best south african safari resorts

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.

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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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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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The 25 Best Safari Lodges in South Africa

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

For a family stay

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

For a five-star luxury lodge

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

For sustainability

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

Sleep under the stars

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

For a couples stay

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

For a spa-fari experience

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

STILL NOT SURE?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gondwana Game Reserve Western Cape 28 rooms from $547

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

Motswari Private Game Reserve Mpumalanga 15 rooms from $733

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

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

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

Nkorho Bush Lodge Limpopo, Mpumalanga 7 rooms from $769

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

Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa Limpopo 6 rooms from $797

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

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

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

Camp Ndlovu Limpopo,, Limpopo 3 rooms from $880

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

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

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

Gorah Elephant Camp Addo 11 rooms from $937

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

Klaserie Sands Mpumalanga 5 rooms from $942

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

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

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

Madikwe Safari Lodge North West Province 20 rooms from $1043

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

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

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

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

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

Tanda Tula Limpopo,, Mpumalanga 12 rooms from $1602

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

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

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

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

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

Kapama Karula Camp Hoedspruit 12 rooms from $2424

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

Jabulani Safari Hoedspruit 7 rooms from $2474

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

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

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

Tswalu Kalahari Northern Cape 15 rooms from $3340

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

Royal Malewane Hoedspruit 6 rooms from $3459

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

Written by Megan Lambert

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Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

South africa’s best luxury safari accommodation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury safari lodges in South Africa…

Nottens Bush Camp

Sabi Sands, South Africa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phinda Mountain Lodge

Phinda Game Reserve, South Africa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Singita Sweni Lodge

• Kruger National Park, South Africa

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

Singita Sweni

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zebra Hills Safari Lodge

Manyoni Private Game Reserve

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

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

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

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

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

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

Samara Private Game Reserve

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

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

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

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

Amakhala Game Reserve

Giraffe-spotting on a game drive

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

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

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

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

Kariega Game Reserve

Three luxury safari lodges at Kariega, South Africa

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

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

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

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

Shamwari Game Reserve

One of Shamwari’s waterside lodges

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

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

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

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

Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve

The pool area at Tswalu, South Africa

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

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

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

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

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

Madikwe Game Reserve

Views of the bush from a Madikwe balcony

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

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

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

The Ant Collection

Horseback safari at the Ant Collection, South Africa

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

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

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

Entabeni Safari Conservancy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leobo Private Reserve

Bush views from open lounge area at the Leobo lodge

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

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

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

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

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

Mabalingwe Nature Reserve

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

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

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

Welgevonden Game Reserve & Marakele National Park

Drinks time at Welgevenden’s pool area

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

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

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

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

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

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The 10 Best Safari Lodges in South Africa

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

1. Singita Boulders, Sabi Sands

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

Related: Checking In to Singita Boulders Safari Lodge

2. Ivory Lodge, Lion Sands Game Reserve

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

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

3. Londolozi Lodge, Lion Sands Game Reserve

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

Related: These are the 12 best bathtubs in Africa

4. Royal Malewane, Thorny Bush Game Reserve

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

Related: Checking In to Royal Malewane, South Africa

5. andBeyond Rock Lodge, Phinda Game Reserve

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

6. Tree Tops Safari Lodge, Lalibela Game Reserve

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

7. Singita Sweni, Kruger National Park

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

8. Madikwe Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

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

9. Lukimbi Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park

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

10. Ulusaba Rock Lodge

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

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

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• The Safari Hotels of South Africa

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

Hotels Travel Africa Safari

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

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

Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge

Shamwari Sindile

Shamwari Bayethe

Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

Lion Sands River Lodge

Honeyguide Tented Safari Camps

Makalali River Lodge

Royal Malewane

Kruger Shalati - the Train on the Bridge

Top image: Kwandwe Ecca Lodge — Grahamstown, South Africa

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Top 10 Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa to Visit in 2023

Accommodation , South Africa , Top Lists

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When it comes to choosing the best luxury safari lodges in  South Africa , it can seem like an impossible task. But that's why we're here! As the  World's Leading Safari Company , we've stayed at all the top lodges to handpick the best ones. There are many enormous private game reserves and a host of luxury safari lodges in South Africa to choose from. So, whether you want a luxurious honeymoon dripping with romance or a fun-filled family safari, this list (in no particular order) is the perfect guide to assist you.

One of the top luxury safari lodges in South Africa is Kwandwe Ecca Lodge in the Eastern Cape, Image Credit: Kwandwe

1. Saseka Tented Camp

The palatial suites at  Saseka Tented Camp  have circus-top canvas awnings. However, that's where any reference to a tented camp ends. The rest is a dramatic amalgamation of glass, aluminium, wood, stone, cork, reed, fabric… and light. Everywhere you look, you see Arica's glorious sunshine, whether dappled or streaming into your suite at dawn.

Now add a first-class Big 5 private safari with a personal guide, dedicated tracker, off-road traversing, night drives and bush walks, and you've got luxury safari nirvana. Setting the bar for luxury safari lodges in South Africa really high, Saseka Tented Camp is the complete package. Therefore, you can expect impeccable service, fine dining – Med-inspired, worldly, sophisticated and plentiful  –  spa treatments, reading rooms, pools, viewing decks, starlit campfires, bush breakfasts and sunset cocktails.

Who’s It For?

Saseka Tented Camp has universal appeal in bucketloads and offers a spectacular setting, accomplished service, and a first-class safari. It's also a strong contender for that splash-out honeymoon highlight. Milestone celebrations receive the attention they deserve, and the exclusive villa is perfect for a luxury multigenerational family holiday.  

• Beautiful setting on a bend overlooking the ephemeral Monwana River in Thornybush Private Game Reserve
• Refreshing design full of light and dramatic use of textures, colours, contrasts and detail
• First-class Big 5 game viewing in a private, unfenced extension of the Kruger National Park
• Excellent hospitality, food, service and amenities, including private plunge pools, spa, personal guides, trackers and butlers

Serene setting in the bush, Image Credit: Thornybush Saseka Tented Camp

2. Silvan Safari

In the world of luxury safaris,  Sabi Sand  is rated as one of the best private game reserves in the Greater Kruger National Park . So, how about experiencing the (officially) best safari lodge in Africa's best game reserve? Well, Silvan Safari has consistently been voted the World's Leading Luxury Lodge since 2018 and is certainly worthy of all the praise.

The entire team at  Silvan Safari  makes a concerted effort to take your safari to a new level of luxury. It's best known for its super-attentive service, incredible art throughout the lodge, and one of the biggest gin collections in all of Sabi Sand. Furthermore, the food rivals the best international five-star hotels, and the guiding and wildlife transcends the traditional safari experience. 

Who’s it for?

Silvan Safari will exceed your expectations, even if you've frequented the top accommodation options in the world. It offers the best of everything in an extraordinary wilderness setting. Luxurious, intimate and with plenty of privacy, Silvan Safari is the perfect fit for couples, families, solo travellers, nature lovers, photographers, birders, and adventure and wellness seekers. In other words, anyone looking for the safari of a lifetime!

• Exceptional luxury in one of the world's best private game reserves
• Enormous, tastefully designed suites with luxury amenities, bespoke artworks and vernacular inclusions
• The expert staff, from housekeeping to the guides and trackers
• State-of-the-art photo studio to enhance your photography

Silvan Safari was voted World's Leading Luxury Lodge for the fourth consecutive year in 2021

3. Londolozi

Approaching its centenary year and with a reputation as weighty and revered as the Kruger National Park itself,  Londolozi  is the godfather of luxury safaris in South Africa. This 13,000-hectare private game reserve is famous for leopards and features a diversity of habitats for incredible Big 5 and general game viewing.

The Londolozi Private Game Reserve is home to five safari lodges. Each is set in an exquisite location and a genuine contender for the top spot among the best luxury safari lodges in South Africa. From family fun to sublime Relais & Châteaux romance, your safari experience is elevated in every way. 

With ever-increasing levels of luxury and exclusivity, Londolozi has a safari lodge for every occasion. It hits the right notes every time, from the classic, family-oriented Varty Camp to the exclusive and romantic Private Granite Suites .

• Gigantic private reserve adjoining the Kruger National Park famous for leopards and Big 5 viewing excellence
• Extreme luxury, privacy and exclusivity as one of the few Relais & Châteaux safari lodges in Africa
• Sustainable tourism that benefits the people, wildlife and ecosystem
• Children's safari activities, wellness facilities, photography studio, community development programmes and sustainable conservation projects

4. andBeyond

andBeyond  stands for understated elegance, class-leading luxury and life-changing sustainable safari experiences. With five-star lodges in Phinda, Kruger and Sabi Sand, andBeyond does indeed go above and beyond to create life-changing, sustainable wilderness experiences.

With exceptionally high standards across the board at every lodge, you can expect all the bells and whistles, regardless of which one you choose. As a result, every andBeyond safari lodge can easily be included among the best luxury safari lodges in South Africa.

There's a safari lodge for everyone in one of the many game reserves, each featuring a variety of luxury safari options. There's  Tengile River Lodge  in the Sabi Sand for the ultimate in luxury, privacy and romance or  Phinda Mountain Lodge  for a family-oriented safari. But really, all of andBeyond's luxury safari lodges speak of romance and excitement in dulcet tones.

• Phinda, Sabi Sand, and Kruger all share one crucial attribute, which is incredible game viewing
• andBeyond's safari guides are legendary, and with a genuine commitment to sustainability
• All lodges offer lavish comfort, five-star service and amenities, deep tranquility and sensational settings
• Their sterling reputation and long list of accolades speak for themselves

Tengile River Lodge offers luxury in the wild

5. Dulini Collection

Dulini  is a trio of intimate, exciting safari lodges in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. And any one of them is an easy entrant into our top 10 luxury safari lodges in South Africa countdown.

Dulini Moya Lodge is a classic, intimate safari lodge, whereas the Dulini Leadwood Lodge is more contemporary, luxurious and private, with a spectacular setting at the Sand and Mabrak confluence. On the other hand, the Dulini River Lodge  offers classic luxury overlooking the Sand River. However, all offer enormous air-conditioned suites and beautifully designed living areas with luxurious amenities and an intimate atmosphere. The focus, naturally, at all three safari lodges is on the safari. And being in the Sabi Sand with some of the world's best guides, you can rest assured it will be unbelievable. 

The attentive service, intimate nature of the camps and excellent game viewing make Dulini an excellent choice for honeymooners, solo travellers, groups, families and couples looking for something special.

• Three exclusive safari lodges (with a maximum of six suites) offer deeply personalised service and the ultimate in comfort and indulgent luxury
• Sublime settings at the edge of rivers or riverbeds for game viewing right from your suite
• Sabi Sand's wildlife is legendary, especially predators of which leopards and lions are prevalent
• Expert guides ensure every game drive is out of this world

Take a dip and soak in the views, Imaged Credit: Dulini Moya

Singita 's safari lodges are among the best luxury safari lodges in South Africa. And with exquisite design, flawless service, five-star comfort and an exceptional safari, what more could you want? 

This renowned brand has lodges all over Africa. In Sabi Sand, sharing an unfenced border with Kruger National Park, they run Ebony Lodge , Boulders Lodge  and Castleton Manor . Furthermore, in the Lebombo concession in eastern Kruger, you'll find their Lebombo Lodge  and Sweni Lodge .

Singita will suit eco-conscious safari-goers looking for complete privacy, luxury and a moving wilderness experience. Ideal for couples, solo travellers, wellness safaris, photographers, birders and nature enthusiasts.

• Sublime locations with class-leading safari experiences
• Five-star service, food, amenities, facilities and attention to detail
• Privacy and tranquility form the heart of each safari lodge
• Deep and sincere commitment to sustainable conservation and community development

Your haven in the bush, Image Credit: Singita Ebony Lodge

7. Simbavati Collection

Simbavati  is a portfolio of exclusive, luxury safari lodges in South Africa occupying some of the most prolific wildlife areas in the country. Timbavati  and Klaserie  are two private game reserves neighbouring the renowned Kruger National Park. Because this boundary is fenceless, the wildlife is free to roam along ancient routes. As a result, this gives you the best of the Kruger with the luxury of a private reserve.

Five-star quality throughout the portfolio, you have a variety of lodge styles and locations to choose from. In the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, you have Hilltop Lodge  for romance and a sublime setting. On the other hand, River Lodge  is ideal for a classic, family-friendly safari. In the Klaserie Private Game Reserve, guests can choose from the elegant Camp George, an exclusive homestead for self-catered family and group celebrations, or Amani for lavish exclusivity. Last but not least, there's Waterside for romance and sophistication.

Families, couples, solo retreats, group celebrations, honeymooners, photographers and first-timers will all find their ideal luxury safari home in the Simbavati Collection.

• Classic, elegant safari lodges in two phenomenal private game reserves, namely the Timbavati and Klaserie
• Options include romantic opulence, classic luxury, a self-catering villa, a luxury private villa and a family-oriented safari camp
• Excellent game viewing with a good chance of seeing leopards and African wild dogs along with the Big 5
• Spa and wellness offerings  

The River Lodge is perfect for a family holiday, Image Credit: Simbavati River Lodge

8. Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Kwandwe  is an enormous tract of pure East Cape wilderness with one of the lowest guest-to-land ratios found anywhere on the continent. At 22,000 hectares and only 52 guests, that's about 425 hectares per person. In other words, a very exclusive safari! No queues of vehicles around a lion kill here.

With the Great Fish River snaking through rolling Eastern Cape euphorbia and savannah hills, Kwandwe is a genuine Big 5 game reserve. The scenery is spectacular, and the peace and nature experience is unparalleled. Furthermore, because Kwandwe is dedicated to sustainable conservation through tourism, you can enjoy these luxury safari lodges in South Africa with a clean conscience.

Malaria-free and with a range of activities for young children, Kwandwe is an ideal family safari destination. However, groups, couples and solo travellers will all find sanctuary and an enriching wilderness experience here.

• Family-friendly and group safaris with private villas in the malaria-free Eastern Cape
• Excellent Big 5 game viewing destination with a variety of unique safari activities
• Rolling hills and the Great Fish River create a variety of habitats and stunning scenery
• Close to the Garden Route for a fantastically compact, convenient "Best of South Africa" adventure

The Kwandwe Fort House, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

9. Jamala Madikwe, Royal Safari Lodge

You may have noticed that it's the big-budget behemoths vying for the top spots of our luxury safari lodges in South Africa. This makes the owner-run  Jamala Madikwe  a bit of an exception to the rule.

The five villas at Jamala Madikwe are palatial in size and comfort. Each has a main living area, a lounge, and a pool and sala wing overlooking a waterhole. And with an award-winning kitchen, owner-run care, and attention to detail, you've got one of the finest luxury safari lodges in South Africa.

Meanwhile, Madikwe Game Reserve is one of our favourite safari destinations in South Africa for its malaria-free credentials, scenic splendour and exceptional game viewing experiences.

Ideal for a first-time safari experience or for couples and families wanting a malaria-free, luxury safari fit for royalty.

• Enormous villas with plunge pools, air conditioning, salas, living area and views of the waterhole
• Malaria-free safari in a game-rich national park featuring not just the Big 5 but African wild dogs and cheetahs 
• Exceptional food from a multiple award-winning safari kitchen
• Owner-run safari lodge means attentive, personal service 

The understated elegance of Jamala Madikwe, Image Credit: Jamala Madikwe

10. Tanda Tula Plains Camp

The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve shares a fenceless border with the Kruger National Park. And sharing, connecting and cherishing this wilderness is the guiding principle of all life at  Tanda Tula . Therefore, this deep commitment to sustainable tourism and community development makes Tanda Tula a very special place.

Staff is treated as part of the same big family, which shows in the exceptionally warm and friendly service. And there's no shortage of luxury either, with generously sized suites fitted with air conditioning, plunge pools, outdoor showers and truly luxurious beds. From your suite or the lavishly-furnished main living areas, your view of the waterhole, the plains and mountains beyond is ever-changing and always sublime.

Tanda Tula is a warm and engaging safari lodge with its heart set firmly in the right place. That's why it's one of our favourite luxury safari lodges in South Africa. Ideal for honeymoons and romantic milestone celebrations, this luxury safari lodge is also an excellent option for families with children aged six and up.

• Emphasis on the nature and wilderness connection
• Great family safari option catering for children from age six and up in the two family villas available
• Full range of safari activities, including day and night game drives and interpretive bush walks
• Luxury accommodation with aircon and splash pools for each of the massive suites to keep you cool

The best sundowner companions, Image Credit: Tanda Tula Safari Camp

Visit The Top Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

We've just scraped the surface of an almost infinite choice of luxury safari lodges in South Africa. As the World's Leading Safari Company, we understand that you want and deserve a highly personalised safari holiday. That's why all our tours are tailor-made to ensure it ticks all your boxes.

So,  contact our Travel Experts now  and let's start planning your dream luxury safari in South Africa. 

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About the author 

Born in Zimbabwe and, having bluffed his way through a Journalism Degree at Rhodes, Ian turned his reluctantly nomadic life into a successful career as a travel writer. With stints in Harare, Joburg, Cape Town, Swakopmund, Port Shepstone and Greyton, he has travelled the length and breadth of southern Africa. Now living in Knysna, Ian combines his innate tendency to write for a living with a deep-rooted love of Africa’s wilderness and a keen interest in the hospitality trade.

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Top 11 Safari Lodges in South Africa

By Author cristina garcia

Posted on Published: June 18, 2022  - Last updated: November 8, 2023

No trip to South Africa would be complete without visiting a game reserve or National Park. While you can camp or stay at one of the wonderful national park chalets, staying at one of the safari lodges in South Africa has its advantages. They are perfect to experience the wilderness, for a family vacation, a romantic escapade, or for when you need to pamper yourself. 

We have put together a list of the best safari lodges (with the help of some fellow travel writers), for anyone who’s planning their safari trip and chooses to stay at a lodge. 

Table of Contents

Naledi Game Lodge, Balule Private Game Reserve

Klaserie drift misava lodge, klaserie private nature reserve , ulusaba safari lodge, sabi sand game reserve, tangala, thornybush game reserve, the outpost , the motse at tswalu , thanda safari lodge, thanda safari, a private game reserve, forest lodge, phinda game reserve, rhino ridge safari lodge, hluhluwe-imfolozi game reserve, ivory tree game lodge, pilanesberg, final thoughts, safari lodges in greater kruger.

The first thing we should note is that the Greater Kruger is not the same as the Kruger National Park. They are two different things. The Greater Kruger is a group of over 20 privately-owned game reserves that are adjacent to the national park and fall under an associate body, the Associated Private Nature Reserves (APNR). Most of these reserves, removed their fences back in 1993, adding about 180,000 hectares to the protected area of the park, allowing for the free movement of wildlife between the national park and them. 

For a more complete list you can also read our Safari Lodges in Kruger National Park article.

Access to the reserves is exclusive for patrons, and not national park visitors, making the Greater Kruger the ideal base for a safari with no crowds.

Some of the reserves that form the Greater Kruger are Balule, Klaserie, Singita, Timbavati, and Thornybush Private Game Reserve. 

* This article may contain affiliate links. We receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. *

Naledi Game Lodge is set in the 40,000-hectare Balule private game reserve on the edge of Kruger Park. The boundary between the two is unfenced so you can see the same wildlife as in Kruger, but access to Balule is restricted so it never feels crowded. 

And it’s this feeling of space that makes Naledi so special. Their Bush Camp has only four suites – though two have two bedrooms so are suitable for families or groups of friends. But there’s only a maximum of 13 guests at once. Each suite has private decks and some have private plunge pools. There are also plenty of communal spaces, with an outdoor pool, terrace, and lots of tucked-away seating areas.

Dawn and dusk game drives are included in your stay, but you can also spend the afternoon in one of their hides and let the wildlife come to you, or take a guided bush walk with expert guides. Naledi’s rangers are experts in their field, who talk guests through the ecology of the area as well as uncover wildlife sightings you’d never see yourself. For the best wildlife, visit in the dry winter season (June to August) when there’s less vegetation and animals migrate to waterholes.

Naledi’s guests are an international mix and it’s a social place with drinks around the fireplace and communal dinners each evening. And each night a different member of staff eats dinner with guests so you can find out about their lives. The food is one of the best things about Naledi, with local dishes using fresh produce and culminating with a traditional braai on the last night. Just watch out for the resident monkeys who might make a grab for any leftovers. 

Klaserie Drift Misava is an exclusive, 5* safari lodge located in the heart of the Greater Kruger National Park. Set on a gentle cliff overlooking the Klaserie River, the spectacular pool deck is one of our favorite features – boasting panoramic views where you can look out for herds of elephants, giraffes, and plentiful game in their natural environment below. The area itself is known for superb game-viewing, abundant flora and fauna, and diverse topography. The lodge also prides itself on a low-car-density, eco-conscious approach to safari tourism.

Featuring six stunning suites, Klaserie Drift Misava offers an intimate setting and “casual luxury” ethos – ideal for couples, friends and families alike. For the more budget conscious, their Garden-view suites are charming yet elegant. However, to truly spoil yourself we recommend their River-view suites for stunning views combined with unrivaled luxury.

Day or night, their friendly staff love to ensure your stay is a truly memorable experience – from the talented chefs delivering delicious, gourmet meals to the welcoming front-of-house team. On safari, their passionate guides offer interpretive game drives and walks, weaving intriguing stories with their vast knowledge of the flora and fauna as you get up close with Africa’s most iconic animals. Discover the ancient art of tracking, learn the subtle nuances of elephant behavior and be amazed at the medicinal significance of the many local plants and trees.

For the best chance to see the iconic Big-5 and more, the dry, winter months of June to October are typically a great time to visit. However, our favorite season is November to January when the area comes alive with vibrant colors and beautiful birds, as well as an excellent chance to still see the fabled five.

What makes this lodge so special? The intimate atmosphere, friendly staff, and modern twist on safari lodge design – as well as those insane views!

Singita Boulders Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Sabi Sands Reserve is a 16,000 acres reserve adjoining Kruger National Park. There are no fences between the reserve and the park and wildlife moves between the two freely. Sabi Sands Game Reserve is well known for its leopard sightings. If you want to see leopards, this is the place!

Singita Boulders lodge sits along the banks of the Sand River, and it naturally blends within the landscape as it was built using natural materials like stone and wood. 

The beautiful lodge suites have an extra element of luxury as their private pools are heated. So no matter the season, your private pool will be there after an exhilarating game drive. 

The Boulders Lodge is heaven for wine enthusiasts as Singita is well-known for being one of the most influential collectors of wine in Africa. During your stay, visit their wine cellar and book a personalized wine tasting with Singita’s experienced sommeliers. Find Singita rates and more info here . 

Boulders Lodge welcomes families with little ones, they have designed all kinds of safari activities so kids don’t get bored. Board games, star gazing, cooking interactions, bush walks (only over 16)…For those families with smaller kids that are not able to go on game drives just yet, the lodge offers a child minding service. So bring your family on a safari! 

Part of the Virgin Limited Edition, Ulusaba is a private game reserve within Sabi Sand, on the edge of Kruger National Park. It’s the perfect destination for a honeymoon or a romantic break, and a popular spot for weddings too!

Inside the Ulusaba reserve you’ll find 13,500 hectares of wild bush to discover as well as a couple of luxurious places to stay. Safari Lodge  lies down on the banks of a dry riverbed and is the perfect spot for early morning wildlife viewing from your bed! Some rooms come with plunge pools, and a few are accessed along an exciting rope bridge walk. There’s a spa here too. For a real splurge, Rock Lodge is perched up on an outcrop with superb views out across the plains, which can be enjoyed from your private dipping pool.

Wildlife viewing on an  Ulusaba safari  is superb, with two daily game drives and a bush walk for intrepid explorers. It’s a great place to tick off the Big Five, as well as the Little Five which include elephant shrews and rhino beetles! The reserve is renowned for its leopards, and many guests come away having spotted more than just one!

The food at Ulusaba is at the top of its game, with everything from elaborate bush breakfasts involving chefs and chocolate pancakes, to barbecue feasts in the boma with some local entertainment. You’ll never go hungry here, and there’s a well-stocked bar too. You can visit Ulusaba at any time of year, but the best time is Autumn to Spring, when the days are slightly cooler and vegetation is sparser, making animals easier to spot. 

Check rates at Ulusaba and more info here .

Located in the Thornybush Game Reserve,  Tangala Safari Camp  offers a Great Safari experience at a reasonable price. This intimate camp is small with only 4 bush chalets and 6 luxury tents, and it can be a great adventure especially if you have a group that is large enough to take over the entire camp. They do offer the ability to book the entire camp if your party is large enough.

Breakfast, brunch, High-tea, and dinner are provided in the cost as well as generally early morning and evening game drives.

Thornybush is a private reserve on the outskirts of Kruger National Park, however through agreements with other reserves, in 2017 they have opened some of the gates to allow animals to move between the reserves. This adds to the benefit of the animal and the diversity of the game that is available. Since several camps use the same reserve, guides share information to help locate the various types of game to maximize the animals you’ll see on your drives.

The food at Tangala is excellent with a variety of different options as well as the ability to accommodate various dietary restrictions (including gluten-free). Drinks are extra and there are plans that allow unlimited beverages of alcoholic and non-alcoholic types. 

Safari Lodges in Kruger National Park 

Kruger National Park is probably the most famous national park in the world. And it is also the perfect African National Park for a first safari. Its closeness to Johannesburg, the great network of roads, the abundant wildlife, and the vast array of types of accommodation makes them a great option for your first African safari. 

If you are visiting Kruger National Park and need to escape the crowds, your best option is to stay at a lodge in the park. And one of our favorite safari lodges in Kruger is  The Outpost.

The Outpost is located at the north end of the park, just 6 miles to the Pafuri gate, in a 26,500ha concession area belonging to the Makulele people. This area of the park is renowned for its birding (over 350 species of birds have been recorded), and we were lucky enough to see the famous Pel’s Owl, one of the shyest owls of South Africa . 

Perched above the Luvuvhu River, The Outpost offers memorable views of the river plain, with rolling African sand veld sprinkled with baobabs and acacia trees. Bring the binoculars as it is not difficult to spot a herd of elephants or buffalo. 

The luxury suites at the lodge are all spacious, with far-reaching views of the river. The suite wall overlooking the river is a retractable, remote-controlled screen that offers 180º of uninterrupted views. One of my favorite moments was taking a bath while watching elephants down below. 

Bring your sweetie, as this is the perfect place for a romantic break. Indulge in a spa treatment in the privacy of your room, take a sunset game drive, and have sundowners while diurnal animals prepare to retire for the night. Back at the lodge, have a candle-lit dinner by the swimming pool, while the bush night awakens.  Listen…was that a hyena? 

Find more kruger safari lodges here . 

Safari Lodges in the Kalahari

The Kalahari, is a name that evokes a world of solitude and wilderness.

It’s a world of red sand, cheetahs, and black-maned lions. t is also one of the best places to see cheetahs in their natural habitat.  The long and dusty drive to get there is just worth it, and once you’ve been in the Kalahari you are hooked. It’s a special place. Everyone that visits agrees: “The Kalahari changes you”. 

Tswalu is the largest privately owned reserve in South Africa, with over 250,000 acres of Kalahari Desert wilderness. 

Tswalu Private Game Reserve is internationally knows for its exclusiveness and luxury. 

At Tswalu you can enjoy guided bushwalks, horseback safaris, hot air ballooning, star gazing, and sleepouts at the Malori suite. All of this is accompanied by Kalahari-inspired cuisine and wines from their private cellar. 

Some of the Kalahari animals you might encounter during your drives are aardvarks, wild dogs, pangolins, and lions. 

Each thatched-roof bungalow consists of a large bedroom and a private lounge area. A fire pit, en-suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, and a private deck with views over the red sands of the Kalahari and a waterhole make the bungalows your cozy and luxurious home in the desert. 

You can read more and book Tswalu here . 

Safari Lodges in Kwazulu-Natal

Kwazulu-Natal is one of the best provinces in South Africa to go on safari. All the game reserves and national parks in the province are very accessible and close to one another. Forget driving for hours going from one place to another.

Kwazulu-Natal is also the perfect place if you are looking for a beach and safari vacation, as the Elephant Coast, with iSimangaliso Wetland Park and Kosi Bay are just a short drive from the bush.

With a name meaning love in the Zulu language, there really is much to love at the multiple award-winning Thanda Safari Lodge . Situated in a 14 000 ha private game reserve in the Northern part of South Africa’s KwaZulu Natal province, which is shared by the three Thanda properties only, it is as exclusive as it gets. With only 9 bush suites, this intimate lodge offers privacy and luxury.

The design and décor of the lodges are inspired by the Zulu culture, and staff hail from the surrounding local communities. The sumptuous bush suites at Safari Lodge are shaped like traditional Zulu homesteads, while the bathrooms are the size of separate suites and feature dressing rooms, stand-alone bathtubs with panoramic views, as well as indoor and outdoor showers. Suites open onto private viewing decks with their own bomas, own private plunge pool with loungers, and salas with circular daybeds.

Meals at Thanda Safari are served on the open decks and are feasts for the eyes and the palate. Game drives are rewarding, with exceptional sightings of lions, cheetahs, elephants, rhinos and so much more. Apart from game drives, you can go rhino tracking, go on bush walks, or volunteer in wildlife conservation programs. Thanda Safari is also the first reserve I’ve visited with its own resident wildlife photographer and a complimentary wildlife photography lesson with him is included in your stay. For some downtime, relax in the cozy library overlooking the waterhole, which constantly attracts parched wildlife.

From the rangers to the servers, the service is exceptional all-around. This, combined with the stunning suites, great food, and considerable expanse of game-rich bushveld almost all to yourself, will ensure that you fall in love with Thanda. 

Find Thanda Safari Lodge rates and more info here .

Forest Lodge is one of the six lodges located in  Phinda Game Reserve , in the Kwazulu Natal state of South Africa and about 3.5 hours drive from Durban. As the name certainly suggests, this luxury lodge is set in a thick forest, completely surrounded by nature. All rooms are actually separate cottages that have a spacious living room, an incredibly comfortable double bed, a state-of-the-art bathroom complete with a Victorian-style bathtub, and a cozy porch to relax once you are back from the game drives – provided there are no baboons hanging out!

Needless to say, the main perk of staying at Forest Lodge is the possibility of spotting wildlife. As soon as you arrive at the lodge, your assigned ranger will meet you and sit down with you, trying to learn about your specific interests. He (or she) will ask what animals you’d like to spot during your time in Phinda, and will go above and beyond to make sure you have the best animal sightings experience. The Big Five are all found at Phinda, so prepare your camera and binoculars!

Phinda can be visited year-round, but the wildlife experience obviously changes depending on what time of year you go. November is a great month if you want to have sunny long days that are warm but never unbearably hot. In general, the summer months are best if you want to see cubs; whereas the cooler temperatures of the winter months push more animals to come out of the bush.

The luxury of the accommodation, the sights, and the incredible food and wine you can enjoy while staying in Phinda make it a very romantic destination that is also perfect for honeymooners. Find Phinda Forest Lodge rates and more info here .

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve is the oldest reserve in Africa. Home to the Big 5, populations of cheetah and African wild dogs, and with over 400 bird species, the reserve is an incredible wildlife destination. There are a few luxury lodges in the reserve, and one of them is Rhino Ridge, one of Isibindi Africa Lodges. 

Rhino Ridge is suitable for all visitors. Families can stay in the family room, which is two rooms together sharing a common area. Newlyweds can enjoy the privacy and exclusivity of the honeymoon villa, which comes with a private plunge pool offering breathtaking views of the African bush. 

During your stay, the lodge offers different activities, like game drives, birding, bush walks, enjoy a spa treatment. It also offers the opportunity to enjoy a homestay with a traditional Zulu family to learn about their culture, food, and traditions. There’s always something to do at Rhino Ridge!

Safari Lodges in Pilanesberg

Pilanesberg National Park is the fourth largest national park in South Africa. Only a 2h drive away from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg is one of the most convenient parks to visit if you fly into the city. 

With over 7,000 wildlife species, including the big five, and 300 bird species (and 6 bird hides), this malaria-free park is ideal for wildlife photographers and families. 

The Ivory Tree Game Lodge is a fantastic safari lodge option located in Pilanesberg National Park. It’s one of the most accessible safari options in South Africa as it’s just a couple of hours’ drive from Johannesburg. It’s very easy to reach in a car. The park has a variety of animals (including the big 5) and there is no risk of malaria, so it’s an easy one to visit for a fantastic experience.

The best way to experience this park is at the Ivory Tree Game Lodge. They are a 5-star lodge with luxury options which make this perfect for honeymoons as well as villas and suites perfect for families with the extra room as children of all ages are welcome.

The lodge is in a beautiful setting with a pool, day spa, archery, quad biking, and drumming circles. The suites and villas are amazing, spacious, and some have their own plunge pools and views over the national park.

All meals and two safari drives are included a day. They also have specialist drives for younger kids. This is where it’s especially a good choice for families as it’s very hard finding lodges that cater to under 6’s. Here, we were able to do drives with our kids aged 1, 5, and 7 altogether. In fact, because we visited in the low season, we had our own private car and driver for the drives.

The meals are generally buffets although dinner can be a three-course affair with a few choices for each dish. There’s also an all-day snack bar with lollies.

While you can visit this park and Ivory Tree Game Lodge year-round, Sharon from Dive into Germany highly recommends it in winter. It can be full of safari vehicles in summer, but in winter, we often felt like we had the park to ourselves.

You can find Ivory Tree Lodge rates here .

For more Pilanesberg safari lodges here . 

We hope that after this little taste of safari lodges, you’ll plan to include one of these in your next vacation to South Africa. Isn’t it time you go on a south African safari? We are always looking for the perfect safari lodge. Did your favorite one make the list? Let us know in the comments! 

Cristina Garcia

Zoologist and wildlife photographer. She has worked in the field with jackals, wolves, cheetahs, & leopards. She serves on the Board of Directors of SEE Turtles , a non-profit sea turtle conservation organization.

Read her posts at Travel For Wildlife and see more of her work at Truly Wild , & Our Wild Yard .

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The 7 Best Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

Hotels | Africa and Middle East | By Michele Harvey

Below we’ve rounded up our seven favourite lodges – spanning six uniquely diverse areas of South Africa – whose safari activities exist to protect wilderness areas and benefit the communities around them.

Simply put, these are the best places in which to indulge in sundowners and commune with majestic wildlife.

SOUTH AFRICA’S BEST LUXURY SAFARI LODGES

Singita lebombo lodge, kruger national park.

This super modern lodge somehow manages to seamlessly fit into its stunning environment. The 15 loft-style suites, suspended above the N’wanetsi River, have an ethereal, light on the ground feel that resonates with its philosophy: “touch the earth lightly.” The design of the sophisticated steel and glass suites was inspired by the many eagles’ nests built into the cliff face of the river bank.

Singita Castleton Lodge

Formerly the family home of Singita founder Luke Bailes’ grandfather, Singita Castleton is an exclusive use lodge set within 45,000 acres of private reserve. Steeped in history, this charming lodge captures the spirit of the original Castleton house, lending the property a historical and comforting feel.

Castleton has been designed to combine the best elements of a private safari lodge with the rustic charms of a country farmhouse, making it the perfect homebase for a multi-generational bespoke experience. Its luxuries include a vast garden, swimming pool, wine cellar, gym, tennis court and spa treatment room.

Grootbos Garden Lodge

Grootbos nature reserve.

Situated on the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve in the Gansbaai area, this award-winning reserve is home to the largest Milkwood Forests in the world. The lodge is set within the fynbos and forest-clad hills which overlook the whale-watching haven of Walker Bay. A perfect place for a family safari, where you can take in the ocean’s Big 5.

Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

Kwandwe private game reserve.

The Lodge is set into the gently sloping aloe-studded hillside banks of the Great Fish River and is an unusual construction of stone-and-mesh gabion walls, sliding glass doors and corrugated iron roofing. Fresh farm cuisine is prepared in the interactive, open-plan kitchen, while the spacious lounge, dining and bar areas are airy and open, with almost invisible separations between indoors and the intriguing African bushveld.

Dulini Lodge

Sabi sand reserve.

An intimate luxury safari lodge, Dulini is located in the western sector of the Sabi Sand Reserve, which borders the Kruger National Park. A quiet retreat, Dulini rests under a leafy canopy of ebony trees on the banks of the dry Mabrak River and boasts views across the riverbed and bushveld.

Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge 

Madikwe game reserve.

Set amidst 75,000 hectares of the pristine Madikwe Game Reserve, Jamala Madikwe provides a quintessential safari experience. The lodge successfully brings opposites together, complementing its colonial style with African eccentricity. At Jamal they’ve perfected the “sofa safari,” with an amazing waterhole right in front of the lodge so you can watch all the animals come to drink while Rodney serves you gin and tonics.

Marataba Mountain Lodge

Marataba private reserve.

This 23,000-hectare private concession within the Marakele National Park (Limpopo, South Africa) offers a sanctuary where people can connect with South Africa’s stunning natural habitat. It offers breathtaking views of the dramatic Waterberg mountains, vast plains, rich animal diversity and winding rivers that cut through the landscape. It’s also one of the few lodges that truly allows you to get out and be active.

Incredible safari lodges in South Africa

By Condé Nast Traveller

South Africa is an extraordinary country, rich in captivating culture, spellbinding scenery and fascinating wildlife. It also has a wide range of luxury accommodation, which makes it a great destination for a family adventure, unforgettable honeymoon or multi-centre combination. Stay in an independent boutique hotel in a buzzing city or check into a serene lodge in the middle of an epic national park. Whatever the trip, you'll find it easy to connect with the great outdoors in a country that is as dynamic as it is diverse.

Recommended itineraries

There's so much to see and do in South Africa that we think it's best to mix multiple destinations in a single itinerary. Fortunately, Carrier has sourced winning combinations of stupendous resorts in dramatically different locations. Here are our top recommendations:

Luxury South Africa

Ellerman House and Singita Lebombo & Sweni Lodges[/h2] Compare and contrast cosmopolitan Cape Town with the imposing wilderness of Kruger National Park with this seven-day trip that takes in many of South Africa's highlights, both natural and man-made. Start in multicultural Cape Town, with its striking street art, designer shops and breathtaking views over the Atlantic and awesome Table Mountain. Stay in Ellerman House , an urban retreat with 13 individually decorated rooms and a fine collection of original South African art. It's a great base from which to explore the nearby golden beaches and bountiful vineyards. From here, it's a short flight to Johannesburg and a transfer to Singita, a private concession within the pristine expanses of the Kruger National Park. Indulge in a further four nights in a loft-style suite at Singita Lebombo Lodge or a stylish suite at intimate Sweni Lodge and enjoy morning and evening game drives - fantastic opportunities to sight the Big Five.

Virgin Winelands and Safari

Mont Rochelle and Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

This trip blends two of South Africa's most well-known attractions - wine and big-game spotting - in one exceptional holiday. Begin your journey in Sir Richard Branson's exquisite boutique hotel Mont Rochelle , set on the sloping vineyards above Franschhoek, an ancient town in the heart of world-class vineyards. Unwind in your private plunge pool, dine among the vines and sample various vintages in the ancient wine cellar. Next, fly to Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Here, Ulusaba Private Game Reserve , also owned by Sir Richard, offers a luxury safari experience. Carved into and around the rocks are rooms and suites that have private decks, pools and outdoor bathtubs overlooking the surrounding bushveld. You can't get much closer to nature.

Best for couples

Romance abounds at Tsala Treetop Lodge and Villas , a secluded resort with luxury hideaway suites elevated six metres above the ground. Encircled by luscious forests - the resort is on the Garden Route, an exquisitely scenic stretch of the south-eastern coast - Tsala blurs the lines between a fantasy getaway and an African adventure. Sip Champagne on your private deck, which affords astounding panoramas of multi-coloured sunsets, or take a dip in your own infinity pool that appears to flow over into the forest canopy.

Equally impressive is La Residence in the heart of the Cape Winelands, set on a private estate hugged by tranquil vineyards and overlooked by majestic mountains. Inside, the lavishly furnished suites showcase exceptional designs, from oriental antiques to a heated marble four-poster bed. There's plenty to admire here, from the impressive artwork on the walls and the blissful views of the surrounding countryside to the flavoursome cuisine served in the beamed dining room.

Best for families

With the prospect of thrilling urban exploration and spectacular safaris, South Africa is a fantastic destination for families. One&Only Cape Town brings a new level of luxury to one of Africa's most captivating cities. The hotel offers the best of everything: views of the harbour and Table Mountain, spacious contemporary suites with private balconies or terraces, exceptional food (dining here is probably the best in the city) and the KidsOnly Club. Here, children of all ages will be wowed by themed activities that include African dance, ostrich-egg painting and dune sandboarding. There are even bespoke treatments for teens at the hotel's well-run spa.

Get back to nature with your crew at one of the Morukuru Family retreats , which offer an indulgent escape with adventures on tap. Several properties are inside the Madikwe Game Reserve, something of a hidden gem where you can spot the Big Five and possibly even the endangered African wild dog. (Two further properties are in the De Hoop Nature Reserve and Johannesburg.) Each bush home enjoys the services of a private guide and tracker, chef, butler, hostess and housekeeper, and a nanny can be arranged on request. This ensures every stay is tailored to your family's exact requirements - from sundowners overlooking a watering hole to learning traditional dances with local school children.

Start travelling with Carrier Click here for more information on South Africa and to book these or other resorts

Now watch a road trip through South Africa:

By Josef Talotta

By Charlotte Sinclair

One&Only Cape Town

Singita Lebombo & Sweni Lodges

Mont Rochelle

Morukuru Family Retreats

La Residence

Tsala Treetop Lodge and Villas

Ellerman House

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Top 10 Best Luxury African Safari Resorts & Lodges

Heather Richardson is an award-winning travel writer, based in South Africa. She is interested in conservation stories, emerging destinations and adventure travel.

From classic Big Five safari camps to sumptuous riverside retreats, the range of five-star African safari lodges and resorts is nothing short of extraordinary. In no particular order, these are 10 of the continent’s best.

1. Singita Ebony – Sabi Sands, South Africa

The original Singita safari lodge is in the private Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park . Overlooking the Sand River, the lodge’s design is a comfortable take on traditional safari style. Ebony has 12 beautiful suites with glass walls, and plunge pools overlooking the river.

• When to go: May to September, the Dry season, is best for wildlife.

2. Time + Tide Chinzombo – South Luangwa NP, Zambia

Located along the banks of the Luangwa River, Time + Tide Chinzombo consists of six luxury safari tents, each with its own plunge pool – ideal for those seeking privacy. It is also a great option for families, as one of the villas is designed for up to five guests.

• When to go: The Dry season months of July to November are best for wildlife.

Chinzombo Tours

3. Londolozi – Sabi Sands, South Africa

One of the first best African safari lodges and still one of the best, Londolozi is made up of five separate lodges in its private reserve. The three Granite Suites are the most opulent options, with plunge pools and outdoor bathtubs in which you can soak whilst watching the world – or maybe just a herd of elephants – go by.

• When to go: The best time to see wildlife is May to September.

4. Matetsi River Lodge – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

One of the reasons Matetsi is amongst the best African safari resorts is because it presents an opportunity to spot elephants, lions, hippos and buffalo just an hour outside the famous Victoria Falls. The suites and villas overlook the Zambezi 40km/25mi upstream of the falls, and lie in a large private pristine reserve that incorporates 15km/9mi of river frontage.

• When to go: The best time to spot animals is August to October, when it’s driest. Less spray means the falls are visible and attractions such as Devil’s Pool are accessible.

Matetsi River Lodge Tours

5. Sasaab – Samburu NP, Kenya

In remote northern Kenya, Sasaab is a lavishly appointed tented camp in the Samburu NP. Each of the Moroccan-influenced tents has its own alfresco bathroom with private plunge pool overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River.

• When to go: Wildlife viewing is best in the Dry months, June to September and January and February.

6. Sabi Sabi – Sabi Sands, South Africa

Sabi Sabi has four camps: Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp, Selati Camp and Earth Lodge. The latter is the most high-end, with a contemporary design that aims to blend in with the environment. Earth Lodge’s Amber Suite, with its grand tree-trunk headboard, is a honeymooner favorite.

• When to go: The best time to see wildlife is in the Dry season, May to September.

Sabi Sabi Lodges Tours

7. Chief’s Camp – Okavango Delta, Botswana

The Chief’s Camp is in one of the most wildlife-rich areas in the Delta – and in Africa. Exploration in game vehicles, on foot and in mokoros (traditional dugout canoes) are on offer. Spacious rooms have private plunge pools and floor-to-ceiling windows, and the camp is in keeping with its bush setting.

• When to go: The dry months, July to October, are best for wildlife.

Chief’s Camp Tours

8. Angama Mara – Masai Mara GR, Kenya

In one of the most popular safari areas in Africa, Angama Mara won a host of style awards when it opened. On the site of the famous ‘Out of Africa’ picnic scene, the lodge has sensational views from its escarpment perch. The two camps of 15 tents each have floor-to-ceiling windows and bright fabrics inspired by Masaai dress.

• When to go: June to October for wildlife; September and October for great migration river crossings.

Angama Mara Tours

9. Singita Faru Faru – Grumeti Reserve, Tanzania

In northern Tanzania, Singita Faru Faru is one of the best African safari hotels, especially for experiencing the great migration. Faru Faru has seven suites, a family unit and a two-bedroom villa, with infinity pools overlooking the waterhole and surrounding plains.

• When to go: June to September for general wildlife. Wildebeest river crossings are best in June and July at the Grumeti River and in September and October at the Mara River.

10. Jabali Ridge – Ruaha NP, Tanzania

In this seldom-visited park in southern Tanzania, Jabali Ridge has eight suites and a stunning infinity pool that all look out over the baobab-spotted landscape. Jabali Ridge is one of the top-end lodges in Ruaha, which is home to one-tenth of the world’s lion population, alongside wild dogs, cheetahs and sable and roan antelopes.

• When to go: June to October is best for wildlife.

Jabali Ridge Tours

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5-Day Living Among Lions - Luxury

$2,590 to $3,510 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

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

Unlimited Expeditions: The Soul of Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  439 Reviews

7-Day Wild of Kenya Safari

$2,782 pp (USD)

Kenya: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

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

Gosheni Safaris Africa

4.9 /5  –  418 Reviews

12-Day Amazing Mid-Range Safari and Beach Holiday

$3,354 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Arusha (City) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Stone Town (Zanzibar) , Nungwi (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar (End)

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5.0 /5  –  209 Reviews

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• World's Best

Travel + Leisure Readers’ 10 Favorite Safari Lodges in Africa of 2023

Majestic wildlife, impeccable service, and lasting memories are all but assured at these remote havens in our annual “World’s Best Awards” survey for 2023.

How Voting Works

• What Readers Loved
• The Full List

This year’s top 10 safari lodges are spread across Southern and East Africa and represent a range of wildlife experiences, from classic Big Five safaris in South Africa to gorilla trekking in Uganda. A variety of elements factored into readers' votes, including scenery and food, but in the end Travel + Leisure travelers put special importance on wildlife experiences and deft customer service.

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. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Rooms/facilities

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

Courtesy of Mount Gahinga Lodge

What Readers Loved 

At the top of the list, The Bushcamp Company’s Mfuwe Lodge won T+L readers’ hearts thanks to the wildlife for which the property is known — in particular, the elephants that walk right through the reception area to access a large wild mango tree that drops its fruit between late October and mid-December.

Two gorilla-trekking lodges made the top ten, further suggesting that once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters can make a place unforgettable for T+L readers. Rwanda’s Virunga Lodge (No. 2), about an hour’s drive from  Volcanoes National Park, is a base for visiting endangered mountain gorillas, an experience described as “incredible” by one guest. One said it was one of the best places they’d ever visited.

At Gibb’s Farm (No. 8), located amid the  foothills of the Ngorongoro Crater in northern Tanzania, multiple voters wrote in that they wished they could have stayed longer, noting the “exceptional” and “outstanding” service from “friendly and very attentive staff.” The dining showcased excellent quality, according to one guest, while another said the culinary offerings “far exceed[ed] expectations.”

Many properties on the list appeared to have the full package. One reader wrote about Elewana Serengeti Migration Camp (No. 3), also in Tanzania: “An outstanding camp with amazing views, service, and location. The staff was attentive and the food was spectacular.” What more could you want?

The Bushcamp Company’s Mfuwe Lodge: South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Guests visiting The Bushcamp Company’s Mfuwe Lodge from late October to December may witness the same sight as one lucky T+L reader: “A visit is not complete without the elephants walking through the lodge. Young and old, they trooped through, and I stood mesmerized by their presence.” One guest warned you “may have to wait before venturing out of your room to breakfast as the wildlife have the right of passage.” A clear favorite for the wild experiences, other readers also mentioned the excellent food, “the personal touch upon arrival and at almost every contact,” and guides that “know the park — from the Big Five to the smallest flora ­­­— better than I know my own home.”

A visit to Mfuwe Lodge is not complete without the elephants walking through the lodge. Young and old, they trooped through, and I stood mesmerized by their presence.

The Full List 

1. The Bushcamp Company’s Mfuwe Lodge : South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Reader Score: 98.93

2. Virunga Lodge : Burera District, Rwanda

Reader Score: 98.48

3. Elewana Serengeti Migration Camp : Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Reader Score: 98.40

4. Royal Malewane : Thornybush Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Reader Score: 98.13

5. Mount Gahinga Lodge : Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Reader Score: 97.87

6. andBeyond Bateleur Camp : Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Reader Score: 97.75

7. Thornybush Game Lodge : Thornybush Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Reader Score: 97.60

8. Gibb's Farm : Karatu, Tanzania

Reader Score: 96.57

9. andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge : Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

Reader Score: 96.00

10. Angama Mara : Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Reader Score: 95.24

Top 20 Resorts in West and Central Africa: Readers’ Choice Awards 2022

Condé Nast Traveler readers rate their top resorts and safari camps in Africa, outside of East Africa and South Africa . View all of the  2022 Reader’s Choice Awards winners here .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Virunga Lodge

Kyambura Gorge Lodge

Habitas Namibia

Mount Gahinga Lodge

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort

Xigera Safari Lodge

The Bushcamp Company (Kuyenda, Chamilandu, Chindeni, Bilimungwe, Kapamba, Zungulila and Mfuwe Lodge)

Nyamatusi Camp

Wilderness safaris hoanib skeleton coast camp.

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest

Tongabezi & Sindabezi

Matetsi Victoria Falls

Linyanti Bush Camp

Thorntree river lodge.

andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

Somalisa Camp

Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge

Wilderness Mombo Camp and Little Mombo

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

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Place of Miracles

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

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

Find solitude in untouched natural surrounds

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

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

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

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

The start of a legacy

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

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

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A soul-restoring Singita experience. Find your sanctuary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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#1 Botswana

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Thus, poachers are seen as enemies of the people. As a result, Botswana has come into view as Africa's most sought-after ecotourism destination. Starting from the Chobe National Park to the Moremi Nature Reserve, you'll be able to witness numerous gems all around the country.

Back in 2014, Botswana widely banned the hunting of wild animals and implemented strict laws which are still in practice. The country resumes its zero-tolerance for poaching and their very own environmental minister, Tshekedi Khama, has even launched a shoot-to-kill policy for poachers.

Botswana, with its wildlife conservation and natural parks, is a haven for nature lovers. It is currently in the top 5, as its approach to the protection and conservation of wildlife is worth the praise. As a country, it is very forward-thinking, some may even call it aggressively forward-thinking when it comes to its preservation and anti-poaching laws.

Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 mammal species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.

Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.

Most of the land in Namibia is occupied by the Kalahari and Namib Deserts. Along with that, the country also has 12 national parks and many other areas which are protected. So, if you go there for a safari, you'll have many rich areas to see and explore.

When it comes to countries with the least amount of population, Namibia is one of them. Which proves to be a good thing for nature. This is because most of the land in Namibia is still unspoiled by human filth or any sort of development, giving nature a chance to breathe.

In the country's Volcanoes National Park, you'll find 10 habituated gorilla families. Groups of 8 trekkers can visit them for one hour per day. But that's enough to get the best African safari experience. And as a nature lover, you'll enjoy the experience to the max.

If you've been around for some time, you'll be familiar with Rwanda's mountain gorillas. They were famously broadcasted and their fight for survival was shown on  National Geographic . This was all thanks to the late  Dian Fossey  back in the 1970s who advocated for the rights of these mountain gorillas throughout her life.

Considering the tragic history surrounding the mass genocide of the people of Rwanda back in 1994, it's truly a blessing what the country has achieved in the past 25 years. There have been countless investments in infrastructure. This has resulted in the country being a very fast-growing destination for ecotourism.

#6 South Africa

But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it. Chances are that you'll find yourself in the middle of dozens of unruly visitors who are not too keen on obeying the rules. This occurs mostly during the peak seasons.

Annually, the country has one million visitors. Its biggest attraction is the Kruger National Park with its enrichment in biodiversity. Visitors there also have the liberty to self-drive, thus, getting a first-person private but superb experience. 

For some time now, South Africa has been climbing the charts to become one of the most popular destinations for African safaris. Given its location, South Africa is a very convenient and cheap destination for people from the United States. Besides that, the country also boasts a well-developed infrastructure which makes it perfect for luxury travelers as well.

#7 Tanzania

One of the most popular locations would be the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The country is also a haven for 1100 different bird species. It's no wonder that Tanzania gets this much rep. Especially when the country boasts so many wonders.

We talked about Kenya being the top destination for Safari. Now Tanzania here takes second place in being the continent's most popular safari destination. And why shouldn't it? The country has 16 national parks and an extraordinary amount of wealth and wildlife wonders for the people to witness.

Some of its natural attractions include housing the highest mountain range in Africa. It also has the world's largest free-standing volcano and the second-largest freshwater lake. With its 30 national parks and other wildlife reserves, Uganda boasts many more sanctuaries which are worth the visit. Especially if you're a lover of nature and wildlife.

Often called "The Pearl of Africa", Uganda is certainly a great pick for an African safari. Its reputation as being one of the best ecotourism destinations comes from the country's natural attractions and wildlife.

Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.

Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.

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