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A Soulful Safari Experience

Jabulani, where luxury and purpose meet.

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

The eyes never forget what the heart has seen

5-Star Luxury in Kruger National Park

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

Experience the extraordinary

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

A Relais & Châteaux dining experience

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

Explore our full offering

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

Wine Cellar

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

Gym & Sauna

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

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

Watch Jabulani Live on Africam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Witness the elephants

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

Share your special moments with us

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

Become a JabuJunior

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

Reviews & Visitor Experiences

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• World's Best

The Top 10 Safari Lodges in Africa in 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Mahali Mzuri, Masai Mara, Kenya

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

Score: 99.73 More information: virginlimitededition.com

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

Score: 98.75 More information: belmond.com

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

Score: 98.50 More information: andbeyond.com

4. Angama Mara, Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Score: 97.73 More information: angama.com

5. Gibb's Farm, Karatu, Tanzania

Score: 97.63 More information: gibbsfarm.com

6. Singita Grumeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Score: 97.60 More information: singita.com

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

Score: 97.47 More information: belmond.com

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

Score: 97.33 More information: bushcampcompany.com

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

Score: 97.26 More information: andbeyond.com

9. (tie) Sasaab, Samburu, Kenya

Score: 97.26 More information: thesafaricollection.com

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

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

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Luxury Safaris South Africa

Our safaris are luxury fly-in adventures to South Africa's top safari destinations. Some packages combine South Africa with regional highlights in Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Mozambique for a comprehensive luxury adventure in Southern Africa.

• African Safari
• South Africa

21 Day Spirit of Southern Africa

Mpumalanga Highlands | Sabi Sand | Cape Town | Winelands | Swakopmund | Sossusvlei | Windhoek | Okavango Delta | Victoria Falls

The longest and most comprehensive of our African safari packages, this luxurious three-week expedition includes everything from the desolate shores of the Namib coastline to the lush, verdant wilderness of the Okavango Delta in Botswana.

12 Day Three Country Safari

Sabi Sand | Pretoria | Victoria Falls | Chobe | Okavango Delta

The Three Country Safari includes four striking wilderness areas across Southern Africa, including Sabi Sand in South Africa, Matetsi in Zimbabwe and Chobe National Park, and the Okavango Delta in Botswana. The Zimbabwe leg also includes a visit to Victoria Falls.

9 Day Three Area South African Safari

Shamwari | Phinda | Swaziland | Sabi Sand | KwaZulu-Natal

This luxury fly-in safari explores three intrinsically unique safari areas in ‘the world in one country – South Africa. Enjoy game viewing the Sabi Sand, Shamwari, and Phinda private game reserves, as well as an en-route evening in the tiny kingdom of Swaziland.

7 Day Greater Kruger and Zululand

Sabi Sand | Phinda | KwaZulu-Natal

This package is a luxury five-star fly-in safari to two of South Africa’s premier private game reserves – Sabi Sand and Phinda. While Sabi Sand serves as an extension to the Lowveld wilderness of Kruger Park, Phinda’s environment is lush and almost sub-tropical.

7 Day Kruger and Victoria Falls

Sabi Sand | Pretoria | Victoria Falls

The Kruger and Victoria Falls package is a standard four-star safari offering fantastic value. Visit two of the most popular destinations in Southern Africa – the Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls – on a memorable African safari adventure. Your stay in the park will be in a private Sabi Sand lodge.

7 Day Luxury Timbavati and Sabi Sand

Sabi Sand | Timbavati | Kruger National Park

This luxury safari in the Greater Kruger National Park combines three-night stays in two of South Africa’s premier private game reserves. While the lodges and environments may differ, the fantastic game viewing, grand accommodations, and quality service will be of the same standard.

7 Day Two Sabi Sand Lodges

Mala Mala | Sabi Sand | Kruger National Park

A fantastic five-star safari experience that includes two of the premier wilderness areas in all of Southern Africa – Mala Mala and Sabi Sand. You’ll enjoy exquisite accommodation at two world-class lodges and awe-inspiring sightings of the Big Five.

5 Day Two Luxury Lodge Safari

Sabi Sand | Kruger National Park

Enjoy an in-depth visit to the Greater Kruger’s esteemed Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. Accommodation will be enjoyed at two of the finest five-star lodges in the area, providing expert rangers for your unforgettable game drives.

4 Day Luxury Sabi Sand Safari

Visit South Africa’s premier private game reserve on a three-night, four-day safari package to the Sabi Sand. You’ll enjoy lavish five-star accommodation at a lodge that overlooks the perennial Sabie River, which draws a wealth of wildlife to its bountiful banks.

4 Day Private Lodge Safari

This safari package is a three-night, four-day luxury five-star safari at one of the finest lodges in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. The Sabi Sand forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park, an immense stretch of the unfenced wilderness of around two million hectares. The game viewing here is prolific.

3 Day Greater Kruger

This package is a quality Sabi Sand safari for travelers with only a few days to spare. Accommodation consists of a lavish five-star lodge tucked away in the world-renowned wilderness. Your game drives will grant you fantastic sightings of Africa’s wondrous wildlife.

3 Day Quick Private Lodge Safari

It is a short Kruger Park safari to one of the premier lodges in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. You’ll enjoy a total of four game drives in Big Five territory, with an optional walking safari on your second day. Accommodation is five-star and duly luxurious.

Exquisite Luxury on Safari in Africa

Overview of luxury safaris in south africa.

Our Luxury safari packages in South Africa straddle the middle-ground between sumptuous indulgence and a moderate price tag. The lodges we use are scattered all across the finest wilderness concessions on the sub-continent, from Chobe National Park in Botswana to South Africa’s sprawling Greater Kruger.

Luxury safari lodges are inclusive - your package will reflect this. All flights, transfers, accommodation, meals, safari activities, and even selected beverages are included, ensuring a stress-free adventure. All you must consider is how to spend your time between game drives – being pampered in the spa or venturing out on an intimate walking safari.

Mealtimes are indelibly a treat, and you'll often be in awe of what these world-class chefs can conjure in the most remote locations. The fare is typically a blend of European and local cuisines, with options for both adventurous and traditional dinners. Beyond scrumptious dining, your foremost memories will prove your sightings of Africa's majestic mammals, from the tiny duiker to the mighty elephant.

The Greater Kruger National Park stretches over almost two million hectares of pristine South African Lowveld.

For a truly exceptional African safari experience, opt for a luxury safari with African Sky. You'll enjoy topnotch game viewing.

The Big Five are the continent's most sought-after mammals, providing some of the most unforgettable sightings on safari.

The African lodges included in our packages range from intimate personal tented camps to extravagant private bush villas.

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Luxury African Safaris

With Micato Safaris, the Only Travel+Leisure 10-Time #1 Winner

Why Safari with Micato

From our 24-hour Concierge Team to paying for a child’s education to no tipping ever, we’ve thought of every luxury.

Familiar Faces on Safari

Here are just a few of the travellers who have chosen Micato for their luxury safari. We bet these faces will be familiar.

Micato Safaris Reviews

We love hearing from our travellers. And here’s a collection of 425-plus Five Star reviews our guests have been kind enough to share online.

Find Your Popcorn

One of the next best things to joining Micato on safari is perusing our treasure trove of captivating, joyful videos.

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Travel+Leisure Micato Hits #1 Historic 10th Time

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The pinto family.

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As an African-born company we have a special responsibility to our homeland. Luckily, it’s a joyous, fruitful duty.

Private Safari Villas & Estates

Unabashedly but thoughtfully luxurious, our exclusive-use Private Villas and Estates are enchanting get-aways into Africa’s ancient calm and its unique excitements.

Micato Safaris treat their guests like well-loved, out-of-town relatives. Travel + Leisure Magazine

Our Luxury Safaris

The planet’s greatest game lands, Africa’s warmhearted people, and its mesmerizing landscapes, revealed gracefully, thoughtfully, and joyously by the world’s greatest luxury safari company.

It’s Lonely at the Top

These awards inspire us to work even harder as stewards of Micato’s esteemed reputation and of your safari. Here is a small sampling of our proudest moments.

Travel+Leisure

Unprecedented Ten-Time Winner of Travel+Leisure’s Award for #1 World’s Best Safari Outfitter

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Unprecedented Five-Time Winner of the Condé Nast Traveler World Savers Award for Education and for Doing It All

National Geographic

National Geographic Traveler and National Geographic Adventure Best Outfitters on Earth

Best VAST (Active) Operator, Best Escorted Tour Operator, Virtuoso Performance Award

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Swirlingly colourful, endlessly enchanting India, in the company of a company with deep roots in “the most extraordinary country the sun visits on his rounds.”

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Sabi-sands.com

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

A little bit about Sabi Sands Game Reserve

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

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

Going on safari in Sabi Sands

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

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

About Sabi Sands Game Reserve

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

Sabi Sands special offers

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

Getting to Sabi Sands Reserve

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

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

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

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

Sabi Sands Game Reserve lodges

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

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

• Price $$$$$

Chitwa Chitwa Lodge

lodge style Art-inspired African

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

from ZAR 26,550 per person per night

Ulusaba Rock Lodge

lodge style Tranquil hill & trees

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

from ZAR 14,159 per person per night

Notten's Bush Camp

lodge style Down to earth elegance

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

from ZAR 9,975 per person per night

Lion Sands Game Reserve

lodge style Riverside serenity

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

from ZAR 23,800 per person per night

Sabi Sabi Game Reserve

lodge style Present, past & future

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

from ZAR 15,969 per person per night

Singita Sabi Sand lodges

lodge style A very private affair

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

from ZAR 39,954 per person per night

Dulini Game Reserve

lodge style World class luxury

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

from ZAR 26,800 per person per night

Elephant Plains Lodge

lodge style Bushveld simplicity

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

from ZAR 5,500 per person per night

Arathusa Safari Lodge

lodge style classic lakeside safari

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

from ZAR 9,045 per person per night

Tengile River Lodge

lodge style Tranquil river views

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

from ZAR 34,799 per person per night

Jaci's Sabi House

lodge style Group and family home

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

from ZAR 48,174 (sleeps four)

Ulusaba Safari Lodge

lodge style Under a canopy of trees

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

Leopard Hills Lodge

lodge style Hilltop splendour

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

from ZAR 22,714 per person per night

&Beyond Kirkman's Kamp

lodge style Victoriana delight

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

from ZAR 18,394 per person per night

Nkorho Bush Lodge

lodge style stylish modesty

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

from ZAR 9,379 per person per night

Londolozi Game Reserve

lodge style Magical lodge collection

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

from ZAR 22,564 per person per night

Savanna Game Lodge

lodge style Classic semi-tented savannah

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

from ZAR 16,015 per person per night

Idube Game Lodge

lodge style affordable african safari

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

from ZAR 11,309 per person per night

Inyati Safari Lodge

lodge style Classic bush experience

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

from ZAR 12,584 per person per night

Silvan Safari Lodge

lodge style Luxury safari redefined

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

from ZAR 29,129 per person per night

Cheetah Plains Lodge

lodge style Ultrachic retreat

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

from ZAR 33,869 per person per night

Umkumbe Safari Lodge

lodge style Affordable elementary Bush

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

from ZAR 5,145 per person per night

Mala Mala Game Reserve

lodge style Classic family owned reserve

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

from ZAR 19,664 per person per night

Simbambili Game Lodge

lodge style moroccan style Lakeside

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

from ZAR 18,895 per person per night

Sabi Sands Video

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

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

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

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

Great place for viewing big cats!

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

• Sabi Sands Game Reserve
• Mpumalanga, South Africa
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Luxury South Africa safaris are our specialty — and each itinerary is unique, handcrafted just for you. Our team of passionate safari experts delight in sharing their love of South Africa through perfectly tailored, transformative journeys that will surpass your wildest expectations.

Not only will you discover a wildlife adventure like no other, but you’ll also be treated to some of the most luxurious eco-retreats, delicious cuisine, and exceptional hospitality in the world. Tell us what you’re dreaming of and leave the planning to us; you can simply sit back and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime.

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Best of South African Luxury: Relaxation and Adventure

Book a perfect trip to South Africa! Stay at the country’s top experiential luxury hotels: the fashionable new Silo Hotel in Cape Town, a grandiose getaway in wine country, a luxurious beach house, and an incredible Big 5 safari lodge.

Cape Town Explorer and Family Safari Adventure

This is the ultimate luxury adventure for multi-generational families or groups! Explore Cape Town and surrounds, followed by a well-rounded luxury safari in Londolozi (Kruger National Park) and Tswalu Kalahari. Featuring private touring and boutique 5-star accommodation throughout.

Stars of South Africa: River Cruise and Kruger Safari

Enjoy a fabulous river cruise on the one and only Zambezi Queen! You’ll also explore Cape Town and Victoria Falls, and finish up with a luxurious wildlife safari in Kruger National Park.

South Africa Safari Package: City and Safari

Get the full South African experience with a luxury safari adventure in Madikwe Game Reserve and Tswalu Kalahari, plus a trip to vibrant Cape Town!

African Safari Train Tour: Escorted Luxury Train Vacation

Enjoy the utmost luxury and enjoy breathtaking views of Africa aboard the famous Rovos Rail on this African Safari Train Tour.

Cruises South Africa: Wildlife and Victoria Falls

This AmaWaterways cruise shows you the best of southern Africa’s safari highlights! Enjoy a Chobe River boat cruise with water safari excursions, followed by 2 nights at Victoria Falls. Finish with a luxury Kruger safari to see Africa’s Big 5 and other spectacular wildlife.

Safari of the Senses: Winelands, Sabi Sands, and Victoria Falls

This trip has a bit of everything! Start with culinary delights and unique adventures in Cape Town (snorkeling with seals, anyone?), followed by a luxury safari in the Sabi Sands. Finally, stay at a unique island lodge in the Zambezi River and explore Victoria Falls by land and air.

South Africa Highlights Vacation

See the highlights of South Africa with this vacation package. Includes Cape Town, Kruger safari, Victoria Falls, and more.

Africa Tour: Luxury Safari, Victoria Falls, and Cape Town

This Africa Tour takes you to safaris in Kenya and South Africa, plus Victoria Falls and lovely Cape Town.

Romantic South Africa Vacation: Safari and Beach

Take a romantic South Africa vacation to Cape Town, a Kruger safari, and a luxurious island resort in Mozambique.

South Africa and Victoria Falls Package: Ultimate Luxury Adventure

Tour the highlights of South Africa and Victoria Falls in the utmost luxury. Enjoy private touring of Victoria Falls, Cape Town, and the Cape Winelands; go cage diving with Great Whites on a private cruise; ride the elegant Blue Train through the South African countryside; and enjoy luxury Big 5 safaris in the Sabi Sands and Madikwe Game Reserve.

Trip to Africa: Cape Town and Luxury Safari Anniversary Package

Trip to Africa: Cape Town and Luxury Safari Anniversary Package This Trip to Africa: Cape Town and Luxury Safari Anniversary package was designed for a honeymoon couple from Toronto. We sent them on a fabulous getaway to Cape Town and a safari adventure on a private game reserve. For this once-in-a-lifetime trip, they decided to pamper Read More…

South Africa Family Safari Package

Get the ultimate wildlife experience with this South Africa Family Safari Package. Go on safari, visit Seal Island, interact with monkeys and elephants, and more!

Seychelles Vacation and Luxury African Safari

This Seychelles Vacation and Luxury African Safari takes you to Cape Town, a luxury safari lodge, and an exclusive beach resort in the Seychelles.

South Africa Luxury Tour: Cape Town and Kruger Safari

Visit cosmopolitan Cape Town and enjoy a private culinary tour of the city. Experience a luxury Kruger safari in the famous Sabi Sands reserve, then explore beautiful walking trails that are only accessible by foot.

South Africa Highlights and Adventure Vacation

See all the South Africa highlights and unexpected delights. Explore Cape Town’s quirky side on private tours, sample the flavors of the Cape Winelands, go cage diving with Great White Sharks, and enjoy a Big 5 wildlife safari!

South Africa Kruger Safari: Sabi Sands Getaway

Enjoy the best wildlife viewing in South Africa on this Kruger safari. Stay at 2 ultra-luxury lodges in the exclusive Sabi Sands region of Kruger. One embodies traditional, old-world charm while the other offers understated, calming luxury. Both will cater to your every whim!

Luxury Safari and Beach Vacation: South Africa and Mozambique

Exotic African Luxury: 5-Star Safari and Beach Combo

Are you ready for a getaway unlike any other? Enjoy a luxury Big 5 safari in South Africa, then unwind at a stunning resort in Mozambique where you can watch turtles nesting and swim with dolphins!

Luxury Africa Vacation: South Africa and Mauritius Honeymoon

Make your honeymoon unique with this Luxury Africa Vacation. Go on safari in a private game reserve, tour Johannesburg, and relax at a luxury beach resort in Mauritius.

Safari and Spa Vacation: South Africa and Mauritius

This Safari and Spa Vacation brings you to buzzing Cape Town, a luxury safari lodge, and a stunning beach resort in Mauritius.

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Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Greater Kruger

Klaserie Drift Misava Safari Camp is one of the best safari lodges in South Africa and set on prime land in the heart of the Greater Kruger National Park. With 11000 hectares of traverse, our luxury african safari offers a true, exclusive retreat into nature. Located in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, which is known for its superb game viewing, abundant fauna and flora and diverse topography, there are daily flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town or it is only a 6 hour self drive from Johannesburg. Klaserie Drift Misava Safari Camp features all safari animals including the big five, incredibly diverse landscapes and beautiful, luxurious five-star accommodation with all the modern amenities. The lodge is solar powered, energy efficient and eco friendly.

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With four stylish and elegant garden-view rooms and two superior honeymoon suites with unrivaled views of the Klaserie river, Misava Safari Camp has something to suit every occasion.

About Misava

Celebrate life's wonderful moments with an African adventure. From boutique weddings and anniversaries to birthday celebrations and family reunions, we offer custom packages for every occasion.

Discover nature from a new perspective. Alongside thrilling game drives and walking safaris, we offer rejuvenating spa treatments, fun family activities and specialist packages for avid birders and yoga lovers.

With specially planned activities and a dedicated, spacious family unit, Misava Safari Camp is the perfect place to create lasting memories of your family adventure. Children of all ages are welcome at the lodge.

An incredible place to have our first African safari experience! Wild dog pups, elephant, rhino, hippo, lionesses, giraffe, zebra, hyena and impala all in one day - what an incredible experience! Vusi's food and smile 10/10, Molly and Grace's pampering 10/10 and all the staff just lovely - thank you!

Anna, Gareth, Holly and Sophie Grant

Heaven on Earth. 15 years in the Tourism Industry but I have never stayed at a more awesome place like this one. Your hospitality and service, the food...just everything is perfect! Thank you all!

Edith B and Robert R

The Netherlands

Thank you for a breathtakingly beautiful weekend away. You have created an exquisite and serene space that is truly amazing! We have been privileged to see and experience the true beauty of Africa, up close and personal. The entire team is amazing and the service was out of this world. We can't wait to be back!

David and Siobhan

Everything about our stay has been excellent. All the staff, from the driver to butlers and guides have been incredibly welcoming and friendly, making our stay memorable and incredibly special. Thank you MISAVA we hope to return one day.

Ellen and Ryan Deasy

From our blog

Did you know that most animals don’t have grandmothers? At least not in the way that we, as humans, do. Elephants, however, are one of the few species with whom we share this trait. Research shows that elephants born to young mothers are up to eight times more likely to survive if their grandmother is around. Wisened by years of child-rearing, leadership and life experience, elephant grandmothers are a critical support system...

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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

AFRICAN  SAFARI  HOME

African safari  home.

SOUTH AFRICA

Top luxury safari lodges, five star lodges, there are many excellent luxury safari lodges in south africa, but only three have been awarded the prestigious five star premium grade, so let's start with the best. , best south africa lodges, want the best accommodation in africa, watch this short video to discover the best luxury african safari lodges in south africa, proudly given the 5-star premium grading by the tourism grading council of south africa.  , see videos for the lodge surrounds, rooms, common areas and wildlife in the area in under 4 minutes, or keep reading below for more information...  , five star premium lodges, the top three rated lodges in south africa bearing the 5-star premium grading are all located in the greater kruger park area , comprising private wildlife reserves and concessions and home to more wildlife species than any destination in africa..

Royal Malewane

Royal malewane is the catalyst behind the royal portfolio group of luxury lodges and hotels in south africa, boasting three five star premium grade properties - more than any other group. , located in the thornybush private game reserve not only does the lodge exude opulence, but also boasts the most experienced team of safari guides in africa. , five star premium, royal portfolio, private reserve, best guides in africa, luxurious spa, unrivalled wildlife.

Camp Jabulani

Jabulani started more than 20 years ago and long before it was one of south africa's best safari lodges, it was a cheetah breeding project, then a wildlife rehabilitation centre and now africa's foremost elephant conservation project. , camp jabulani is located in the kapama game reserve of the greater kruger and home to a local herd of elephant, including a few a-list hollywood elephant celebrities too :) , elephant sanctuary, wildlife conservation, classic safari lodge, suspension bridge, big five safaris.

Lion Sands Ivory

The lion sands group of luxury african safari lodges is one of the most reputable in africa and the newly renovated ivory sands lodge is the shining star of the collection. , eight luxury one bedroom villas are uniquely located at the intersection of the sabie and sand rivers, attracting local wildlife to the doorstep of the lodge for a year-round safari destination. , 5 star premium lodge, 8 luxury villas, river setting, wilderness spa, luxury treehouses, kosher cuisine, below are more of our favourite south africa safari lodges in the five star luxury category. accommodation at these fine lodges is on an all-inclusive basis.  .

Simbavati Hilltop

Simbavati hilltop lodge is located in the private timbavati reserve in the greater kruger park. , if you're looking to check the big five animals off your bucket list the timbavati is the perfect place to do it thanks to the abundance of leopard found here, a notoriously shy cat and the one often missed on a big five african safari. , pristine wilderness, big five animals, eco friendly.

Kapama Buffalo Camp

Featuring 10 exclusive tents positioned on elevated platforms and surrounded by a forest canopy, kapama buffalo camp is reminiscent of a traditional african safari. , after a day in the wild tracking the big five you can retreat to the luxurious kapama spa, considered to be one of the finest spas in africa situated at the river lodge with 6 treatment rooms.  , excellent birding.

Lion Sands Narina

Southern kruger, lion sands narina lodge boasts a picture-perfect riverine setting and blends naturally into the surrounds, creating a tranquil bush setting with all the luxurious appointments of a five star lodge., the spectacular vistas over the sabi river and adjacent bushveld offers a birds eye view of the local wildlife below. for an experience you'll never forget consider the lodge's exclusive tented treehouse suspended among the stars in the wild.    , african bar, star gazing, wine cellar, big 5 & birding.

Leopard Hills

Leopard hills private game lodge situated in the sabi sands reserve is an award-winning lodge boasting exclusive safari adventures, fine dining, luxury accommodation with expertly trained rangers to showcase the big five., the lodge features eight glass-fronted suites each with air conditioning and a private pool with views of the wateing hole that attracts local wildlife daily. , wildlife safaris, 8 luxury rooms, guided walks, wellness & gym.

Sabi Sabi Selati

Sabi sabi selati is situated on the bend of the msuthlu river which meanders through the sabi sabi private game reserve, part of the greater kruger park in south africa., selati provides the essence of a bygone era with a traditional safari experience, albeit in a five star safari lodge. with an abundance of birdlife on your doorstep thanks to the location, and the big five animals a game drive away, selati is a popular year-round south african safari lodge. , seven rooms, world class flora, big 5 animals, birding safaris, greater kruger park, south africa lodges, the rainbow nation as south africa is fondly referred to offers a wide variety of four and five star luxury lodges for you to choose from for your african safari vacation. , the kruger park located in the north east of the country on the border with mozambique is home to the vast majority of these, and is africa's most popular wildlife safari destination. , 1. when is best to visit the kruger park, the best time to visit thekruger park for a wildlife safari is towards the backed of winter from late june to october. the daily temperatures are more moderate this time of year and thanks to the low rainfall of the dry winter season, the bush is less dense. this combination of factors means the bush is less dense and animals are more active, perfect for game viewing.  , 2. how much does lodge accommodation cost, depending on the season you visit the kruger park and the grading of lodge you require, you can expect to pay from $457 per person sharing nightly for luxury four star lodges, and from $757 per person sharing nightly for luxury five star lodges. , keep in mind that these prices are fully inclusive of all meals, local drinks and two daily game drives with private guides in open top 4x4 vehicles. , 3. what animals can i expect to see, on a south africa safari in the kruger park you can expect to see the big fave - namely lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard. the kruger is home to more than 140 large mammal species and over 500 different bird species, more than any destination in africa and the reason it is the most popular africa safari safari location on the continent. .

South Africa Safaris

If you want more information the best lodges available in south africa at unbeatable rates then contact us today and a friendly safari consultant will help tailor-make your dream vacation , we have more than 23 years experience designing turnkey african safaris including booking flights, accommodation, restaurants, day tours, cultural visits and more. , tailored packages, vip service, 24/7 local support, fully bonded, 20+ years experience, best rates available.

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Top 10 most luxurious safari lodges in South Africa

Monday newsletters  always feature  top 10 travel lists  to inspire.

Today: Top 10 most luxurious safari lodges in South Africa

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

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

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

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

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

9. ULUSABA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, SABI SAND

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

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

  8. THANDA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, KWAZULU NATAL

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

• Hotel website : Thanda Private Game Reserve

7. KAPAMA KARULA, KAPAMA GAME RESERVE

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

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

6. TSWALU KALAHARI, NORTHERN CAPE

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

• Hotel website :  Tswalu Kalahari

5. ROYAL MALEWANE, THORNYBUSH PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

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

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

4. LONDOLOZI GAME RESERVE, SABI SAND

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

• Hotel website : Private Granite Suites

3. SINGITA LEBOMBO LODGE, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

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

• Hotel website :  Singita Lebombo Lodge

2. IVORY LODGE LION SANDS, SABI SAND

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

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

1. &BEYOND TENGILE RIVER LODGE, SABI SAND

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

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

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Ulusaba where we’re going is listed in top 10

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

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

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

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

Thanda is definitelty the best Safari Lodge in South Africa!

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

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Kruger National Park

QUICK FACTS

• World-famous for it's wildlife
• Kruger Park is state-owned and accommodates budgets on both the low-end with self-catering, and on the high-end with luxury concessions
• Luxury customers usually fly in to nearby airports (KMIA / SZK / HDS) from either Cape Town or Johannesburg
• Self-drive possible but flying more common for luxury itineraries
• Game viewing best during the dry winters months May to Oct
• Wet summer season brings full waterholes, lush bushveld, many newborn wildlife and the summer migrant birds arrive
• 15+ luxury lodges in 9 private concessions (each run by a particular operator) over an area of 1,950,000 hectares.  Bare in mind that the majority of this is state-owned and run.

ADDITIONAL READING

• https://www.safari.com/blog/top-5-kruger-national-park-safaris
• https://www.safari.com/blog/top-10-luxury-lodges-in-the-greater-kruger-park

Lodge and package options are shown below, but if it seems daunting, feel free to contact [email protected]

Sub regions inside

Broader region.

The Kruger National Park is one of the most famous and visited National Parks in Africa, for good reason. Home to an incredibly diverse wildlife population including the Big 5, a wide range of predators, the biggest collection of mammal species in Africa and an amazing range of bird species - the Kruger Park is a mecca for wildlife encounters.

Over and above the endless African wildlife within the reserve, there are also an incredibly large and unique variety of luxury lodges within and surrounding Kruger National Park.

The Kruger National Park is a destination that is generally considered to be good all year-round.

The attraction to the Kruger National Park is most certainly the wildlife and there is no question that the dry winter season from May to October is considered the best time to experience phenomenal game viewing and walking safaris. The bush is less dense and animals tend to gather around the fewer permanent water sources, allowing for better viewing opportunities.

Mid-winter - June to August - is a very comfortable time of year to visit the Kruger as there are few mosquitoes, little if any rain and temperatures are pleasantly warm during the day and refreshingly cool at night. The bone-dry, end-of-winter months of September and October often experience uncomfortably hot and humid conditions but concentrations of animals around water sources are at their highest - this period is often regarded as the best game-viewing time for a Kruger safari.

The summer rains arrive from November onwards , peak in January and February and end around April. The Kruger is transformed into a beautiful, thriving green landscape and it makes for superb photography. Game viewing is still good with many young animals around, making it a predator's paradise. It is also the best time for bird watching as well as safari-and-beach holiday combinations.

The Kruger National Park is considered a low malaria area, however, we would recommend consulting a medical practitioner for advice about malaria.

The Kruger National Park is also very popular during the long December/January school holidays, so should you be looking to travel during this time period, we strongly recommend that you book well in advance and consider the northern parts of the park or the Kruger's private reserves and concessions, should you desire a less crowded experience.

The Kruger National Park is regarded as the ultimate safari destination and the largest in South Africa . With almost two million hectares of pristine wilderness, the park is split into northern and southern reserves. The northern reserves are often referred to as the Greater Kruger National Park .  

Home to the famous Big 5 : lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo, and the highest number of large mammal species on any African reserve, the Kruger offers a rewarding safari experience and an array of accommodation options including luxury lodges and self-catering. Activities offered at most reserves include morning and afternoon/evening open vehicle game drives and guided bush walks. Some reserves offer optional local village tours, hot air ballooning, elephant interactions, visits to animal rehabilitation centers, treehouse sleep-outs and photographic safaris.

May 10, 2024

Fabulous and efficient service by Shann…

Fabulous and efficient service by Shann Shaw, highly recommend her services! Made the process simple and stress-free.

May 9, 2024

Great experience- very well organised…

Great experience- very well organised and trustworthy. 5 Stars

professional service

professional, courteous and prompt service from Heleen at all times.

Patient help and guidance to find just…

Patient help and guidance to find just what I wanted.

May 8, 2024

Pascal is a travel angel! Highly recommend him.

We started planning for our safari trip contacting a bunch of different travel advisors but Pascal's service truly stood out to us as the best in the industry. He took care of planning everything from start to finish for our very last minute honeymoon trip (literally a month out and during the busiest safari season). He is extremely meticulous and very responsive to our 100 questions. He shared first hand experiences at each of the different lodges, personal pictures and gave us solid recommendations within our budget. He hopped on a call with us initially to explain all the differences to us first time safari goers, and continued to be very flexible and patient with us as we couldn't decide! We are very excited for our trip and cannot thank Pascal enough for being our first interaction on our upcoming trip.

Tanya was very efficient with helping…

Tanya was very efficient with helping ME get the correct booking.

Pascal was so responsive

Pascal was so responsive, informative and delightful!! I am grateful for Pascal’s expertise!! Many thanks!! 🙏🏽🦋☮️

May 7, 2024

Very helpful even with ever changing trip!

Anja was very helpful in getting our tour booked for our group. With date changes, time changes, even up to the last minute flight changes, she was on top of things! We will use Safari.com in the future for our Kenya safari trips.

Wonderful experience with Safari.com

Wonderful experience with Safari.com. My Safari Agent, Dolan, has 20+ years of experience in booking a memorable safari. He guided me in picking the right lodging and safari within my budget. He offered several options and answered all my questions. His response time was fast, regardless of the international time difference, and we were able to make quick decisions. Highly recommend.

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Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa

Superb safari destination, luxurious, five-star and private, welcome at mhondoro safari lodge and villa.

Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa is a luxurious, five-star private safari lodge and villa situated within the malaria-free Welgevonden Game Reserve in the Waterberg District of the Limpopo Province in South Africa. In an under three-hour drive or a one hour flight from Johannesburg, you can escape into this ideal safari destination to experience the magic of the Big 5 at home here in the African bush.

MHONDORO OVERLAND

Mhondoro overland is here to take you on the adventure of a lifetime.

Embarking on a safari across Africa in 5-star luxury is an unforgettable adventure that immerses you in the breathtaking beauty of the continent’s untamed wilderness.

As you venture out into the vast landscapes, accompanied by expert guides, you are treated to awe-inspiring encounters with Africa’s iconic wildlife. From open-air game drives to tranquil sundowner cruises, every moment is crafted to offer an extraordinary experience.

In the evenings, indulge in delectable gourmet cuisine on the go, paired with fine wines, while the sounds of the African night serenade you. This is a safari of unrivaled luxury, where nature’s wonders intertwine with refined elegance, leaving you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Suites & Villa

Honeymoon Suite

5 years ago

Executive Suite

Luxury Pool Suite

Luxury Pool Suite 2

3 years ago

Family Deluxe Suite

Family Suite

Mhondoro Villa

Sleeps 18 (excl. Villa)

Exclusive Use

Sleeps 24 (incl. Villa)

Unique features, waterhole hide.

Our 65-metre, reinforced tunnel connects an underground, waterhole hide to the Main Lodge.

An exceptional vantage point to gaze into the vast African night sky – your own private viewing deck.

Get a taste of the culinary delights the continent has to offer and indulge in our modern African cuisine.

SPA & WELLNESS

Appreciate the moment and enjoy a deep tissue massage or a soothing aromatherapy treatment.

Our private rangers are professional and share their expert knowledge about the bush.

Welgevonden Game Reserve is home to over fifty animal species, including Africa’s world-famous Big 5: African lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, African leopard and rhinoceros. Our rangers are experts in tracking these magnificent creatures during the early morning or late afternoon game drives. The 35,000 hectare reserve contains the world’s largest concentration, on private land, of the highly endangered white rhino. The Reserve’s renowned anti-poaching unit has ensured that not one of these gargantuan grazers has ever been lost to poaching – an incredible feat on a continent where the practice is endemic.

Questions or more information?

or email us: [email protected] || call us: +27 87 150 2314

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The farm boasts over 5000 hectares (13 000 acres) and offers access to an additional 100 000 hectares of malaria-free bushveld and hilly savannah in South Africa. We offer hunters over 40 species of antelope, small game and birds.

We are world-renowned for our top-quality trophies, which include the Eastern Cape Kudu, Blue Wildebeest, Gemsbuck, Impala and other species. With more than 1,000 antelope on our ranch, the game is bountiful and gives the hunter a real African hunting experience.

What to expect

Hunting in africa.

Experience the thrill of hunting African trophies and wildlife in a combination of Karoo bushveld and hilly savannah in the Eastern Cape – a truly unparalleled hunting destination in South Africa. Track animals, plan your route, navigate the terrain, and immerse yourself in the African hunting experience at its finest.

Hunting Accommodation

Experience award-winning south african hospitality.

The Thorndale Safari game lodge has earned a prestigious five-star rating from the South African Tourism Grading Council. Nestled on a hilltop with a breathtaking view of 5,000 hectares of tranquil bushveld, our game lodge offers the perfect setting to take in an African sunset.

Rates & Packages

All-inclusive packages.

Our Eastern Cape Hunting Packages cater to the discerning hunter, with tailor-made packages available upon request. All packages include transportation to and from Port Elizabeth Airport and Thorndale Safari, as well as meals, accommodation, beverages, laundry services, use of a 4×4 hunting vehicle, and the assistance of professional hunters, trackers, and skinners.

Activities & Attractions

Located near popular tourist destinations in the Eastern Cape, our hunting lodge at Thorndale Safari allows guests to explore the beauty and diversity of the region while enjoying hunting. Nearby popular attractions include the Addo Elephant Park, the Daniel Cheetah project, Nelson Mandela Bay beaches, deep sea fishing, and many more activities for those not participating in the hunt.

Testimonials

What our hunters have to say, best experience of my life.

Where do I even start? What a magnificent trip! There are not enough stars to describe my satisfaction. But I will begin with the booking process. Hailing from Abu Dhabi, I had long harbored the dream of an African hunting trip. I emailed Thorndale Safari, and within 2 hours, I received an email detailing everything. It was 1000% inclusive, covering everything from lodging and animal pricing to taxidermy. Let me say, I booked in a heartbeat. The process was seamless.

Then came the travel day, and Reece contacted me, assuring me that he would be waiting at the Port Elizabeth airport upon my arrival. True to his word, once I walked out, he was there, ready with a warm welcome.

Arriving at the lodge, let me start by saying that pictures and videos truly don’t do it justice. The photos take your breath away, but the actual views are even more stunning. You feel as though you’re in a surreal place. The lodge, perfectly perched on top of a hill, offers an endless view of Thorndale Safari. The rooms are fit for a king, making you feel at one with nature. The lodge and room decorations are stunning. In a hotel review, Thorndale Safari Lodging easily deserves a 5 out of 5 stars for cleanliness, amenities (pool, drinks, TV with Netflix, WIFI, and a firepit), as well as location and views. The hunting experience is out of this world. While I am a well-trained shotgun shooter, my rifle skills needed improvement. Reece and Matthew at the shooting range were instrumental in boosting my confidence. They explained the techniques needed for success and were extremely helpful and patient in ensuring my comfort for the upcoming hunts.

During the hunt, Reece always made sure I was comfortable, narrating every step of the process, from tracking animals to choosing the right rifle caliber. Every time we stalked an animal, he demonstrated the process—how to use the wind to our advantage, how to approach during a stalk, and ultimately, how to hunt. The stalking part was my favorite, bringing me so in touch with what it means to be a hunter. Reece didn’t treat me like a client but rather as a younger brother he was teaching to hunt. His passion and excitement made this experience the best of my life, and that’s saying something for a man who has traveled to 6 continents and 25 countries.

In conclusion, if you are reading this review while on the fence or concerned that everything seems too good to be true, I say go for it. Thank me later when you find yourself writing one of the longest reviews of your life.

To Thorndale Safari, I’ll be seeing you next year for another adventure of a lifetime. Thank you.

– By Talal

Thorndale Safari

The PHs Matthew and Reece were very professional and hospitable, and had great time with them on a personal level as well. The lodge was incredible, comfortable and clean rooms, amazing views, wonderful food, and excellent amenities. The hunting experience was exciting, fun, and professional.

The booking process was very fast and easy, and quick responses via Whatsapp and email. Thanks to Leigh and the team, to the accommodation ladies, and special thanks to Petros and Frank with whom we connected nicely and had the pleasure of enjoying the hunt with them.”

– Abdullah A

Best Hunting Experience Ever!!!

5-star service, 5-star hunting, 5-star accommodation, and 5-star views. From when we arrived, we felt at home and we struggled to leave. I will definitely recommend Thorndale for anyone who is looking for a great getaway to rest and even do a bit of hunting as well. Eva, Resse, and Petrus were great and very welcoming. I will be back soon.”

– Brendon J

Amazing experience great hospitality!

I visited last April with four of my friends. We were greeted at the airport by our P. H.’s Mathew and Reece who drove us to the ranch. The moment we arrived we fell in love with the place. The lodge was clean and perfectly located on top of a hill overlooking the ranch.

The supporting staff were extremely kind and friendly and the food was unbelievably delicious and abundant.

Hunting was lots of fun with the guidance of Reece and Mathew. I look forward to planning another trip to Thorndale in the near future. If you ever go there choose to hunt an Ostrich.

– BuYousif

Best Hunting Experience I ever had

High-quality personal service from the time our PH Mathew and Reece meet me and my family at the airport until they drop us back . It’s only 1 hour drive from Port Elizabeth Airport.

The moment we arrived we fell in love with the place . The 5 star lodge was clean and perfectly located on top of a hill over looking to the ranch – amazing view. Accommodations were well above what I had expected. High density of quality game on their properties. Quality of food and service is excellent.

My PH Reece was very experienced and professional. Takes care of you from the time you get up until you go to bed. The Lodge staff are very pleasant and always there to assist they took care of me and my family with a big smile. I am returning next year to hunt with them.”

– Yasser A

An experience you will not forget

“It was a beautiful and one of a kind trip, the people and the place just wonderful. A fantastic and useful experience especially with hunting equipment and the variety of animals it was an amazing adventure. ( Go feather Team)”

– Muhammad Alharbi

Arrive as friends and leave as family!

What a great holiday we had at Thorndale! This place was amazing and the staff fantastic.

We can not say enough about Matt and Reece as both were EXTREMELY patient with our 2 sons age 12/14. All 3 hunters had great success while at Thorndale! We enjoyed every minute of our visit!”

– 4johnson

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5-Day African Safari Tours

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of going on safari, and a 5-day African safari is one of the best there is. It takes no time at all to fall in love with Africa. And in 5 days you can see so much, from the animals great and small for which the continent is famous, to epic and iconic landscapes of incredible diversity. These landscapes are worth visiting as destinations in their own right, or as a backdrop to some of the greatest wildlife shows on earth. East and southern Africa have an amazing array of tours and experiences. The hardest choice is deciding which one to pick.

5-Day Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Manyara Program

$1,933 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Arusha (End)

Serengeti Smile

5.0 /5  –  218 Reviews

5-Day Short & Sharp - Go on, It Will Be Worth It

$2,415 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Hotel

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

5.0 /5  –  70 Reviews

5-Day Luxury Tara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Manyara Tour

$2,431 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Lake Manyara NP, Arusha (End)

Seven Wonders Safaris

4.5 /5  –  156 Reviews

5-Day Luxury Safari to Manyara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro

$2,253 to $2,263 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Full Package Adventures

5.0 /5  –  60 Reviews

5-Day Masai Mara, Nakuru, Hells Gate Budget Group Safari

$590 to $795 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 7 people per vehicle) Budget Tented Camp & Hotel

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Nakuru NP, Hell’s Gate NP, Nairobi (End)

Bienvenido Kenya Tours and Safaris

4.3 /5  –  77 Reviews

5-Day Short Holiday Package to Uganda – Gorilla Trekking

$1,906 pp (USD)

Uganda: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Entebbe (Start) , Queen Elizabeth NP, Bwindi NP (Gorillas) , Lake Bunyonyi, Entebbe (End)

Home To Africa Tours and Travel

4.9 /5  –  278 Reviews

5-Day Chimpanzee Trekking and Lake Kivu Experiences

$1,955 pp (USD)

Rwanda: Private tour Mid-range Hotel

You Visit: Kigali (Start) , Nyungwe NP (Chimps) , Lake Kivu, Kigali Airport (End)

Hermosa Life Tours and Travel

5.0 /5  –  105 Reviews

5-Day Living Among Lions - High-End

$3,260 to $4,470 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury+ Lodge & Tented Camp

Unlimited Expeditions: The Soul of Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  441 Reviews

5-Day Fly in Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Lake Manyara

$3,135 pp (USD)

You Visit: Zanzibar (Start) , Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Zanzibar (End)

Safari Soles

5.0 /5  –  246 Reviews

5-Day Comfort Safari in Kenya

$1,425 to $2,044 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Masai Mara NR, Lake Naivasha (Naivasha) , Amboseli NP, Nairobi (End)

Kameraz of Afrika

4.8 /5  –  99 Reviews

5-Day Botswana Luxury Tour

$3,346 to $5,317 pp (USD)

Botswana: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Kasane (Start) , Chobe NP, Okavango Delta, Maun Airport (End)

Wayfairer Travel

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

5-Day Magnificent Serengeti - Pure Luxury- All Inclusive

$3,453 to $3,996 pp (USD)

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Arusha (City) , Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Moshi (End)

Kojuu Safaris Africa

5.0 /5  –  36 Reviews

5-Day Amboseli, Lake Nakuru and Masai Safari

$1,375 to $1,540 pp (USD)

Kenya: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Nairobi (Start) , Amboseli NP, Lake Nakuru NP, Masai Mara NR, Nairobi (End)

Madukha Tours and Safaris

4.7 /5  –  27 Reviews

5-Day Explore the Serengeti and More

$2,210 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Tented Camp & Bungalow

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Northern Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Arusha (End)

Paradise & Wilderness

4.9 /5  –  132 Reviews

5-Day Gorillas Chimpanzees and Wildlife Safari in Uganda

$1,936 pp (USD)

Uganda: Private tour Budget Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Entebbe (Start) , Queen Elizabeth NP, Ishasha Sector (Queen Elizabeth NP) , Bwindi NP (Gorillas) , Lake Mburo NP, Equator (Highlight) , Entebbe (End)

Dav Safaris

5.0 /5  –  84 Reviews

5-Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Uganda

$2,530 to $2,750 pp (USD)

Uganda: Private tour Budget Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Entebbe (Start) , Kibale NP (Chimps) , Queen Elizabeth NP, Bwindi NP (Gorillas) , Lake Bunyonyi, Entebbe Airport (End)

Kubwa Five Safaris

5.0 /5  –  122 Reviews

5-Day Great Migration Safari in Northern Serengeti

$1,970 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Northern Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Serengeti Green Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  27 Reviews

5-Day Comfort Safari Experience

$1,755 to $1,914 pp (USD)

African Big Cats Safaris

5.0 /5  –  362 Reviews

5-Day Best of the Northern Circuit Experience

$1,791 pp (USD)

Kilimanjaro Adventure Safari Club

5.0 /5  –  147 Reviews

5-Day Tanzania Budget Camping Tour

$920 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Budget Camping

Mountain Warriors Tours and Safaris

5.0 /5  –  76 Reviews

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7 Questions About 5-Day African Safaris

Answered by

Anthony ham.

Is 5 days enough time for an African trip?

“Five days or five years: it will never be enough, but it’s a wonderful way to start. In 5 days, you’ll have at least 3 full days, and probably more, to explore some extraordinary landscapes and go looking for wildlife. That’s a whole lot of opportunities for you to see an elephant, a lion, a Pel’s fishing-owl, or whatever it is that you’re traveling so far to see. Five days is enough to get more than just a taste for the safari experience, and on the right tour you’ll pack enough memories into those 5 days to last a lifetime. To make this happen and to make the most of your time requires careful planning. As a starting point, make a list of what you really want to see on safari and prepare a list of questions to ask any prospective tour operator.”

Where should I go on a 5-day African safari?

“There is no single answer to this question. In fact, there are seemingly endless answers, because that’s how many possibilities there are. Part of how you answer this question will depend on when you wish to travel and what you most want to see on safari. With just 5 days at your disposal, you’ll probably want to focus on one particular safari destination and get to know it well. Maximizing your time in this way may mean that it’s best to choose one of Africa’s elite parks or wildlife destinations, because that may increase your chances of seeing as many different animals as possible in a short, concentrated space of time. Possibilities among many include the Serengeti National Park (Tanzania), Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya), Okavango Delta (Botswana), Kruger National Park (South Africa) or Etosha National Park (Namibia). Each of these places would be a wonderful place to spend 5 days. You could also combine any of these with a nearby attraction to broaden your experience a little. An example of this could be a 5-day African safari that combines the Serengeti with the Ngorongoro Crater, or the Masai Mara with Amboseli National Park.”

What are the options to extend an African tour?

“It’s a common feeling: your safari is nearly over and you don’t want it to end. As long as you’re able to change flights and have flexibility in your other travel arrangements, it shouldn’t be a problem in theory to extend your safari. This will, of course, vary from one tour operator to the next. There are a couple of other things to remember, things that may mean you’re better off planning to stay longer in the first place, rather than trying to extend when you’re already in Africa. In high season and in popular areas, many safari operators and campsites, lodges and tented camps are booked out for months in advance. With that in mind, trying to extend your trip may come with the consequence that your choice of where to stay may be severely limited. Also in high season, vehicles (for self-drive safaris) and guides (on group or private safaris) are often booked out back-to-back. This means that you may not necessarily be able to keep the same vehicle or guide for the additional days. Sometimes these issues won’t arise, but it’s worth remembering that they can. And whatever your plans, it’s always important to read all terms and conditions carefully when booking your safari, so that you’re fully aware of any costs or penalties in the event that you decide to extend your trip.”

What is the best time of the year for an African trip?

“There is no bad time to visit Africa on safari, but the time of year is still an important consideration in choosing when to travel. The weather is the most obvious variable that can affect your safari experience. Visiting Africa during the Dry season (which runs roughly from May or June to September or October in most of East and southern Africa) is the most popular choice. At such times, most trails and roads are open and in good condition for driving, and animals are generally easier to find because they tend to stay close to wherever there is water. It’s also the busiest time in many safari destinations, many accommodation choices are booked out months in advance, and prices are at their peak. Traveling during the Wet season (most often November to April or May, depending on the area) can be risky, although short storms are often more likely than constant rain. An afternoon storm for an hour is unlikely to disrupt your safari too much. After heavy rains, some unpaved tracks become muddy and impassable. Also, with plenty of water around, many animals disperse across a wide area, which can make them more difficult to find. But the rainy season does have its advantages: prices are lower, crowds are fewer and it’s often the best time for birding. The latter is true because many bird species migrate to Africa in November, and don’t return to Europe and elsewhere until April.”

Which animals am I likely to see?

“What you see all depends on where and when you go. For many visitors, the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) will be high on their list and it’s easy to find out which parks, reserves and wildlife areas have the Big Five in residence. Other sought-after species include cheetah, African wild dog, giraffe, zebra and more. When it comes to birds, Africa has hundreds of different species and, again, particular species inhabit specific areas, and it pays to do your research before choosing where to go if there are special birds you wish to see. In this, habitat is everything with, for example, an entirely different cast of creatures inhabiting forests (which are great for primates and forest bird species) to those you’ll find in deserts. The savannahs and light woodlands typical of so many East and southern African safari destinations tend to have the greatest diversity of species. Contrary to the dashed hopes of one disappointed safari traveler I once met, there are no wild tigers in Africa…”

How much does a 5-day African safari cost?

“It is impossible to give a specific answer to this question because there are so many variables that will impact the cost of your safari. These considerations include when and where you travel, what accommodation (from camping to luxury and everything in between) you choose, whether you’re on a self-drive, group or private safari, and so on. With so many different elements at play, it’s worth keeping in mind that what follows is the broadest possible guide. If you plan on budget camping, and don’t mind helping out with setting up camp, cooking and other camp duties, then prices per person per day start at US$100 to US$150. If instead you plan to stay in luxury accommodation and travel on an exclusive private safari, you’ll pay at least US$500 per person per day, and possibly significantly more. Most safari prices will fall somewhere in between.”

Should I choose a fly-in or road trip?

“There are advantages and disadvantages to both options. A fly-in safari certainly makes sense when you only have 5 days on safari. You’ll arrive in the quickest possible time, which allows you to dedicate more time to be out looking for animals or enjoying your accommodation. In fact flying may save you so much time that you might even have time to visit an extra place or two during your 5 days. An air transfer of this kind can also double as a scenic flight. Whether you’re flying out over the waters and into a remote camp in the Okavango Delta or flying past Mt Kilimanjaro into a camp in northern Tanzania or southern Kenya, the views can be incredible. The flipside of all of this is that flying in can be expensive, adding considerably to the overall cost of your safari. Apart from being cheaper and taking longer, traveling by road means being able to see and experience more of the country up close, rather than from high altitude. You’re far more likely to meet the locals if you travel by road.”

Tarangire Safari Lodge

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• Excellent 858
• Very Good 315
• All languages ( 1,263 )
• English ( 1,000 )
• French ( 72 )
• Italian ( 54 )

" Ask for a bungalow if you want plugs in your room. The electricity is turned off from 11pm to 6am, but that was plenty of charge time for us "

" Book early!! This place fills up quickly but you don't want to miss out. "

" Ask for accommodation near the main lodge so you don't have to walk so far "

" Binoculars are a mudty "

" Outstanding lodge. Every tent is excellent, good food, night safari is very interesting if a little accelerated adventure "

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TARANGIRE SAFARI LODGE - Updated 2024

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

Catherine McGregor visited Tswalu Kalahari with support from South Africa Tourism and Viva Expeditions

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A star in Rwanda before moving to Maine, singer Clarisse Karasira is finding fans in her new home

Karasira, who lives in Saco, sends a positive message through her music, and it's catching on. She'll perform songs and share her story at Maine Voices Live this month.

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Singer Clarisse Karasira performs at the Franklin Theater at Waynflete School in Portland in May 2023. Photo by Tim Greenway and courtesy of Sylvain Dejoie Ifashabayo.

Six years ago, Clarisse Karasira was working as a journalist, but she really wanted to be a singer.

WHAT: Maine Voices Live with musician Clarisse Karasira

WHERE: One Longfellow Square, 181 State St., Portland

WHEN: May 21 at 7 p.m.

HOW MUCH: $10, free for subscribers with code PPHSUB

INFO: pressherald.com/mainevoiceslive

She was sitting in her church, praying about her dream, singing quietly to herself. An older man that she didn’t recognize walked up to her.

“You’re going to be a great musician,” he said to her. “All of your blessings are there in the music.”

Today, 26-year-old Karasira is a celebrated musician in her home country of Rwanda and is becoming increasingly familiar in her new home in Maine. She quit her journalism job and released her first song in 2018. Her career took off, and she is now working on her fourth album and has more than 40 million total views on YouTube .

Wherever she is, she uses her music to spread a positive message.

“It’s about love and humanity, peace and unity,” she said. Advertisement

Since she moved to Maine in 2021, Karasira has joined the Traditional Arts Network, which connects people who are practicing a cultural art form that has Indigenous or global origins. Kemal Pohan, the community outreach manager who oversees that program at Mayo Street Arts in Portland, said Karasira is a model for others.

“A majority of the artists within our network are emerging artists, artists that are looking to build that fan base but haven’t necessarily achieved it yet,” he said. “Whereas Clarisse has already done that. The things she is doing to further her career are the things that these artists will hopefully do in a few years.”

A SONG FROM THE HEART

Clarisse Karasira has more than 40 million total views on her YouTube channel. Photo by Sylvain Dejoie Ifashabayo.

Karasira grew up as the second of six children, and their life was full of music. She sang in a children’s choir and at the church where her father is a pastor. She danced in a traditional troupe. She was always writing lyrics.

Her favorite artists and influences include the Rwandan singer Cécile Kayirebwa (“She’s a queen of our music”), as well as South African artists Miriam Makeba and Yvonne Chaka Chaka. She also loves the Irish pop group Westlife, and lately, she’s been listening to a lot of music from the Philippines.

“I like to listen to the traditional music,” she said. “I love it so much. Even now, at home, I’m listening to South African music or Rwandan music or Kenyan music. I love that kind of African music.” Advertisement

Still, her friends didn’t believe her when she said she was going to quit her journalism job to be a singer. She didn’t have a lot of money to make her first video for “Gira Neza,” so it wasn’t extremely polished. In the video, she walks through a village, greeting children and settling a dispute between two men. But it garnered more than a million views within weeks, and soon she was getting calls from potential managers, government officials and people who wanted to book her to perform. Her message connected with people. She won two major awards, including being named the best music artist promoting Rwandan culture in 2021 .

“‘Gira Neza’ means ‘be kind,'” she said. “It’s just a song that came to my heart.”

That theme is important to all of her music. She grew up in a country that was still reeling from a terrible genocide in 1994, when a long tension between the country’s ethnic groups exploded and more than 800,000 people were killed. Her father always opened their home to orphans, and her faith is a constant in her life.

“I grew up sensing that there is this need of unity and reconciliation in the community, which is still there,” she said.

She met her manager and husband, Sylvain Dejoie Ifashabayo, because he wanted her to perform at a major music festival he was organizing in Rwanda. They started exchanging messages on WhatsApp about music and became friends. When they married in May 2021, he was living in Colorado, where he was studying entrepreneurship. She was reluctant to leave her family and her fans in Rwanda, but they did not want to have a long-distance relationship. He connected with a friend in Maine who told them about the growing Rwandan community in the state, and Karasira agreed to move here in November 2021. They live in Saco with their nearly 2-year-old son.

THE SOUND OF HOME Advertisement

She records many of her songs in Kinyarwanda, her first language.

“I don’t want to show my people that now I’m in America and I’m another person,” she said.

Her most recent album, released in 2023, is titled “Bakundwa.” It means “beloved,” and Karasira described it as a letter to her fans around the world. A story in the Rwandan English newspaper The New Times reflected the anticipation among her fans: “Karasira’s dedication to authenticity and heartfelt storytelling has music enthusiasts eagerly awaiting to release her masterpiece next month and is expecting an introspective and soul-stirring experience.”

Maurice Habimfura is originally from Rwanda and was already living in Maine when he learned about Karasira’s music on social media.

“Everybody was talking about it,” he said.

Habimfura performs traditional drums and dancing in a group called Ikirenga cy’Intore. He said Karasira is one of a line of iconic women artists in Rwanda. Advertisement

“She is among those big female artists that really keep us moving,” he said. “She has a beautiful message. The script is real. She’s an artist who goes into our culture and writes about life.”

He listens to her music on the way to his job as a registered nurse and plays her songs for his children as he takes them to daycare. One of his favorites is one she sings about naming her son, which connects to his own feeling of pride at being a father.

“When I hear music in my language, it takes me back home,” he said. “You can smell food you haven’t eaten in years.”

‘MY TALENT IS IN ME’

Katie Page, program manager at Mayo Street Arts, first read about Karasira in Amjambo Africa , a monthly newspaper that serves local immigrants. Page looked up Karasira’s music on YouTube and thought it was “divine.”

In 5 years, Amjambo Africa has become an important news source for Maine immigrants

“I love how she was taking traditional ideas for music and recreating them in her own contemporary way,” she said. “It was lovely and seemed like a natural fit (for Mayo Street Arts). Clarisse glows. She has a beautiful gift of song, and that exudes out from her.” Advertisement

She quickly contacted Karasira and Ifashabayo to schedule a performance at the East Bayside nonprofit in January 2023, which sold out. Karasira performed with Mesa Schubeck, a pianist who lives in Yarmouth.

“Her voice, it’s just stunning,” Schubeck said. “She sings with such heart and from such a deep place, and I just love the freedom she has in her singing.”

They’ve collaborated multiple times since then, including  on her upcoming appearance at the Press Herald’s Maine Voices Live event on May 21 , and Schubeck said she feels grateful to get to know Karasira and her family. Their rehearsals are laidback and collaborative. Karasira sings, and Schubeck matches her on the piano.

“I’ve had some musical experience where people bring in a piece of sheet music and say, ‘Can you read this?’ ” she said. “This has been very different. I love the freedom and the challenge that’s provided. Clarisse has been so relaxed with it all and very gracious about me figuring it out.”

When Karasira launched her next album last summer, Mayo Street Arts decided to find a bigger venue to accommodate the interest in her new music. Page said the album release concert at Waynflete School in Portland in August was “jovial and celebratory.”

“All the little girls were running down and dancing with Clarisse,” she said. Advertisement

The Traditional Arts Network meets quarterly at Mayo Street Arts and has between 25 and 30 members. Pohan said Karasira’s positivity inspires the other members of the group.

“I’m a musician myself. I was raised here in Maine,” he said. “It’s hard enough to try and cultivate an artistic career for yourself when you’re from this country, but when you’re not from his country, that task can seem daunting. Having Clarisse’s music radiate positivity gives a lot of people hope, and it normalizes the idea of having a career in the arts.”

Moving her career to a new country is still daunting, even for a star with millions of YouTube views. Karasira said she hoped that she would be performing more in the United States, but she continues to record music remotely with her team in Rwanda and releases new songs regularly.

“It’s not like I’m leaving my talent somewhere,” she said. “My talent is in me.”

Clarisse Karasira, center, hugs fans at her album release concert in August 2023 at Waynflete’s Franklin Theater. Photo by Nicole Byrne and courtesy of Mayo Street Arts.

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50 of the BEST Mother-Daughter Movies

Here is a list of 50 of the BEST Mother-Daughter movies to plan your best movie night!

Each of these movies listed below has some type of dynamic relationship and even conflict between mother and daughter.

Most of the list of movies are obvious but some are not.

This list is not in a particular order, but I am wondering if there are ones missing or ones that you feel don’t below.  Let me know what you think and we will continue to edit and add to the list.

• Little Women (1994) – This adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel follows the lives of the four March sisters as they navigate love, loss, and sisterhood under the guidance of their mother.
• Lady Bird (2017) – A coming-of-age comedy-drama that explores the tumultuous relationship between a strong-willed teenager and her equally strong-willed mother as they navigate love, independence, and dreams.
• Terms of Endearment (1983) – A heartfelt film that explores the complex relationship between a mother and her daughter as they face love, loss, and personal growth.
• Stepmom (1998) – A poignant drama about a terminally ill mother (Susan Sarandon) and her ex-husband’s new partner (Julia Roberts) as they navigate the challenges of co-parenting and ultimately find common ground.
• Mamma Mia! (2008) – A musical comedy that follows a bride-to-be as she tries to uncover the identity of her father among three potential candidates, with her mother’s past love life providing the backdrop.
• Mermaids (1990) – Set in the 1960s, this comedy-drama follows a single mother and her two daughters as they navigate the challenges of love, growing up, and finding their place in the world.
• Freaky Friday (2003) – A comedy film about a mother and daughter who magically switch bodies, leading to humorous and insightful moments as they gain a newfound understanding of each other’s lives.
• Little Miss Sunshine (2006) – This indie comedy-drama revolves around a dysfunctional family as they embark on a road trip to support their young daughter’s dream of competing in a beauty pageant.
• In Her Shoes (2005) – A dramedy that explores the complex relationship between two sisters (Cameron Diaz and Toni Collette) as they navigate their differences and ultimately find common ground.
• The Parent Trap (1998) – Identical twin sisters, separated at birth and raised by different parents, meet at summer camp and devise a plan to reunite their long-divorced parents.
• The Princess Diaries (2001) – A charming family film about an ordinary teenager (Anne Hathaway) who discovers she is a princess and must navigate the challenges of royal life with the support of her quirky grandmother (Julie Andrews).
• The Joy Luck Club (1993) – Adapted from Amy Tan’s novel, this film delves into the lives of four Chinese-American women and their relationships with their mothers, exploring themes of cultural identity, sacrifice, and the power of storytelling.
• The Blind Side (2009) – Based on a true story, this inspiring film follows a wealthy woman (Sandra Bullock) who takes in a homeless teenager (Quinton Aaron) and helps him realize his potential, showcasing the transformative power of love and motherly care.
• Brave (2012) – An animated adventure film set in the Scottish Highlands, where a young princess named Merida must break a curse and reconcile with her mother while discovering the true meaning of bravery.
• Now and Then (1995) – This nostalgic coming-of-age film follows four friends as they reminisce about their shared childhood experiences, reflecting on the impact of their mothers’ friendships and guidance.
• Anywhere But Here (1999) – A drama about a free-spirited mother (Susan Sarandon) who uproots her daughter’s life to pursue her own dreams, leading to a journey of self-discovery for both of them.
• 27 Dresses (2008) – While primarily a romantic comedy, this film explores the close bond between two sisters as one of them (Katherine Heigl) selflessly supports the other through various romantic entanglements.
• Because I Said So (2007) – A romantic comedy that centers around the meddling, yet well-intentioned, efforts of a mother (Diane Keaton) to find the perfect man for her daughter (Mandy Moore).
• The Secret Life of Bees (2008) – Set in the 1960s, this powerful drama follows a young girl (Dakota Fanning) as she escapes an abusive household and finds solace and a sense of belonging with a group of beekeeping sisters, led by the maternal figure played by Queen Latifah.
• My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002) – A romantic comedy about a young woman (Nia Vardalos) from a Greek-American family as she navigates her cultural traditions, family dynamics, and the pursuit of love.
• Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood (2002) – Based on the novel by Rebecca Wells, this film tells the story of a mother-daughter relationship strained by secrets, healing through the bond of a close-knit group of lifelong friends.
• Nowhere Boy (2009) – A biographical drama about the teenage years of John Lennon (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and his complex relationship with his mother, Julia Lennon (Anne-Marie Duff), who influences his musical journey.
• The Help (2011) – Set in the 1960s, this film focuses on the relationships between African-American maids and the white families they work for, highlighting the motherly connections and shared struggles between the characters.
• The Family Stone (2005) – A comedy-drama about the Stone family’s holiday gathering, where the eldest son brings his uptight girlfriend (Sarah Jessica Parker) home, leading to clashes, unexpected connections, and a deeper understanding of family bonds.
• White Oleander (2002) – Based on the novel by Janet Fitch, this drama follows a young girl (Alison Lohman) who endures a series of foster homes while her incarcerated mother (Michelle Pfeiffer) exerts a lasting influence on her life.
• Incredibles 2 (2018) – An animated superhero film that explores the dynamics of the Parr family as the mother, Helen/Elastigirl, takes the spotlight to save the world while her husband Mr. Incredible stays at home to care for their children.
• The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (2005) – Four best friends discover a pair of magical jeans that fit them all perfectly, symbolizing their enduring friendship and providing support as they navigate their individual challenges.
• An Unfinished Life (2005) – A drama about a troubled woman (Jennifer Lopez) who moves to her estranged father-in-law’s (Robert Redford) ranch with her daughter, leading to healing, forgiveness, and a deeper understanding of family.
• For Keeps (1988) – A romantic comedy-drama that explores the challenges faced by a teenage couple (Molly Ringwald and Randall Batinkoff) when they unexpectedly become parents and must confront the realities of adulthood and parenthood together.
• My Girl (1991) – Set in the 1970s, this coming-of-age film follows an 11-year-old girl (Anna Chlumsky) as she deals with the loss of her mother and forms an unlikely friendship with a boy (Macaulay Culkin) from a funeral home.
• Jack & Diane (2012) – A romantic drama that delves into the passionate relationship between two teenage girls and the impact it has on their individual lives and the lives of their families.
• Girl, Interrupted (1999) – Based on a memoir, this drama focuses on a young woman (Winona Ryder) who voluntarily commits herself to a mental institution, forming unexpected bonds and finding solace in the presence of other patients, including a motherly figure (Angelina Jolie).
• The Duchess (2008) – A period drama based on the life of Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire (Keira Knightley), as she navigates the challenges of her loveless marriage and seeks independence, all while trying to be a loving mother.
• Aquamarine (2006) – A teen fantasy film about two friends who discover a mermaid named Aquamarine and help her find true love while learning valuable lessons about friendship and growing up.
• Whip It (2009) – A sports comedy-drama about a rebellious teenager (Ellen Page) who finds her passion in roller derby, with the support and encouragement of her unconventional mother (Marcia Gay Harden).
• Mermaids (1990) – A comedy-drama about a single mother and her two daughters as they navigate the challenges of love, growing up, and finding their place in the world.
• Anna Karenina (2012) – Based on Leo Tolstoy’s novel, this period drama follows the tragic love affair of Anna Karenina (Keira Knightley), a woman torn between her duty as a mother and her desires for love and freedom.
• The Sisterhood of Night (2014) – A mystery drama that explores the consequences faced by a group of girls involved in a secret society, with their mothers and the community at large trying to unravel the truth.
• Kit Kittredge: An American Girl (2008) – Set during the Great Depression, this family film centers around a resourceful young girl (Abigail Breslin) who dreams of becoming a journalist while her mother (Julia Ormond) teaches her valuable life lessons.
• Little Secrets (2001) – A family film about a young girl who runs a secret business where she helps others keep their deepest secrets, all while facing her own challenges and learning important lessons from her mother.
• The Guilt Trip (2012) – A comedy about an inventor (Seth Rogen) who embarks on a road trip with his overprotective mother (Barbra Streisand), leading to humorous and heartfelt moments as they confront their relationship and discover more about each other.
• Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood (2002) – This film tells the story of a mother-daughter relationship strained by secrets, healing through the bond of a close-knit group of lifelong friends.
• 20th Century Women (2016) – Set in 1979, this drama explores the relationships between a single mother (Annette Bening), her teenage son, and the young women who influence his life, providing unique perspectives on womanhood and motherhood.
• Riding in Cars with Boys (2001) – A dramedy based on the memoir of Beverly Donofrio, this film follows a young woman (Drew Barrymore) who becomes a teenage mother and must navigate the challenges of parenthood while pursuing her dreams.
• Jackie & Ryan (2014) – A romantic drama about a single mother (Katherine Heigl) who forms a connection with a traveling musician (Ben Barnes) and finds inspiration and support in their relationship.
• Elsa & Fred (2014) – A romantic comedy-drama about a widower (Christopher Plummer) who forms an unlikely friendship and romance with his eccentric neighbor (Shirley MacLaine), bringing newfound joy and spontaneity into both their lives.
• Anywhere But Here (1999) – A drama about a free-spirited mother who uproots her daughter’s life to pursue her own dreams, leading to a journey of self-discovery for both of them.
• Morning Glory (2010) – A comedy-drama that follows the career aspirations of a young television producer (Rachel McAdams) as she takes on the challenge of revitalizing a morning show, with her relationship with her mother (Diane Keaton) serving as an important source of support.
• The Kids Are All Right (2010) – A comedy-drama about a same-sex couple (Annette Bening and Julianne Moore) whose family dynamic is challenged when their children seek out their biological father, leading to a thoughtful exploration of modern family dynamics and the bonds between mothers and their children.
• Room (2015) – Based on the novel by Emma Donoghue, this intense drama follows a young mother (Brie Larson) and her son as they escape from captivity and adjust to life outside, highlighting the powerful and unconditional love between a mother and child.

How to plan a Mother-Daughter Movie Night!

• Make a date with your mom or your daughter!
• Plan snacks and popcorn and favorite beverages!
• Keep it light-hearted and entertain the conversations during the movie!
• More tips on Family Movie Nights .

• Share full article

A Failed Crop Rattled the Chocolate Industry. Then Speculators Came.

After a production shortfall in West Africa, cocoa prices rose to $4,000 a metric ton from $2,500. Then they went nuts.

Credit... Carl Godfrey

Supported by

By J. Edward Moreno

• May 10, 2024

A failed crop, followed by a wave of financial speculation, put cocoa prices on a roller coaster this year, rattling an industry reliant on inexpensive crops and labor.

This is not how things normally go in the cocoa market. For much of the past decade, the price of cocoa in one key global benchmark hovered around $2,500 per metric ton. Last year, after poor harvests in West Africa, the price began to creep up — rising to $4,200 a ton by December, a threshold that hadn’t been crossed since the 1970s.

Then the financial speculators began to pile in — betting prices would rise further. They pushed the price above $6,000 a ton in February, $9,000 a ton in March and $11,000 a ton in mid-April. Since then, the price has swung wildly, falling nearly 30 percent in just two weeks before bouncing up again. By Thursday, the price was $8,699 a ton.

Large food companies have been raising prices and warning that they’ll have to continue to do so if cocoa doesn’t stabilize. Companies that use more pure cocoa — rather than the palm oil and other fillers that go into many candy bars — will be hit hardest, though some premium chocolate makers note that they’ve always paid much higher prices in order to compensate farmers fairly.

The situation doesn’t look as if it’s going to settle down soon. Here’s what you need to know.

What happened to the cocoa crop?

A combination of low rainfall, plant disease and aging trees led to a disappointing crop in Ivory Coast and Ghana in 2023. The two countries produce about two-thirds of the world’s cocoa, so the shortage hit the global market hard. It continues: The International Cocoa Organization recently forecast that global production will trail demand by 374,000 tons this season, which ends in September, after a 74,000-ton shortfall last year.

There’s no quick fix for this. The trees take years to produce fruit, giving farmers little incentive to plant more since they don’t know what the price of the crop will be when they bear fruit. Some may prefer to use more of their land for growing rubber or mining gold.

But while the production shortfall underpinned the initial price gains, speculation from investors like hedge funds took things to another level.

“Yes, there’s fundamentals that trigger the move, but then these financial considerations add to it and compound to the situation.” said Judy Ganes, a commodities consultant. “It’s money driven.”

How is the global price of cocoa set?

Like any commodity, cocoa has many different prices.

In Ghana and Ivory Coast , the government sets a seasonal rate that cocoa farmers are paid, in an effort to protect them from volatility in global prices. After market prices spiked in April, the Ivory Coast’s agriculture ministry agreed to raise that rate for the rest of the season — but it is still far less than the increase in global commodity markets.

In other countries, farmers are paid market rates.

But big buyers, like Hershey and Mondelez, and commodity traders buy and sell cocoa on global exchanges, where they trade physical beans as well as futures contracts that can require them to take a delivery of beans at a future date.

It’s in the global exchanges that prices have become disconnected from the reality on the farms.

The global benchmark for cocoa is a futures contract traded on the Intercontinental Exchange — and a buyer of that contract is agreeing to a price for a metric ton of cocoa beans to be delivered to one of several ports in the Eastern United States.

One big factor behind the price spike this year is that those futures contracts are settled with physical delivery of the cocoa — which means traders who are selling the contracts need to keep large reserves of cocoa beans on hand. That can result in an upward spiral, as traders are forced to buy more cocoa in order to replenish their inventories.

The volume of trading can also affect how the price changes.

In January, the number of active cocoa contracts jumped 30 percent from the year before, data from the Commodities Futures Trading Commission show. But that trading volume fell sharply starting in April — as prices peaked — and the smaller number of trades resulted in big price swings in the past two weeks.

Though prices have come down from their highest point, they’re likely to stay elevated for some time, said Paul Joules, an analyst at Rabobank, “because of the systemic issues that are going to take a while to resolve.”

Carla Martin, a Harvard professor who studies the cocoa industry, said the broader market might look more efficient if farmers had more price-setting power based on their supply.

“There’s actually a ton of money in cocoa, it’s just getting captured in very specific nodes of the supply chain,” Ms. Martin said. “The market itself does not actually solve these kinds of problems, the problems get solved by people.”

What does this mean for chocolate bars?

Chocolate prices are mostly rising. When Hershey and Mondelez, which owns brands like Cadbury and Toblerone, reported earnings recently, the price swings were a big topic of conversation.

Mondelez said it raised its prices about 6 percent in the first three months of the year, and Hershey about 5 percent, and both said they would be willing to push prices up more if the cost of cocoa stayed high. Both companies said their profits had increased by double-digit percentages over the previous year as consumers continued buying their products despite rising prices.

Luca Zaramella, the chief financial officer of Mondelez, told analysts on April 30 that the market was “overreacting” and that it would very likely correct itself in the latter half of the year.

Still, he said, “it’s absolutely critical for us to get ready for potentially cocoa staying at these levels.” Mondelez could protect its profits, Mr. Zaramella said, by trying to secure large orders of cocoa during market downswings or reducing costs for other inputs, like ingredients.

Some “bean to bar” chocolate makers, which have always paid a premium for the cocoa they get from smaller farmers, say they’re having a different experience.

“The premium cocoa price never changed,” said Dan Maloney, who runs Sol Cacao, a chocolate business in the Bronx, with his two brothers. “It’s almost like the bulk price caught up with the premium price, but we were always paying premium.”

Mr. Maloney said he was already paying $9,000 to $12,000 for a ton of premium cocoa, which he obtains from farmers around the world, particularly in Latin America and Africa. Sol Cacao charges $8 for a 1.86-ounce bar, while a four-ounce Hershey bar is about $2.

Mr. Maloney said he charged those prices to ensure the quality of the product and ethical treatment of farmers in the industry, which has a history of exploiting children and enslaved people for labor .

“They market chocolate as candy,” Mr. Maloney said of large manufacturers. “We market it more as a luxury, something to savor, like a bottle of wine.”

Some cocoa farmers see buyers like Mr. Maloney as allies who protect them from the whims of the financial markets.

Gustavo Mindineros, a cocoa farmer who leads a co-op of producers in Tumaco, Colombia, said farmers tended to favor smaller buyers when production was low because they bought fewer beans at a higher price.

“The large company guarantees volume, but they don’t recognize quality,” Mr. Mindineros said. “Smaller buyers do recognize quality, and they pay a premium for it.”

J. Edward Moreno is a business reporter at The Times. More about J. Edward Moreno

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