. The Reserve has several ongoing projects, including reforestation, renewable electricity generation, poverty alleviation, and community management.

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve covers an impressive, 3500 hectares of wilderness and is home to a variety of South African animals from mammals and marine life, including whales. There are three different types of accommodation at this reserve; the Garden Lodge, the Forest Lodge, and exclusive private villas. This reserve also offers plenty of experiences, including a coastal safari, whale watching, and shark cage diving.

Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve

Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve is fully invested in its ‘green initiative’. A Solar Photovoltaic hybrid energy system has been installed at the nature reserve, which provides eco-friendly power to the whole eco-resort . The reserve also has plenty of water initiatives in place and works closely with the community, as around 60% of its staff are local.

If you’re searching for eco-lodges on the Western Cape, then Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve is a great choice. They have a variety of accommodation options available, including suites, chalets, self-catering units, and camping. There are also plenty of activities available at this reserve, including game drives, Sundowner tours, and quad bike adventures.

Leshiba Mountain Retreats

Leshiba Mountain Retreats is located within Leshiba (or Lesheba) Wilderness Reserve and is passionate about sustainable development and conservation. Leshiba is completely off-grid and was constructed using traditional and sustainable building methods. This eco-retreat also has its own conservation strategy in place and prioritizes social responsibility.

Leshiba Mountain Retreats is located in one of the most bio-diverse areas on Earth, and there are a couple of places you can stay. The accommodation options include the Venda Art Lodge, Hamasha Bush Camp, the Farmhouse, and Luvhondo Bush Camp. Not only does this eco-lodge offer game drives, but you can also go on guided hikes, and day excursions, and visit the Spacegate rock formation.

Sibuya Game Reserve

Sibuya is one of the unique safari lodges in South Africa and prides itself on ecotourism. There are two eco-camps on-site, and both are primarily run on solar power, with no allowance for WiFi or air conditioning. Sibuya also runs the wilderness experience, which is an eco-volunteering program. This gives volunteers the chance to get involved with conservation work and community engagement projects.

Sibuya Game Reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including the big 5 ! You’ll also go on a 45-minute boat trip to get to the accommodation, and you could spot turtles, dolphins, and whales from the river mouth.

Umlani Bushcamp

Umlani Bushcamp is committed to responsible tourism and has had the Fair Trade Tourism certification for over nine years. They are constantly involved with helping the community and charities and also have a variety of environmental measures in place. This includes using 100% alternative energy sources, using biodegradable products, and investing in water conservation.

This safari eco-lodge is located in Timbavati Nature Reserve, which is part of Great Kruger National Park. With its thrilling game drives, unspoiled wilderness, and unique accommodation, it’s no wonder that Umlani Bushcamp is one of the best safari lodges in South Africa. You’ve got plenty of chances to spot the big 5 here!

Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa

Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa is one of the most eco-friendly safari lodges in South Africa. They are completely off-grid, with over 600 solar panels used to power the property. They’ve also reduced single-use plastics by nearly 100% and only use eco-friendly chemicals. Not only that, but the lodge also has a water purification system.

Situated within Welgevonden Game Reserve, this eco-safari in Africa will give you a chance to spot the country’s big 5, among other wildlife species. Aside from the game drives, Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa also offers rhino tracking experiences, bush walks, and visits to the waterhole hide.

Thonga Beach Lodge

Thonga Beach Lodge is part of Isibindi Africa Lodges, whose primary aim is to preserve the planet for future generations. They do this by focusing on helping neighbor communities, removing single-use plastics, investing in solar energy, and using seafood that’s been ethically harvested. Isibindi Africa Lodges also have several conservation programs in place.

Thonga Beach Lodge is one of the more unique safari lodges in South Africa, as they have an open ocean experience that focuses on ‘marine safaris’ rather than game drives. This lodge also offers scuba diving, turtle tracking, guided forest walks, and excursions to Lake Sibaya.

Mashovhela Bush Lodge

Mashovhela Bush Lodge is located within the Morning Sun Nature Reserve and prioritizes eco-tourism. They have strong commitments to social, economic, and environmental responsibility, and aim to minimize their impact on the local area. Investing in renewable energy, developing partnerships with local communities, and using chemical-free products are just a couple of examples of this.

Mashovhela Bush Lodge offers a variety of bungalows and chalets, so you have a couple of options to choose from. There are also plenty of activities available, including guided walks, jeep excursions, and culture tours. If you’re looking for a relaxing eco-friendly getaway, then this is a great choice!

Kosi Forest Lodge

Kosi Forest Lodge is part of Isibindi Africa Lodges, which partners with neighboring communities and aims to preserve the planet. The Isbindi Foundation uses local businesses for supplies, recycles unused food into local feeding schemes, and has invested in solar energy. 

Located within Isimangaliso Wetland Park, Kosi Forest offers guests the chance to get up close and personal with South Africa’s wilderness. There are a variety of fantastic activities available, including boat trips, turtle-tracking excursions, forest walks, and canoeing trips. You’ll also find plenty of wildlife in the area, including hippos, crocodiles, and turtles.

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is actually a project that focuses on sustainable conservation. This is funded through eco-tourism. The reserve also has several environmental measures in place, including solar pumps, LED lighting, and rainwater collection tanks. The lodge is even 100% single-use plastic-free, and they’re currently working on a carbon-neutrality project.

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is one of the last true wilderness areas within South Africa. With every booking, you’re guaranteed a private vehicle, guide, and tracker to give you the best chance of spotting wildlife and leaving you with memories to last a lifetime. There are two camps at the reserve; the Motse and Tarkuni.

Kuzuko Lodge

Kuzuko Lodge is part of the Kuzuko Foundation, which aims to impact the region positively. Not only do they work to save water, and manage erosion, but they get involved with the local community regularly. This includes doing school visits about conservation, creating jobs for local people, and helping disadvantaged people. They’ve also successfully managed to release cheetahs back into the wild, which is amazing!

Kuzuko Lodge is located on a private game reserve within the Greater Addo Elephant National Park Area. There are lots of activities available to guests here, including game drives, nature walks, photography safaris, and horse riding.

Map of these 13 safari eco-lodges

As you can see, there are plenty of fantastic safari eco-lodges in South Africa. Whether you’re looking to tick off a bucket list adventure or want to get close to nature – you’ll be spoilt for choice!

17 Most Sustainable Eco Lodges in Malaysia

Rios Lodge, Adventure Eco-Lodge (Detailed Review)

Origins Lodge, Luxury Eco-Lodge (Detailed Review)

9 Most Sustainable Puerto Rico Eco-Lodges

16 Most Sustainable Eco Lodges in Costa Rica

Experience Blue Zones via Sustainable Travel

Emese Maczko

Emese Maczko is a travel blogger behind Eco Lodges Anywhere. Having explored several destinations around Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a keen understanding of diverse cultures and an appreciation for the beauty of each destination she visits. She advocates for sustainable travel and ecotourism.

• Emese Maczko https://ecolodgesanywhere.com/author/emesemaczko/ 16 Mediterranean Coastal Towns Known for Their Distinctive European Charm
• Emese Maczko https://ecolodgesanywhere.com/author/emesemaczko/ 50 U.S. Towns Shine with 100% Renewable Energy Achievements
• Emese Maczko https://ecolodgesanywhere.com/author/emesemaczko/ 13 Hidden Gardens and Green Spaces in Urban California
• Emese Maczko https://ecolodgesanywhere.com/author/emesemaczko/ 18 Places on Earth That Don't Feel Real

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Aston Martin
• L’Atelier
• Les Marquables de Martell
• Reynolds Lake Oconee
• 672 Wine Club
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide
• This African Safari Lodge Just Got a Luxe Makeover. Here’s a Look Inside.

andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge's first reno in 30 years is all about Zulu Zen.

Nicola leigh stewart, nicola leigh stewart's most recent stories.

• This Stunning New Hotel Will Have You Adding Montenegro to Your Summer Travel Plans
• Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in Monaco This Summer
• Share This Article

Related Stories

• Dubai Just Got 3 New Luxe Hotels. Here’s a Look Inside.

What Venice’s New Tourist Tax Means for Your Next Trip

• This African Safari Takes You on a Land Adventure and a River Cruise--Here's What It Was Like

The lodge’s Gallery, a tranquil library and lounge, is now decorated with a cabinet of curiosities and a series of prints depicting the life of Shaka Zulu, the former ruler of the Zulu Kingdom.

“The original catchphrase was ‘Zulu Zen,’ and we wanted to keep that,” says Kerri Smithers, general manager of Phinda Forest. “But we’ve also added an ‘Afro Japanese’ touch with the low seating and Japanese-inspired doors.”

“The woven papyrus mats on the ceiling look Japanese but are actually made by local women and are used on flooring and to take to the beach,” she says. “The lights are inspired by traditional Zulu brooms and have also been made by local women. And as Zulus use lots of clay, we’ve added these decorative clay pots, which traditionally are passed around to drink beer out of.”

Outside, the terrace can be used to host private dinners, while a few steps away, the birds-nest-inspired fire pit is the new hot spot for pre-dinner drinks, while recounting the day’s safari adventures.

The camp’s 16 lodges now include a new larger family-friendly suite. It’s made up of two interconnecting rooms that have been refigured to maximize the space, something that Smithers says was a key part of the refurbishment since it avoided a complete rebuild that would’ve disturbed the surrounding habitat. The bedroom’s clean lines nod to Japanese minimalism. The geometric headboard is made from the same papyrus mats as the Gallery’s ceiling, juxtaposed to broom lamps and decorative hanging beadwork. Chunky wood furnishings crafted from stained iroko and touches of forest green Astrus marble bring the outside in, but what really connects you with nature are the floor-to-ceiling windows that wrap around the lodge, including one next to the luxuriously deep tub. You can continue to spot grazing nyala and curious monkeys at all hours; the team even recommend sleeping with the curtains to really feel like you’re spending the night in the forest, at one with nature.

Still, none of this comes easily. To operate any private reserve is a frustratingly Sisyphean task. The death of one beloved game animal leads to an over-population of another. Too many elephants can  destroy a forest; too few can leave it overgrown. But rather than toil in silence, andBeyond allows guests to become a part of their delicate conservation work.    In fact, many of the camp’s most exclusive adventures allow a limited number of guests the once-in-a-lifetime experience of getting hands on.   Help by notching the ears of rhino, or dehorning one to deter poachers. You can also assist in changing the collars on elephants or witness the release of animals, such as cheetahs and lions. If you’re more into pangolins then predators, then andBeyond will take you out to play hide-and-seek with the elusive animals, which have been successfully reintroduced to the region. And, oh what a region it is.   

Read More On:

• South Africa

More Destinations

You Can Now Drive a Porsche Through 5 African Countries With This New Off-Roading Experience

A Bevy of Luxury Resorts Is About to Transform This Quiet Costa Rica Province

How Climate Change Could Disrupt the Future of Travel, According to a New Study

Culinary Masters 2024

MAY 17 - 19 Join us for extraordinary meals from the nation’s brightest culinary minds.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Destinations

Kalmar Beyond Adventure’s Porsche Safari in Photos

Oceaya in Photos

More from our brands, victoria justice shimmers in sequins at latin american music awards in dazzling cutout dress, vince mcmahon lists final tko shares for sale, bob bakish out as paramount global ceo, dani levinas, art enthusiast who ‘collected collectors,’ dies at 75, the best yoga mats for any practice, according to instructors.

Animals Around The Globe (US)

A South African Safari Must – Crossing Lodges in the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere

Posted: April 26, 2024 | Last updated: April 26, 2024

Africa, filled with beautiful landscapes, incredible wildlife, and diverse cultures is loved by international travelers around the world. Especially by those who have a love for wildlife and want to see these animals thrive in their natural habitats. This makes Africa, and especially South Africa, a great choice for a safari holiday!

African Safari's

A Safari holiday is a popular (and safe) way to see the incredible power and beauty of wild animals thriving in their natural habitat. Whether it is your dream to see the Big 5 up close, or just to absorb the magnificence of nature, a safari is a way to do it! These holidays often bring a renewed sense of respect and awe for wildlife and nature to those who experience these adventures. 

What Makes Travel In South Africa So Special?

South Africa is not just a culturally diverse country, but destination wise as well! When travelling to South Africa you can find yourself on the beach in Cape Town one day and surrounded by wildlife in the Kruger National Park the next. It comes as no surprise that this country rich with experiences, had over 8.5 million tourists visiting in 2023. 

Diverse Wildlife

But the Kruger National Park is not the only place you can admire wildlife like the Big 5, in luxury, in South Africa. In the Welgevonden Game Reserve lies Elephants Crossing Lodge. Where you can see not only elephants but lions, impalas, rhinos, and many other incredible animals and wildlife ! I had a chat with Bas Mullink, one of the lodge's founders about what goes on there. 

The Reserve

Welgevonden Game Reserve is situated in the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere in Limpopo, South Africa. Walking on the 38,000ha private game reserve is not only the Big 5 but over 485 other animal and wildlife species. Practically guaranteeing that you would encounter wildlife on your safari there – which is not always the case. As many parts of Africa suffer from poaching, climate change, and threats against biodiversity. 

Conservation

Welgevonden Game Reserve believes strongly that it is their responsibility to aid conservation, biodiversity, and the protection of the flora and fauna that thrive on their grounds. The Conservation Management team has continuous conservation research and development to ensure the biodiversity on the reserve. While the APU (Anti-Poaching Unit) is strong and willing to provide the animals with a safe space to roam and thrive. 

Elephants Crossing Lodge

As I mentioned earlier, Elephants Crossing Lodge lies on a hillside within the northern area of the stunning Welgevonden Game Reserve. This lodge not only offers luxurious tented accommodation but also game drives with amazing guides and even has a private watering hole – where they all but guarantee you will experience beautiful wildlife encounters! You might even catch a glimpse of the animals roaming around the unfenced lodge while sitting in your private splash pool. 

Zebras Crossing Lodge

Zebras Crossing Lodge is situated on open plains with a view of the Waterberg mountains. As this lodge doesn't focus on the Big 5, one could mountain bike, hike, or even swim in their private river among the passing zebras, giraffes, and many other animals. Perfect for adventurous animal lovers. 

Who Are They?

Two sisters and their husbands share a love for adventure and wildlife. This love brought them all the way from the Netherlands to the beautiful flora and fauna in South Africa, where they opened two lodges to share the country’s beauty with other wildlife admirers. While Elephants Crossing Lodge lies in the Welgevonden Reserve, and their other lodge, Zebras Crossing lies in a 650ha private reserve in the Waterberg bushveld near Modimolle, Limpopo. 

Their Contribution To Wildlife Conservation

Have a look at the Elephants Crossing and Zebras Crossing websites to see what other activities they offer. 

The lodges fully support all conservation efforts made by Welgevonden Game Reserve. For each guest payment, the lodge pays a percentage to aid the conservation efforts of the management team to protect and care for the biodiversity and wildlife on the Reserve. And if you ask me, creating a safe and beautiful place where people can admire wildlife in their natural habitat also contributes to the education and respect of animal conservation. Which is something they certainly do well!

So, A South African Safari Must?

The post A South African Safari Must – Crossing Lodges in the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere appeared first on Animals Around The Globe .

• The AMES Foundation and Their Fight Against Rhino Poaching
• Namibia & Its Animals Facing Another Drought

If you enjoyed this article on A South African Safari Must, you might enjoy these articles:

Interested in finding out more about travel and safari in Africa? Drop us an email at [email protected]

We love the idea that your stay at these lodges not only allows you to admire the stunning South African wildlife in their prime but also contributes to the conservation and care thereof! AATG and Crossing Lodges have partnered to bring our readers an exciting series of stories on some of the amazing wildlife encounters experienced at the lodges. So, keep your eyes peeled! 

More for You

Average US annual salary by age revealed – see how you compare

19 Things That Will Happen When You Stop Drinking Alcohol

Sports Cars As Cool as the Porsche 911 But Way More Affordable

NATO Aircraft Activated After Waves of Russian Strikes

If you and your partner use any of these 5 phrases regularly, your relationship is stronger than most

The health condition many women are getting diagnosed with after COVID

223 vs 556: What's the Difference?

How Do I Know If My Dog Is Happy? 12 Signs of a Happy Dog

The Factory Turbocharged Car With The Most Horsepower In 2024

Scientists have discovered the maximum age a human can live to

Kids who do these 6 things have 'high emotional intelligence,' says parenting expert who studied over 200 children

I Am Doing a PhD at 16—My Mother's Death Is the Reason

This is the ideal sleep temperature for older adults, new study finds

'9-1-1' Fans, There's a Good Reason Why There Is No New Episode Airing Tonight

17 Phrases Older People Use That No One Else Gets

PS5 Pro: news, rumored release date, price, and specs

30 food items that you might not know are banned in America

Here is the average credit score at every age in the U.S.—see how yours stacks up

Scientists claim people with this blood type more likely to have early stroke

Remembering Fran