best luxury safari lodge south africa

Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

South africa’s best luxury safari accommodation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury safari lodges in South Africa…

Nottens Bush Camp

Sabi Sands, South Africa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phinda Mountain Lodge

Phinda Game Reserve, South Africa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Singita Sweni Lodge

• Kruger National Park, South Africa

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

Singita Sweni

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zebra Hills Safari Lodge

Manyoni Private Game Reserve

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

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

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

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

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

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

Samara Private Game Reserve

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

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

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

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

Amakhala Game Reserve

Giraffe-spotting on a game drive

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

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

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

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

Kariega Game Reserve

Three luxury safari lodges at Kariega, South Africa

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

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

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

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

Shamwari Game Reserve

One of Shamwari’s waterside lodges

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

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

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

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

Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve

The pool area at Tswalu, South Africa

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

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

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

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

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

Madikwe Game Reserve

Views of the bush from a Madikwe balcony

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

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

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

The Ant Collection

Horseback safari at the Ant Collection, South Africa

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

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

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

Entabeni Safari Conservancy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leobo Private Reserve

Bush views from open lounge area at the Leobo lodge

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

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

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

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

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

Mabalingwe Nature Reserve

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

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

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

Welgevonden Game Reserve & Marakele National Park

Drinks time at Welgevenden’s pool area

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

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

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

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

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

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• Botswana safaris
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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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14 Top-Rated Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Singita Sabi Sand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on South Africa

The Best Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

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

The best safari lodges in The Greater Kruger

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

Singita Boulders Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

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

Highlights:

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

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

Dulini Leadwood Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

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

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

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

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, Sabi Sand Reserve

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

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

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

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

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

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

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

Cheetah Plains, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

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

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

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

Saseka Tented Camp, Thornybush Reserve

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

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

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

Royal Malewane, Thornybush Reserve

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

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

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

Tanda Tula Safari Camp, Timbavati Reserve

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

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

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

Makanyi Private Game Lodge, Timbavati Reserve

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

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

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

The best safari lodges in the southern Kalahari

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

Tswalu Kalahari, Southern Kalahari

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

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

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

The best safari lodges in the Eastern Cape

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

Shamwari Sindile, Shamwari Private Game Reserve

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

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

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

The best safari lodges in KwaZulu-Natal

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

Phinda Vlei Lodge, Phinda Private Game

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

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

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

The best safari lodges in Madikwe Game Reserve

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

Molori Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

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

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

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

Tips for choosing the best South Africa safari lodges

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

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

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The 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.

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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 £104

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 £330

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 £344

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 £427

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 £572

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 £597

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 £600

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 £622

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 £656

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 £687

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 £689

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 £731

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 £735

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 £786

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 £814

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 £830

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 £964

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 £1250

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 £1448

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 £1635

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 £1892

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 £1931

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 £1952

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 £2607

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 £2700

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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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. 

Featured Image Credit: Londolozi

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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 15 Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

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If you are considering going on an African adventure, these luxury safari lodges in South Africa will surely convince you to start planning your trip.

South Africa boasts an incredible biodiversity, with a wide variety of ecosystems ranging from savannas and grasslands to forests and wetlands.

This diversity supports an extraordinary range of wildlife species, from the iconic “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) to cheetahs, wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles, and an impressive selection of bird species.

One of Africa’s most famous and expansive game reserves, Kruger National Park spans over 19,000 square kilometers and is home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife.

Kruger National Park is particularly renowned for its luxury safari lodges located in various private reserves, allowing for exclusive and intimate safari experiences.

South Africa has made significant strides in conservation, with many private reserves and national parks actively participating in wildlife protection and anti-poaching initiatives.

By choosing any of the following luxury lodges for your next safari adventure , you contribute directly to the preservation of these incredible animals and their habitats.

Top Luxury Safari Lodges in Kruger National Park South Africa

Singita lebombo.

Situated within the iconic Kruger National Park, Singita Lebombo offers a remarkable vantage point overlooking the N’wanetsi River.

The lodge’s elevated position provides sweeping views of the vast African landscape, immersing you in the untouched beauty of this renowned wilderness.

Singita Lebombo’s architecture is a masterpiece in itself, making it one of the top luxury safari lodges in South Africa’s Kruger National Park.

The lodge’s sleek and contemporary design seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings, offering an exquisite fusion of modernity and raw wilderness.

Floor-to-ceiling glass walls allow uninterrupted vistas from the comfort of your suite.

Choose from an array of exclusive suites, each meticulously designed to offer privacy, comfort, and an intimate connection with nature.

The suites feature private decks, plunge pools, and elegant interiors, creating an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the African bush.

Prepare for unparalleled wildlife encounters as Singita Lebombo is situated in a prime wildlife viewing area.

The lodge is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including the iconic Big Five and an array of other captivating species of predators and birds.

Expert guides lead thrilling game drives and guided walks, ensuring an intimate understanding of the region’s inhabitants.

Unwind and rejuvenate at the lodge’s tranquil spa that offers a range of treatments.

The lodge’s infinity pool provides a serene space to bask in the African sun while taking in the breathtaking surroundings.

Accessing the luxury safari lodge Singita Lebombo is effortless, with convenient flights connecting Johannesburg to the nearby Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA).

From there, a scenic transfer takes you to the lodge, where an exceptional safari experience awaits.

Singita Lebombo offers an intimate and exclusive safari experience, with a limited number of suites ensuring a sense of privacy and personal attention throughout your stay.

Rates start at USD 2015 /person/night. Book your stay here.

Singita Sweni Lodges

With a prime location along the banks of the Sweni River, Singita Sweni Lodge offers an intimate and secluded escape within the iconic Kruger National Park.

The lodge’s tranquil setting immerses you in the untouched beauty of the African bush, creating a harmonious blend of luxury and nature.

Singita Sweni Lodge’s design is a marvel of contemporary elegance and seamless integration with nature, putting it among the top luxury safari lodges in South Africa.

The lodge’s innovative architecture utilizes organic materials, glass walls, and open spaces to bring the outdoors in, ensuring uninterrupted views of the surrounding wilderness.

The collection of exclusive suites, each meticulously designed to offer the utmost privacy, comfort, and a sense of connection with the environment, features private decks, plunge pools, and chic interiors.

Singita Sweni Lodge is situated in a prime wildlife viewing area, promising remarkable encounters with Africa’s iconic fauna.

The lodge is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including the Big Five and a captivating array of other species.

Expert guides lead captivating game drives and guided walks, offering intimate insights into the natural world.

The lodge’s spa and serene pool area provides a haven of relaxation, allowing you to unwind while immersed in the beauty of the surroundings.

Accessing Singita Sweni Lodge is effortless, with convenient flights connecting Johannesburg to the nearby Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA).

Rates start at USD 2154 /person/night. Book your stay here.

Royal Malewane

Located within the private Thornybush Game Reserve, Royal Malewane offers an exclusive safari experience that showcases the best of Africa’s wildlife.

This pristine wilderness setting ensures unparalleled encounters with the iconic Big Five and a diverse array of other predators and birds.

Choose from a selection of luxurious suites, each meticulously designed to provide the utmost comfort, privacy, and connection with nature.

These opulent abodes feature private decks, plunge pools, lavish interiors, and awe-inspiring views of the surrounding landscape, thus catapulting Royal Malewane as one of the top luxury safari lodges in South Africa.

Experience rejuvenation at the Royal Malewane Spa, the best safari spa in South Africa, where a range of indulgent treatments inspired by African healing traditions awaits.

The spa’s serene ambiance and expert therapists offer a tranquil retreat for relaxation and renewal.

Expert rangers and trackers lead thrilling game drives and guided bush walks, allowing you to intimately explore the rich biodiversity of the reserve.

Gain insights into animal behavior, tracks, and the intricate ecosystems that make this region so captivating.

Royal Malewane offers an intimate and personalized experience, with a limited number of suites ensuring exclusive attention and an atmosphere of seclusion.

The Best Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa’s Madikwe Private Game Reserve

Jaci’s tree lodge.

Nestled in the magnificent Madikwe Game Reserve, Jaci’s Tree Lodge offers a distinctive safari experience in an idyllic setting.

This exclusive location ensures remarkable wildlife encounters, including the Big Five, while immersing you in the untamed beauty of Africa.

Indulge in the epitome of luxury treehouse accommodations.

Each treehouse is a masterpiece of design, seamlessly integrating with the natural surroundings. Experience opulent comfort with private decks, outdoor showers, and panoramic views.

Expert guides lead captivating game drives and bush walks, allowing you to explore the diverse ecosystems of the reserve.

Gain insights into animal behavior, tracks, and the intricate balance that sustains life in this captivating region.

Rates start at USD 560 /person/night. Book your stay here.

Madikwe Safari Lodge

Situated in the pristine Madikwe Game Reserve, Madikwe Safari Lodge offers a luxurious escape into the heart of Africa’s wilderness.

This prime location guarantees unparalleled wildlife encounters, including the iconic Big Five, amidst the untouched landscapes of the reserve.

The selection of opulent suites that epitomize both comfort and elegance, is thoughtfully designed to provide a serene sanctuary, with private decks, lavish interiors, and panoramic views that bring you closer to the captivating surroundings.

Expert rangers and trackers lead exhilarating game drives and guided bush walks, immersing you in the intricate ecosystems of the reserve.

Gain insights into animal behavior, tracks, and the delicate balance of life that characterizes this remarkable region.

Rates start at USD 585 /person/night. Book your stay here.

Top Luxury Safari Lodges in Sabi Sand Nature Reserve

Singita boulders.

Located along the banks of the Sand River, Singita Boulders Lodge exudes a sense of natural elegance and is famous for being one of the top luxury safari lodges in South Africa.

The lodge’s architecture seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape, utilizing organic materials and boulder-inspired design elements to create an immersive connection with nature.

Singita Boulders’ lavish suites, each meticulously crafted to provide comfort, seclusion, and a deep connection to the environment, feature private plunge pools, expansive decks, and chic interiors, offering a haven of serenity amid the wild beauty.

Singita Boulders Lodge guarantees exceptional wildlife encounters. The reserve’s prolific biodiversity includes the iconic Big Five and a diverse range of other captivating species.

Expert guides lead enthralling game drives and guided walks, providing unique insights into the region’s ecosystems.

Reaching Singita Boulders Lodge is effortless, with convenient flights connecting Johannesburg to the nearby Skukuza Airport.

Singita Boulders Lodge offers an intimate and exclusive safari experience, with a limited number of suites ensuring personalized attention and an atmosphere of seclusion.

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge offers an exclusive escape into the heart of Africa’s wild beauty.

The lodge’s pristine setting ensures remarkable encounters with the Big Five and a rich diversity of other captivating wildlife.

Each suite at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge is an architectural masterpiece, meticulously designed to provide opulent comfort, absolute privacy, and a seamless blend with nature.

With private pools, expansive decks, and panoramic views, these suites offer a sanctuary of tranquility.

This luxury safari lodge in South Africa is known for game drives and guided bush walks, allowing you to delve into the intricate ecosystems of the reserve.

Gain insights into animal behavior, tracks, and the fascinating interconnectedness of wildlife and landscapes.

Savanna Private Game Lodge

Savanna Private Game Lodge offers a unique blend of luxury and untamed nature.

Its prime location ensures unparalleled wildlife encounters, including the iconic Big Five, amidst the pristine landscapes of Africa.

Each suite at Savanna Private Game Lodge exudes rustic charm while providing modern amenities, private decks, plunge pools, and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.

Immerse yourself in the intricacies of the reserve’s ecosystem by taking a guided bush walk or joining a game drive, led by the lodge’s expert rangers.

Rejuvenate at the lodge’s serene pool area, where you can unwind and soak in the African sun.

The spa offers a range of treatments inspired by traditional healing rituals, providing a sanctuary for relaxation and renewal.

Rates start at USD 785 /person/night. Book your stay here.

Ulusaba Cliff Lodge

Nestled high on a hill, Ulusaba Cliff Lodge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling Sabi Sand Reserve.

These vistas unfold before you, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for your safari adventure and a privileged perspective on Africa’s untamed beauty.

The essence of luxury and seclusion awaits you at Ulusaba Cliff Lodge. With just two exclusive suites, your experience is tailor-made for an intimate escape.

Each suite is thoughtfully designed to blend comfort, modernity, and an authentic safari ambiance.

Venture into the heart of the reserve to witness Africa’s iconic wildlife up close, while your guides share their profound knowledge of the ecosystem, animal behavior, and the delicate balance of nature.

Experience serenity at the lodge’s spa, by choosing from a wide range of treatments.

The inviting infinity pool offers a refreshing respite, inviting you to relax and soak in the breathtaking surroundings.

Rates start at USD 765 /person/night. Book your stay here.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge offers an unparalleled connection with the natural world, paired with impeccable service and beautiful design, making it one of the top luxury safari lodges in South Africa, in the heart of Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

This unique location guarantees exceptional wildlife encounters, from the majestic Big Five to a diverse array of captivating species.

Discover the epitome of luxury and innovation at Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge’s remarkable underground suites.

Each suite seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with earthy textures, featuring private plunge pools, cozy fireplaces, and artistic design elements that evoke the essence of the surrounding landscapes.

Captivating game drives and guided bush walks will allow you to gain insights into the intricate ecosystems of the reserve while learning about the behavior and interactions of the wildlife that call this beautiful landscape home.

Rates start at USD 1395 /person/night. Book your stay here.

Londolozi Private Granite Suites

Londolozi Private Granite Suites offers an exclusive and serene retreat.

With only three suites available, your experience is characterized by privacy, personalized service, and a deep connection to nature.

Indulge in opulence as you step into the luxurious embrace of the Private Granite Suites.

Each suite is meticulously designed to seamlessly blend elegance with the raw beauty of the environment.

Expect sumptuous furnishings, panoramic views, and a private deck that allows you to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the African bush.

Embark on a gastronomic adventure as Londolozi’s culinary artisans create a symphony of flavors.

The lodge’s expert chefs craft dishes inspired by local ingredients and international influences, presenting a culinary journey that can be enjoyed in various settings, from elegant dining spaces to the wilderness under the stars.

Accompanied by expert rangers and trackers, embark on exhilarating game drives and guided bush walks.

Immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems of the reserve, gaining insights into the intricacies of wildlife behavior and the delicate balance of nature.

Given its limited number of suites, if you are planning your African adventure at this top luxury safari lodge in South Africa, make sure you book ahead of time.

Rates start at USD 1955 /person/night. Book your stay here.

Arathusa Safari Lodge

Arathusa Safari Lodge offers an exceptional gateway to the captivating world of African wildlife.

The reserve’s remarkable biodiversity promises thrilling encounters with iconic animals, creating a safari experience that is both awe-inspiring and intimate.

Discover a seamless blend of rustic charm and modern comfort in Arathusa’s inviting accommodations.

Each suite is thoughtfully designed to provide a cozy haven after a day of exploration. From private verandas to spacious interiors, every detail contributes to an immersive safari experience.

Embark on immersive game drives and guided bush walks accompanied by expert rangers and trackers. Explore the diverse landscapes of the reserve, gain insights into animal behavior, and witness the delicate balance of nature unfold before your eyes.

Unwind at the lodge’s pool area, a tranquil oasis where you can bask in the warmth of the African sun.

The lodge’s spa offers a range of treatments inspired by traditional healing practices, providing a serene escape for relaxation.

Rates start at USD 465 /person/night. Book your stay here.

The Best Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa’s Mala Mala Game Reserve

Rattray’s on mala mala.

Nestled within the renowned Mala Mala Game Reserve, Rattray’s offers an exclusive opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of Africa’s untamed beauty.

This exceptional location ensures remarkable encounters with Africa’s iconic wildlife, providing an intimate safari experience like no other.

Step into a world of timeless elegance and refined luxury at Rattray’s on Mala Mala.

Each suite is a testament to the rich heritage of the reserve, meticulously designed to provide an authentic blend of comfort and sophistication.

With expansive views and private verandas, the suites serve as your personal oasis in the wild.

Expert rangers and trackers lead captivating game drives and guided bush walks, immersing you in the intricate ecosystems of the reserve.

Dulini Lodge

Dulini Lodge offers an intimate and secluded sanctuary amidst the untamed wilderness of the Mala Mala Game Reserve.

With a limited number of suites, you can expect a personalized and exclusive experience that embraces the true essence of safari solitude.

Each suite at Dulini Lodge provides a harmonious blend of luxury and natural charm, allowing for a private haven complete with panoramic views, inviting decks, and elegant interiors.

Traverse the diverse landscapes of the reserve through guided safari walks or thrilling game drives that will allow you a close encounter with the Big 5.

Top Luxury Safari Lodges in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

Simbavati river lodge.

Simbavati River Lodge sits on a prime spot within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, along the Nhlaralumi River, and is one of the best luxury safari lodges in South Africa.

This unfenced reserve shares boundaries with the iconic Kruger National Park, ensuring an authentic wildlife experience amidst the pristine African bush and a prime location if you want to explore different nature reserves.

The lodge offers a range of beautifully appointed accommodations, blending rustic charm with modern comfort.

The well-designed Luxury Safari Tents or spacious Family Suites are each equipped with en-suite bathrooms, private decks, and panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.

Prepare for exhilarating wildlife encounters in the Timbavati Reserve, known for its rich biodiversity and excellent game viewing opportunities.

The reserve is home to the Big Five, as well as cheetahs, wild dogs, and an array of bird species. Expert rangers and trackers lead daily game drives, ensuring you witness nature’s wonders up close.

Beyond game drives, Simbavati offers guided bush walks, granting you a chance to explore the finer details of the ecosystem and observe wildlife from a different perspective.

Led by experienced guides, these walks provide insights into animal tracks, plants, and the smaller inhabitants of the reserve.

Photographers will appreciate the diverse landscapes and exceptional wildlife sightings.

Guides are well-versed in positioning for the best photographic moments, whether it’s a striking landscape or an intimate animal encounter.

Simbavati River Lodge is family-friendly, offering spacious accommodations and tailored activities for children.

It’s an excellent opportunity to introduce young travelers to the wonders of the African wilderness.

Rates start at USD 617 /person/night. Book your stay here.

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The Top 10 Luxury Safari Lodges In South Africa

South Africa has some of the most amazing safari lodge experiences in the world. The photographic safari model started in South Africa and has spread through the rest of Africa, India and Sri Lanka. Many of the luxury safari lodges in South Africa and specifically the Kruger National Park win the best hotel in the world awards as voted by guests and travels authors. There are so many amazing lodges each with their own character and feel. Here are just some of them that make up the top 10 luxury safari lodges in South Africa.

Singita Boulders Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Singita is world renown for its luxury lodges throughout Africa. Started in South Africa, their Boulders Lodge is one of their favourites. Singita Boulders Lodge is a luxury safari lodge in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with the world-renowned Kruger National Park. The lodge is located along the Sand River, which provides an ideal vantage point to view local wildlife and relaxing in the pristine wilderness.

The lodge takes its name from the ancient boulders that mark the terrain and inspired the property’s design and construction. The contemporary African style of Singita Boulders Resort Lodge blends well with the natural setting while providing an extraordinary degree of luxury and comfort.

The lodge has 12 rooms, each with its own private viewing terrace and heated plunge pool, giving visitors exceptional seclusion and a personal connection to the African bush. The suites include floor-to-ceiling glass windows that provide breathtaking views of the river and surrounding wildlife. Natural materials such as wood, stone, and leather are used to adorn the interiors, providing a sophisticated yet relaxing atmosphere.

Singita Boulders Lodge offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy during their stay, including game drives, bush walks, stargazing, wine tastings, and visits to adjacent community development projects. The lodge has a spa, gym, and boutique, providing guests with a variety of services and experiences.

The Sabi Sands Game Reserve

The Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a privately owned wildlife reserve in South Africa, located near the famous Kruger National Park’s southwestern border. The reserve, which covers around 65,000 hectares (160,000 acres), is known for its exceptional animal and plant life which creates amazing game viewing opportunities. It is part of the Greater Kruger National Park, which protects approximately 20 million hectares of African wilderness.

The name Sabi Sand comes from the two rivers that flow through the reserve, the Sabie and the Sand rivers. The area between these two rivers are among the most productive hunting habitats for predators like lions, leopards, cheetah, caracal, African wild cats and wild dogs in the world. Due to this there is a high concentration of hunting cats and other carnivores in the area which creates an unbelievable viewing opportunity for visitors staying in the reserve.

The beautiful landscape along the rivers, the rugged terrain away from them, numerous antelope species, other smaller animals, The Big 5 and an impressive variety of bird species makes this an unbelievable wildlife safari location and the home of many of the best luxury safari lodges in this list.

Royal Malewane, Greater Kruger National Park

Royal Malewane is a small premium safari lodge in South Africa’s Thornybush Private Game Reserve, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park. The lodge provides an intimate and exclusive safari experience, combining opulent suites, world-class cuisine, and unparalleled wildlife sightings.

Royal Malewane’s three luxury safari lodges and private bush villas, each reflecting an exquisite vision of design and supreme hospitality, allows you to experience the African wilderness in comfort, style, and seclusion. Royal Malewane boasts about having the most experienced and qualified guiding team in Africa. They take great care in selecting their guiding staff which includes both safari guides and expert animal trackers.

Royal Malewane offers three lodges – Malewane Lodge, The Farmstead and Waterside.

• Malewane Lodge has six exquisite suites, two Royal Suites, and Africa House, an exclusive-use home for up to 12 guests. Each suite is charmingly decorated, with classic colonial-style furnishings, four-poster beds, and huge windows with views of the surrounding bushveld. All suites include a private deck, a heated plunge pool, and an outdoor shower, allowing visitors to experience the African wilderness in comfort and seclusion.
• The Farmstead is designed in a contemporary African style that complements its natural surroundings. The design combines traditional features and local craftsmanship to create a warm and welcoming setting that represents the region’s rich cultural heritage. The Farmstead offers three Luxury Farm Suites and The Farmhouse, a private home that can sleep up to six people. The Luxury Farm Suites are stylishly equipped and spacious, with a large bedroom, en-suite bathroom, private outdoor shower, and a private veranda with a heated plunge pool. The Farmhouse is a beautiful and exclusive-use property with its own dedicated crew, which includes a private chef, butler, housekeeper, and a safari guide with a private game-viewing vehicle.
• The aesthetic effect of a stay at Waterside, with its very striking design, dramatically redefines the typical safari experience. You’ll feel the energizing energy of the African bush the moment you step through the floating entrance bridge and arrive in the warmth of Waterside. The scene is reminiscent of Eden, with a lively waterhole surrounded by fever trees and wildlife. It is minimalist in design and anticipates every requirement for a wonderful modern safari.

The Thornybush Private Game Reserve is home to a diverse range of animals, including the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses) as well as cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes, and zebras. The area’s different habitats sustain a diverse birdlife, making Royal Malewane an ideal site for birdwatchers.

In addition to great game watching, Royal Malewane provides guests with a variety of leisure activities and amenities to enjoy throughout their stay. The Waters of Royal Malewane Wilderness Spa is a serene hideaway where visitors can engage in calming treatments, while the lodge’s dining experiences provide the greatest local and foreign delicacies prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Londolozi Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Londolozi was established in 1926 and is well-known for its devotion to conservation, eco-tourism, and community empowerment. The name “Londolozi” comes from a Zulu phrase that means “protector of all living things,” reflecting the reserve’s deep commitment to protecting African wildness and assisting local communities.

The reserve encompasses around 16,000 hectares (40,000 acres). Londolozi is especially well-known for its remarkable leopard sightings, and it has been the focus of numerous films and publications as a result of its exceptional wildlife encounters.

Londolozi is made up of five luxury camps, each with its own ambiance and level of luxury:

• Pioneer Camp: With only three suites, Pioneer Camp is ideal for families or small parties looking for a private safari experience. Pioneer Camp is known for its personalized service and specialized activities. The camp’s staff caters to each guest’s personal needs and interests, ensuring a unique and unforgettable experience.
• Varty Camp: The original Londolozi camp has ten chalets that represent the reserve’s rich history while offering modern facilities and elegance. The camp has ten chalets, each decorated in the classic safari style that is synonymous with Londolozi. The chalets have spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms, private decks, and outdoor showers, allowing guests to connect with nature while remaining comfortable. For added luxury, some chalets offer private plunge pools.
• Founders Camp: This camp offers seven chalets along the Sand River’s banks, offering a classic safari experience with a touch of modern luxury. The camp has seven chalets, each of which has been deliberately crafted to strike the perfect blend between classic safari elegance and modern luxury.
• Tree Camp: Tree Camp is an adults-only camp with six magnificent apartments perched on stilts, affording stunning vistas and a romantic environment. Tree Camp offers a romantic and elegant setting among the trees on the banks of the Sand River, providing a calm and personal experience for people seeking a premium safari escape. Tree Camp has six elevated suites that are built on stilts and are designed to fit in with the surrounding canopy.
• Granite Camp is Londolozi’s most private and luxury camp, with only three suites and a personalised safari experience tailored to clients’ desires.The suites are designed with a refined blend of organic and modern features, resulting in a magnificent ambiance that matches the surrounding natural environment. Each suite has a large bedroom, an en-suite bathroom, an outdoor shower, and a private heated pool. The suites also have floor-to-ceiling windows and a private deck with breathtaking views of the Sand River and the surrounding nature.Granite Camp’s exclusivity allows for a highly personalized experience, with a specialized team of professionals catering to each guest’s individual wants and preferences.

Londolozi focuses a great deal of attention on their guide and tracker training programs. They have a rigorous guide selection program that includes specialist trainers that upskill the guides in more than just wildlife knowledge but also tracking, hosting and storytelling skills. This is because Londolozi wants to create a unique highly sophisticated guiding experience that connects with nature around it rather than simply observes it.

Londolozi is also home to the Tracker Academy. The Tracker Academy was formed in 2010 by Alex van den Heever and Renias Mhlongo in collaboration with the SA College of Tourism and the Peace Parks Foundation. The academy is located in South Africa’s Londolozi Private Game Reserve and is dedicated to conserving traditional wildlife tracking techniques while also providing employment opportunities for people from rural communities. Read more about the Tracker Academy here.

Londolozi has received international recognition for its conservation efforts, eco-tourism projects, and commitment to elevating local communities through education, healthcare, and business development programs. Guests that visit Londolozi contribute to these initiatives, helping to conserve the African bush for future generations.

The Leopards of Londolozi

Londolozi’s leopards have become iconic emblems of the reserve, attracting wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and researchers from all over the world.

The Londolozi area’s unique combination of the Sand River, diversified vegetation, and plentiful prey populations makes it a great home for leopards. Leopards have thrived in their natural surroundings thanks to Londolozi’s conservation efforts and long-standing policy of minimum human involvement.

Londolozi has earned a reputation for providing exceptional leopard watching opportunities, with numerous generations of these elusive cats becoming accustomed to the sight of safari vehicles. Guests may view leopards up close and witness their normal habits, such as hunting, mating, and raising their young, thanks to this habit.

The skilled rangers and trackers at Londolozi work closely together to locate and track the leopards, ensuring that guests have the best possibility of seeing these majestic animals during their stay. The heavy emphasis on ethical wildlife viewing techniques guarantees that the leopards’ well-being remains a key priority, and that human presence does not interrupt their normal activities.

Lion Sands Game Reserve, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

The MORE family, who have a long history of offering great safari experiences, owns and manages Lion Sands .

The reserve is located along the Sabie River, which attracts a wide variety of animals, including the Big Five and many other species. Like the rest of the Sabi Sands, the area is noted for its amazing leopard and lion sightings.

Lion Sands Game Reserve has a variety of excellent lodgings, including four lodges and several treehouses. Each lodge offers great service, comfort, and amenities to visitors, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding environment. The treehouses provide a unique and exciting way for guests to experience the African wilderness, allowing them to sleep under the stars while being surrounded by nature.

Spa treatments, bush dining experiences, trips to nearby communities, and stargazing are all available at the lodge.

The MORE group operates several luxury lodges and hotels across South Africa, these include:

• Marataba Safari Lodge and Marataba Mountain Lodge can be found in the Limpopo Province’s Marakele National Park.
• Madikwe Safari Lodge is located in North West Province’s malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve.
• The Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel and the More Quarters Hotel are both nestled in the dynamic metropolis of Cape Town.
• Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel: Situated near Zimbabwe’s famed Victoria Falls.
• Pel’s Post is set in the Kruger National Park’s northern section.

Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal

Phinda Private Game Reserve is a distinguished game reserve in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province. Phinda, which encompasses over 70,000 acres, is noted for its various ecosystems, spectacular wildlife observations, and dedication to conservation and community development. andBeyond, a prominent premium experience travel business known for its high standards of service & sustainability, manages the reserve.

Phinda is distinguished by its broad range of habitats, which includes woodland, grassland, marsh, forest, and hilly regions. Because of its diversity, the reserve is home to a wide range of wildlife and plant species, making it an attractive location for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

There are several beautiful lodges to select from in Phinda, each with great service, comfort, and amenities, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. The lodges are meant to fit in with the natural environment, minimizing environmental effect while offering visitors with an immersive and realistic safari experience.

Madikwe Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

Madikwe Safari Lodge is a luxurious and stylish lodge in South Africa’s North West Province’s malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. The reserve, which covers roughly 150,000 acres, is South Africa’s fifth-largest game reserve.

The MORE group operates Madikwe Safari Lodge, which has three distinct lodges on the property, each catering to different preferences and travel styles:

• Lelapa Lodge: Our family-friendly and hospitable lodge features 12 spacious rooms, each with a private plunge pool, outdoor shower, and spectacular views of the surrounding bushveld. The lodge offers a variety of family-friendly activities and services to ensure a memorable and engaging experience for guests of all ages.
• Kopano Lodge: Built for couples and small groups looking for a more private safari experience, Kopano Lodge has only four suites, creating an exclusive and tranquil environment. The architecture of the lodge emphasizes privacy and romance, making it ideal for honeymoons or special occasions.
• Dithaba Lodge: Located on a hill with panoramic views of the reserve, Dithaba Lodge is ideal for family or group bookings. The lodge provides four spacious suites as well as a variety of tailored services to guests to customise their safari experience to their preferences.

Madikwe Safari Lodge, particularly Lelapa Lodge, is dedicated to offering a family-friendly safari experience. Madikwe Safari Lodge offers a variety of family-friendly activities and facilities, including:

Family game drives: These game drives are specifically created for families with children, catering to the interests and attention spans of younger guests, offering a fun and educational wildlife experience for the entire family.

• Eco House: The Eco House is a dedicated children’s entertainment area that offers a variety of fun and educational activities such as arts and crafts, games, puzzles, and wildlife-themed toys.
• Bush orientation and tracking: These activities teach children about the African bush and its inhabitants while also teaching them practical skills like animal tracking, plant identification, and navigation.
• Children can take part in interactive cooking workshops where they will learn to prepare simple dishes and taste the flavors of local cuisine. This enjoyable activity fosters an interest in culinary arts as well as an appreciation for diverse cultures.
• Family dining alternatives: The lodge provides a variety of family-friendly dining options, such as early lunches for younger children, customized menus, and flexible mealtimes.
• Madikwe Safari Lodge provides professional babysitting services, allowing parents to relax or partake in activities that are not suitable for younger children.

Madikwe Safari Lodge’s emphasis on family activities ensures that each member of the family has a memorable and engaging experience during their stay, encouraging a love of nature and a respect for the necessity of conservation.

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, Northern Cape

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is a large, privately owned game reserve in South Africa’s Northern Cape area. It is South Africa’s largest private game reserve, covering over 110,000 hectares, and is dedicated to wildlife protection, sustainability, and providing unique and unforgettable experiences for its guests. Tswalu is in the southern Kalahari region, which is known for its dramatic vistas, rich flora and fauna, and renowned red sand dunes.

The reserve is home to a diverse range of animals, including the iconic Kalahari black-maned lions, cheetahs, leopards, African wild dogs, and over 240 bird species. Tswalu is also a haven for rare and endangered animals in South Africa, including the pangolin, aardvark, and desert-adapted black rhino.

Tswalu has two luxurious lodge choices, both of which provide great service, comfort, and amenities:

• The Motse: This lodge is made up of nine spacious and stylishly furnished legae (Tswana meaning “small house”), each with its own bathroom, outdoor shower, and private sundeck. There is an infinity pool, jacuzzi, gym, library, and wine cellar in the main lodge area. The Motse combines authentic African style with contemporary luxury to create an immersive and comfortable experience.
• Tarkuni: This villa is ideal for families or small parties seeking a more private and personalized experience. Tarkuni features five deluxe suites, a private chef, a specialized game drive vehicle, and a variety of customized services and activities.

During their stay at Tswalu, guests can participate in a number of activities, including:

• Game drives: Led by experienced rangers and trackers, game drives in Tswalu provide guests with one-of-a-kind wildlife encounters that are tailored to their interests and preferences.
• Bush walks: Learn about the Kalahari ecosystem’s vegetation, animals, and smaller species that are typically ignored during game drives.
• Horseback safaris: Get a different viewpoint on the Kalahari environment and wildlife by riding well-trained and well-cared-for horses.
• Junior Ranger program: An instructional program for children that incorporates bushcraft skills and the opportunity to participate in wildlife conservation efforts.
• Stargazing: The Kalahari’s pristine skies and little light pollution provide excellent stargazing possibilities, which may be experienced at Tswalu’s professional observatory.

&Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge and &Beyond Ngala Tented Camp, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

The Timbavati Private Natural Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park, is home to two luxury lodges: &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge and &Beyond Ngala Tented Camp. The Timbavati reserve, known for its spectacular wildlife sightings, including the Big Five, provides travelers with a remarkable and authentic safari experience.

&Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge: This magnificent lodge has 20 elegant thatched cottages, three family cottages, and one family suite that blend harmoniously with the surrounding bushveld. Each cottage is thoughtfully constructed to provide comfort, solitude, and stunning views of the reserve. The primary rooms of the lodge include a large dining area, a cozy lounge, an outside boma for dining under the stars, and a swimming pool. The lodge also has a dedicated WILDChild program for children, ensuring that younger guests have a stimulating and instructive experience.

&Beyond Ngala Tented Camp: &Beyond Ngala Tented Camp provides nine deluxe tented suites located on high platforms overlooking the seasonal Timbavati River for those searching for a more intimate and immersive safari experience. Each suite at the camp is meant to provide an authentic yet comfortable experience, with an en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, and a private terrace. The main camp area features a chic lounge, dining area, and a swimming pool with a view of the riverbed.

Tanda Tula, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

Tanda Tula is a luxury safari camp in the midst of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with South Africa’s world-famous Kruger National Park. Tanda Tula, known for its spectacular animal sightings and warm, welcoming ambiance, provides an intimate and unique safari experience.

The camp provides two types of lodging:

• Tanda Tula Safari Camp: This traditional tented camp has 12 beautiful and spacious tents, each with its own bathroom, outdoor shower, and private balcony overlooking the Nhlaralumi riverbed. The main part of the camp features a lounge, dining room, bar, and swimming pool, all with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. Tanda Tula Safari Camp, which accommodates a maximum of 24 guests at a time, focuses on giving a genuine, intimate, and personalized safari experience.
• Tanda Tula Field Camp: Tanda Tula Field Camp offers a unique walking safari excursion for those looking for an even more exclusive and immersive experience. This private-use camp has four custom-designed tents that can sleep up to eight people. The Field Camp is dedicated to providing an authentic, back-to-nature experience, including guided walking safaris conducted by skilled rangers and trackers.

MalaMala Game Reserve, Sabi Sand Game Reserve

MalaMala Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s oldest and most established private reserves. It is part of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. The reserve has more than 13,300 hectares (33,000 acres) of pristine wilderness and provides a really authentic safari experience.

MalaMala Game Reserve has three luxury camps that cater to all categories of visitors:

MalaMala Main Camp: The reserve’s first camp, MalaMala Main Camp, has 18 luxury rooms and suites, all with en-suite bathrooms and private balconies overlooking the Sand River. The main part of the camp features a dining room, lounge, bar, library, and a swimming pool. The accommodations and facilities combine modern design elements with traditional African elements.

Sable Camp: Sable Camp is a more intimate and exclusive choice, with 5 luxury suites and 1 two-bedroom suite. The camp has a maximum capacity of 14 people, making it suitable for small groups and families. The main area includes a dining room, lounge, bar, library, and a swimming pool with views of the Sand River.

Rattray’s on MalaMala: Rattray’s is the MalaMala Game Reserve’s most private and opulent camp. It has 8 spacious and private khayas (Zulu meaning “homes”), each with a heated plunge pool, outdoor shower, and private terrace. The main part of the camp features a dining room, lounge, bar, library, spa, gym, and swimming pool.

Contact Secret Africa

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Email: [email protected]

Address: Workshop17, 17 Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, 8005

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Best Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

The best luxury safari lodges in south africa are at the forefront of the new wave of safari architecture and amenities. they balance between indulgence and authenticity, but they do it with finesse, and never for a moment forget their true purpose..

SINGITA EBONY LODGE

Ebony Lodge is one of the jewels in the crown of the private Sabi Sand reserve – one of South Africa’s most prolific game-viewing areas. This lodge represents a wonderful coming together of safari traditions and contemporary luxury, and blends in perfectly to its setting beneath giant trees. Stone, wood and glass are used to create the 12 suites which are at once intensely private, yet provide a window onto the wonders of the African bush immediately beyond their walls. Suspended outdoor decks allow guests to look down into the adjacent river, and give the sense of having stepped out of the human space of the lodge and into the unspoiled wilderness which surrounds it.

• The two Lewis suites can be combined to create a family villa.
• The lodge décor channels the old-world charm of early safaris.
• Two dedicated family suites each with their own team of staff.

CHEETAH PLAINS PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Another fitting inclusion in any list of the best luxury safari lodges in South Africa, Cheetah Plains was purpose-built for either families or groups of friends to enjoy their own bush destination. The very exclusive Plains Houses each sleep four and eight guests in simple yet sophisticated comfort. The aim is to provide a restful, calming space that invites the breeze and birdsong in, and doesn’t distract from the wonders of the bushveld. The bedrooms are thoughtfully grouped around a shared area where friends and family members can spend time enjoying the lounge, living room, sun deck and pool. A dedicated hospitality team ensures that the lodge experience is every bit as memorable as the game drives.

• Cheetah Plains also features four separate Private Suites, two of which are interleading.
• The dedicated guide and tracker are always available for impromptu bush adventures.
• Both the wine cellar and pool are maintained at the perfect temperature.

ROYAL MALEWANE

This iconic Kruger National Park destination is in fact two lodges in one: the grand, classically styled Main Lodge and the more intimate and contemporary Farmstead. Unique furnishings are featured throughout Royal Malewane , combining the classic safari aesthetic with a fresh contemporary style. It’s the perfect counterpoint to the thrill of discovering the Kruger in the company of some of the most qualified guides in South Africa. Their passion is matched only by the desire of the lodge staff to deliver exceptional experiences at every turn, from the meals to one of the best night’s sleep you’ll ever have in Africa. Add in the award-winning spa, and you’ll find that your every wish has come true in this magical place.

• Choose one of the six Luxury Suites or the two, two-bedroom Royal Suites.
• Invite your whole family to the exclusive-use Africa House villa.
• Learn how expert trackers find elusive big cats.

MALA MALA RATTRAYS CAMP

As a rule, only the most special safari lodges carry the names of their owners, and MalaMala Rattray’s Camp is a case in point. This lodge is the epitome of good taste, and although it frequently harks back to a bygone era, it never lets the past intrude on the magic of the present moment. While the emphasis is very much on the wildlife experience, guests could be forgiven for wanting to spend more time in the lodge, either dipping into one of the rare African books in the library, or slipping into their private plunge pool. Rattrays follows all the most important safari traditions, but reinterprets them in a fresh and vital way to remain relevant to today’s safari aficionados.

• Step back in time in the historic bar, lined with antique photos.
• Enjoy a boma night meal around the campfire.
• Massage treatments on your private deck offer ultimate relaxation.

SINGITA SWENI LODGE

The name ‘Singita’ is synonymous with the best luxury safari lodges in South Africa, and Singita Sweni is no exception. This lodge exudes a sophisticated glamor that few others achieve and seems to do so effortlessly. That could be due to contemporary architecture and décor (which, in keeping with the philosophy of sustainable luxury, fuses repurposed timbers with metallic elements). The seven suites are open plan in design, in a nod to the expansive private game reserve in which the lodge is sited. Ancient trees provide welcome shade, while the Pool Suite can be combined with the adjacent suite to create a private family villa for multigenerational travel.

• Just seven guest suites, for a more exclusive ambience.
• Outdoor showers with river views for al fresco indulgence.
• Superb game-viewing without even leaving the lodge.

&BEYOND PHINDA HOMESTEAD

A stay at the Phinda Homestead is the stuff that safari dreams are made of. The Homestead is intended to provide a home-away-from-home for the family that enjoys going on safari together, with four air-conditioned rooms clustered around a large open-air deck and pool. With your own personal safari vehicle, guide, tracker, butler, and chef – the experience is catered entirely to you. The private fitness room lets guests keep up with their exercise regimes, while all activities and meals take place when and where desired – the schedule can be changed on a whim thanks to the attentions of the dedicate villa team. This flexibility even extends to the layout of the accommodation, with an additional children’s room – equipped with bunk beds – permitting another four younger guests to join in the fun.

• The perfect blend of elegance and real family home feel.
• Experience the wonderful flow of energy throughout the lodge.
• Discover local Zulu culture though authentic references.

Tswalu is the ideal gateway to South Africa’s little-known but intriguing green Kalahari. It’s a place of almost boundless possibilities, where active conservation combines with contemporary luxury to create memorable experiences in an unforgettable landscape. Tswalu is a place that’s set apart in every sense: by its remote, secluded location, by the success of its pioneering research programme, and by the emphasis placed on introducing guests to the wonders (great and small) of this unique ecosystem. Guests can come home to one of the nine Kalahari-themed houses at the Motse , or stay in Tarkuni , the former bush holiday villa of the Oppenheimer family with its commanding valley views. Both offer a direct route to the heart and soul of the Kalahari.

• Trace the rhythms of ancient cultures through their rock engravings.
• Encounter unusual arid area wildlife.
• Feel the sense of freedom that comes with almost limitless space.

SABI SABI EARTH LODGE

This lodge takes the modern concept of “appropriate luxury” to a new level. Despite its stunning design – or perhaps because of it – it can be hard to spot from certain angles. The 13 sumptuous guest suites are sculpted to nestle into – or emerge from – a natural slope in the ground. Fitting in aesthetically is just one of the ways in which Earth Lodge has achieved recognition as one of the most eco-sensitive lodges in Africa – this is truly guilt-free indulgence. While the architecture is something of a departure from classic safari lodge design, the orientation of the suites to maximize the views out over the bushveld is entirely in keeping with other luxury South African safari lodges.

• The Amber Presidential Suite is the last word in innovative luxury.
• The Amani Spa is the ultimate antidote to the stresses of modern life.
• Local Shangaan trackers add an extra layer of interpretation to the game drives.

Want to learn more about luxury South African safaris? Reach out to the Alluring Africa team.

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The Most Exclusive Safari Lodges in South Africa

By Alex Martin

Elite Traveler brings you the latest feature in our ongoing series. Here, we take a look at the five luxury safari lodges in South Africa.

South Africa is an incredibly diverse country with distinct ecosystems. The sprawling metropolis of Cape Town offers lush beaches and crystal-clear waters and the West Cape produces some of the best wine in the world.

Head north, however, and you enter a different world. It is here where you can come face-to-face with some of the most precious animals on the planet. Despite the vast emptiness of South Africa’s open plains, there are pockets of paradise; incredible lodges that offer once a lifetime adventures and all the amenities one expects from a luxury hotel. Here, we select five of the best.

Virgin owner and billionaire Sir Richard Branson knows how to build a luxury retreat – his own Necker Island is renowned for being one of the most exclusive destinations in the world. In Ulusaba, he has brought that unrivaled luxury straight to the heart of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. The retreat is separated into two lodges: Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge.

Rock Lodge is perched on the top of a koppie with panoramic views over the bush below while Safari Lodge boasts adventurous tree house-style rooms. The Cliff Lodge, a part of Rock Lodge, is the height of luxury here. The two suites can be booked together for exclusive use, which includes your own private chef and a private vehicle for game drives.

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Royal Malewane

Elite Traveler had the privilege of reviewing Royal Malewane following an extensive renovation in 2018. At the time, excitement was already building for their upcoming private safari lodge, The Farmstead. This stunning new section, which opened this month, is located just 12 minutes from the main house and offers the same exceptional service that guests have become accustomed to since it opened in 1999.

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The lodge’s other villas also benefitted from last year’s renovation. The redesign was led by owner of The Royal Portfolio, Liz Biden, who succeeded in blending a classic safari style with modern and contemporary elements.

Each evening meal is an unforgettable experience. Guests can find themselves dining by candlelight on one night and dancing beneath the stars the next. There are also a range of activities to enjoy, including a visit to the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre for close encounters with eagles, owls, vultures, wild dogs, lions and leopard, among other wildlife species.

theroyalportfolio.com/royal-malewane/

©MarkWilliams

Singita Boulders Lodge

Singita Boulders Lodge caused an almighty stir when it first appeared on the banks of the Sand River in 1996. The 12 suites were unapologetically modern, built from rock and shaped by great glass walls. Locals were shocked but tourists loved it.

Now, 23 years later, it is a pillar of the safari industry and remains one of South Africa’s most sought-after lodges. Light floods through all corners of the property, allowing guests to stay in touch with the surrounding Sabi Sand Reserve at all times – even the showers are outside.

Game drives into the lodge’s private reserve are a daily affair with expert guides and trackers on hand to increase your chances of seeing South Africa’s most elusive wildlife. There are a variety of activates to undertake back at the lodge, including a wine tasting session that unbottles some of the most treasured South African vintages.

singita.com/lodge/singita-boulders-lodge

Cheetah Plains

Opened in April 2019, Cheetah Plains is the freshest lodge out of the luxury safari box. The new lodge is comprised of three houses that celebrate state-of-the-art architecture, South African art and fine wine. The designers have shunned the traditional safari look in favor of a contemporary look.  The three houses each come complete with a private pool, dedicated safari guide, a chef, wine gallery and a spa therapist.

The lodge also has some serious eco credentials. The cars that take you into the game reserve are fully electric. The specially-designed Land Cruisers look like traditional safari cars, but use Tesla batteries to make sure they minimize the impact on the environment. The lodge also expects to produce 100 percent of its electricity through solar panels from this month throughout the season.

cheetahplains.com

Singita Ebony Lodge

Singita Ebony Lodge was the only South African safari lodge to be included in Elite Traveler’s Top 100 Hotels for 2019 . It was included not just because of its super-stylish décor and stunning suites, but because of its inspiring conservation programs. The lodge is comprised of 12 suites, each with its own private pool, fireplace and a suspended deck. From there, guests are likely to see animals drinking from the river below.

Their night-game drives are a must if you want to increase your chances of spotting the elusive leopard. The bush lodge-style runs consistently throughout the property, providing guests with a true sense of classic safari romance.

singita.com/lodge/singita-ebony-lodge/

The World’s Top Safaris

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Top Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa You’ll Want To Visit

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: February 27, 2024

South Africa has some of the most luxurious safari lodges in Africa, if not the world.

Safari camps are located on private game reserves or bordering national safari parks and offer superior luxury and indulgence. Decor, comfort and service fused with safari chic offer a stay in the heart of the African bush that is hard to beat.

Daily game drives allow guests to view the incredible South African wildlife, including the Big 5. Lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos can be seen in a natural wilderness alongside the region’s varied birdlife and flora.

After a day on safari, return to your luxury camp and enjoy mouthwatering gourmet meals and first-class service before retiring to your sumptuous safari lodge accommodation.

You will never forget the experience of staying in a luxury African safari lodge in South Africa.

Thank you to fellow travel bloggers who have stayed in some of the top luxury safari lodges in South Africa and have contributed to this post.

This article may contain affiliate links – For more information, please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy.

Table of Contents

Frequently Asked Questions

Will you see the big 5 in the luxury safari camps.

Most of the Big Five can be spotted while staying at one of South Africa’s luxury safari camps; however, the leopard is elusive and can be hard to spot.

Which animals make up the Big 5?

Rhino – Leopard – Elephant – Buffalo – Lion

What is the difference between a Safari Park and a Safari Reserve?

The difference between these is relatively straightforward.

A national park is government-owned and managed, usually a vast expanse of unfenced wilderness.

A private game reserve is owned privately and managed, and the land is fenced off.

Kruger National Park Safari Lodges

Kruger National Park is Africa’s most popular wildlife safari destination in the northeast of South Africa, bordering Mozambique. It is home to more animal species than any other African safari destination, including over 140 large mammal species and over 500 different bird species. 

On the outskirts of Kruger National Park are some of the most luxurious safari lodges in the world. Luxury safari camps such as Sabi Sands and Klaserie Drift await your arrival!

Klaserie Drift, Misava Safari Camp – 5-Star Luxury #1

Stepping into Klaserie Drift Misava Safari Camp, we felt any tension melt away as its restful and easy atmosphere welcomed us to a return to nature. With a five-star rating, this camp offers casual luxury and a place to feel at home with nature.

Overlooking the meandering Klaserie River, with panoramic views across the South African bushveld, it is no wonder Klasarie Drift Safari Camp won TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Award 2022 .

The safari lodge sits west of Kruger National Park, with no fences separating the two, so the animals of Kruger are free to roam where they please.

Misava’s tastefully appointed rooms reflect their natural surroundings and make the most of the breathtaking vistas across the African wilds . Misava’s staff were warm and welcoming, and the safari guides were extremely knowledgeable, with nothing being too much trouble for one of South Africa’s best luxury safari camps.

Two daily safari drives immerse you into the heart of mother nature , each lasting around three hours. We saw giraffes, elephants, hippos, zebra, hyenas, kudu, and our favourite afternoon sighting, a herd of impala barking their warning at a female leopard as she strolled by.

After an invigorating safari, the best way to relax is to swim in Misava’s incredible infinity pool overlooking the river . A bar and dining area beside the pool is a perfect place to chill.

Beautifully presented food is a thrill to the taste buds, and it is prepared by the resident chef with locally sourced products. Sitting eating a delicious lunch beside the shimmering pool and looking out across the bush, we couldn’t think of a more pleasurable and relaxing place.

Prices and Reviews for Klaserie Drift Misava Luxury Safari Camp

Ulusaba Safari Lodge, Sabi Sand Reserve – 5-Star Luxury #2

Ulusaba in Sabi Sand is the place for an indulgent safari on all levels. This 5* Virgin-owned safari camp is easy to get to from Johannesburg and borders Kruger National Park. There aren’t any fences here, so wildlife is free to roam, meaning you get Kruger’s diversity with a private reserve’s exclusivity. 

There are two luxury safari camps at  Ulusaba  – Safari Lodge and Rock Lodge. I spent a few nights at the former, in an opulent suite right in the heart of the bush, where animals could wander past at any time of day. I loved watching vervet monkeys scampering about on the deck as I enjoyed a soak in the tub! 

Ulusaba at Sabi Sands is famed for its leopard sightings , and I was lucky to encounter two on daily game drives during my stay. The daily safaris here are superb, with abundant animals, knowledgeable and friendly guides, and plenty of new places to explore daily. Yet, the accommodation made me choose to come to Ulusaba.

Ultimate luxury safari camps at Ulusaba

The lodge ticks all the boxes for high-end luxury yet has a chilled vibe that makes everyone feel welcome. The tastefully furnished rooms are all very private, with fun bridge walkways between them . A pool, gym, and a well-stocked bar also cater to international tastes. 

The highlight was perhaps the food, which was locally sourced and somewhat creative, with an African touch.

I tucked into bush breakfasts, including chocolate pancakes rustled up by a chef who had set up shop on a rocky outcrop and enjoyed leisurely lunches overlooking the dry riverbed.

Boma braai dinners were taken beside the campfire under the stars whilst musicians and dancers serenaded guests. It is a wonderful place, offering a relaxing and enchanting experience with fantastic staff and first-class service, and I can’t wait to return. 

Lion Sands Safari Lodge, Sabi Sand Reserve – 5-Star Luxury #3

One of the best luxury safari camps in South Africa is Lion Sands in Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. Located next to Kruger National Park, the safari camp’s location makes it ideal for  spotting the big five safari animals . Twice daily game drives or bushwalking safaris with an expert field guide allow close observation of Kruger’s wildlife.

Lion Sands set the bar for my first safari in South Africa , which was incredibly high compared to other luxury safari accommodations. Lion Sands Game Reserve has four safari lodges, each with a different style. To say I was in awe when I entered my safari suite, River Lodge would be an understatement. 

A patio separated the room with two loungers overlooking an infinity pool . On one side of the patio deck was a living room with two comfortable couches for reading or just relaxing. The other side had a bedroom, a second living room, a toilet room, a bathtub room, and an outdoor shower. They even put my name in leaves across the bed to welcome me to my home away from home! 

Safari Gastronomy

The lodge restaurant overlooked the river where water buffalo, hippopotamuses, and even elephants like to wander past. The friendly staff members all learned my name and my morning tea or coffee preferences.

As a picky eater, I was concerned about the meal choices during my safari stay, but my anxiety was unfounded. The menu had an international variety . From peanut butter french toast (which I still think about) to grilled kudu – each meal left me delightfully full.

The Lion Sands Ivory Lodge offers three sumptuous meals per day plus snacks . And the bush dinners in the wilderness are a one-of-a-kind experience!

Whenever someone tells me they are visiting South Africa to experience a safari, I cannot recommend the five-star luxury of Lion Sands Sabi Sands enough. The camp had such amazing amenities that made it feel more like glamping than anything else. 

Prices and Reviews for Lion Sands Luxury Safari Camp

KwaZulu-Natal Safari Lodges

KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is one of South Africa’s most popular holiday destinations, with magnificent scenery, including the Drakensberg Mountains to the west, the Lebombo Mountains to the north and sensational Big 5 Safari Experiences. 

Thanda Safari Game Reserve – 5-Star Luxury #4

Set in the heart of northern KwaZulu-Natal, Thanda Safari Camp is situated in one of the best  game reserves in KZN  if luxury and unparalleled wildlife viewings are what you’re after during your trip to South Africa. 

Thanda Luxury Safari Camp boasts three properties: Thanda Safari Lodge, Villa iZulu, and Thanda Tented Camp. I stayed at Thanda Tented Camp , which offers 15 luxury safari tents in the heart of the bush, each with a private sun deck. Every tent offers a ton of space from the one next to it, so you’ll feel like you’re the only guest at the camp!

I chose Thanda for several reasons: Their deep commitment to wildlife conservation and because the entire camp is a privately owned 14,000-hectare reserve.

The latter means you won’t have to share wildlife viewings with dozens of others. Moreover, I loved how my experience was a combination of unparalleled luxury , cultural immersion, and mouthwatering food.

Conservation at Thanda

Aside from the game drives (which were the best I’ve experienced in my life, both due to the passionate guides and the fact that I pretty much got them all to myself), Thanda Safari offers many activities and facilities to keep you entertained in between viewings. 

Think wellness activities, an infinity pool, and a cosy deck overviewing a water hole where tons of animals will pop by for a drink. You can also book different experiences around the reserve if you want to experience their conservation efforts.

Cheetah and rhino tracking , rhino darting, and private bushwalks to get up close with the wildlife that calls Thanda their home are all available to guests.

Prices and Reviews for Thanda Luxury Safari Camp

Pilanesberg National Park Safari Lodges (Malaria-Free)

Pilanesberg National Park is located in the North West Province of South Africa. Set in a volcanic crater, it is home to the Big Five and some rare African mammal species.

Mankwe Dam, an artificial lake, attracts the animals to drink, and concealed wildlife-viewing shelters throughout the park allow visitors to observe the animals’ natural behaviour. Birdlife includes eagles and ostriches.

Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge – 4-Star Luxury #5

Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge is 170 km from Johannesburg in the Pilanesberg National Park in the North West Province of South Africa.

I have been visiting since the early 1980s – with my parents and then as a parent myself. One of my most memorable times at the safari lodge was when I took my 13-year-old daughter on a safari.

Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge offers guests a luxury African safari experience in the heart of a malaria-free national park . This an absolute deal-breaker if you don’t want to take anti-malarial medication but want to experience a South African safari. 

Kwa Maritane, meaning “ place of the rock “, offers many tastefully decorated accommodation options, including standard twin, executive twin and executive king rooms. All rooms have sliding doors with access to a balcony or patio and great park views. 

Often, animals can be seen walking to the watering hole near the hotel. There is a hide near the waterhole, which is accessible from the hotel via an underground tunnel.

Live webcam footage is shown on the TV in your bedroom, so you know when to hotfoot it down to the hide to see an elephant or other African wildlife stopping off at the watering hole for a drink!

Kwa Maritane is one of Pilansburg’s premier luxury safari camps, so naturally, amenities are superb.

They include a spa set in the bushveld, a swimming pool under the shade of palm trees, tennis courts, putt-putt, free WiFi, a children’s playground, a wildlife centre, and a museum. 

Leisure Time at Kwa Maritane

Kwa Maritane offers several dining options, including two bars: the Kwa Maziout bar and lounge and a relaxing and cosy cocktail lounge and bar.

For dinner, head to Kwa Lefikeng restaurant and enjoy traditional South African dishes while enjoying the wonderful views over the park.

The buffet evenings are held throughout the week ; don’t miss the Lamb on a Spit on Sunday. Kwa Maritane offers a bush boma dinner in the braai area on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Daily game drives, as well as guided walks in the park, are available. The sundowner game drive is excellent, with your guides allowing you to stop and learn about the night sky and stars.

Kwa Maritane is home to Africa’s Big 5, so be  prepared for your game drive  and don’t forget your camera and binoculars! 

If you want to explore outside the national park, the world-famous Sun City is a mere 10-minute drive away. Kwa Maritane lay on a transfer bus, and afternoon tea at the Lost Palace is a fantastic experience.

Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge Prices and Reviews

South Africa’s Western Cape Safari Lodges (Malaria-Free)

The Western Cape is a wonderful destination for a safari holiday. You can combine Big Five game viewing with the beauty of Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route’s diverse flora.

Kwena Lodge, Gondwana Game Reserve – 5-Star Luxury #6

Gondwana Safari Game Reserve is a four-hour journey along the scenic Garden Route from Cape Town.

Nestled in 26,000 acres of natural wildlife habitat, this malaria-free luxury safari camp offers sweeping views of the Outeniqua and Langeberg Mountains. Once, these mountains formed part of the supercontinent known as Gondwanaland.

As Gondwana is easily accessible from the country’s capital city, it is the perfect Big Five safari destination. Guests can combine Cape Town’s must-see attractions with the beauty of South Africa’s wilderness.

The safari camp has an abundance of wildlife and a choice of several luxurious safari lodge accommodations, from luxury private lodges to family villas and even luxury eco-tents.

Kwena Lodge is a unique and luxurious twist on the traditional Khoi-San African circular dwellings. The open-plan living space gives 180-degree views of the surrounding bush and ceiling skylights for nightly stargazing .

The spacious bedroom overlooks two waterholes across the valley, and deep bathtubs and walk-in showers allow total relaxation after a long and dusty game drive.

Kwena Lodge has an infinity pool, open-plan lounge/bar and a gourmet restaurant serving traditional African fayre for guests to enjoy during their stay.

Gondwana Game Reserve Prices

South Africa’s Eastern Cape Safari Lodges (Malaria-Free)

You will find several Eastern Cape private game reserves along the Garden Route – the best being Shamwari and Amakhala . Enjoy discovering this part of South Africa, from the ethical wildlife experiences in Plettenberg to the mighty Tsitsikamma Forest , not forgetting the beautiful beaches.

Eagles Crag, Shamwari Game Reserve – 5-Star Luxury #7

Shamwari Game Reserve is close to Port Elizabeth. It has been synonymous with luxurious accommodations and sensational game viewings since the early 1990s.

It is also one of the best malaria-free Eastern Cape Game Reserves . Seven unique lodges offer the discerning guest the choice of low-key luxury to full-blown safari decadence.

Shamwari’s Eagles Crag is perched between lush vegetation and a rocky outcrop. An upper deck observation station lets guests view the eagles soaring in the sky .

Exquisite suites fuse natural African elements with sophisticated interiors. Each has an outdoor shower and a private plunge pool, where guests ca n relax after a safari game drive.

Shamwari offers various experiences, such as Safari Drives, Bird-watching, Bush Walks, and Photographic Safaris.

Being at the forefront of wildlife conservation, guests can visit the on-site Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary and the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. Guests looking to relax can enjoy the spa facilities, including a steam room, sauna and treatments.

The food and wine at Shamwari Game Reserve are abundant, from teas and coffee before early morning game drives and buffet breakfasts on your return to gourmet lunch and dinner. And, of course, let’s not forget those sundowners overlooking the African bush – what’s not to like?

Shamwari Game Reserve Prices and Reviews for Eagles Crag

Bush Lodge, Amakhala Game Reserve – 5-Star Luxury #8

Amakhala Game Reserve is a 7,500-hectare protected wilderness and malaria-free safari area . It is Shamwari’s next-door neighbour and another private reserve.

It is home to the Big 5, as well as zebra, giraffe, cheetah, wildebeest, warthog jackal, and antelope.

Amakhala Game Reserve offers luxury accommodations in both safari lodges and luxury safari tents.

Amakhala Bush Lodge is a luxury-tented safari camp. It holds a superior position overlooking the valley and the Bushman’s River that runs through its heartland. But don’t think staying in a tent will forfeit a luxurious stay – far from it!

The five safari tents in Bush Lodge each have a wooden deck, private plunge pool, and top-class in-tent amenities.

King-size beds, ultra-luxe fabrics, armchairs, large oval bathtubs, and romantic alfresco double showers make this the perfect bush retreat.

Daily activities include safari game drives, birdwatching, star-gazing and bushwalking. River cruises unique to Amakhala allow guests to observe the riverside wildlife.

Another genuinely authentic experience in Amakhala Game Reserve is Quatermain’s Camp .

It is a 3-star rustic camp designed to resemble a 1920s expedition camp . Owned by a British vet nurse and her South African ranger husband, it is amazing – I can vouch for that!

Amakhala Game Reserve Prices and Reviews for Bush Lodge

If these fabulous Safari Parks in South Africa have inspired a visit to Africa, you may also want to check out some equally beautiful parks to visit in this Kenya Safari Travel Guide .

Please Pin for Future Travel to Africa

Are you looking for further South African Travel Inspiration? Please check out the following posts:

The Perfect 2-Week Garden Route Road Trip in South Africa

12 Best Things To Do in Cape Town, South Africa (2024)

10 Sensational Cape Peninsula Landmarks Worth Visiting From Cape Town

11 Best Cape Town Wine Tasting Vineyards in South Africa

How to Visit the Penguins in Cape Town on Boulders Beach

Knysna Elephant Park: The Ultimate Elephant Sleepover in South Africa

How to See Storms River Suspension Bridge in Tsitsikamma

10 Ethical Animal Experiences along South Africa’s Garden Route

Quatermain’s Safari Camp Review: 3-Nights in Amakhala Game Reserve

Is Johannesburg Safe For Tourists To Visit?

Do you need to arrange travel insurance, car hire or accommodation? Please check out my  travel resources page  to help you plan your trip.

 I would like to receive occasional updates and new travel posts.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Saturday 15th of January 2022

These sound fantastic - I wish my budget could have run to something like this when I visited Kruger.

Fantastic post! My favourite luxe safari camps in SA are Cheetah Plains and Jaci's Safari Lodge - have you visited either of those?

WhereAngieWanders

Sunday 16th of January 2022

No, I haven't visited those - I will check them out for a future visit.

Great article and great places! We normally do self drive budget safaris so I would not mind being spoilt in one of these luxury safari camps.

How amazing! I love Africa and always appreciate knowing about great Safari experiences. I’m going to save this post for future use!

I hope you get around to visiting one of these camps on one of your future adventures.

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The 10 best safari lodges in South Africa

Our South Africa specialist's guide to the finest safari lodges the country has to offer

02 Jul 2020

07 nov 2022.

Time spent on safari is an integral part of any South Africa holiday , with discerning visitors delighted by the sheer number of incredible safari lodges on offer there. When planning trips, many South Africa safari-goers will automatically gravitate towards the private reserves surrounding the world-famous Kruger National Park , which is renowned for its amazing wildlife and superb range of lodges to complement this.

For those who want to spread their wings a little, there are plenty of other choices to consider.

If you are doing a family holiday to South Africa then the malaria-free reserves of The Eastern Cape , as well as the Madikwe Game Reserve in the North-West province also blend luxury with wonderful wildlife viewing and world-class guides.

Further east, the reserves of KwaZulu-Natal are amongst the finest in the country and have a superb array of wildlife to see, allied with the fact that the reserves of the area were the first in the world to focus on rhino conservation.

Wherever you choose to go, out experts will be able to recommend the best lodge for you, but here are what, in our opinion, are the 10 finest lodges in the country and should feature high on any traveller’s list, perfect for a luxury South Africa holiday.

1. Royal Malewane

When we are asked the question “what is the best safari lodge in South Africa?” it has hard to not immediately respond with the answer of Royal Malewane. Guests staying at the main lodge can choose between the beautifully designed luxury suites, all of which have their own unique style, antique furnishings and private swimming pools, or the sprawling royal suites which are even more spacious with two bedrooms, catering for both families and groups of friends travelling together. Even more luxurious are the luxury farm suites, a more modern take on safari rooms, but complete with the traditional touches and private pools that make Royal Malewane so enduringly popular.

Larger groups are able to book the Farmhouse on an exclusive basis, ensuring a private chef, housekeeping team and guides, or plump for the outstanding Africa House, one of the continents most iconic and desirable places to stay. Hosting up to 12 guests, this beautifully designed villa is crammed with owner Liz Biden’s most treasured furnishings and artwork. A stunning swimming pool overlooks the bushveld of the Thornybush Game Reserve and the world-class guiding team is on hand to ensure an unparalleled wildlife experience is enjoyed by all guests. Nothing is left to chance at Royal Malewane, guests’ every needs are planned from well before they arrive and the on-site team are on hand 24 hours a day to ensure no-one wants for anything from the moment they arrive to the sad time that they say farewell.

Royal Malewane

2.) Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

The premier offering from the Sabi Sabi stable of lodges, the stunning Earth Lodge is one of the most uniquely designed properties in all of South Africa, offering its guests the best of everything that visits to the country has to offer. The main lodge, as well as the suites, have all been built out of baked earth and straw, so their construction was completely eco-friendly and lends a unique purple-brown hue to the buildings. The vast suites have their own indoor sitting areas, huge beds and gloriously appointed en-suite bathrooms with luxury toiletries provided. There is a private outside area with huge comfy sofas, a hanging chair and swimming pool – the perfect place to relax in the afternoons and have some well-earned down time. The main area is a huge open-plan dining and indoor lounge area and the cuisine is amongst the finest any lodge in Africa has to offer.

Chef swap programmes with renowned London restaurants have helped to develop unique and innovative menus, accompanied by a vast wine list which boasts some of South Africa’s finest vintages. The bar is made from a huge piece of driftwood, with bar tenders proudly serving South African wines, craft beers and a huge array of spirits. Mix all of these factors with the outstanding guides and superb game viewing for which the Sabi Sand is renowned and you have a truly incredible place to spend a few days in the bush.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

3. Singita Bolders

For many years now Singita has been renowned for offering the finest safari experiences that Africa has to offer, with painstakingly designed, impeccably run and gloriously located lodges throughout the continent. Safari aficionados gently argue about which of their lodges is “Number One” but for us it is hard to beat their Sabi Sand lodge Singita Boulders. Found in one of South Africa’s prime game viewing areas, a private reserve bordering the Kruger National Park, the lodge offers an unrivalled game viewing experience in the company of some of the country’s best guides. Big cat sightings, especially leopard, are outstanding here, whilst resident packs of wild dog move through the reserve and guides will always keep an eye out for them. The lodge overlooks a sweep of the Sand River, offer breathtaking sunsets from the sprawling deck and infinity pool.

The lounge, bar and dining area is an amazing place to relax, with outstanding food, a wonderful wine collection and unique cocktails served throughout the day. The spa offers an extensive range of treatments for individuals and couples – a lovely way to break up a day in the bush. The suites are amongst the most luxurious anywhere in Africa, with curtain-encased four poster beds, indoor sitting areas, beautifully-appointed an-suite bathrooms and private decking areas complete with rim flow swimming pools. If you love the finer things in life and have an appreciation for some of the most extraordinary wildlife sightings anywhere on Earth then Singita Boulders is without doubt the place for you.

Singita Boulders

4. The Outpost

Unique and innovative design has taken a while to take hold in the safari lodge world, with most operators preferring to stick with traditional styles and design. Tucked away in a private concession in the far north of the Kruger National Park, The Outpost proudly broke this mould, offering guests who make the journey up here a truly unique and innovative safari experience. The suites are built on a hillside, hidden from one another by the bushveld and built “side-on” so wherever you are in the suite you get the amazing bush views. Indeed, the fronts of each room can be fully “rolled-up” to maximise the views. The granite baths have been specially sited to maximise these views, so we highly recommend a post morning game drive bath with the sights and sounds of the bush rolling out in front of you.

When relaxing in the public area guests can choose between the open plan and open-fronted lounge area, which is packed with comfy sofas and private places to hide away, or the beautiful swimming pool area, complete with loungers and staff on hand to serve drinks. The food is outstanding, defying the remote location to offer guests a culinary experience to delight the senses, accompanied by amazing wines from renowned South African vineyards. If unique design is your thing, along with getting away from the crowds then we couldn’t recommend anywhere more than The Outpost – it is truly a sight to behold.

The Outpost

5. Madikwe Safari Lodge

If you are looking for the ultimate in luxury in the Madikwe Game Reserve, then look no further than the amazing Madikwe Safari Lodge. The camp is split in to three “satellite” camps, with one dedicated to families, with the others hosting couples, so you will always be accommodated with like-minded guests, which helps to enhance the experience. The feeling of luxury hits you the moment you arrive at your lodge, with a huge open-sided lounge area filled with deep sofas and bar area to greet you. In the rooms the feeling of luxury continues, with wonderfully comfortable beds, spacious bathrooms with outdoor showers and open decking areas complete with their own plunge pools.

Minibars come filled with an array of drinks and snacks, with the lodge able to offer in-room dining for guests celebrating special occasions. The guides are outstanding, navigating Madikwe’s extensive road network with the utmost authority, giving guests up close and personal with the incredible wildlife that the reserve boasts and telling them all about what they are witnessing. This beautiful part of South Africa has been somewhat bypassed by those looking for luxury, but Madikwe Safari Lodge is undoubtedly one of the leading lodges in the country and always right at the top of our list of places to recommend.

Madikwe Safari Lodge

6. Phinda Vlei

When looking for luxury safari lodges, the size of where you stay is always an important factor. Smaller properties mean a more favourable staff to guest ratio, fewer people in game viewing vehicles and more space in which to spread out and relax. With these factors in mind, few lodges are more desirable than the delightful Phinda Vlei Lodge, a 6-bedroom lodge found in the heart of the Phinda Private Game Reserve’s breathtaking belt of sand forest. The elegant lounge area is a wonderful place to relax with comfortable sofas, a bar area and stunning views out in to the forest. Meals focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients are served outside, or in the lovely dining room which has a roaring fireplace at one end. The chefs are incredibly innovative and pride themselves in offering some of the finest cuisine of any of the South African lodges.

The suites are a wonderful blend of modern stylings and traditional touches, with the curtain-draped four-poster beds an especially alluring feature. Fully stocked minibars mean that guests are able to take afternoon drinks out on to their verandas which look out in to the eerily beautiful sand forest whilst the sparkling plunge pools are a great place to cool off in the heat of the afternoon. A truly wonderful lodge, Phinda Vlei is perfect for those who like the finer things in life with plenty of privacy and personalised service.

Phinda Vlei

7. Thanda Safari Lodge

When seeking luxury many safari-goers place a premium on space, allowing them to spread out, relax and revel in glorious isolation. When it comes to offering space, nowhere in South Africa does this to the extent of Safari Lodge. The suites are utterly vast, accessed by a raised walkway from the main area with a huge open deck complete with swimming pool, covered day bed and even a private boma for candlelit evening meals the first thing that you see. Sitting back, relaxing on the deck or swimming in the pool and taking in the views over the bush is the perfect way to spend the afternoons. Inside the suites the bedroom and sitting room areas are separated by a roaring fireplace, which is lit for guests on cold winter evenings and is a wonderfully homely feature. The bathrooms have plenty of space, twin vanities and baths that look out through the windows over the bush.

The feeling of space continues in the main area where the large open-plan lounge and bar area leads out on to the decking area, another popular spot to relax in the afternoons and take in the sights and sounds of the bush. A stay at Thanda is a very special experience, with the wide-open spaces of the bush replicated by the design of the lodge to offer one of the most luxurious safari experiences that South Africa has to offer.

Thanda Safari Lodge

8. Tswalu The Motse

One of the (somewhat unfair it must be said) criticisms of safaris in South Africa is that they are too “samey” with similar ecosystems found throughout much of the country, leading to very similar wildlife experiences wherever you go. So, if your idea of luxury is something off the beaten track and truly unique then you should look no further than Tswalu The Motse, a stunning lodge in the heart of the private Tsawlu Kalahari Reserve. Privacy really is the watchword here, with the spacious suites able to host guests throughout the stay, with space for private dining, relaxing in between game drives and enjoying the views out over the desert. That said, the main area of the lodge is wonderfully spacious, with plenty of private nooks where guests can relax, enjoy meals, drinks and the outstanding service for which the lodge is renowned.

The swimming pool is very welcoming – afternoons in the desert can get especially hot, whilst the decking area is great for alfresco meals when the weather allows. The notion of privacy is extended to safari activities, with all guests given their own guide and safari vehicle, meaning they are able to explore the reserve to their heart’s content. Special wildlife sightings here including rhinos, legendary black-maned Kalahari lions and endearing meerkats, all spotted in some of the most mesmerising landscapes that the Rainbow Nation has to offer. This is a very special place indeed, the ideal spot to round off any journey to South Africa – undoubtedly one of its crown jewels.

Tswalu The Motse

9. Shamwari Eagle’s Crag

South Africa’s Eastern Cape has long been beloved of visitors to South Africa for the safari element of their trips and being malaria free with a pleasant climate and an easy drive from another popular tourist area, The Garden Route, it is easy to see why. For a long time it did lack the really “uber-luxury” lodges that draw visitors to South Africa and was perhaps missing out the visitors who wanted something truly special to stay accordingly. In recent years that has all changed, thanks in the main to the massive investments the world-famous Shamwari Game Reserve, home to the Born Free Foundation, made in their lodges and safari offering. Their programme of improvements has allowed them to compete on an even footing with other lodges across the country and nowhere embodies their bold vision better than the gorgeous Eagle’s Crag. Tucked away at the base of jagged hillsides where eagles are known to nest, it is a wonderfully modern take on safari lodges, with lots of dark woods, private spaces to eat and relax and open sides to maximise the incredible views.

The food is outstanding, amongst the finest in the country with bold and innovative menu choices, alongside traditional favourites, complemented by a dream-like wine list. Exquisite bedrooms welcome guests when they get back from game drives, with light, modern furnishings, plenty of space and a lovely outdoor decking area, complete with a sparkling plunge pool which is a wonderful addition to the lodge. Those who want the convenience of a safari on the Eastern Cape, but with luxuries that other areas of the country are renowned for need look no further than the glorious re-invention of Eagle’s Crag.

Shamwari Eagle’s Crag

10. Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

When planning family holidays to South Africa safaris are always an important element of the trip, but often there are not the same number of luxury options that visitors travelling has couples have to choose from. One of the long-standing exceptions to this has been the outstanding Kwandwe Ecca Lodge, a luxury family-friendly lodge in the heart of the exclusive Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, a remote parcel of land in the rolling hills of the Eastern Cape. Guest staying here can expect all of the luxuries associated with modern safari lodges – spacious rooms, the finest linens, private plunge pools and stunning views. Combine these with a beautiful main area that boasts a stunning swimming pool, incredible cuisine and top-notch service, anyone staying at Kwandwe will want for nothing throughout their stay.

It is undoubtedly the dedication to offering the ultimate family safari experience that elevates Kwandwe in to the upper echelons of South African safari lodges. The three family suites allow parents bring children of all ages to the lodge. Safari times and lengths are tailored to ensure that families can all enjoy their game viewing together, but there is also a babysitting service to ensure adults can enjoy longer game drives should they wish. Children can learn to cook with the chefs, acquire animal tracking skills or simply enjoy a film and popcorn should they wish. Meal times can also be staggered, meaning the entire safari experience is optimised and no-one from the youngest to oldest guest misses out on anything they want to do.

Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

Wondering when to visit? Take a look at this guide on the best time to visit South Africa .

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The Top 10 South African Safari Lodges to Visit in 2024

Author: Lana Goodwin - 9 February 2023

Last Update: 30 January 2024

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

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

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

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

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

Londolozi Private Granite Suites

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

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

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

Dulini Moya Lodge

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

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

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

Elephant Plains Game Lodge

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

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

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

Kapama River Lodge

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

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

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

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

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

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

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

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Singita Boulders Lodge

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

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

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

Ulusaba Rock Lodge

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

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

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

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

Lion Sands River Lodge

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

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

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

Tintswalo Safari Lodge

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

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

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

Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge

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

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

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

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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 10 BEST Luxury Lodges in South Africa

South Africa Luxury Lodges

Property types, distance from, traveler rating, hotel class.

• Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
• Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
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1. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

2. Bush Lodge

3. Kariega Game Reserve - Main Lodge

4. Tamodi Lodge

5. Return Africa - Pafuri Collection

6. Sausage Tree Safari Camp

7. Shepherd's Tree Game Lodge

8. Buffelsdrift Game Lodge

9. Naledi Lodges

10. Lion Sands River Lodge

11. makumu private game lodge, 12. senalala safari lodge, 13. ivory tree game lodge, 14. buhala lodge, 15. simbavati river lodge, 16. the outpost, 17. umzolozolo private safari lodge, 18. khaya ndlovu safari manor, 19. hillsnek safari camp, 20. klaserie drift, 21. palala boutique game lodge and spa, 22. thanda safari lodge, 23. zebras crossing, 24. kuzuko lodge, 25. nkomazi game reserve, 26. tau game lodge, 27. amakhosi safari lodge, 28. river bend lodge, 29. mount camdeboo private game reserve, 30. dawsons game and trout lodge, luxury lodges nearby destinations.

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Nambiti Game Reserve - South Africa

Step out of your world and into ours.

The Homestead is an ultra-luxury eco-lodge on the Nambiti Private Game Reserve, in the malaria-free KwaZulu-Natal region of South Africa. Steeped in history and bristling with technology , this new safari lodge is hewn from local ironstone and the roof is planted with indigenous grasses, embedding The Homestead into the natural environment . The Homestead will get you closer to the big five, with the chance to spot over 50 protected mammal species and over 300 bird species.

Discover The Homestead

The Homestead offers twelve suites, six of which are perfect for couples or solo adventurers. The other six suites can be connected together for families and larger groups and the entire property can be booked for events.

African-inspired food created with the finest organic, locally sourced ingredients. Braais in the Boma. A Whisky collection with dozens of bottles from around the world. Tea, Coffee and Wine tastings to tantalize your taste buds.

Game drives in electric vehicles, sundowners on The Homestead deck watching the animals at the waterhole, cooking classes with amazing chefs, showering in the waterfalls of the formidable Drakensberg mountains, and heavenly stargazing.

Positive impact for people and planet.

We believe that we’re all responsible for creating a better world for each other and future generations, and that means taking care of the people around us and the planet we live on. Find out more about how we are working to eradicate poaching, support local communities and incorporate sustainable practices in everything we do.

Sore, jetlagged muscles soothed by world-class therapists using Terre D’Afrique oils. Starting your day with a swim in your private infinity pool at sunrise. Yoga classes on The Homestead deck. Mesmerising flames flickering in the firepits.

Battlefield tours explain how our architecture combines with original 19th-century features to honour the land’s history. You can meet our community elders. Recognise constellations. Sip and paint.

Join us. #TheHomestead

@visithomestead.

• ✨ The Homestead main lodge connects a beautiful, natural escarpment to an active watering hole at the other end. The roof is planted using the same grass that covers the nearby grasslands to add a layer of natural harmony to its design and allow it to blend perfectly into its surroundings. ✨ #TheHomestead #Design #Architecture #SouthAfrica #Luxury #Safari
• Merry Christmas! We’re so grateful to have you all on our journey. We hope today is full of joy, family and friends 🎄 🎅🏻
• Happy Hanukkah! Wishing you and your family warmth and light this Hanukkah season 💙
• It's World Ranger Day! We want to thank each and every Ranger for their unwavering commitment, bravery and the sacrifices they make to protect and conserve our wildlife. #WorldRangerDay #StandWithRangers #Conservation
• Happy World Giraffe Day! Did you know that Giraffes can guzzle up to 45kgs of leaves and twigs a day? 🤯
• Happy Father's Day! We hope today brings all the love and joy you each deserve, The Homestead team 🧡
• Happy Mother's Day! You are all extraordinary and we are grateful for everything you do for us! ❤️
• In South Africa, Freedom Day is a chance to celebrate the ability to vote. In 1994, the first democratic elections were held and everybody, no matter their race, could participate. Photography: Emma Gatland
• Did you know? 💡 Marabou Storks can swallow a full kilogram of food in one gulp!
• Aloe spectabilis ❇️ Native to KwaZulu-Natal ❇️ Has antibacterial and antibiotic properties so can be used for bee stings, insect bites and other medicinal purposes. ❇️ Grows 10 leaves a year, so by counting the leaves on the plant as well as the dead leaves on the trunk you can work out exactly how old it is. On average takes around 80 years to grow to a meter. ❇️ Is eaten by Kudu and Eland in the dryer months and Elephants love them Photography: Craig Scott Photography
• On 21st March, Human Rights Day is observed by South Africans to remember the sacrifices made that led to democracy being established in South Africa. Photography: Emma Gatland
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Top 20 Best Tanzania Safaris - Compare 5,006 Tours

5-Day Classic Safari Expedition

$1,500 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

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

Quagga Topy Safaris and Tours   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  126 Reviews

7-Day Journey of the Wildebeest - Mid-Range

$3,550 to $4,420 pp (USD)

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

Unlimited Expeditions: The Soul of Tanzania   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  438 Reviews

10-Day Great Wildebeest Migration Across the Mara River

$3,850 to $4,510 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Lake Natron, Serengeti NP, Northern Serengeti NP, Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Maasai Village (Cultural Village) , Arusha (End)

Meru Slopes Tours & Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  304 Reviews

7-Day Tanzania Holiday Experience & Materuni Waterfalls

$1,320 pp (USD)

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

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

Go Serengeti African Tours   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  121 Reviews

8-Day Great Migration Safari

$3,135 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro, Arusha (End)

Safari Soles   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  245 Reviews

4-Day Melia Lodge Safari Tarangire Serengeti Ngorongoro

$2,508 to $3,410 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Lodge

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

Tanzania Roadside Expeditions   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  247 Reviews

5-Day Luxury Best of Tanzania

$2,288 to $2,695 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Hotel

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

Lion King Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  1018 Reviews

6-Day Northern Parks Comfort

$2,593 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Tented Camp

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

Shemeji Safari Tanzania   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.8 /5  –  281 Reviews

11-Day Northern Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar

$7,846 pp (USD)

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

4.9 /5  –  149 Reviews

5-Day Group Camping Safari Two Nights in Serengeti

$1,100 pp (USD)

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

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

Gamedrive Travel Africa Safari Agency   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  260 Reviews

8-Day Beach & Safari Trip Zanzibar & Serengeti

$3,092 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Tented Camp & Resort

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

Paradise & Wilderness   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  129 Reviews

7-Day Big Five Safari - Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Others

$2,750 pp (USD)

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

Savannah Explorers   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  484 Reviews

4-Day Fly in and out Zanzibar -Serengeti to Ngorongoro

$1,109 pp (USD)

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

You Visit: Zanzibar (Start) , Arusha Airport (Arusha) , Serengeti NP, Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar (End)

Ngekewa Tours and Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  41 Reviews

11-Day Mid Luxury - Beach Holiday and Safari in Tanzania

$3,891 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar (Beach) , Abeid Amani Karume Airport (End)

Brilliant Adventures and Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  53 Reviews

5-Day Best of the Northern Circuit Experience

$1,791 pp (USD)

Kilimanjaro Adventure Safari Club   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  147 Reviews

6-Day Authentic Luxury Safari

$2,860 to $3,493 pp (USD)

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

5.0 /5  –  357 Reviews

5-Day Unforgettable Safari to Iconic National Parks

$2,277 to $2,750 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge & Hotel

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

Colours Africa Tours and Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  157 Reviews

3-Day 2 Nights Mikumi Safari with Maasai Village Tour

$578 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge

You Visit: Dar Es Salaam (Start) , Mikumi NP, Dar Es Salaam (End)

Connect African Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  33 Reviews

6-Day Private Wildlife and Cultural Tourism Safari

$1,595 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Budget Camping & Hotel

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Mto wa Mbu (Town) , Central Serengeti, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Highlands, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Serengeti Wakanda Tours and Safaris   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  473 Reviews

3-Day Safari to Explore Serengeti NP & Ngorongoro Crater

$1,386 pp (USD)

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

Serengeti Mystery Adventures   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.8 /5  –  22 Reviews

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I went on a budget and a luxury safari in Africa. Here's how they compare — and the one thing you really need to look for when booking.

Posted: March 14, 2024 | Last updated: March 14, 2024

• I have been on two glamping safari trips in Africa on two very different budgets.
• My all-inclusive stay was great but my cheaper glamping experience was fine, too. 
• Private game reserves are actually the most important thing to splurge on, not accommodations. 

I've been on two African safari trips . Both involved glamping but on completely different budgets.

My first more affordable trip, a lodge in South Africa with separate safari excursions, cost me about $1,100. My second, an all-inclusive lodge in Tanzania, cost me about $4,000 after a 50% off deal.

Here's how the two compare and what I think you should look for before you plan an African safari .

My affordable safari experience was at Jackalberry Ridge, where some tents cost $80 a night.

The first time I went on a safari, I went to Kruger National Park in South Africa. I didn't book a tour package, instead opting to stay at affordable lodging and book safari day trips to the park.

I stayed five nights near Kruger and one night in Johannesburg before my flight home. I spent around $1,100 for lodging, safari tours, a rental car, and food (not including flights).

After landing in Johannesburg, I rented a car ($130 for five days) to drive to my lodging in Marloth Park, a town bordering the edge of Kruger National Park.

I was staying at Jackalberry Ridge , a self-catering accommodation with no on-site restaurant, no room service, and limited housekeeping.

The one-bedroom tents at Jackalberry Ridge go for as low as $80 a night, and two-bedroom tents go for $135.

When I checked in late, there was no one at the reception desk — just an envelope with my name on it containing my keys and a map.

My main tent felt pretty spacious, with a king bed and a living-room area.

I had booked a two-bedroom unit (two tents), but my friend couldn't come at the last minute. Since I couldn't change the reservation, I still stayed in the two-bedroom unit and my friend paid her share.

The campsite came with a small pool to dip in, but it was covered as the weather was pretty cold.

Each unit had a private bathroom and kitchen in a building separate from the tents, so I needed to leave my tent to use the bathroom at night.

The bathroom was standard, with a tub, shower, and toilet.

This is glamping, so I had access to running water and a flushing toilet. I had hot water, but I found it went from scalding hot to cold in a few seconds.

I ended up taking quick showers and just washing my hair with cold water, which wasn't ideal since it was a little chilly in the morning.

It's also worth noting that Jackalberry Ridge was renovated recently, so the issue I had with hot water may have been fixed now.

I also had access to a kitchen in the same building as the bathroom.

The kitchen was well-equipped with things like pots, a microwave, and a sink, so I could cook meals or heat up leftovers.

I signed up for a couple of day safaris and did one at night.

Although I had a rental car and could've done a self-drive safari around Kruger, I didn't trust myself to spot animals while focusing on the roads.

Instead, I signed up for a couple of day safaris and one night safari. The safari tour prices often don't include the park entrance fee (about $25 per person per day), which I paid when I got to the entrance.

My three safari trips and park fees came to around $280.

I got to see zebras, giraffes, and more.

I saw a lot on the safari, including zebras, impalas, kudus, and giraffes. I saw lions and a leopard, although only from afar with binoculars. I even got a glimpse of the elusive rhinoceros.

I also spent one day taking another popular day trip in the area, the Panorama Route. This scenic road goes past Lisbon Falls and the beautiful Blyde River Canyon. The guided tour was $110.

As far as my very first safari trip goes, it was great. I got to see the Big Five , even though some of them were pretty far away.

For my next safari trip, I leveled up.

I saw a Travelzoo deal for an all-inclusive safari at Taasa Lodge , a five-star luxury safari in Tanzania.

The deal was $6,000 for two people for a whole week — the lodge is usually $12,950 for two for seven nights. It was still a splurge, but I'd be saving more than 50% on a bucket-list experience.

The package came with seven nights of lodging, two safari activities a day, three daily meals, and drinks.

Still, we spent more than the original advertised price. There are obligatory "daily government park fees" and "daily concession fees" that added about $893 per person to our bill.

We also had to take a regional flight to get to Taasa, which was more expensive than my rental car in South Africa.

To redeem the Travelzoo deal, we had to complete our booking through a specific travel agency.

We ended up opting for an all-inclusive add-on package which includes the $893 fees above, domestic airfares from Arusha to Taasa (which would already cost around $600), and our agency arranging our Tanzanian tourist visa and airport transfers. The add-on also included extra activities at the resort (more on that later).

Overall, we paid $1,715 per person on top of the $3,000 each for the lodge stay.

I hadn't anticipated paying so many extras, but it was nice to have someone take care of the logistics of getting to the resort.

My tent was luxurious and equipped with a comfortable king bed and a large living room.

When I arrived at the lodge, the staff greeted me with a glass of juice and a wet towel to refresh myself.

My tent was quite spacious. I especially liked that it had a desk and plenty of outlets I could use to charge my electronics. Our bathroom was behind our bed, and I was glad it was inside the tent this time.

We also got a butler who kept track of our schedules and made sure we had what we needed.

The bathroom felt spacious, with two sinks and a shower.

The shower's hot water was great and we had double sinks we could get ready at.

Another perk of the lodge is that we could have staff do our laundry every day, which meant we could pack less clothing.

There's a main lodge with a communal living room, dining area, and bar.

We got breakfast at the buffet in the main lodge unless we were going on a morning safari.

Most people ate dinner in the dining room, but we could've requested to have food brought to our tent.

We also passed a small pool next to the main lodge.

The pool was on the small side, but certainly had great views.

I didn't end up using it as my afternoons were filled with safari, and the mornings and evenings were chilly.

On the mornings with an early safari, we had a simple breakfast next to our Land Cruiser.

Safari breakfasts consisted of hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, doughnuts, bacon and sausage, fruits, and orange juice. Staff also made French-press coffee, which we could spike with cream liqueur.

Our Land Cruiser had a cooler of beers and sodas in the back, too.

At the private game reserve, we got pretty close to wildlife.

Taasa is located inside a private game reserve, which means staff can pretty much drive anywhere within it. This was a huge leg up from my day trips in Kruger National Park on my last safari.

Inside national parks like Kruger or Serengeti, you're only allowed to drive on designated roads for safety reasons (both for the tourists and the animals).

But in a private reserve, guides can drive offroad. Plus, the guides communicate with each other when they find something special.

We saw a bunch of animals in the private reserve and Serengeti.

We also left the reserve to spend a couple of days going into Serengeti National Park, as there were things you could only find there instead of within the private reserve.

For example, I'd planned my trip to take place during the Great Migration, and I wanted to see wildebeests crossing the Mara River.

We also went to Serengeti to find rhinoceros and hippopotamus.

Every dinner at the resort consisted of three courses: soup, an entrée, and a dessert.

The main course was usually some type of Western food, and there was always a vegetarian option.

It would've been nice to be offered more typical Tanzanian dishes, though. For me, part of the fun of traveling is learning about different countries' cuisines.

I also had access to an open bar in the main lodge. Staff could make simple cocktails, and there was lots of beer and wine. The drinks were all included with the price of the stay (except for fancy Champagnes and select wines).

One morning, we had a special breakfast on the plains.

On one day of the trip, we had a special bush breakfast. It was one of the extra activities we got with that special add-on package.

Instead of our usual safari breakfast, we had freshly prepared omelets in the wild.

We also got another special treat in the bush that morning — a toilet!

When you're offroading looking for wild animals, you can end up pretty far from a proper toilet.

On most safari days, the car stops (when guides think it's safe), and people go behind the car to do their business.

This was the only time we had this portable toilet while out on a safari. On my budget safari day trips at Kruger, we'd have to wait until we reached a rest-stop facility.

Again, we spent a lot of time watching lions.

After breakfast, we were back in safari mode.

We found a family of lions, and as we were in the private reserve, we were able to stay and watch the cubs play for quite a while.

At Kruger, when lions are spotted, traffic starts backing up on the road as all the safari cruisers stop to look, so you can't stay too long.

Here, we knew no one else would be coming.

On a different morning, our guide got a tip that another car had found a leopard sleeping.

The communication between guides in the private reserve paid off when one spotted a sleeping leopard.

When our group arrived, the leopard was napping on the tree next to his catch. Eventually, it came down, and we got a better look.

Our trip ended with a great happy hour and outdoor dinner.

Other activities that were part of our add-on package included a visit to a Maasai village in Kenya and a special happy hour and barbecue dinner.

And, for our journey home, the travel agency took care of everything, including transfers, until we boarded our international flight.

My big takeaway is that it's really worth paying to be inside a private reserve.

In my opinion, the difference between these two safari trips that's the most worth paying for is being in a private reserve.

After all, the main reason I fly to Africa is for the safari, not the glamping.

I much preferred my lodging at Taasa, mostly because of the bathroom. But if I hadn't had the 50% off deal, I'm not sure the full price would've been worth it.

Still, it was a wonderful experience, and if I had more money, I may feel differently. Even so, the budget glamping was pretty comfortable and just fine for a week.

But again, as far as the safari experience goes, the private reserve is hard to beat. Being able to go offroading and get closer to the animals is quite the experience.

And if luxurious lodges are out of the question, private reserves can also be visited more affordably. Some lodges inside private reserves, like Shindzela or Rhino River Lodge, can cost around $250 per person per night.

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This New Luxury Travel Company Features Carbon-neutral Trips to the Dolomites, Victoria Falls, Amazon, and More

The 30 itineraries — all tested by the founders — include adventures in the Seychelles, Rwanda, Dolomites, Yellowstone, and Slovenia.

Katie Katz/Courtesy of Few & Far

Brit Sarah Dusek and her American husband Jacob Dusek have always viewed the world through a lens of possibilities. The couple met in Taipei, Taiwan, nearly two decades ago and started out raising their two sons in Montana — all while they launched what has become one of the preeminent glamping companies in the country, Under Canvas . It disrupted the old standards of rustic camping and replaced it with chic, eco-friendly safari-style tents against the background of some of the most iconic U.S. destinations. 

Now they’ve taken that same mindful model of meaningful outdoor experiences into the luxury travel space, debuting a new brand last month: Few & Far . It's a sustainable company dedicated to carbon-neutral exploration. “The heart of all of it is the magical connection there is when people connect with nature in extraordinary ways,” Sarah Dusek told Travel + Leisure.

Each of the 30 itineraries available on the site right now are ones that someone from the Dusek family has experienced first-hand, providing a personal level of curation and paired with a focus on putting sustainability first. 

Among her favorite trips offered are the Rwanda Gorilla Trek and Masai Mara Wildlife Adventure , a 12-day itinerary with visits to Kigali and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Masai Mara in Kenya, and Zanzibar in Tanzania. She took a group of female CEOs on the journey last October, saying that “it was absolutely mind-blowing and extraordinary” and that “every single woman on the trip said it was by far the most incredible trip she’s been on.” 

Another highlight is the five-day San Juan Islands Tented Camp Experience , a tailored group trip with accommodations set up specifically for each group. On Sarah Dusek’s own visit, she took about eight female CEOs there for a “boutique, five-star tented experience under the stars on a farm,” where they arrived by seaplane and then sea kayaked, hiked, and enjoyed outdoor farm-to-table dinners. The best part: every person could rest assured that their stay used 70 percent less water consumption than staying at an average hotel. 

Her own family traveled last Christmas inspired the Enchanting Southern Africa itinerary, a 12-day getaway from Cape Town up to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, before heading to a houseboat on the Chobe River in Botswana. “It was so special because you could be right on the water watching the wildlife morning, noon, and night,” she said. “The boys could fish and we could traverse up and down the Zambezi, experiencing a different view each day.” 

After that, the trip boards the luxurious Rovos Rail through Hwange National Park in Bulawayo to Pretoria, before ending in Johannesburg.

Having test-driven every single one of the itineraries on her own is what makes Few & Far’s curation so special. “All of these are very personal to us,” Sarah Dusek said. “They're an expression of who we are — and we love to share them.”

Launching a new travel company was never the intention, with the Duseks selling off Under Canvas in 2019 and moving their family to Cape Town, where they worked as venture capitalists helping empower and fund female entrepreneurs. But they continued to be avid travelers, committed to exposing their sons, now 12 and 15, to as many cultures and perspectives as possible. 

During a trip to the Forgotten Mountain’s remote region in northern South Africa’s Limpopo province along the Zimbabwe border, they knew they had stumbled upon something special in UNESCO’s Vhembe Biosphere Reserve . Soon, they had bought a 10,000-acre space, where they’re now set to debut as the 60-room Few & Far Luvhondo eco-lodge at the end of this year. Inspired by weaver bird nests, the site will include a solar-powered aerial experience with a cable car system featuring a 40-kilometer (about a 25-mile) track to provide a uniquely immersive way to explore the African bush and its wildlife.

“We hadn't planned on coming back to the commercial travel space again, but are still so passionate about travel and we still love curating extraordinary experiences,” Sarah Dusek said. “We kept thinking about the safari experience and how to reimagine it for our children and how we could incorporate conservation and travel.”

That forward-thinking eco-first philosophy is what drives all of the Duseks’ efforts. “Outdoor tourism can do so much good,” Sarah Dusek said. “There can be so much harmony with creating an economy, stimulating jobs, preserving wildlife, making sure that our habitats are protected, and that we don't lose biodiversity.”

In fact, through a combination of conservation efforts — largely from tree planting, as well as wetlands management, rewilding, and restoring — the eco-lodge should be on track to sequester as much as 100,000 more tons of carbon a year than it currently does. That’s especially meaningful since the 10,000 acres they own have more biodiversity than in all of Europe. 

Additionally, she started looking at the possibilities of helping the rural people, many of whom live in poverty and are generating a revenue stream through tourism. “You start educating people about the difference of what happens when we conserve and protect the land and start investing in the people and then you start to ripple effects in so many levels," she said.

Ultimately, what drives Sarah Dusek is her own dedication to instilling these values in her kids. “I want to show my kids how extraordinary our planet is and I want them to fall in love with it,” she said. “When you're out in it, magic happens and the chances of falling in love with the planet are infinitely greater.”

All of those facets come together in each of the trips through Few & Far — and she hopes that every traveler will be taken by the impact of their adventures. “Travel changes us and has the power to change a belief pattern,” she said. “It shows us that the way we live is not the way everyone lives and maybe not the right way to live.”

In particular that happens the most when she’s out on the great outdoors. “The more time I have spent in the natural world, the more I learn about the people, behaviors, patterns, and cultures in our world,” she said. “That makes us richer and gives us all a chance to realize gosh, all the little things matter.” 

For a full list of Few & Far’s trips, which range from $10,000 to $50,000 per trip, visit Few and Far's site .