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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

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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

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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

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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

South Africa

Sub regions inside

Broader region.

Relatively cheap when compared to other first world destinations.  Extraordinary scenery and wildlife.

South Africa has an enormous amount to offer.  For big 5 wildlife safaris, you'd want to be considering the Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands Game Reserve.

For nightlife, restaurants and exquisite scenery spend a few days in Cape Town.

Cape Town is best between November and March when it's warm and not too windy.

The Kruger Park is best towards the end of winter, before it getstoo hot and you can easily see wildlife with the foliage having lost its leaves.

Apr 28, 2024

Great service

Great service. The staff are so helpful and accomadating. I would highly recommend them.

Shann was great

Shann was great. Answered all questions promptly and setup the trip to Kruger last minute for us with ease.

Shann was amazing

Shann was amazing. Really knowledgeable and helpful. Nothing too much trouble.

Apr 27, 2024

Anja is awesome!

Anja is awesome!! She went above and beyond for me as I had several changes until I locked in my bucket list itinerary and then my friend cancelled. She wasn't mad and just went about cancelling her portion which saved me money in the long run. Anja is a true professional regardless and I have been dealing with her since Sept 2023. Cannot wait until my trip in Sept 2024.

Apr 26, 2024

Shann was beyond amazing

Shann was beyond amazing. Listened to our needs, communicated super-efficiently and gave really honest excellent advice. She was so patient, kind and professional. The time difference across the globe made no difference. I am so excited for the itinerary she has put together. I usually cobble my own itinerary together for our holidays and it’s so time consuming and hard work. This was a piece of cake! Thank you Shann.

Great planning and service

Great planning and service, and everything worked like clockwork. We booked an Inyari Lodge safari with air with Safari.com. it wasn't clear if there will be 2 or three of us, so with Candis' help we booked a family chalet for 2 and added the third later when it was confirmed he can come. Candis put us on flights that maximized our game drive time (unlike some of the other guests) so we got all 6 drives in 3 nights. The lodge was great. Especially the game drives. We saw more than we hoped for. Additionally, Safari.com's insurance was very competitive. Highly recommended.

Apr 24, 2024

Kim helped us for the details of trip…

Kim helped us for the details of trip planning.

Apr 23, 2024

Shann was amazing , great prompt service and went above and beyond to meet our travel requirements.

Apr 22, 2024

My experience with safari.com is always…

My experience with safari.com is always incredibly, pascal made happen my dream again. He is the best always answering questions and making everything perfect.thank you again pascal, can’t wait to tell all about my second trip to Africa in October.

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South Africa safari: when to go, what you'll see, where to stay

By Jane Broughton

South Africa has a well-deserved reputation for its many design-forward, eco-conscious safari lodges offering every conceivable luxury and almost guaranteed game viewing throughout the year. As a safari destination, South Africa is easy to get to and navigate once on the ground, making it an ideal last-minute romantic getaway for couples or a sunny winter safari for families. And while it remains an excellent choice for first-timers wanting to experience a classic, big five safari, this destination is just as popular with seasoned philanthropists taking annual impact trips supporting innovative, privately funded conservation initiatives to regenerate animal habitat, protect biodiversity and save critically endangered species .

The most sought-after lodges and safari camps are in private conservation areas, within private game reserves scattered across the country, or in the Greater Kruger area, which includes the Kruger National Park. Small and often owner-run, these luxury, light-footprint properties are in hand-picked, scenic locations and offer deeply layered, immersive safari experiences on and off the vehicle led by experienced guides and trackers with an intimate knowledge of the ecosystem in which they’re working. Many privately protected areas share unfenced boundaries with neighbouring tracts of protected land so that animals can roam and establish their territory over a larger space in tune with seasonal changes. Along with exclusive, up-close sightings and a limit on the number of vehicles permitted, other private concession perks include the freedom to drive off-road where permitted, take guided walks and night drives , enjoy remote bush dinners and star bed sleep-outs, and get involved with hands-on conservation. Sustainably managed properties that are fully invested in protecting the environment while maximising the positive economic spinoffs of nature-based tourism to local communities should always be a consideration before booking anything.

When to go to South Africa for safari

Most of the go-to game reserves are in the northeast of South Africa and experience summer rain in thunderstorms followed by a dry winter with cool to chilly nights and warm, clear-skied sunny days ( May to October ). Winter is, therefore, the most popular time to go on safari, when the dry conditions lead to concentrations of animals around reliable water sources. This makes game viewing more predictable and animals easier to track and locate due to sparse vegetation and minimal ground cover. The mild, clear days are great for getting off the vehicle to track and explore the bush on foot. Summer rain radically transforms the bush, and everything explodes with life as the days heat up. Dense thickets and trees in leaf reduce visibility and make game viewing more challenging, but the lush, green vegetation attracts summer migrants and becomes a birder’s paradise. Predator activity increases, too, due to the abundance of baby animals at a time when food is plentiful for all. After the rain, the dust settles and light conditions are excellent for photography. Autumn and spring are good for witnessing the antelope rutting season. An early or late summer safari could be South Africa’s best-kept secret, especially with the add-on of a beach holiday outside of Cape Town ’s busiest time (from mid- December to end- January ). Elsewhere, the semi-arid Karoo and Kalahari are dry and clear-skied in winter and have low rainfall averages in summer but get very hot. In general, off-peak travel is underrated, with benefits including better availability, potential stay-longer, pay-less deals, and the possibility of securing a private vehicle.

Where to go in South Africa for safari

The private conservation areas in and around the Greater Kruger area are synonymous with South Africa’s reputation for delivering epic, up-close predator action interpreted by knowledgeable guides. Kruger shares unfenced boundaries with several private reserves, including the Sabi Sand, where iconic, family-owned properties like Mala Mala , Londolozi , and Singita first put the region on the map thanks to reliable big cat sightings, especially leopards. Further private properties within the Timbavati, Thornybush and Klaserie reserves add thousands of hectares to the Greater Kruger, encouraging natural species migration and collectively securing habitat for many rare and endangered animals. In the northern reaches of the Kruger National Park, Pafuri’s immense flood plains and dense forests are renowned for walking safaris. At the same time, Singita’s privately leased Lebombo concession on the park’s Mozambican border provides strategic protection for rhinos. Further afield, large, private malaria-free reserves like Madikwe, close to the Botswana border, Marataba in the Waterberg, Samara in the Great Karoo, Tswalu in the southern Kalahari, and Kwandwe in the Eastern Cape, provide shelter for an astounding diversity of big game and rare and elusive species, boast breathtaking scenery and offer a choice of intimately scaled lodges for immersive, romantic getaways, secluded, off-grid trails camps for adventurers, and fully staffed, exclusive-use bush villas for multigenerational families .

Paul Richardson , CN Traveller

Amy Abrahams , CN Traveller

CNT Editors

The best lodges to book

Tengile river lodge, sabi sand.

This beautifully modern AndBeyond-run lodge in the Sabi Sand has nine energy-efficient, villa-sized suites – 200 square metres in extent – cleverly concealed in a riverine forest on a bend of the Sand River where elephants often come to feed. Hand-painted botanical print fabrics, recycled stone terrazzo floors, and bespoke throws and rugs add character to the smart, modern interiors, everything angled for soaking in the tranquil views. A glass-walled forest-green marble bathroom leads to an outdoor shower on a private, shaded deck and a big  pool . The lodge’s spa and gym also have a lap pool for training swims - necessary, as the food is delicious.

Best for: Nature-loving aesthetes will appreciate the sleek, glamorous style of this lodge, which champions local, eco-friendly design, and having exclusive access to over 10,000 hectares in the quieter south-east of the Sabi Sand reserve.

Cheetah Plains, Sabi Sand

Electric, solar-powered game-drive vehicles offer a zero-emissions ride and properly quiet encounters with wildlife at this 100 per cent off-grid luxury property in the Sabi Sand. In synch with its sustainable approach to game-viewing, Cheetah Plains uses the latest in grey-water recycling. It powers everything from the air-cons to the temperature-controlled wine cellars in its three exclusive-use lodges on renewable solar energy. Named after legendary big cats in the area, the three exclusive-use lodges have four private guest suites - think glass walls gliding away into raw concrete to bring nature closer, even from the bath. Burnished metal, unpolished stone and solid timber interiors are the counterpart to colourful contemporary South African artworks.

Best for: Silent game drives in fast and efficient electric vehicles, charged off renewable energy, designed by Cheetah Plains’ owner, a former rally driver, to be extra-comfortable with luxury SUV suspension, ergonomically shaped padded bucket seats with built-in seat warmers for chilly winter mornings.

Great Fish River Lodge, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Nine gloriously remote, romantic suites with viewing decks and private pools sit above the Great Fish River, which meanders for 30 kilometres through this rugged, 22,000-hectare, privately owned reserve in the malaria-free Eastern Cape province, within driving distance of the Garden Route’s long, sandy beaches and indigenous forests. The breeding ground of the blue crane, Kwandwe has just 30 rooms split across two intimate lodges (Great Fish River being one of them), three exclusive-use villas (ideal for family safaris), and an off-grid tented camp. Exclusivity at up-close sightings of the big five, black rhino, cheetah and smaller, but no less significant, vulnerable and endangered species is amplified by the rugged wilderness setting: extensive open plains interrupted by carbon-storing subtropical thicket-clad hills, securing vital habitat for wildlife that last roamed freely here over 120 years ago.

Best for: A big five safari with a luxury of space and privacy for a romantic getaway, after exploring the Garden Route or Cape Town. Malaria free makes it ideal for families and the elderly, too - multiple generations sharing a fully staffed villa with a private vehicle and guide.

The Farmstead, at Royal Malewane, Thornybush Private Game Reserve

On expertly guided drives from this sister property to Royal Malewane’s original lodge, sightings include leopard, cheetah, wild dog, and sizeable elephant and buffalo herds. A Master Tracker leads walks. Increased movement of animals has resulted in a richer game-viewing experience in this increasingly popular privately owned reserve - all because fences were dropped on the eastern boundary with the Timbavati in 2017, opening it up to the Greater Kruger area. Liz Biden’s inimitable riotous style doesn’t hold back in this celebratory lodge with three luxury suites plus a separate villa with space for six additional adults. Like Liz’s newest addition to Royal Malewane, Waterside Lodge, this one features fun Ardmore fabrics, animal print and plush velvets in jewel colours and lots of South African art. In summer, deep verandas encourage lazing outdoors on swinging daybeds or one of the loungers submerged in the pool’s shallow end. The local Moletele community own the land here and benefits financially from the lodge’s success.

Best for: House parties, especially if the Biden family’s original bush villa, Africa House, is too big – newly renovated, its six suites share two pools, a spa treatment suite and gym.

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Best safari lodges in south africa 2024/25.

Our South Africa expert gives insight into the best places to stay on SA safari.

19 Dec 2023

16 apr 2024.

When evaluating the top safari lodges in South Africa , the key criteria may seem quite straightforward. Primarily, one should consider the richness of wildlife opportunities available. Following closely in importance are the standards of guiding, and not to be overlooked, the levels of hospitality and comfort provided.

Nevertheless, the situation is more intricate than it appears. For instance, take Sabi Sands, where you'll find a plethora of high-end lodges in close proximity to each other. Many would argue that these lodges provide similar wildlife and guiding experience, which prompts them to distinguish themselves by offering increasingly opulent accommodation, wine lists that would tantalize even the most discerning sommeliers, and spa facilities that rival those of a five-star country club.

Often, it comes to personal taste, or due to the demand of these luxurious establishments, simply what is available. In the latter case, an unknown gem is frequently discovered when the standard is so high. Throughout South Africa the boundaries are constantly being driven higher as are the prices, this doesn’t stop the ferocious demand of the wealthy Europeans, Americans, and Japanese. Below I look at a few and in no order nominate what I consider to be the best in various locations across South Africa.

Best of the Sabi Sands

Londolozi private game reserve.

Londolozi is known for its luxurious accommodation with a blend of modern amenities and traditional African aesthetics, exceptional wildlife viewing and a strong focus on conservation, including anti-poaching efforts and wildlife research. The wildlife viewing is all but guaranteed and their guides and trackers offer super local knowledge as well as a friendly smile and good chat whilst offering you your sundowner.

The reserve has a rich and proud history, dating back to the early 1920s when it was first established as a hunting concession, however, it has since transitioned into a beautiful contemporary conservation-focused lodge.

Londolozi Private Granite Suites welcomes families (over 12) and offers family-friendly accommodations and activities. This makes it an excellent choice for multi-generational travel and introducing children to the wonders of the African wilderness.

What stands out about The Granite Suites over the other Londolozi Lodges is the marvellous contemporary feel and spacious air of their suites. All have magical views out over the Sand River along with private plunge pool and outdoor shower as well as the biggest comfiest beds. Definitely one if you are looking for a stylish stay.

Singita Boulders

Singita Boulders offers ultra-luxurious lodgings with a reputation for top-notch service and wildlife experiences. Boulders’ sister property Ebony based in a very similar location also offers the same service and experience but in my opinion, the rooms offered at Boulders are more interesting and have a more modern feel. As with Londolozi the game viewing is outstanding (they are neighbouring concessions after all) and the guides and trackers are excellent.

Singita's lodges are renowned for their architectural brilliance and harmonious integration with the natural surroundings. The lodges are designed with meticulous attention to detail, combining current aesthetics with African influences and whilst that sounds familiar to Londolozi, Singita does this brilliantly with a different take. Singita is also known for its world-class dining experiences. Guests can savour gourmet meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients beautifully paired with some of the best South African wines. Private dining experiences in the bush or on the lodges' decks are also available.

All the Singita properties are deeply committed to conservation and sustainable tourism. The organization is involved in various conservation initiatives, including anti-poaching efforts, community development, and wildlife research. Guests have the opportunity to learn about and support these efforts during their stay.

Ivory Lodge

Ivory Lodge - Lion Sands, offers ultra-luxurious and beautifully designed private suites. These ultra-private villas are spacious, elegantly furnished, and equipped with modern amenities, private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and expansive viewing decks…again, sound familiar?

So, what sets Ivory Lodge apart? Their super sleep-out tree houses for one. The lodge has three of these (shared with its sister properties) and whilst the rooms at Ivory Lodge, or most other lodges in this blog, want for nothing, there is nothing that beats the romance of sleeping out underneath the blanket of African stars, happy in the knowledge that you are both comfortable and safe! You will head out to one of these treehouses with a hamper of goodies in the afternoon, have a sumptuous dinner and then enjoy being cosy in a big comfy bed watching the night sky and listening to the sounds of the bush. Your guide will pick you up the following morning and you will head back to your room after your game drive. A simple but very beautiful experience and one you must do.

These three lodges offer the best in contemporary luxury and there is really very little to choose between them – food, service, guiding, wildlife experience, conservation and sustainability in what is probably the most sought-after safari destination in South Africa – The Sabi Sands.

Best lodges for pure game viewing

MalaMala Game Reserve , situated in the renowned Sabi Sands region within the Kruger National Park, is celebrated for its exceptional location and abundant wildlife. Within this remarkable reserve, there are three exceptional camps to choose from: Rattray's on MalaMala, MalaMala Main Camp, and Sable Camp. My personal favourite among them is Sable Camp, which is a gem within the larger MalaMala Camp. It offers an intimate VIP experience with its private pool and exclusive dining facilities, making it a top choice for those seeking a luxurious and secluded retreat in the heart of the wild.

Mala Mala is located on a large area of land wedged in between the Sabi Sands concession and the Kruger National Park. One of the original lodges it is proud to own the largest tract of land on which to game view with more river frontage than any of the others (they like to remind you of this!) and due to this tremendous position, it doesn’t feel the need to share traversing rights with any neighbours making your game viewing experience superbly private.

Mala Mala also has a long and distinguished history moving from hunting to sustainable photographic safaris. A great example of this evolution is that today many of the rangers are female, a concept which was unthought of even ten years ago. From a purely game-viewing experience, it is hard to argue with Mala Mala’s position and exclusive game-viewing area for any of its lodges. The reserve permits off-road game drives where there will be little or no ecological impact, which means that guides can get closer to the animals for better viewing and photography opportunities. They do not have time restrictions for game drives, allowing guides and guests to spend as much time as needed observing wildlife behaviour and they keep detailed records of wildlife sightings, helping guides predict animal movements and increasing the chances of successful game drives.

If you are looking for a more upmarket stay then consider Rattrays at Mala Mala which is a notch up with huge rooms and pretty glitzy décor – not for everyone but certainly unique!

Best for kids

Established officially in 1991, Madikwe Game Reserve stands as a testament to an ambitious and triumphant conservation initiative. It involved the remarkable transformation of former farmland into a protected wildlife haven. Thanks to its remarkable diversity of ecosystems, malaria-free status, Big 5 wildlife, and its convenient proximity to Johannesburg, Madikwe has long been a favored destination for young families.

Madikwe Safari Lodge

At the forefront of hosting young families in this reserve is the Madikwe Safari Lodge , setting a high standard for family-friendly accommodation. At Madikwe Safari Lodge special activities are laid on for kids, providing special programs and activities for children, including educational and fun game drives tailored to their interests. These may involve tracking animal prints, learning about wildlife, and even assisting with bush survival skills and Junior Ranger Programmes, where kids can earn certificates and badges for their wildlife knowledge and participation in conservation activities. These programs are both educational and entertaining. If the children are too young to go on a drive, then the offer of childcare and babysitting services gives parents some time to relax and enjoy their safari experience without worrying about their children's safety and entertainment. The lodge also provides child-friendly meal options as well as flexible game drive times ensuring that children are well-fed and accommodated.

Jaci's Safari Lodge

Jaci's Safari Lodge offers exceptionally family-friendly features, often providing spacious and comfortable family suites or interconnected rooms. This accommodation allows families to stay together while still enjoying privacy and a relaxed atmosphere.

For an even more exclusive family experience, look at Jaci's Nari Suite. This unique offering includes private accommodations with a dedicated pool, personal chef, guide, and vehicle. It provides a tranquil and private environment where kids of all ages can enjoy a memorable safari experience.

Best for being completely different

Tswalu kalahari reserve.

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve , located in the Northern Cape of South Africa, is a unique and exclusive safari destination that offers a remarkable and immersive experience in the heart of the Kalahari Desert. Tswalu is South Africa's largest privately owned game reserve, ensuring that your safari experience is intimate and unspoiled. Its vast and diverse landscape features red dunes, arid savannah, grasslands, and dry riverbeds, creating a striking contrast to traditional safari destinations.

The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including iconic species like lions, cheetahs, and black rhinos, as well as unique desert-adapted creatures like meerkats and pangolins. The rarity and exclusivity of the animal encounters make it a sought-after destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Tswalu is known for its commitment to conservation and sustainability, as well as its dedication to protecting endangered species. Guests can engage with the reserve's conservation initiatives, which adds depth and meaning to the safari experience.

The reserve offers a range of activities beyond traditional game drives, such as horseback safaris, walking safaris, and star-gazing experiences. This diversity of activities allows you to connect with the environment in different ways and gain a deeper understanding of the Kalahari's unique ecosystem.

Accommodations at Tswalu are luxurious and blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. They provide comfort and privacy, with each suite featuring a private plunge pool and expansive views of the vast landscape.

Traveling to Tswalu is an opportunity to explore a distinct and less-visited part of South Africa, away from the more popular safari destinations. The remoteness and exclusivity of Tswalu create a sense of solitude and tranquillity that allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Kalahari.

Best for scenery

Samara Private Game Reserve, located in the Eastern Cape of South Africa, offers a captivating and distinctive safari experience that stands out for several compelling reasons.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Samara offers exciting opportunities to encounter the Big Five in their natural habitat, albeit in lesser numbers than its more well-known contemporaries. Game drives and guided walks are expertly crafted to maximize your chances of witnessing these iconic animals. The reserve is also a birdwatcher's paradise, home to a diverse avian population. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity for birdwatching and photography.

What sets Samara apart is the scenery at Samara Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape of South Africa is truly awe-inspiring, defined by its varied and distinctive landscapes. Here, you'll find a rich tapestry of natural beauty that enchants visitors with its diversity. One of the most notable features of Samara is its location within the Great Karoo, a vast semi-arid plateau renowned for its rugged and unique charm. The semi-desert environment is a striking blend of vast plains, imposing mountain ranges, and deep valleys.

The expansive open plains at Samara offer sweeping vistas where you can witness an array of wildlife. Rolling hills add depth and character to the landscape, creating undulating terrain that provides elevated vantage points for panoramic views and the opportunity to spot wildlife from afar. The network of river valleys within the reserve is a hidden gem, brimming with lush vegetation and serving as a haven for a diverse array of wildlife, from colourful birds to larger mammals. These valleys offer a beautiful contrast to the surrounding plains and hills. And not to forget the dramatic mountain ranges at Samara provide a stunning backdrop to the scenery. Towering peaks not only add to the visual allure but also play a crucial role in the ecology of the region, influencing weather patterns and water sources.

Traveling to Samara Private Game Reserve offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, contribute to conservation, and immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Eastern Cape. Whether you are a seasoned safari enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Samara delivers an authentic and enriching experience that leaves a lasting and meaningful impression.

Best for channelling your inner Elton John

Royal Malewane is highly regarded for its luxury, exceptional service, and commitment to providing an unforgettable safari experience. Its combination of lavish accommodations, expert guides, and conservation initiatives, all set against the backdrop of the African wilderness, makes it a top choice for celebrities and travellers seeking a truly extraordinary safari adventure. The Royal Suite at Royal Malewane is the pinnacle of luxury accommodation at this celebrated safari lodge in South Africa. It is designed to provide an unparalleled experience for guests seeking the utmost in comfort and decadence.

This expansive suite features a spacious living area, a separate bedroom, and two magnificent en-suite bathrooms, offering generous space for relaxation and rejuvenation. The design is richly adorned with classic African décor, incorporating opulent textures and antique furnishings that harmonize with the natural beauty of the surrounding wilderness. One of the standout features of the Royal Suite is its private wooden deck, which includes a large, heated swimming pool. This deck serves as a tranquil oasis where guests can unwind while enjoying the mesmerizing views of the wilderness.

The interior of the suite exudes elegance, with a luxurious lounge and dining area that is ideal for meals, relaxation, and taking in the breathtaking scenery through expansive windows. Both the bedroom and the living area are adorned with inviting fireplaces, adding to the cozy and romantic atmosphere, especially on cooler evenings.

What makes the Royal Suite truly exceptional is the inclusion of not one, but two sumptuous en-suite bathrooms. Each bathroom is equipped with a generous soaking tub, both indoor and outdoor showers, and double vanities. In a unique touch, one of the bathrooms features an outdoor bathtub, allowing guests to luxuriate while taking in the stunning bush views.

To ensure a seamless and pampered experience, guests in the Royal Suite are provided with a dedicated butler who caters to their every need, enhancing their stay with personalized service. For those seeking a personalised safari adventure, the Royal Suite offers private game drives led by a dedicated guide and tracker. This feature allows guests to tailor their safari experience, including choosing the timing and activities that suit their preferences. For added relaxation and pampering, guests can request in-room spa treatments, in addition to the spa facilities available at the lodge.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Royal Suite is the panoramic views it provides of the surrounding African bush. Its open design and expansive windows allow guests to observe wildlife in their natural habitat from the comfort of their luxurious accommodations.

Best on Eastern Cape

I believe that Shamwari Private Game Reserve is one of the best, if not the best, safari reserve in the Eastern Cape for several reasons.

Shamwari boasts an impressive range of wildlife species, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros), as well as various other mammals, birds, and reptiles. This diversity ensures guests have a chance to see a wide array of wildlife during their stay. The reserve also covers a significant area that encompasses diverse ecosystems, including open plains, savannah, and riverine forests. This diversity provides different habitats for various species, creating a unique safari experience. It's also great for families as its Malaria free and provides activities and programs for children to engage with nature and wildlife, making it a family-friendly destination.

Shamwari is committed to conservation efforts and has made a significant impact in protecting and preserving endangered and threatened species. The Born Free Foundation is also a key partner in the reserve's conservation work. It’s also heavily involved in community outreach and education programs that promote conservation awareness and sustainable practices, enriching the overall experience for visitors.

The Reserve offers a range of award-winning lodges, each with its own distinct character and luxury, its therefore difficult to select one lodge as each accommodation provides guests with the desired comfort and exquisite style they seek. For example, Eagles Crag is renowned for its luxurious and private suites, each with its plunge pool and deck. It is an excellent choice for couples seeking a romantic getaway but if you are looking for good family accommodation then Riverdene is a family-friendly option that caters specifically to families with young children. The lodge provides a range of child-friendly activities and accommodations, ensuring a memorable family safari experience. Ultimately, the "best" lodge in Shamwari Game Reserve depends on your personal preferences and requirements.

Best in Kruger National Park

Whilst the Kruger National Park i s often overlooked as being over run with tourists, traffic jams and tarred roads there are a couple of options that I think merit a mention. The two that immediately spring to mind in the southern, more accessible part of the park are Jocks Safari Lodge and Rhino Post, both of which operate on private concessions within the park, offering almost the best of both worlds. The benefit of being in the park without the crowds whilst in the private concessions and then having access when the day-trippers depart in the late afternoon.

However, for me, the lodge that stands out in Kruger and is away from the busier parts of the park is another offering from Singita, its Lebombo Lodge. A contemporary and luxurious safari lodge situated in the huge private Lebombo Concession. The lodge is known for its cutting-edge design, characterized by sleek, modern architecture with clean lines, open spaces, and extensive use of glass that allows for uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape.

The lodge's dramatic location atop a cliff offers guests breathtaking panoramic views of the N'wanetsi River and the expansive wilderness of Kruger National Park, creating a sense of being suspended above the African bush.

Accommodations at Singita Lebombo are spacious and limited in number, comprising elegant suites and a private villa, Singita Lebombo Villa. Each suite features minimalist aesthetics, elegant furnishings, large glass walls, and private decks with plunge pools. The Singita Lebombo Villa provides an even more exclusive and lavish experience.

As stated previously, culinary experiences at Singita Lebombo are exceptional, offering gourmet dining that fuses international and African flavours, all prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The lodge also features an impressive wine collection, known for its extensive selection of South African wines and international vintages, complemented by a stylish bar for pre-dinner cocktails.

The lodge offers exclusive game viewing experiences in the heart of Kruger National Park, known for its incredible biodiversity and excellent chances of encountering the Big Five and other wildlife. Expert guides and trackers lead game drives and guided walks, providing insightful information about the region's wildlife, flora, and fauna to enhance the safari experience.

Why not do the dream double and spend time at both Singita Boulders followed by time at Lebombo?

Best for Value

Whilst we would all love to live the life of thousand thread count sheets and silver service a lot of us are looking for somewhere that can offer the absolute best wildlife viewing in comfortable surroundings with good hospitality and guiding without the need to apply for a second mortgage. This is where Siviti Plains comes calling. Located in the Timbavati, for all intents and purposes, apart from the game, this is the Sabi Sands lesser-known relation. Siviti used to be called Thornybush Game Lodge and offers a variety of stylish and well-appointed suites and chalets, each designed with modern amenities and private viewing decks. These accommodations are tailored to ensure a restful and comfortable stay. The lodge prides itself on delivering gourmet dining experiences. Guests can savour a range of delicious dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients while enjoying their meals in elegant dining areas.

The lodge's location in the Thornybush Private Nature Reserve offers fantastic game-viewing opportunities. The reserve is home to the Big Five, as well as various other wildlife species. Guided game drives and walking safaris are led by expert rangers and trackers who share their knowledge of the environment and wildlife.

Siviti is also family friendly providing activities and programs suitable for families with children and the reserve's remote location and clear night skies make it an excellent place for stargazing, offering a chance to admire the celestial wonders.

Looking for some more inspiration? Take a look at our best safari holidays ideas , our favourite family safaris , our big five safari guide or our top African safari honeymoon suggestions .

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• The Safari Hotels of South Africa

South Africa’s parks and private game reserves are not only filled with the country’s “Big Five” wild animals, they also boast some of the world’s most respected and remarkable safari hotels.

Hotels Travel Africa Safari

The hotels below are part of the MICHELIN Guide hotel selection . Each of the 5,000+ hotels in the selection has been chosen by our experts for its extraordinary style, service, and personality — and each can be booked on the MICHELIN Guide website and app.

The safari as we know it today was developed in Africa throughout the 1900s. But it was only toward the end of the century, on the land in and around South Africa’s famed Kruger National Park, that the modern luxury safari began to take shape. That area, along with other game reserves in the country, are a haven for Africa’s Big Five — elephant, lion, rhino, leopard, buffalo — and a breeding ground for the types of hotels we like to see protected and cherished nearly as much as those amazing animals: unique, purpose-built, slightly indulgent accommodations that exist best in the place they were born. On a safari, you get up close and personal with exotic wildlife. How much you’d like to maintain that intimacy back at your safari hotel is entirely up to you. Intrepid travelers might relish being roused in the middle of the night by a rustling of leaves and scraping of canvas as an unknown creature saunters by. Others might opt for taking a few steps back from all that realness, preferring to slumber a little higher off the ground. You know what we’re going to say next: the MICHELIN Guide has options to meet either taste.

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Kruger Shalati - the Train on the Bridge

Top image: Kwandwe Ecca Lodge — Grahamstown, South Africa

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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.

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The 8 Best Safaris in South Africa in 2024

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When To Go on a Safari in South Africa

What to see on a safari in south africa, where to fly, what to bring and what to wear, additional tips and precautions to take, 1. kruger national park, 2. sabi sands game reserve, 3. madikwe game reserve, 4. phinda private game reserve, 5. timbavati private nature reserve, 6. mala mala game reserve, 7. kgalagadi transfrontier park, 8. addo elephant national park, final thoughts.

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There are numerous countries around Africa (and really, throughout the entire world) for a safari. But South Africa is an optimal destination if you really want to see the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo). According to the Africa Wildlife Foundation, the country comes in as sixth among the most megadiverse countries (these countries contain a large percentage of the world’s species — both flora and fauna). South Africa is also home to some of the largest populations of endangered species, like black and white rhinos.

However, narrowing down where to go with 40+ game reserves and national parks can be challenging. This article will break out all the logistics and information you need to know to plan your perfect safari in South Africa.

Most visitors should pick the best time of year for a South African safari: May to September. During this dry season, many of the country’s most famous game reserves are located around Kruger and in the KwaZulu-Natal province. Besides avoiding downpours, you’ll probably see more wildlife, as many animals come out of hiding to gather in search of food and water (resources are scarce during the dry months), which means they’re easier to spot.

However, the dry season in the Western Cape is the opposite time of year, with the best times to visit between November and March.

If you plan to visit both areas, consider a shoulder-season time like October, where the rains may not yet be out in full force around Kruger and its surroundings, but you’ll still have pleasant weather in the Cape.

According to SANBI (South African National Biodiversity Institute), there are more than 100,000 species of animals, plants, and fungi in the country . Besides the aforementioned Big 5, visitors should look for animals like cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wild dogs, ostriches, wildebeest, monkeys, jackals, and so much more. Plant diversity is also worth noting, as you can spot South African favorites like colorful king proteas and baobab trees.

What to look for on a safari in South Africa also depends on where you go. Certain reserves or national parks may be home to specific animal species, so look carefully at each destination to ensure you’ll see the wildlife you hope for. As always, it’s important to understand that these destinations aren’t zoos . There isn’t a guarantee you’ll see certain animals roaming about in the wild, but it’s likely in most spots on this list.

South Africa Safari Logistics

Planning a safari to South Africa isn’t as complicated as you may think. First, you’ll want to decide where to go using the destinations on this list. From there, work backward to see where you’ll need to fly and begin organizing travel to get there.

If you’re looking for nonstop flights to South Africa, you have a few options, especially if you’re based in the eastern U.S. You can fly nonstop to Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) from Atlanta (ATL) on Delta and from New York (JFK) on South African Airways, a Star Alliance partner. You can also fly to Cape Town (CPT) from Newark (EWR) on United. There are ways to maximize using your points and miles to fly to South Africa , so consider all your options before booking.

Once you’ve received South Africa, the next step is to get to your safari. If your particular safari accommodation doesn’t offer charter flights, you can fly to the gateways for parks like Kruger or Sabi Sands to airports like Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP). Skukuza Airport (SZK) is a tiny airport inside Kruger National Park. After you’ve landed in the bush, you can arrange ground transport for pickup to take you to your safari accommodation or rent a car.

Keep an eye out when flying in and out of these spots. I’ve seen lions and other wildlife dashing through the savannah during landing and takeoff at these airports.

Practicality when packing for a safari is important. Besides all the items you’d typically need on a trip away from home, bring the following on your South Africa safari adventure:

• Khaki or natural-colored clothing
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunblock
• Waterproof windbreaker with a hood
• Layers for chilly evenings
• Insect repellent
• Medication — you may not be able to get to a pharmacy easily when in the bush

Families should know that small children are often not allowed on safaris. Check with your accommodation to see what ages are allowed. The minimum age is usually 8 , but some spots prohibit those under 12 or 16.

Check the CDC to see what vaccines you should have before traveling to South Africa for a safari. You won’t need the yellow fever vaccine if you’re coming straight from the U.S., but you may want to consider malaria tablets, depending on your South African destination . Malaria tablets can be hard on the system, but some game reserves claim to be malaria-free. Check the area you plan to visit to see if you need malaria pills.

You should also visit the U.S. State Department’s website , which can alert you of any travel advisories and visa requirements. U.S. passport holders don’t need a visa when visiting South Africa but will need 2 consecutive empty passport pages per entry; otherwise, the country denies entry.

Here’s Where To Go on a Safari in South Africa

Consider these top national parks and game reserves when planning your South African safari.

Kruger National Park is one of the most popular places to visit for a South African safari. And just how big is Kruger National Park? It encompasses nearly 5 million acres (around 8,000 square miles) of bush, home to nearly 150 mammals and more than 500 bird species. The park itself is about the size of the state of New Jersey, to put things in perspective, though most say that the southern areas of the park have the best wildlife viewing.

Visitors can do self-driving tours of the park , as road conditions and signage are decent (you’ll have to pay about $6 per adult to enter one of the 9 entrance gates), but it may be best to stay at a lodge or camp that offers safaris. Expert guides know exactly where to spot the best wildlife and can also provide information about the park and its wildlife that you may not know otherwise. Going with a guide also means adhering to important safety procedures, as guides are trained in skills and situations you may not be familiar with — wild animals can be unpredictable.

The park offers affordable lodges and rest camp options, but if you’re looking for luxury, Singita’s Lebombo Lodge has a stunning clifftop location overlooking the N’wanetsi River.

If you choose the self-driving option, rent a 4×4 or taller vehicle for better animal viewing angles. For safety reasons, don’t disturb the animals in any way — approach slowly so as not to scare or spook wildlife. Never get out of your vehicle (this is only permitted at certain viewpoints or rest areas), and don’t feed animals.

Sabi Sands Game Reserve is a private game reserve that backs right up to Kruger National Park (there’s an unfenced border between the 2 game reserves), spanning around 160,000 acres. This means that wildlife can wander and roam between the 2 parks easily , increasing your chances of spotting more animals.

While you can spot the Big 5, Sabi Sands is famous for its leopard sightings . So, if you’re dying to catch these spotted cats in action, this reserve may be right for you.

It’s also particularly apt for luxury travelers. Since day visitors aren’t allowed, you must stay in one of the lodges in Sabi Sands to access the park. While lodge rates vary, this isn’t the best spot for budget travelers. In most cases, your safari lodge can help you organize transfers to enter through one of the park’s 3 entrance gates: Shaw’s Gate, Newington Gate, or Gowrie Gate .

Plan to stay in the Ulusaba Private Game Reserve , part of the western Sabi Sands section owned by Sir Richard Branson. It’s home to Rock Lodge , an intimate safari hotel part of the Virgin Limited Edition portfolio, perched along dramatic rocks overlooking the expansive savannah.

Sabi Sands is special because guides can drive off-road to follow animals, which isn’t permitted at the nearby Kruger National Park. This means you might be able to get a closer glance at wildlife that’s not on the main roads.

The fifth-largest game reserve in Africa , Madikwe Game Reserve is a lesser-known game reserve under a 5-hour drive from Johannesburg for those ready for a road trip adventure. If you want to fly there, it’s actually best to fly into the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport (GBE) in Botswana’s capital, Gaborone, and then drive an hour to the reserve.

Madikwe Game Reserve is home to wild dogs, the famous aardwolf, and the Big 5 — featuring 66 mammal species. Do know the reserve has an electric perimeter fence to keep animals contained.

The private game reserve doesn’t allow day trippers, so if you want to take a safari here, you must book one of the lodges within the park’s premises. While many of the lodges are more luxurious, there is 1 eco bush camp and family accommodation option for those with kids. We recommend Jaci’s Tree Lodge , complete with outdoor, wood-fired hot tubs so you can soak and relax as you admire wildlife from the treetops.

Madikwe Game Reserve is known as a malaria-free area of South Africa, ideal for travelers who don’t want to deal with malaria prevention.

Phinda Private Game Reserve , also known as &BEYOND Phinda, is owned by luxury safari outfitter &BEYOND (known for having some of the best safari lodges in South Africa). The reserve is home to more than 70,000 acres that encompass 7 different habitats, including 1,000 acres of African sand forest, which is rare.

Luxury travelers head to Phinda for a more intimate safari experience, as the park has limited lodges and safari vehicles. Just 6 high-end properties are located on the reserve, and visitors can expect to see the Big 5 — sometimes close up. The park also has more than 400 bird species. The sand forest section is home to the suni and the red forest duiker, both types of small antelopes that you can’t see in many other destinations.

If you’re wondering which is the best Phinda Lodge, it depends on what you’re looking for. We love the far-flung views from the Phinda Rock Lodge , where suites have private plunge pools. Those intrigued by the rarity of the sand forest may prefer the Phinda Forest Lodge , which features floor-to-ceiling glass windows so you can admire your surroundings from both outside and indoors.

At more than 130,000 acres, this reserve lies within Kruger National Park, an unfenced area where wildlife can roam freely between the 2 parks. You can self-drive through the park or stay at one of 22 different lodges and camps within the reserve. Consider staying at Simbavati River Lodge and spot animals like elephants sipping from the lodge’s onsite watering hole as you sip your tea or coffee at breakfast from the lodge’s dining deck.

Visitors can access Timbavati Private Nature Reserve by flying into the Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) and driving through the main Timbavati Enkhulu Gate (note there’s a fee to drive in, but your accommodation may cover this if you’re staying within the park).

Besides spotting the Big 5, keep an eye out for white lions, which tend to hang out within the park’s borders. In contrast to Kruger, you can drive off-road, so Timbavati may be better for adventurers who want to get a bit closer to wildlife. Remember to follow any safety rules and suggestions during self-drives.

This particular destination is a private game reserve located within the already private Sabi Sands Game Reserve for luxury travelers ready to splurge. Offering the utmost customization and crowd-free wildlife viewing (safaris don’t put time limits on wildlife viewing, and there are only a few lodges; therefore, there are fewer safari vehicles), this is the type of safari to take when you want to spot only animals and not other humans. The reserve claims to have the “lowest density of humans to the highest density of wildlife” per acre.

Mala Mala shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park , and visitors can expect to see the Big 5 and beyond. Those who want even more privacy should stay at Mala Mala Sable Camp , a secluded property with suites overlooking a watering hole.

This national park spans 2 countries: South Africa and Botswana. It is entirely unfenced, meaning the animals can roam freely throughout the park. However, humans will need a passport if they plan to enter a gate in 1 country and leave from a gate in another country .

Visitors to Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park can expect to see animals like lions, gemsbok, springbok, wildebeest, and leopards, but not the Big 5, as the rhinos, elephants, and buffalos don’t call this spot home. Still, for those who want to get off the beaten path to enjoy the red sand dunes and endemic wildlife (including rare bird species), Kgalagadi is a valid option, especially if you’re looking for a self-drive safari destination (we suggest hiring a guide, though). While not required, a 4×4 vehicle is likely a good idea , and you will have to pay a small fee to enter the park.

This park is also ideal for budget travelers, who can find lodges that charge less than $100 per night (nearly unheard of in the safari world) at spots like the Twee Rivieren Rest Camp . The closest airport is Upington International Airport (UTN).

Safaris can be expensive, so pay with a credit card that earns you bonus points on travel, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve , which offers 3x Chase Ultimate Reward points per dollar spent. Then, you can transfer these points to various travel partners or use them to book travel within the Chase Travel portal .

Addo Elephant National Park is a 9-hour drive from the Cape Town Airport (CPT), but for those who want to explore the Cape, it could make for an enjoyable road trip through South Africa’s Garden Route. Or, take a quick flight from Cape Town to Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) , just a 30-minute drive from the protected space .

The park is one of the best places in South Africa for a safari. It is home to not only the Big 5 but also the Big 7 , which includes all the same animals in the Big 5, plus the southern right whale and the great white shark (in the marine section of the protected area). You may also spot large elephant herds (more than 600 elephants inhabit the park), Burchell’s zebra, and red hartebeest.

Addo offers accommodations ranging from budget to luxury . Consider Nyathi Rest Camp , where huts feature private hot tubs and gorgeous bush views. However, visitors can’t drive off-road here because this location is a national park .

Although December is an excellent time to visit Cape Town, the best time to see Addo Elephant National Park is June to September. Just know nights can get very cold (this is winter in the Cape), so pack layers.

South Africa is one of the top countries in the world for a safari, with many parks, reserves, and destinations ideal for enjoying all the flora and fauna that African nature has to offer. South Africa has something to fit your safari needs, from spotting the Big 5 to even the Big 7 , self-driving your own vehicle, or taking that luxury, bucket-list safari in a private reserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to drive from johannesburg to kruger national park.

It’s safe to drive from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park. Just take the general safety precautions you’d take on any drive. You may also prefer to fly from the OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg to an airport that’s closer to Kruger, such as  Hoedspruit Airport (HDS), Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), or Skukuza Airport (SZK).

Are there any Kruger National Park safari all-inclusive packages?

Many luxury safari lodges are all-inclusive of meals, transfers, and safari excursions, including bush walks, safari drives, and other activities.

What's the best alternative South African safari destination besides Kruger?

Some South African safari destinations that aren’t Kruger include Madikwe Game Reserve and Addo Elephant National Park. You can spot the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo) in both places, as well as a variety of additional flora and fauna unique to the area.

Is South Africa the best country for a safari?

You can see wildlife in numerous destinations in South Africa, including the Big 5 in many different game reserves. However, Botswana is another destination ideal for a safari, and if you want to spot massive wildlife migrations, Tanzania’s Serengeti or Kenya’s Masai Mara are both excellent wildlife reserves to visit.

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About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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S O U T H   A F R I C A

A  S a f a r i  H e a v y  H i t t e r

S O U T H A F R I C A

Top Destinations in South Africa

The wildebeest migration, big 5, cultural experiences & more.

Kenya offers a vacation for every traveller. From unforgettable family safaris with child-friendly activities and services to exclusive hideaways for couples and honeymooners, Kenya has it all and then some. Whatever type of traveller you are, there’s not much that beats a Kenya safari. The standards of service are high and Kenya’s top destinations offer luxury accommodation ranging from lavish, colonial-style lodges to contemporary boutique hotels and amenity-packed resorts.

USD per person per night

Kruger National Park & The Greater Kruger

South Africa’s biggest and best-known national park is home to the country’s greatest diversity of animals and exquisite safari lodges on private game reserves. As one of the oldest conservation areas in Africa, it boasts healthy populations of wildlife and highly sought-after sightings of cheetah and wild dog. But the Kruger’s claim to fame is the almost guaranteed encounter with the super-celebrities of the safari circuit: Africa’s iconic Big 5.

• Luxurious lodges with spas, gyms, private pools and star-beds
• Virtual guarantee of seeing all the Big 5
• 5-star service and exquisite cuisine – some of the best safari food in Africa
• High concentrations of wildlife
• Off-road driving, spot-lit night drives and guided nature walks in private reserves

January–March & June–October 

Dry Season: 

The weather is usually mild and dry from January to March, and most of the safari crowds are absent. June to October is safari’s high season; the Serengeti is busy, but weather conditions are perfect and the Wildebeest Migration’s dramatic river crossings take place. Although the sheer size of the Serengeti will give you a soul-stirring sense of space, the areas around the Migration’s river crossing points can get busy. If you want to be close to the action yet enjoy some serenity, we suggest staying in an adjacent private reserve.

Green Season:

November–December

The ‘short rains’ season relieves the dry mid-year winter. Clouds build up in the mornings and break in spectacular, but generally short-lived, showers in the late afternoons. Migrant birds return from the northern hemisphere and resident plains game give birth, which means the predator action is thrilling.

Migration Season:

December–September

The herds usually cross the Grumeti River in the western Serengeti between about May and July, then move towards the Mara River in the north to cross into the Masai Mara between about July to October. November's short rains trigger the herds  to move back to the Serengeti to give birth before calving season, which takes place from January to March and is renowned for bitter-sweet predator action.

• Crowd-free game viewing, nature walks and off-road game drives in private game reserves
• Custom-made safaris for every traveller type – from families and honeymooners
• Incredible year-round game viewing, especially predators
• The Great Wildebeest Migration (December to October)

Consider Adding …

Kwandwe Game Reserve

Kwandwe Game Reserve is a malaria-free game reserve close enough to tour the Garden Route and end with a superb Big five safari in a historic area. The reception of the reserve is a Frontier War-era fortified homestead.  

Timbavati Reserve Reserve

The Timbavati Game Reserve shares a common unfenced border with the Kruger National Park allowing the wildlife to roam free between the two. Stay at colonial-style game lodges, bush lodges and luxury tented safari camps, a South African safari dream destination.

Phinda Game Reserve

Phinda Private Game Reserve is on the Eastern coast of South Africa and has incredible lodges that are well-known for their high-quality game rangers, dedication to conservation and five-star luxury safari lodges.

High Season:

The drier winter months are the best time for game viewing on a South Africa safari in the Kruger, Madikwe, Pilanesberg and KwaZulu-Natal. Big game are usually concentrated around water sources and are easier to spot in the thinned-out vegetation. If you want to see whales along South Africa’s Whale Coast, then a visit between June and October is a must, with the numbers at their highest in September.

May–Oct  

For a South African safari, the green season is when the landscape is a beautiful, lush emerald colour and with the best light of the year for photography. It’s calving season and there are great opportunities to witness baby animals and some dramatic predator action. For a Cape Town beach holiday, you simply can’t beat the hot summer months between November and March, but you have to book your spot well in advance for this trendy destination.

Nov–Apr  

A Romantic Getaway    The Best of Cape Town & Kruger

Also Consider  Kenya

Samburu National Reserve 

Samburu is an arrestingly beautiful, rocky landscape that heralds Kenya’s vast northern deserts.  It’s the traditional homeland of the Samburu people and a haven for the unique Special 5: Beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, long-neck gerenuk and Somali ostrich.

Amboseli National Park

With its perennial wetlands flourishing beneath towering Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is the best place in East Africa to see massive herds of elephant.  If you’re looking for that iconic postcard image of wildlife against a Kili backdrop, this is the place to get the shot.

The high plains of Laikipia are increasingly recognised as one of Kenya’s  best safari regions. It’s home to some of the country’s most encouraging conservation success stories like Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, a sanctuary  for black and white rhinos as well as Grevy’s zebra.

Kenya Beaches

Relaxing along Kenya’s dazzling tropical coastline is one of the best ways to crown your safari. From family-friendly resorts to exclusive beach villas, the country’s coastline offers excellent accommodation and superb diving and snorkelling spots.

South Africa Trip Ideas

Here are some of our best South Africa safari packages, all completely customisable to your requirements and travel wishes:

DESTINATIONS:

Gardens, cape town.

• Franschhoek, Cape Winelands

Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Kruger

The experience:, begin your vacation at an exceptional boutique hotel situated in a fashionable neighbourhood of cape town – a perfect location from which to explore table mountain, the v&a waterfront and the gorgeous beaches. franschhoek is your next stop: a foodie haven amid spectacular vineyards. known as south africa’s gourmet capital, this village is the ideal place for sampling the country’s gastronomic delights. then be whisked off to a private game reserve neighbouring the legendary kruger national park where you’ll crown your vacation with some of africa’s finest big 5 sightings, especially leopard., family vacation :   southern africa’s most popular route.

Kick off this 11-day trip in cosmopolitan Cape Town, home of fine dining, the famous Table Mountain and award-winning beaches. Then head north to encounter the legendary leopards of the sensational Sabi Sands Game Reserve, a private slice of the untamed Kruger wilderness. Teeming with wildlife, Sabi Sands delivers some of the best Big 5 game viewing in Africa. Fly up to Zimbabwe for your grand finale at the world’s biggest waterfall. Stand in awe as you witness the sheer power and magnitude of Victoria Falls, a.k.a. ‘The Smoke That Thunders’.

Melrose, Johannesburg

Victoria falls, zimbabwe, africa safari expert.

South Africa is perfect for a first-time trip to Africa or returning visitors looking for exceptional year-round game viewing. I recommend starting by exploring beautiful Cape Town – the perfect way to recover from jetlag before an action-packed safari schedule. Then take your pick from malaria-free destinations to suit the whole family like Madikwe or Kwandwe at the end of the Garden Route, to the legendary Kruger National Park and its adjoining private game reserves like Sabi Sands, renowned for its prolific Big 5 sightings.

Why Travel With Go2Africa

We are african.

Based in Cape Town, our team of experts are all born and raised in Africa. We spend our own holidays on safari, and understand what goes into making every trip a once in a life-time experience.

We have first-hand knowledge of every single destination, lodge and activity we recommend. We spend more than 365 days a year on safari to ensure you get the best, unbiased advice.

We are safari experts

Our size and trusted relationships with Africa’s top operators gives us access to the best possible rates. If you find a better quote for your itinerary, let us know and we’ll match it.

Our best price promise

Your money stays in africa.

 As an African company, we ensure 100% of the money from your safari stays in Africa, supporting local communities and conservation projects, making a difference long after you return home.

24/7 On-safari support

Book with us and we’ll be alongside you from our first chat, offering 24/7 assistance and local know-how from the right time zone, whenever you need it.

Why Travel with Go2Africa

Complete financial protection.

Your money is safe with us. All our clients are protected by our supplier default insurance and our accreditation bond with the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association.

Ashley Gerrand

South Africa is perfect for a first-time trip  to Africa or returning visitors looking for exceptional year-round game viewing.   I recommend starting by exploring beautiful Cape Town – the perfect way to recover from jetlag before an action-packed safari schedule. Then take your pick from malaria-free destinations to suit the whole family like Madikwe or Kwandwe at the end of the Garden Route, to the legendary Kruger National Park and its adjoining private game reserves like Sabi Sands, renowned for its prolific Big 5 sightings.

What Our Clients Say

Go2Africa was the perfect choice... We worked with Nicole from beginning to the end and she were so helpful in creating the perfect itinerary for us. From flights, to accommodations, to transfers, and tour guides, everything was perfect...Nicole was able to work within our budget and on all of our wants/needs.

Honeymoon of a lifetime!

This is our 3rd safari booked with Go2Africa and I'm always amazed at the personal attention to detail that goes into planning. We gave Jessica a general area we wanted to visit and a wildlife wish list of animals we wanted to see…It was unbelievable. Once again, Jessica did such an amazing job with selecting the camps that were perfect for us…

Knocked it out of the park again!

The family had an experience that exceeded our expectations. At each critical change point of the journey (flights, transport, accommodation) the arrangements played out perfectly. The experiences at each location were perfect and we took home so many memories and things to share. Thank you! Job well done.

Perfectly executed

Chat with one of our  experienced  African Safari  Experts   with  no obligation.

Contact us to start planning your first, with no obligation., how many  once  in  a lifetimes  will you have, how many  once  in a lifetimes will you have, how much is  a , south africa  safari.

Rates generally depend on timing (i.e. key travel seasons like holidays) and level of luxury (the type of amenities and exclusivity). As a guideline, South Africa safaris can range anywhere from approximately 450 USD per person per night in low season to over 1550 USD at the finest lodges in high season.  

What's Included in the Cost?

Most accommodations are all-inclusive; all your meals, snacks, beverages, alcohol (with some exceptions) are part of your room rate. In addition, your game drives, and other excursions will all be included. To operate in such remote areas at such a high level of hospitality, it takes some serious logistics and often means guest-to-staff ratios of more than 5 to 1. Not to mention many accommodations offer services like laundry, so you can pack light and travel easy.

The only things you’ll have to pay for are special activities (like hot-air balloon rides and spa treatments) and, in some cases, imported spirits. Beyond that, just gratuities for the incredible staff who will make your stay at each lodge so memorable.

How Much is an African Safari?

Rates generally depend on timing (i.e. key travel seasons like holidays or events like the Great Migration) and level of luxury (the type of amenities and exclusivity). As a guideline, Southern Africa can range anywhere from approximately $500 USD per person per night in low season to over $2 000 USD at the finest lodges in high season. For East Africa, low season rates start around $450 USD per night per person and reach upwards of  $1 500 USD at peak season.

What Costs  are Included?

Most accommodations are all-inclusive; all  of your meals, snacks, beverages, alcohol (with some exceptions) are part of your room rate. In addition, your game drives, walking safaris and other excursions will all be included. To operate in such remote areas at such a high level of hospitality, it takes some serious logistics and often means guest-to-staff ratios of more than 5-to-1. Not to mention many accommodations offer services like laundry, so  you can pack light and travel easy.

Legendary South African Safaris

A trip to South Africa not only shows you the country’s eclectic cultural mix and widely varied landscapes but has some of the most renowned game viewing. Travel in open four-wheel-drive vehicles for unobstructed views of the bush and stay in some of the country’s best luxury lodges with opportunities to spot wildlife from the front door.  

How Much is a  South Africa   Safari?

Rates generally depend on timing (i.e. key travel seasons like holidays) and level of luxury (the type of amenities and exclusivity). As a guideline, South Africa safaris can range anywhere from approximately 450 USD per person per night in low season to over 1 550 USD at the finest lodges in high season.

Talk to one of our experts to explore availability during your travel dates.

Our favourite accommodations are the most intimate ones.  it's always best to book as far ahead as possible to ensure  you have experiences like this ..., our favourite accommodations are the most intimate ones. it's always best to book as far ahead as possible to ensure you have experiences like this ..., the best of cape town & kruger, begin your vacation at an exceptional boutique hotel situated in a fashionable neighbourhood of cape  town – a perfect location from which to explore table mountain, the v&a waterfront and the city's gorgeous beaches. franschhoek is your next stop: a foodie haven amid spectacular vineyards. known  as south africa’s gourmet capital, this village is the ideal place for sampling the country’s gastronomic delights. then be whisked off to a private game reserve neighbouring the legendary kruger national park where you’ll crown your vacation with some of africa’s finest big 5 sightings, especially leopard., a romantic getaway , family vacation, southern africa’s most popular route.

Consider Adding… 

Here are some of our best packages, all completely customisable to your requirements and travel wishes:

7 DAY KENYA'S  LAIKIPIA & MASAI MARA

• Track black rhino & the Big 5

• Fly fishing & flying safaris

• Witness the Great Migration in season

• Experience Maasai & Swahili culture

• Off-road game drives

FROM   $4 000 pp

13 DAY TANZANIA FLY-IN CRATER, MIGRATION & ISLAND

• All inclusive fly-in safari experience

• Arguably some of Africa’s best game viewing

• Visit Lake Manyara’s tree-climbing lions

• Explore the natural wonder of Ngorongoro Crater

• Witness the wildebeest migration across the Serengeti

• Dive the coral reefs of a tropical island

FROM   $10 000 pp

13 DAY PRIVATE GUIDED BOTSWANA & KENYA FLY-IN

• Fly between camps in a Pilatus PC-12 light aircraft 

• Private, award-winning guide throughout

• Stay at Relais & Chateaux properties

• Excellent predator sightings

• Best of Botswana & Kenya

• Only 6 places available – ideal for exclusive-use

FROM   $40 000 pp

High Seasons:   May – Oct

Green Season:    Nov– Apr

South Africa’s biggest and best-known national park is home to the country's greatest diversity of animals and exquisite safari lodges on private game reserves. As one of the oldest conservation areas in Africa, it boasts healthy populations of wildlife and highly sought-after sightings of cheetah and wild dog. But the Kruger’s pièce de résistance is the almost guaranteed encounter with the super-celebrities of the safari circuit: Africa’s iconic Big 5.

The dry winter season is considered the best time to go to Kruger for game viewing. Vegetation is low and sparse, making animals easier to spot and follow, and wildlife will not move far from remaining water sources at this time of year. It’s a very comfortable time for a safari with few mosquitoes around, little if any rain, and pleasant temperatures.

• Virtual guarantee to see all the Big 5

Nov–Apr 

The summer’s afternoon thundershowers transform the Kruger into a beautiful, thriving green landscape that makes for superb photography. Game viewing is still good – with many young summer-born animals around it's a predator's paradise – and it's the best time to visit the Kruger for bird watching plus safari-and-beach holiday combinations.

Kwandwe Game Reserve  

Timbavati Game Reserve  

• Spot the Big 5 in malaria-free and private game reserves
• Pair a safari sojourn with a famed Garden Route exploration, combining bush and beach
• Visit the Addo Elephant National Park, most renowned for its large elephant herds
• Take your pick from traditional thatched lodges, romantic tented camps or stylish boutique hotels

The Eastern Cape’s biggest draw is its reserves. As the newest addition to South Africa’s safari circuit, this once-overlooked province has now become a top big game destination in its own rights. Most of its reserves boast the Big 5 in easy-to-see habitats and offer a variety of safari activities ranging from game drives and river cruises to horseback and walking safaris. All of this is within a short drive from the popular beaches and seaside towns of the Garden Route.

Eastern Cape Safaris

• Private reserves that are home to rare white lions

Madikwe Game Reserve

An easy half-day drive or short charter flight from Johannesburg lies malaria-free Madikwe - one of South Africa’s largest yet least known Big 5 reserves. Lying on the edge of the Kalahari and close to the Botswana border, the 75 000-hectare Madikwe Private Game Reserve is home to a rewarding mix of familiar savannah animals and desert specialists. It delivers thrilling, diverse big game safaris that not only meet but regularly exceed visitor expectations.

• Enjoy malaria-free game viewing
• Dedicated staff at lodges taking care of little-ones and offering kiddie-friendly safari adventures
• A fantastic value for money trip with great savings
• Go on day and night game drives with expert guides
• Madikwe Game Reserve is a conservation success story with a focus on worthy initiatives for people, wildlife and the eco-system

South Africa’s biggest and best-known national park is home to the country’s greatest diversity of animals and exquisite safari lodges on private game reserves. As one of the oldest conservation areas in Africa, it boasts healthy populations of wildlife and highly sought-after sightings of cheetah and wild dog. But the Kruger’s claim to fame is the almost guaranteed encounter with the super-celebrities of the safari circuit: Africa’s iconic Big 5.  

Land  &  Water Safari Experiences

From lunar-like desert landscapes and open grasslands to riverine forests and papyrus-lined canals, Botswana delivers the very best in land and water safari experiences. Combine luxury and adventure in some of the world’s most remote locations, while the magical sights and sounds of Africa leave you with memories you’ll cherish forever.

The Best of Both:

A trip to South Africa not only shows you the country’s eclectic cultural mix and widely varied landscapes but has some of the most renowned game viewing. Travel in open four-wheel-drive vehicles for unobstructed views of the bush and stay in some of the country’s best luxury lodges with opportunities to spot wildlife from the front door.

Browse our South Africa resources

Browse our Kenya resources

Franschoek, Cape Winelands

Madikwe Game Reserve 

Prolific Big 5  Game Viewing

Encountering Africa’s iconic Big 5 (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo) is a major item on any safari goer’s bucket list. South Africa is one of the very few places on Earth where you’re able to tick off all five in one day.

Cape Town’s gorgeous coastline offers its visitors sun-kissed beaches, while the famous Cape Winelands will delight any gourmet. Superb infrastructure and daily domestic flights make combining a Kruger safari with a beach holiday a piece of cake.

Easily Combine Bush, Beach & Vine

 world-class service & amenities.

Experience culinary excellence from award-winning chefs in Kruger’s private reserves and concessions. Plus enjoy top-notch service and amenities like spas, gyms, and with some having fully stocked libraries.

Fantastic Logistics 

Daily commercial flights link all the major cities, chartered airplanes can get you to safari lodges with their own private airstrips, and there are self-drive holiday options made safe and easy thanks to well-maintained road networks.

A Trip For Every Traveller

Multi-generational broods will love South Africa’s variety of family-friendly accommodation. Couples will find the perfect trip to celebrate a special occasion, and adventure seekers will relish in a plethora of outdoor activities.

Why Go on a South African Safari?

Incredible  game-viewing.

See the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) and more wildlife found only in Africa, with expert guides who'll get you so  close you can hear them breathe.

Walking safaris, hot air balloon safaris, cultural interactions with local people- all safari activities support conservation and communities. The ultimate win-win.

Rewarding experiences

The luxury of time.

Enjoy being off-the-grid and truly away from it all with  private plunge pools and spa facilities at intimate lodges in some of the most remote parts of the world.

Indulge your senses

Sip sundowners as giraffes stroll across the hot pink horizon, and s ample gourmet African dishes and wines over fireside dinners while the sounds of the bush serenades you.

Two trips in one

The best trips combine Africa's top destinations. Easily go from the African bush to buzzy Cape Town or an idyllic Indian Ocean island- with all the details and transfers taken care of.

Why you need to experience an African safari vacation:

"...i thought this was a once  in a lifetime trip,  but i'm already  planning my next safari" , excellent value.

Thanks to a very favourable exchange rate, it’s easy to find superb accommodation that offers that extra bit of holiday pampering. Spoilt for choice is an understatement with an option to suit every budget and preference.  

Why Go on  a  South African Safari?

World-class service & amenities, fantastic logistics, our partners.

Everything is about relationships. Fortunately, we've built great ones working with the top names in Africa for more than 20 years.

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Top 20 Best South Africa Safaris - Compare 693 Tours

13-Day South Africa Self Drive Honeymoon

$4,500 to $6,103 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Luxury Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Winelands (Highlight) , Oudtshoorn (Garden Route) , Garden Route, Kwandwe GR, Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport (Port Elizabeth) , Port Elizabeth (End)

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

6-Day Unique Rhino and Lion Conservation Experience

$6,604 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kapama GR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg Airport (End)

Ranger Buck Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  28 Reviews

4-Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

$974 pp (USD)

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

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

Wildlife Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  260 Reviews

3-Day Kruger National Park Experience

$690 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Mid-range Guest House

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

Elephant Herd Tours & Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.8 /5  –  90 Reviews

5-Day Kruger Park and Manyeleti Reserve Bongan Lodge

$859 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Budget Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Manyeleti GR (Greater Kruger) , Central Kruger, Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Bongan Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  22 Reviews

4-Day Ultra Budget Glamping Kruger Safari

$521 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Budget Tented Bush Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Johannesburg Airport (End)

MoAfrika Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  1179 Reviews

3-Day Tremisana/Treehouse Kruger Park Safari

$686 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Hoedspruit (Town) , Kruger NP, Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route) , Johannesburg (End)

Viva Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  262 Reviews

4-Day Greater Kruger and National Park, Panorama Route

$1,201 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Mid-range Self Catering Accommodation

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

Khalanga Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  63 Reviews

5-Day Imbali Lodge Safari

$2,365 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Luxury+ Lodge

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

The Kruger Safari Co.   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  125 Reviews

4-Day All Inclusive Fly-in Tour to Kruger's Imbali Lodge

$2,200 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury+ Lodge

Safari.com   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.7 /5  –  186 Reviews

3-Day Sabi Sands Tented Camp Safari

$953 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Mid-range Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Sabi Sands (Greater Kruger) , Panorama Route (Highlight) , Johannesburg (End)

Safari With Us   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  217 Reviews

3-Day Johannesburg to Kruger National Park Safari

$596 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

Mbombela Experience Tours & Transfers   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  32 Reviews

4-Day Kruger Safari, Soweto & Apartheid Museum

$880 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

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

Nhlalala Travel   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  34 Reviews

4-Day & 3-Night Kruger National Park Budget Safari

$583 to $649 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Mid-range Guest House

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

The Mzansi Experience   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.8 /5  –  63 Reviews

16-Day Tropical Beaches and Big Five Luxury Honeymoon

$10,391 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Hermanus (Whales) , Durban (City) , mFulaWozi Wilderness GR, iSimangaliso WP, Phinda GR, Durban Airport (End)

5.0 /5  –  42 Reviews

4-Day Zula Kruger Shalati Train on the Bridge

$3,216 to $3,509 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Sudwala Caves (Highlight) , Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Johannesburg (End)

Zula Zula Adventure Bus   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  2 Reviews

4-Day Luxury Mdluli Game Lodge Kruger National Park

$808 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge

Gems of Africa Safari and Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  99 Reviews

4-Day 3 Nights Luxury Fly in Safari Kruger National Park

$3,571 pp (USD)

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

African Welcome Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  230 Reviews

4-Day Semi-Tented Kruger Park Safari - Camp Shawu

$1,844 pp (USD)

Mmilo Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  124 Reviews

5-Day Big 5 Game Drives & Blyde Canyon Sighting Seeing

$1,009 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Balule NR (Greater Kruger) , Blyde River Canyon (Panorama Route) , Johannesburg (End)

Wildlife Encounters   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  20 Reviews

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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 .

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Best South Africa Safari Tours

Find the perfect Safari adventure in South Africa. There are 284 South Africa safaris to choose from, that range in length from 1 days up to 22 days. The most popular month for these tours is October.

250+ South African safari packages with 1,335 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

Kruger in Depth

Fantastic itinerary, great guide and met some amazing people

5-Day Kruger National Park Big 5 Safari & Panorama Route Tour

Super nice experience with good guides and friendly staff!

• €30 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Route 62 Adventure Safari 15 Days / 14 Nights

Die Reise war ein voller Erfolg, wir waren bestens betreut in allem. Es war eine unvergessliche Reise für uns alle, trotz dem schlechten Wetter zwischendurch war es wunderschön. Alain hat die Trips immer so gut angepasst, dass alles möglich war, und er hat uns Südafrika mit seinem reichhaltigen Wissen über dieses Land, sehr bereichert. Kann man nur wärmstens empfehlen. Vielen Dank nochmal für die tollen Eindrücke. Herzliche Grüße Christine

South Africa: Kruger Wildlife Tracking & Vineyards

Kruger Lodge Experience (3 days)

The tour guides and the tour itself were spectacular. The guides did their best to keep us entertained and knew exactly what they were doing. They went the extra mile to show us the big 5 which we really appreciated. The organization of intrepid and their customer service, on the other hand, was very poor. They were not responsive in a timely manner. They weren't willing to accommodate for minor inconveniences from the customer. For example, my crew asked to be picked up from a destination that was 5 min away from the original pick up location. Keeping in mind that we were supposed to be at that location at 5:30am, intrepid should have accommodated for us but it took 5 different people contacting them separately and several back and forth to come pick us up. Tourradar was also responsible for this mess because they acted as a middle man instead of directly allowing us to deal with the issue. These and other types of details that seem simple caused a lot of negative experiences in the tour. Aside from that, seeing the animals and the actual tour were priceless.

9 Day Incredible South African Safari and Drakensberg Adventure

We had a wonderful tour, made possible by a great guide. We wanted to get a taste of a variety of parks and found the destinations very thoughtfully put together. It is a lot of driving to see the various areas but there were strategic breaks. Loved staying inside the parks and having critters outside the veranda . We saw 13 rhinos in one day! Wade was great at seeing things we would have missed and always able to manoeuvre the car for best views and photos. They are quite happy to tailor your experience so don’t be afraid to ask.

Kruger Lodge Experience

The trip was very good, and an experience to remember! If anything, it has only made us want to visit Kruger once again :) The lodging was very comfortable, and the staff were extremely polite, kind and engaging. The guides who accompanied us on our safaris were also very friendly and knowledgeable while indulging us in our innumerable 'golden' photo opportunities :D All in all, it was a wonderful experience. P.S.: One incident that didn't sit well with us was how one of the lodge owners spoke to a staff member. It was uncomfortably reminiscent of South Africa's recent racial past.

6 Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

I enjoyed the Safari, well organised and plenty of work had obviously gone into this - tankyou. The onl,y thing I would have prefered was some idea before the commencement about the amount of cash and guide line for tips. There was no where we could get extra cash an it was not until we were given the itinerary on the bus the amount that was suggested we tip. Therefore, some people was short changed. Some idea somewhere that we would not have been able to get near a payment by card in the accommodation for drinks or anything would have been useful, otherwise very good and thank you, Susan

5 Day Cape to Addo Safari Tour (Return)

• Coach / Bus

Kruger Safari And The Panorama Route

I feel so lucky to have seen and experienced all that I saw on this trip. Our tour guide was amazing and so insightful about daily life in South Africa.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Luxury Garden Route Journey from Cape Town

Following a 5 day stay in Cape Town, my wife and I were (by pure fluke) lucky enough to be the only people on this particular tour; we therefore had our own private tour at our disposal. Jakes - our tour guide and the owner/operator of Amatungulu Tours - was absolutely first class. He was punctual, very polite & attentive and knowledgeable regarding all things relating to South African culture, history and wildlife. Jakes provided a real personal touch that we felt was second to none and was happy to accommodate any requests regarding the tour itinerary. All of the accommodation and experiences that he booked were excellent & thoroughly enjoyable - all of which made for a wonderful holiday, that we will never forget. Thank you Jakes. My wife and I cannot recommend this tour highly enough.

Best of Kruger National Park

Es hat organisatorisch alles geklappt. Alle Mitarbeiter von Kurt Safari haben sich große Mühe gegeben. Unterkunft und Verpflegung alles sehr ausreichend. Hatte erwartet, mehr Tiere zu sehen. Das Gras war aber auch ziemlich und es gibt ausreichend viel wasser im Park. Bei eigener Safari vor langer Zeit in der Etoscha pfanne habe ich etwa 100 mal so viele Tiere gesehen. Trotzdem war es ganz gut. Sehr gut leider nicht.

2 Day Wildlife Safari Tour (Return)

Die Tour war toll, abwechslungsreich und hat mir viel Spaß gemacht.

Working Safari/Conferencing at luxury bush lodges, Kruger National Park & Panorama Route

PRO: 1. "All included" tour - professional guide, comfortable transportation, very good hotels, all meals and taste of great South Africa's wines. 2. Diversified itinerary - South African nature, culture, history - well presented by knowledgeable guides and thoughtfully designed by tour operator. 3. Hotels, B&B, Lodges, restaurants - exceptional. CON: None. My husband and I would like to thank Jakes for the great organization of this tour. Our guide was very professional, attentive, patient and of great personality. We recommend THIS TOUR to all who really wish get to know this beautiful country, travel in comfort and have a relaxed conference safari.

5 Day Classic Kruger Park Safari

The weather was not good but the tour was nice.

South Africa Safari Reviews

Our guide was superlative. Our itinerary was superb. Our accommodation and food really satisfying and well beyond expectations. It was a great trip and I'd do it again at my first opportunity. And I'll recommend to far and wide!

The tour was really awesome. Each day we got to see so much and we were so lucky to get to see the Big 5! The only thing that let the experience down was the accommodation which was pretty dated and felt damp. But it had been wet and we were reluctant to overuse the aircon. The food was generous and the staff were very friendly and accomodating. Next time we go safari, we will spend a little more now that we know what to experimenter. Thank you for a great tour.

Amazing trip! We saw a lot of animals despite bad weather. The food was nice and the lodge was cosy. I would recommend staying longer than we did (we only had three days).

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South African safaris: Lions, leopards and luxury lodges

Roxanne de Bruyn

South Africa

• South African safari: know before you go

Planning on booking a safari tour in South Africa? This 4-day tour of the Kruger National Park starts and finishes in Johannesburg and gives you the best chance of seeing South Africa's Big Five up close.

Seeing wild animals in their natural habitat during a safari is easily one of the most magical travel experiences. While you may have seen these animals at the zoo, watching them in their own space is a completely different experience.

You can watch the big cats lazing in the sun, cheater cubs rolling around together as they play, and giraffes wandering through the savannah. Crocodiles and hippos submerge themselves in murky rivers, and predators chew on the remnants of last night's dinner.

Going on safari brings a fresh perspective to life, travel and humanity - if you're thinking about going, you won't be disappointed.

South Africa is a wonderful destination to have a well-rounded safari experience with the comforts of everyday life. The game parks are large and well-maintained, and it's possible to see a huge variety of animals while you're there.

In short, South Africa is particularly well suited to travellers heading on their first safari. Here's what you need to know to plan your trip.

The Big Five and other animals

So, what animals can you expect to see on safari in South Africa? Well, a huge range, to be honest. South Africa is home to over 500 bird species, 100 species of reptile and 150 mammal species, including the Big Five and the endangered African wild dog.

Seeing the Big Five - lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and Cape buffalo - is the ultimate safari challenge. These animals were historically thought to be the most difficult to hunt and catching them was an accomplishment. You'll find your game rangers do their best to track them down and you're likely to see all of them if you visit the Kruger National Park.

You'll probably see a range of other animals too, including zebra, giraffe, cheetahs, kudu (deer with large ears and impressive, curling horns), springbok (South Africa's national animal), warthogs, crocodiles, hippos, various birdlife and many more.

Is it worth booking a safari tour in South Africa?

It's very easy to travel in South Africa independently and many game lodges will help you organise game drives and other safari experiences. It's also possible to go on a self-drive safari - just hire a car and drive through the game park - however, you're likely to see many more animals if you go on game drives. The rangers know the reserves very well and communicate with each other about where specific animals have been seen.

You don't need to go on a safari tour to go on a game drive. It's very possible to book your accommodation and game drives separately and, if you stay at some lodges, a couple of game drives will be included. Saying that, booking a multi-day safari tour does give you the ability to see multiple game reserves and enjoy the experience without dealing with any of the logistics yourself.

Safari tours can also be a good way to travel between destinations (e.g. Victoria Falls to Johannesburg) and see other points of interest along the way. Just keep in mind that they are often more expensive than organising your trip yourself.

Some popular safari tours in South Africa:

Garden Route and Addo Elephant Park - 5 nights

Kruger National Park and Blyde River Canyon - 4 nights

Kruger safari from Johannesburg - 3 nights

Private South to North Kruger tour - 5 nights

Game drives in South Africa

The best way to see wildlife is by going on a game drive. You'll usually be in a jeep with a small group of travellers, a ranger and a tracker. The rangers usually know the game park very well and can find animals which you may not spot if you're driving by yourself.

Going on a game drive also lets you see larger animals up close. Animals are accustomed to seeing vehicles in their territories and often perceive the jeep as a single, large animal. Just remember to follow the ranger's advice and stay in the vehicle at all times, including your car if you're self driving.

Full-day safari

Spend a full day driving through the game park looking for animals. These are especially popular in the Kruger National Park and usually include a stop at a café for lunch. Just keep in mind that it can be a long day and animals usually sleep during the middle of the day, when it's warmest.

Book a full day safari in the Kruger National Park

Book a full day safari from Johannesburg

Book a full day safari from Cape Town

Sunrise game drive

Mornings are a beautiful time to go on safari. It's not too hot, you'll often see the animals out and about and there's something magical about seeing the bush first thing in the morning. The downside is that it leaves very early in the morning and it can be cold, so dress appropriately.

Book a morning safari in Kruger National Park

Book a sunrise game drive in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve.

Night game drive

These are often also called sundowner or afternoon game drives. Head out in the evening and enjoy a drink while you watch the sunset in the bush. Then watch the nocturnal animals coming out. It does get cold, so be sure to dress in layers and wear and jacket.

Book a sunset safari in the Kruger National Park.

Self-drive safari

Drive yourself through the game parks and see animals as you go. Depending on the day, you may see many animals as you drive through the park, other times not so many. Try to go at cooler times, and wait by the water holes to see what comes out.

One of the challenges of self-driving is that you don't know the reserve as well as the rangers and you don't get tips on where the animals are. Some people try to follow the jeeps, however that isn't necessarily a good way to find animals. If you do decide to self-drive, stay in your car at all times - the animals aren't as friendly up close as they can seem from further away.

Walking safari

Leave the jeep behind and wander through the bush on foot. This is a particularly good option if you're interested in bird-watching and seeing some of the local insects up close and learning more about animal life-cycles and the ecology of the area.

Book a walking safari in the Kruger National Park

Book a giraffe walking safari in the Addo Valley

Book a walking safari in iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Safari lodges in South Africa

There's a wide range of accommodation if you want to go on safari. You can camp in the Kruger National Park and some other reserves and there are often bungalows or hotels available outside the reserves. However, if you want the quintessential safari experience, staying at a lodge is the way to go.

Lodges are usually located within private game parks or wildlife sanctuaries, meaning you can see animals up close and personal during your stay. Some of the private reserves won't have the big cats near the lodge, while others will have several rangers on hand. The lodges range from comfortable to luxurious and usually offer a pool and bush views. They are generally all inclusive with breakfast, dinner and sometimes a couple of game drives included.

Staying at at a safari lodge is a remarkable experience. You may find yourself visited by animals during your stay - I've personally turned around to see zebra, warthogs, kudu, giraffes and bushbabies wandering by. Many have panoramic views over the bush, often with animals visible in the distance. It's peaceful and serene and the modern world and everyday life seems very far away. You'll find a few recommendations for safari lodges in the sections below.

Visiting the Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is one of the largest national parks in the world. Almost the size of Belgium, visiting Kruger gives you a sense of how much space the animals need and the size of their territories. It's vast and you won't be able to see the entire park in a day. Due to the size, it also takes longer to find the animals, so expect to spend a lot of time driving.

A popular destination with well-maintained roads, it's easy to visit the Kruger National Park by yourself. It's a good option for a self-drive safari, although finding animals can be a bit hit and miss due to the size. It can also get busy, especially during holiday periods, so you may want to time your visit accordingly.

There are also a number of private reserves on the outskirts of Kruger National Park. If you stay at a lodge in the private reserve, you can also go see the animals or see the game drives within the smaller reserve. Popular options are Sabi Sands, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Thornybush Private Game Reserve and Kapama Private Game Reserve - see the next section for more information on these.

For more affordable accommodation, you can stay in the campgrounds in the Kruger National Park itself, or in the nearby towns of Hazyview (near the Panorama Route and Sabi Sand) or Marloth Park (near the southern entrance of the park). Accommodation options range from hotels and game lodges to self catering options, suitable for the whole family.

One of the great things about visiting the Kruger National Park is that there's also a lot to do in the wider Mpumalanga area. If you're driving from Johannesburg, the Panoramic Route is beautiful and you can stop at the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke's Luck Potholes and Berlin Falls. Plan to spend around 6-7 hours on the route, including stops to admire the stunning views.

Kruger National Park game drives and tours:

Morning safari

Sunset safari

Safari tour from Johannesburg

Private game reserves in South Africa

If you're staying at a game lodge, there's a good chance it'll be situated in a private game reserve. Private game reserves are smaller than the larger game parks, which means the rangers will have a much better idea of where the animals will be. If you are short on time or if you have small children, a private reserve could be a good option.

Private reserves are usually reserved for guests staying in the reserves, and they are also much less crowded at peak times. The lodges at these reserves are also very expensive, particularly the ones bordering the Kruger National Park. They usually offer luxury accommodation and amenities, with daily game drives and all meals included. Visiting a private reserve is an excellent splurge trip for a special occasion.

Saying that, you don't get quite the same appreciation for space and scale in the private reserves as you get when travelling through the Kruger National Park. They are still well worth considering, particularly if you're travelling during the school holidays or want to be sure to see the Big Five in a day or two.

Private reserves near the Kruger National Park

Sabi Sands Game Reserve : Stay at Elephant Plains Game Lodge with views of the waterhole

Thornybush Private Game Reserve : Stay at KwaMbili Game Lodge offering chalets or glamping

Kapama Private Game Reserve : Stay at Kapama River Lodge in the middle of the bush

Timbavati Private Nature Reserve : Stay at Simbavati River Lodge in 2-bedroom family suites or safari tents

Manyeleti Private Game Reserve : Stay at Buffelshoek Tented Camp in the middle of the bush (no fences).

Makalali Private Game Reserve: Stay at aha Makalali Private Game Lodge in private camps or hotel suites.

Klaserie Private Nature Reserve : Stay at Klaserie Drift with suites overlooking the garden or river.

Safaris near Cape Town

If your travels in South Africa are focused around Cape Town, it's still possible to experience a safari during your trip. There are several excellent wildlife reserves near Cape Town, which are perfect for a short break out of the city. While a couple of them are close enough to visit as a day trip, it's definitely worth spending a day or two overnight to take your time, see all the animals, and relax in the bush.

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

About 3.5 hours from Cape Town, Sanbona is famous for its white lions, which can be spotted in the wild. You'll also be able to see cheetahs, elephants, and zebras and there are four lodges on-site to choose from.

Stay onsite at the luxury lodge or at the Whitehouse in nearby Barrydale for a more affordable option

Aquila Private Game Reserve

Just two hours' from Cape Town, you'll find the Aquila Private Game Reserve which offers visitors the chance to see the Big Five. Visitors can also spend time with rehabilitated animals at the on-site Animal Rescue Centre.

Stay onsite at the Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa or visit on a day trip from Cape Town .

Gondwana Private Game Reserve

Gondwana Private Game Reserve is about four hours out of Cape Town and makes a wonderful stop of the scenic coastal Garden Route. Again, you can see the Big Five and you can choose between staying at Kwena Lodge, in bungalows or glamping.

Stay onsite in a luxury bush villa with a spa and infinity pool.

Best time to go on safari in South Africa

The best time to go on safari in South Africa is from June to October, during the dry season. If you're heading to the game reserves in the northeast of the country (including Kruger), you'll find temperate temperatures. The drier weather conditions mean shorter grass and fewer watering holes, which makes wildlife easier to see.

How long should I spend on my safari trip?

How long you spend on safari depends on how many game parks you want to go to and the number of animals you want to see. Most people will find 3-5 days plenty - staying three nights means you'll have two full days at the reserve and there's a good chance you'll do an evening safari the day you arrive.

If you're interested in wildlife safari or want the opportunity to do a few nature walks, you may want to stay a bit longer.

• Introduction
• The animals
• Safari tours
• Game drives
• Safari lodges
• Kruger National Park
• Private reserves
• Near Cape Town

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Author - Roxanne de Bruyn

Roxanne is the founder and editor of Faraway Worlds. She is a freelance writer and guidebook author and has written for several travel publications, including Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor and The Culture Trip. With a background in communications, she has studied ancient history, comparative religion and international development, and has a particular interest in sustainable tourism.

Originally from South Africa, Roxanne has travelled widely and loves learning the stories of the places she visits. She enjoys cooking, dance and yoga, and usually travels with her husband and young son. She is based in New Zealand.

Last Updated 12 September 2023

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!

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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.

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Visit Shamwari Private Game Reserve for a 5-Star Luxury Safari Experience In South Africa

O f all the experiences people seek when visiting South Africa , going on safari easily ranks at the top of the list. While a one-day safari may be best for shorter trips, the best way to enjoy the full safari experience is during an overnight stay. There are several game reserves to choose from, but Shamwari Private Game Reserve is by far the ultimate luxury choice.

In Eastern Cape near South Africa’s sixth largest city, Gqeberha, Shamwari has operated as a game reserve since 1992. Nearly 62,000 acres of land are available for the many species of animals, birds, flora and fauna that once called the land home.

7 Luxury Lodge Experiences To Choose From

Shamwari offers guests a choice of seven luxury lodges, each with its own distinct character and appeal. The options range from intimate seclusion to family-friendly accommodations. For more adventurous guests, there is also a tented Explorer Camp, set around a koppie, deep in the bush.

Long Lee Manor is a redesigned lodge with spacious high-end luxury suites, an infinity pool and several dining spaces on the property. Riverdene is the top pick for family-friendly safari stays with a kids on Safari program available. Bayethe, Eagles Crag and Sindile are all fitting for couples, solo or friends getaways, each offering a different luxury outdoor experience. Sarili Private Lodge, a five-bedroom accommodation, is the premium luxury pick for special occasions with small groups of family and friends.

The Luxury Is In The Details

From your greeting upon arrival to your suite’s amenities, no expense is spared in this 5-star stay. Warm hand towels and savory warm shooters await you and your guests as you step into your lodge of choice. The staff at Shamwari ensures you don’t have to lift a finger.

Game drives are also designed for maximum comfort. Early morning game drives can be chilly depending on the time of year, but the team has plenty of accessories to make sure you stay warm. Heated water bottle pouches and blankets for each guest are provided by your game ranger. Spotting the Big 5 just got a lot fancier. Whether you want morning coffee in the bush or a proper sundowner following an afternoon game drive, the Shamwari team can oblige your request.

Each lodge also has a spa for wellness services with the exception of Riverdene and Sarili. Guests in all lodges have access to in-room treatments or the option to indulge in self-care services at Long Lee Manor Spa.

The best part of this luxury safari experience is the many perks that come inclusive with your stay. All meals including the famed Boma Dinner and locally selected beverages are a part of your experience. With activities, such as game drives and bush walks, included, there’s plenty to do on any given day at the reserve. You can also enjoy a complimentary visit to the wildlife rehabilitation center or Big Cat Sanctuary, Born Free.

Boma Dinners: The Culinary Highlight of Shamwari

Boma dinners are one of the best dining experiences you’ll have during your visit to Shamwari. Every third night, with favorable weather conditions, lodge guests gather for dinner under the African night sky. Around a fire pit surrounded by lanterns, the Boma dinner is South Africa’s braai experience. Known as a South African BBQ, a braai entails grilling food over hot coals and is the perfect way to end a day of exciting game drives.

Enjoy your preferred evening cocktail or beverage as the Shamwari culinary team serves a multi-course menu of fresh, unique dishes. From starters to dessert, you’ll explore local flavors in the cozy Boma setting as the fire crackles in the background, an undoubtedly dreamy safari night.

Resorting Wildlife Native To The Area

Once an area abundant in wildlife, the migration of man resulted in the killing of most of the original wildlife in the area. Shamwari is on a mission to restore the wildlife native to this region, bringing back Cape vultures and spotted hyenas.

Anti-poaching teams patrol the reserve to secure the land and more importantly the safety of animals that call its borders home. Ultimately, Shamwari aims to ensure its wildlife population has sufficient space, food and water to thrive while managing the balance between predator and prey species.

Unlike some private reserves, Shamwari maintains its standard of not interfering with the natural order of the plants and animals on the property. That means you’ll never go off-roading in the pursuit of an animal spotting which is good news for the animals and the flourishing flora and fauna within their habitat.

A Safe Haven For At-Risk Wildlife

Aside from the luxury amenities and services available upon request, Shamwari is actively working as a safe haven for rescued and injured animals of varying needs. Two sections of the property house its rehabilitation and sanctuary facilities. Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries is where you can find animals that should have been born in the wild, but because they weren’t, can never be released into the wild. Animals from circus entertainment, for example, may end up calling Born Free home one day.

Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, on the other hand, provides aid to animals from the wild who need assistance getting back on their feet. The rehab center helps to rehabilitate and care for sick, injured, abandoned or orphaned animals under the care of a professional veterinary team. Once these animals have been nursed back to health, they are released back into their natural habitat.

Shamwari is as much wildlife conversation as it is a luxury vacation, making it a feel-good option for safari experiences in South Africa. Every detail of this private safari is more than a cut above anything you’ll find at larger national parks. You can not only avoid the crowds of other reserves, but also dine and explore the outdoors with premium amenities only a request away.

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South Africa

A premier safari destination showcasing the iconic kruger national park, where lions, elephants, and rhinos roam freely. with diverse landscapes and luxurious lodges, it offers unforgettable wildlife experiences and breathtaking scenery..

• INFORMATION
• ITINERARIES

Best time to go

Cape Wine Route / Big Five Wildlife / Cape Town

Price per day

$500 - $3000

Key Destinations

Cape Town, Kruger National Park

South Africa is a country known for its rich cultural diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant wildlife. With its unique blend of modern cities, traditional tribal communities, and stunning natural wonders, South Africa offers visitors a truly unforgettable experience. One of the most popular destinations within the country is Cape Town, a vibrant city that serves as a gateway to some of the most incredible safari experiences in the world.

Cape Town, located on the southwestern coast of South Africa, is a city that captivates visitors with its stunning scenery and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The iconic Table Mountain serves as a backdrop to the city, providing a picturesque setting for exploration and adventure. The city itself is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from African, European, and Asian communities. This cultural diversity is reflected in the city’s cuisine, music, art, and architecture, making Cape Town a truly unique destination.

While Cape Town is famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historical landmarks such as Robben Island, it is also an excellent starting point for a safari adventure. South Africa is renowned for its national parks and game reserves, which offer unparalleled opportunities to witness the country’s diverse wildlife up close.

One of the most popular safari destinations is the renowned Kruger National Park. Located in the northeastern part of the country, Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest game reserves and is home to an incredible array of animals, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros). The park offers a range of safari experiences, from self-drive adventures to guided tours led by experienced rangers. Visitors can embark on game drives, bushwalks, or even book a hot air balloon ride to witness the park’s wildlife and stunning landscapes from above.

Cape Town itself also offers opportunities for wildlife encounters. Just a short drive from the city, visitors can explore the charming seaside town of Hermanus, which is famous for its whale-watching opportunities. From June to November, southern right whales migrate to the waters around Hermanus to mate and calve, providing a unique chance to witness these majestic creatures up close.

In conclusion, South Africa, and Cape Town in particular, offer an incredible combination of vibrant city life and unforgettable safari experiences. With its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, South Africa is a destination that appeals to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

What’s Typically Included

• Accommodation
• All domestic transfers to and from the airport.
• All domestic transfers between hotels.

Click below to get in contact for latest prices and offers.

From our gallery

These itineraries are fully customizable. To change or learn more about any of our itineraries, please enquire with us.

Tour Location

What currency can you use in South Africa?

The official currency of South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR). It is denoted by the symbol “R” and is subdivided into 100 cents. The currency is widely accepted throughout the country, and you can use it for various transactions, including shopping, dining, and transportation. It’s advisable to exchange your currency for South African Rand upon arrival in the country, as it may not be widely accepted to use foreign currencies for everyday transactions.

There are numerous banks, currency exchange offices, and ATMs where you can exchange your money. Additionally, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, particularly in urban areas.

What power sockets are used in South Africa?

In South Africa, the power sockets used are Type D, M, and N. The most common types are Type D and Type M.

Type D sockets have three round pins in a triangular configuration. They are similar to the Indian standard sockets. Type M sockets, on the other hand, have three round pins in a linear arrangement. They are larger and have thicker pins compared to Type D sockets.

Type N sockets are less common but can also be found in some newer installations. They have three round pins in a triangular configuration like Type D sockets, but with larger dimensions.

It’s worth noting that South Africa has a higher voltage than some other countries, operating at 220-240 volts. If you are traveling from a country with a different voltage, make sure to check if your electronic devices are compatible or if you need a voltage converter or adapter to safely use them in South Africa.

What should I pack for a Safari in South Africa?

When packing for a safari in South Africa, it’s important to consider the climate, activities, and duration of your trip. Here are some essential items to pack:

1. Clothing:

• Lightweight, breathable, and neutral-colored clothing for hot weather.
• Long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect against the sun, insects, and vegetation.
• A lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings.
• A hat or cap to shield yourself from the sun.
• Comfortable closed-toe shoes or boots for walking and hiking.
• Swimwear if your safari includes opportunities for swimming or visiting coastal areas.

2. Safari Gear:

• Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• A camera with extra batteries or a power bank for capturing memorable moments.
• A small backpack or daypack to carry your essentials during game drives or walks.
• A neck or head scarf to protect against dust or insects.

3. Personal Items:

• Sunscreen with a high SPF.
• Prescription medications and a basic first aid kit.
• Toiletries and personal hygiene products.

4. Travel Documents:

• Valid passport with necessary visas.
• Travel insurance details.
• Photocopies of important documents like your passport and travel insurance.

5. Miscellaneous:

• Cash and cards for expenses and tips.
• A universal power adapter to charge your electronic devices.
• A good book or entertainment for downtime.

Remember to pack light and prioritize essential items. Many safari lodges provide laundry services, so you can reduce the amount of clothing you need to bring. It’s also advisable to check with your safari operator or accommodation for any specific recommendations or requirements based on the area and time of year you’ll be visiting.

What languages do they speak in South Africa?

South Africa is a linguistically diverse country with 11 official languages. These languages are:

1. isiZulu 2. isiXhosa 3. Afrikaans 4. Sepedi (also known as Sesotho sa Leboa) 5. English 6. Setswana 7. Sesotho 8. Xitsonga 9. siSwati 10. Tshivenda 11. isiNdebele

Among these languages, isiZulu and isiXhosa are the most widely spoken languages in South Africa. English is also widely understood and commonly used for official and business purposes. Afrikaans, derived from Dutch, is spoken by a significant portion of the population, particularly in the Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces.

It’s important to note that the prevalence of languages may vary depending on the region and the ethnic composition of the area. In urban areas, English is often the primary language used for communication, but in more rural areas, local African languages are more commonly spoken.

Do I need a Visa to visit South Africa?

South Africa currently offers visa-free travel to most countries for stays up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of arrival into South Africa.

Please follow this link to be sure of your countries visa requirements to enter South Africa – http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/applying-for-sa-visa

Do I need a yellow fever vaccination to enter South Africa?

If you are travelling to South Africa from areas known to be infected with yellow fever, you must have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. We advise our guests to also have an updated TPD (tetanus, polio, diphtheria) vaccine and a hepatitis A vaccine.

Do I need to take Malaria tablets when visiting South Africa?

Certain regions of South Africa, including north-eastern KwaZulu-Natal, parts of Mpumalanga, and Limpopo, are known for their high prevalence of malaria. However, Cape Town and the Eastern Cape are free from malaria.

Prior to your trip, it is advisable to consult with your Travel Doctor to determine if you should commence a medication regimen. Some malaria prophylaxes necessitate initiation several days prior to your vacation, as well as continued usage during and after your visit. It is recommended that you discuss with your doctor which specific prophylactic medication would be most suitable for you.

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Photographic Safari in Sputh Africa Lodge Advice - Kruger National Park Forum

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Photographic Safari in Sputh Africa Lodge Advice

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Looking for a small lodge, preferably unfenced to Kruger that offers the possibility of excellent cheetah and leopard sighting. Since we are both photographers, we will need 2 seats rather than 3 across. Lodge that have small traversing areas or are unable to go offroad are not suitable for us. We have

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Tswalu, South Africa: the ultimate destination for a luxury safari

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Motse accommodation at Tswalu private reserve in South Africa. Photo / Supplied

At Tswalu in South Africa , diamond tycoon Jonathan Oppenheimer has created the kind of luxury safari that most of us can only dream about, writes Catherine McGregor

It was when the mountains caught fire that we started to worry. A summer storm had rolled in over the Korannaberg ranges and lightning was slashing through the vast desert skies, setting the hillside alight before quickly being extinguished by the torrential rain. On the verandah, the clink of ice in our pre-dinner cocktails was being drowned out by the roar of thunder. It was time to go inside.

The summer rains bring life to the Kalahari Desert, the arid sandy savanna that straddles the border of Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. At Tswalu Kalahari reserve in South Africa the rain can transform the parched land literally overnight. The landscape, once barren, is suddenly carpeted by thick tufted grass, spiky gemsbok cucumbers and tiny yellow dubbeltjie (little devil) flowers. For visitors, the odd lightning strike is a small price to pay for such abundance.

READ MORE: The luxury safari that’s better than winning Lotto

Located on the southern edge of the Kalahari, not far from the Botswana border, Tswalu is a truly unique safari experience. The property has been owned since 1999 by the billionaire Oppenheimer family, who once controlled the majority of South Africa’s diamond industry through their controlling stake in De Beers and now use their immense wealth to support their conservation and philanthropic efforts. Tswalu is not only South Africa’s largest private wildlife reserve, but arguably its most remote, at around 10 hours’ drive from either Cape Town or Johannesburg. Isolated and ultra exclusive, Tswalu just might be the ultimate destination safari.

The distance by road doesn’t bother most guests, since hardly any of them drive. Tswalu has its own private airport and offers a direct charter air service from both Johannesburg or Cape Town. For Tswalu’s mega wealthy clientele, flying in is a no-brainer. That airstrip is a game-changer, says Nigel Pace, Tswalu’s head of hospitality. “Yes, we’re really remote – but in terms of access, we’re actually easier to get to than places like Kruger or Sabi Sands.”

After touchdown, guests are collected by their drivers and depart for one of three luxury camps dotted across the vast reserve. Motse, Tswalu’s original camp, features nine guest suites, or legae (“home” in the local Setswana language) and has the feel of a relaxed-chic boutique hotel. The recently opened Loapi is a collection of six extraordinarily beautiful tented camps , each with a dedicated homathi (house manager) and chef. All six Loapi residences are located at least 100m from each other, with no communal or shared guest areas or services, allowing for an incredibly private stay.

My stay was at Tarkuni, an exclusive-use homestead designed for multi-generational families or parties of friends. Tarkuni accommodates up to 10 guests in five suites, each with their own private verandah, arranged around a living area featuring a spectacular double-height fireplace. Upstairs is a spa treatment suite and games room; out the front is a swimming pool and waterhole where baboons and antelope regularly come to drink.

With a total maximum of 40 guests in an area almost twice the size of urban Auckland , it’s hardly surprising that the word “private” comes up so much at Tswalu. If you’re staying at Loapi and Tarkuni, you can quite easily avoid ever seeing another soul, save for your own small team of staff. On top of that, every booking guarantees you a private 4×4 safari vehicle, including a dedicated guide and tracker, for the duration of your stay. More than anything, it’s this that puts Tswalu a cut above most other luxury safari experiences.

Having your own vehicle doesn’t only give you privacy – it makes each game drive a totally personalised experience. Want to focus on tracking lesser-known sub-species like the desert black rhino? No problem. Want to stay out all day? Can do. Tswalu’s guides and trackers know the reserve like the back of their hands, and are trained to create for you the most memorable safari experience possible. As your stay continues, your priorities can change, and the value of a private vehicle only increases. With your own vehicle, you’ll never find yourself stuck with day-one newbies who need the safari basics explained or want to stop to photograph every passing kudu – although if that’s something you still want to do, that’s absolutely okay too.

A Tswalu safari is as unique as the land itself. The aridity of the Kalahari means you won’t see any elephants or hippos here, and the sheer size of the reserve can sometimes make spotting animals a challenge. Don’t arrive expecting a Kruger-style wildlife buffet, but that doesn’t mean you won’t see plenty of amazing sights, like a lioness and her cubs contentedly chowing down on a zebra carcass at the edge of a water hole. For 10 minutes we sat quietly in our vehicle, snapping photos from just a few metres away, as the desert sun slowly set behind the horizon.

While it isn’t the place to spot the Big 5 around every corner, Tswalu boasts a remarkable number of species that are rarely seen elsewhere. Along with more common species like oryx, wildebeest, cheetah, buffalo, zebra and giraffe, the reserve is a wonderful place to see rare and endangered species including the Kalahari black-maned lion, desert black rhino and African wild dog. Tswalu offers a lucky few the chance to see the Temmick’s pangolin, one of the world’s most elusive mammals; if you get the chance to accompany the resident pangolin scientists on a nocturnal research outing, grab it.

Tswalu is also home to multiple colonies of meerkats, who have become used to human visitors through a painstaking habituating process. These charmingly gregarious creatures are best spotted in the early morning as they leave their burrows for the day, or at dusk, when they return. Like all wild creatures, however, no viewing is ever guaranteed. Despite the best efforts of Tswalu’s tracking team, we sadly didn’t see any meerkats on our visit. It’s a tribute to the power of the Kalahari landscape that our sunrise walk to the burrows, and the Jeep-side breakfast afterwards – magicked seemingly out of thin air by our guide – remains one of my favourite memories of our stay.

Along with preserving wildlife, making memories is what Tswalu is all about. On our drive back to the homestead, our guide told us that bush dining is one of the experiences guests request most often – whether that means a fully hosted braai with butler service and a mobile kitchen for a group, or a secluded gourmet picnic for two (with a staff vehicle positioned nearby, just in case). Other once-in-a-lifetime experiences include a night under the stars in one of Tswalu’s “star beds”, private camps whose level of luxury puts most other glamp-outs to shame.

There’s one special Tswalu experience that towers above all others, and that’s dinner at Klein Jan, the incredible on-site restaurant founded by Michelin-starred South African chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. It’s the sort of dining experience that relies in part on the element of surprise – so if eating here is on your bucket list, look away now. The magic begins when you pull up outside what appeared to be a ramshackle farmhouse in the middle of nowhere. This is actually the Klein Jan entrance building, where we sat on the stoep, or verandah, and drank cocktails as the thunderstorm rolled in.

We were guided through the farmhouse and into a door on the side of what looked like a disused water tank. Suddenly we were descending a staircase wrapped around a waterfall, then led through more jewel-box spaces and into a spectacular glass-walled dining room. While Klein Jan is open to non-guests for lunch – people fly in and out just to spend a few hours eating here – dinner is for Tswalu guests only, and is included with every two-night stay. The tasting menu at Klein Jan is a journey through both South African culinary history and the natural world of the Kalahari, utilising such unfamiliar ingredients (at least to me) as fever berry, xigugu (a traditional corn and peanut paste), kaiings (crackling) and boerbok (South African goat). As we ate, lightning carved through the sky, the landscape fleetingly illuminated before being plunged back into the inky black darkness of a desert night.

The next morning dawned clear and bright, the previous evening’s torrential rain already absorbed by the thirsty red sand. For our last experience, we were going horse riding – a prospect that initially had me slightly anxious, but which, I was assured, was perfectly safe in this part of the reserve. After the exhilaration of the previous few days, a quiet hour on horseback was the ideal end to our stay. With no engine noise or whirr of camera shutters, we could hear the Kalahari’s birds bursting into song in celebration of the rain. Above, the desert sky was enormous and blue; around us, the ochre sand was stippled with summer green. At our dismounting site, the riding guides removed our horses’ saddles and bridles. As we climbed into our Jeep for the last time, the horses set off at a gallop, back across the savannah and towards home.

For more things to see and do in South Africa, see southafrica.net

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