luxury africa safari lodges

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Top 10 most exclusive safari lodges in Africa

Monday newsletters  always feature  top 10 travel lists  to inspire.

Today (March 11, 2019): Top 10 most luxurious safari lodges in Africa.

Africa offers some of the  best wildlife viewing opportunities in the world. The “Big Five” (lion, elephant, rhino, Cape buffalo, and the elusive leopard) take the center stage on a safari but the smaller, less glamorous animals (like impalas, zebras and hyenas) can be just as fun and exciting to see. When it comes to safaris, nothing can beat the observation of the Great Migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti or Kenya’s Masai Mara. Other great safari destinations are the Okavango Delta in Botswana and Kruger National Park in South Africa. No wonder that Africa’s 10 most luxurious safari lodges are all located within these areas. The majority of them is operated by the continent’s three most exclusive safari companies: &Beyond ,  Wilderness Safaris  and  Singita .

There is more information below the slideshow (with reviews & Youtube clips). Do you have a favorite safari lodge that didn’t make my list? Leave a comment  or take my  poll  below.

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10. &BEYOND NGORONGORO CRATER LODGE, TANZANIA

This lodge is located right on the rim of the ancient volcanic Ngorongoro caldera, offering not only some of the best views in Africa, but also the possibility of a classic Big Five safari as the crater floor is teaming with wildlife. Room interiors are reminiscent of an elegant baroque château (brocade sofas, gilt mirrors, beaded chandeliers and paneled walls). Ensuite bathrooms with a centrepiece of fresh roses feature huge showers and chandelier-lit bathtubs, while floor-to-ceiling windows ensure breath-taking views from all around of the incredible game-rich Crater. Versailles meets Masai in this unique African lodge!

• Hotel website :  &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
• Other accolades : &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge also features in my top 10 list of the  world’s most spectacular cliffside hotels .

9. LITTLE KULALA,NAMIBIA

Little Kulala is situated in the private Kulala Wilderness Reserve and consists of 11 climate-controlled, thatched “kulalas” (the word means ‘to sleep’) which merge impeccably into the desert landscape, each with a private plunge pool and a rooftop bed for romantic star-gazing. Little Kulala’s interiors make use of neutral colors, gorgeous textures and natural light, and takes its inspiration from its surroundings, notably from the magnificent Dead Vlei. Desert-adapted wildlife such as ostrich, springbok and gemsbok eke out an existence and are sparsely distributed around Little Kulala. Larger carnivores, namely spotted and brown hyena and even cheetah are occasionally present.

• Hotel website :  Little Kulala

8. SINGITA LEBOMBO LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA

Like a collection of eagles’ nests perched along the rugged cliff faces above the N’wanetsi River, Singita Lebombo Lodge looks out regally across the landscape. This boldly dramatic lodge, home to fifteen loft-style suites, is situated on Singita’s private concession in the Kruger National Park. The exclusive concession is a richly diverse habitat, teeming with game, beneath endless African skies. Imaginative wood, steel and organic interiors, all encased in glass, create a stylishly contemporary feel in the suites and make the most of the astonishing views overlooking the river.

• Hotel website :  Singita Lebombo Lodge
• Other accolades : Singita Lebombo Lodge also features in my top 10 list of South Africa’s most insanely beautiful luxury hotels .

7. SINGITA FARU FARU LODGE, TANZANIA

Singita Faru Faru Lodge is set in Grumeti in northern Tanzania, which is part of the Serengeti Mara ecosystem. Built on a gently sloping hill, this riverine lodge, positioned on the renowned migratory route traversed annually by more than 2 million wildebeests, is a place where you can quite literally expect the unexpected. Informal, unconventional and surprising at every turn, Singita Faru Faru Lodge has seven one-bedroom suites, one family suite as well as one two-bedroom suite with private pool and is a mix of contemporary, organic style and the quirky practicality of a traditional botanist’s camp. With such close proximity to the river and plains, guests have the unique opportunity to experience a very close connection with the wilderness.

• Hotel website :  Singita Faru Faru Lodge

6. TIME + TIDE CHINZOMBO, ZAMBIA

Situated on a sweeping curve of the Luangwa River and designed by award-winning architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, Time + Tide Chinzombo is Zambia’s most exclusive hotel. Six beautiful and wildly luxurious villas combine a modern architectural feel with natural materials such as leather, reeds and canvas. Each villa boasts its own private plunge pool and is situated on an elevated deck that boasts views of the tranquil river and the abundant wildlife that frequents its banks. A winding path connects the villas with a shared lounge and dining area set in the shade of msikizi trees. A boat ride across the river gives guests direct access into the game rich Luangwa National Park.

• Hotel website :  Time + Tide Chinzombo
• Review : read my review of Time + Tide Chinzombo  here .

5. ROYAL MALEWANE, SOUTH AFRICA

Situated on a private reserve within the Greater Kruger National Park in South Africa, this famous safari lodge hosts a maximum of 20 guests in utopian luxury and style, and is popular amongst celebrities such as Nicolas Sarkozy and Bono. Six suites with private infinity pools offer complete seclusion and stunning views, while the lodge itself has an atmospheric air-conditioned library, curio shop and dining and sitting areas with fantastic outlooks onto the bush. Two completely private suites (both sleeping 4) provide an even more exclusive safari experience, while the self-contained Africa House, a few minutes’ drive from the main lodge, is the perfect option for families or groups of up to 12.

• Hotel website :  Royal Malewane
• Other accolades : Royal Malewane also features in my top 10 list of South Africa’s most insanely beautiful luxury hotels .
• Review : read my review of Royal Malewane here .

4. ABU CAMP, BOTSWANA

Named after a very special bull elephant, Abu Camp is set in a pristine pocket of riverine forest and blends in seamlessly with the magnificent surrounding hardwood trees. Looking out over a large lagoon, an imaginative use of canvas has created a unique and luxurious style of tent. Each of the six en-suite units has its own distinctive furnishings and fittings, imparting an air of opulence in the bush. These airy tents feature an indoor and outdoor shower, an outdoor copper bath and a generous elevated teak deck. Well-lit pathways link the guest tents with the main lounge and dining area and a well-stocked library and study, gym and swimming pool will keep you entertained while at camp. Exploring the bush is done by game drive, mekoro, walks – or by elephant!

• Hotel website :  Abu Camp

3. MOMBO AND LITTLE MOMBO CAMP, BOTSWANA

Mombo Camp, situated in the northern point of wildlife-filled Chief’s Island in the Okavango Delta, is built under large, shady trees overlooking a floodplain generally filled with life. Its nine spacious en-suite tents are raised two metres from the ground, with a long veranda, a sala and indoor and outdoor showers. Mombo Camp’s main living, bar and dining areas are under thatch, while the boma adds traditional flavour to a delicious dinner under the stars. There are two plunge pools in which to soak and a gym to work off the excellent food. Little Mombo, situated on Chief’s Island, is a smaller and more intimate camp to its sister and has its own dining and lounge area and sparkling pool.

• Hotel website :  Mombo and Little Mombo Camp
• Other accolades : Mombo and Little Mombo Camp also feature in my top 10 list of the  world’s most expensive hotels .

2. SINGITA BOULDERS LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA

Singita Boulders Lodge is set along the banks of the Sand River in Singita’s privately owned reserve within the Sabi Sand Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park in South Africa. Spanning more than 45,000 acres, Singita Sabi Sand is renowned for high concentrations of big game and frequent leopard sightings. The lodge has 10 one-bedroom suites and  2 two-bedroom family suites, all with private pool, and  is a celebration of the tranquillity, space, and light which flows throughout this incredibly vast area. Inspired by the geometry of the boulders on which it rests, Boulders Lodge is an inviting oasis where organic interiors integrate seamlessly with the raw African beauty outside.

• Hotel website :  Singita Boulders Lodge
• Other accolades : Singita Boulders Lodge also features in my top 10 list of the most spectacular hotel bathrooms in the world .

1. IVORY LODGE LION SANDS, SOUTH AFRICA

At Ivory Lodge Lion Sands, you can experience the African Bushveld in lavish comfort and style like only few will. “Unparalleled and extraordinarily beautiful in its simplicity and texture” is how Ivory Lodge has been described, and it has been recognised with various international awards. Each of the six suites is surrounded by untamed African Bush and are operated as a private villa. They all  include a private rim flow pool, exquisitely appointed bedroom and lounge, and simply more of everything. For the more adventurous, a once in a lifetime experience and the ultimate African bush experience, you may want to opt to stay at one of the ultraluxurious treehouses operated by the same management of Ivory Lodge in the same wildlife reserve.

• 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 , and South Africa’s most insanely beautiful luxury hotels .
• Review : read here my review of Ivory Lodge’s sister property, River Lodge Lion Sands.

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After a long dusty 4/5 hour drive from Swakopmund Little Kulala Lodge came into sight on the edge of the Namib Desert.Namibia is the largest wilderness in the world. Majestic dunes that took my breath away…climbing up Dune 45 (Big Daddy) just before dawn to watch the sunrise will always remain in my memory banks along with sleeping on the roof of our Kulala watching shooting stars across the inky black sky.They say that once you’ve been to Africa it will always remain in your blood…so true one day I hope to return. Wilderness Safaris whilst not cheap are the way to go when visiting this magnificent part of Africa.

Where’s Zarafa Dhow Suite? Chinzombo? Sandile? Chongwe House? Ol Donyo? Mara Plains? Camp Nomade (so exclusive there’s a three year waiting list!!!) King Lewanika…

no Zarafa or Duba Plains? No Bisate?

No Singita Sasakwa? No Singita Ebony? No Bisate? No Zarafa? Wow.

Palala lodge

RSR is an affordable safari resort, Rajasthan. Known for the wildlife safari and swimming pool. To stay in all sizes of rooms available that are a blend of modern and royal heritage aesthetics. For more info visit- https://ranakpursafariresort.com/

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Taasa Moments

African Safaris

Taasa Lodge

to TAASA Lodge

A luxury safari lodge in tanzania, africa.

escape the crowds, embrace the wild.

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime tanzanian safari experience in a pristine and protected big 5 area. let's go, your exclusive african safari experience.

Centrally located between 3 of the largest safari ecosystems in the world—Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and Serengeti National Park. TAASA Lodge offers luxurious accommodations, intimate, crowd-free game viewing and exclusive big 5 encounters. During your stay, choose from a variety of activities, from exhilarating game drives in open vehicles and bush walks to cultural visits and bird watching. With unparalleled customer service and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, TAASA Lodge is the perfect place to discover and experience the wonders of Tanzania.

TAASA LODGE, tanzania, offers a unique chance to experience the beauty of the African bush from the comfort of a PRIVATE AND REMOTE LUXURY lodge.

I'M READY TO EXPLORE

Sopa from Tanzania!

At TAASA, we are dedicated to providing exceptional service, fostering meaningful connections between our guests, and creating unforgettable memories for everyone who visits our lodge. We strive to purposefully cultivate a sense of appreciation and respect for both the environment and local culture. In alignment with our mission, we are 100% committed to empowering and employing members of the local Tanzania communities.

Sopa: A friendly Maasai greeting

WHY CHOOSE TAASA?

Luxury Lodging

Immerse yourself in an exceptional safari experience..

At TAASA Lodge, you'll find a sanctuary of tranquility amidst the wild beauty of the African savanna. Plush furniture, Afro-chic art pieces, large windows framing the landscape and Lobo Valley, crackling fireplaces, and honest, unparalleled guest services come together to create an intimate space where you can relax and unwind in between your African safari adventures.

TAKE ME ON A LODGE TOUR

Enjoy a front-row seat to untamed Africa.

Watch the Great Migration from the tranquility of your private verandah or get in on the action anytime, 24 hours a day, with a day or night game drive across the African savanna. Explore the stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich culture of Tanzania. Our expert guides provide unparalleled experiences which bring you closer to the land, people and heart of Tanzania.

TAASA is uniquely located on an untouched safari region bordering Serengeti National Park.

let'S discover more

live taasa moments

At TAASA Lodge, we offer our guests exclusive and exceptional experiences, such as offroading game drives, romantic African Boma Dinners under the starry skies, authentic Maasai cultural experiences and exhilarating night game drives in our open-sided safari vehicles, complete with cozy shuka blankets. You'll have a variety of experiences tailored to different interests and ages as a traveler. You'll be able to take part in unique TAASA moments that will stay with you forever.

experiences exclusive to taasa 

I'M READY TO BE INSPIRED

TAASA Lodge is proud to have earned countless 5-star reviews from Tripadvisor 

Including the traveller’s choice award for 2022 for hotels in tanzania..

Find out what other guests had to say:

SHOW ME MORE REVIEWS

"The seven days my wife and I spent at Taasa were among the most blissful we've had in our 40 years together."

- Russell S

"My expectations for our visit to TAASA and the Serengeti were high, but the actual experience exceeded them by orders of magnitude."

"Taasa Lodge is absolutely incredible and we cannot wait to go back someday!"

- Katelyn F

"The most amazing staff, rooms, & views! Taasa was an incredible experience."

"Everything - from the staff, to the food, to the lodging, to the amenities, to the game drives - literally everything was perfect."

"Everyone in the lodge cared and respected the wildlife around us and went above and beyond to ensure we had an amazing time!"

"We had a fabulous 3 nights at TAASA. The staff were so attentive and our guide and tracker were EXECELLENT."

"Where do I even begin? Taasa made an already unique adventure even more special "

"Best place on earth! I truly believe heaven must look like Taasa Lodge. I have no words to describe this place."

- Natalia S

Become a TAASA Insider by joining our mailing list

Get trip inspiration, learn about the maasai culture, and travel updates directly to your inbox. .

Then, share highlights from your safari experience by tagging us and using the hashtag #TAASALODGE.

Follow us on Social Media to satisfy your wanderlust until you arrive.

© 2023 TAASA Lodge | PRIVACY POLICY | WEBSITE DESIGNED BY AVENLEE COLLECTIVE

Come and experience the beauty and wonder of tanzania at taasa lodge..

At TAASA, we prioritize giving back to our community by employing and empowering its members. We are proud to say that 70% of our team is made up of individuals from the nearby village. Their culture and traditions are an integral part of our company's identity.

Our goal is to preserve and protect the region's indigenous wildlife and natural species. We are committed to becoming the top choice for sustainable tourism in Africa, promoting a deep appreciation and respect for the environment and its inhabitants.

We believe in inspiring and encouraging a deep-rooted love of exploring the world around us. We strive to provide an experience that educates travelers worldwide about the myriad of awe-inspiring natural wonders and rich cultural treasures Tanzania offers.

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AfricaIncoming Blog

Africa Travel Blog

21 Best Luxury African Safari Resorts and Lodges

Planning a luxury African safari can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers. With so many stunning and breathtaking natural landscapes to explore, and a vast array of rare and elusive wildlife to catch sight of, an African safari is a truly unforgettable adventure. For those seeking the ultimate luxury safari experience, we are pleased to introduce you to some of the 21 best luxury African safari resorts and lodges that will blow your mind and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly destination, a tranquil retreat, a luxurious experience, or a truly unique and exclusive African safari adventure, these resorts and lodges offer the best that Africa has to offer, with exceptional service, breathtaking natural landscapes, and an impressive array of wildlife to encounter. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, there are plenty of options to choose from that will suit your needs and ensure an unforgettable African safari experience. This blog will take a closer look at the 21 best luxury African safari resorts and lodges, so you can plan your dream adventure and make the most of your African safari experience.

So grab your camera and get ready for an unforgettable journey of a lifetime!

NB:- The prices mentioned below can vary according to seasons, number of persons, and hotel category you are choosing to stay. It is advisable to check the official website of the lodges before finalizing.

Best Luxury African Safari Resorts and Lodges

Londolozi – sabi sand game reserve.

Country – South Africa

Londolozi, located on the Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa, is a luxurious and exclusive safari reserve known for its exceptional wildlife, stunning scenic landscapes, and immersive cultural experiences. Five different lodges make up Londolozi’s exclusive reserve. The three Granite Suites are the most lavish alternatives, with outdoor bathtubs and plunge pools where you may relax while taking in views of the surrounding landscape or, alternately, a herd of elephants. The reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and antelope, and offers a unique opportunity for guests to experience the thrill of a true African safari. Guests can enjoy game drives in open-air vehicles, guided walking safaris, and exclusive helicopter flights over the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Londolozi’s staff is highly trained in wildlife conservation and hospitality, ensuring that every guest has an unforgettable experience. The best time to visit Londolozi is between the months of May to September. The available accommodation options are Londolozi Game Lodge and Londolozi Varty Camp.

Cost – 6 x Suites of R33,950 in Tree Camp

PLANNING YOUR NEXT TRIP TO SABI SANDS? CLICK HERE TO CUSTOMIZE YOUR JOURNEY

Dulini Private Game Reserve

Within the larger Sabi Sand Game Reserve , a private reserve called Dulini has open borders with the renowned Kruger National Park . Dulini provides a true wilderness experience and exceptional animal viewing because it is a part of such a wide ecosystem. All large cats, even the leopard, which is typically elusive, are easily spotted because the focus is on studying the large Five. Visitors will appreciate having a very private safari experience in a reserve that is particularly well renowned for its leopard population. This reserve is known for having some of the top-quality lodges in South Africa . The best time to visit Dulini Private Game Reserve is from May to September. The accommodation options you could choose from are Dulini Moya, Dulini Leadwood, and Dulini River.

Cost – Entrance fees are R340 ($USD 20) per vehicle per stay, R160 (USD $10) per person per stay, and a Guest Conservation Contribution of R151.

Elephant Plains

Elephants are one of the most impressive creatures in the animal kingdom, and their grace and power are truly remarkable. In South Africa’s Elephant Plains Game Sanctuary, you can observe the beauty and majesty of these creatures up close while helping to support their conservation. At Elephant Plains, guests can spend time with elephants in their natural habitat, witnessing their social interactions, foraging, and playing. The sanctuary also offers educational opportunities for guests to learn more about elephants and their role in the ecosystem, as well as the importance of conservation. The main goal of this sanctuary is to create awareness and appreciation of elephants, their importance, and the conservation efforts to save their population while providing guests with an unforgettable experience. At Elephant Plains, you can see and appreciate the beauty of these incredible creatures while learning about the importance of their conservation, making it a unique and enriching experience. Two game drives and a bush walk are available for guests at the world-famous Elephant Plains Game Lodge each day. Since it was acquired by the family 57 years ago, the land has been home to Elephant Plains Game Lodge, which first welcomed guests in 1998. The main activity of the lodge is two daily game drives of three hours each. The best time to visit Elephant Plains is between the months of May to September. The accommodation facilities include Elephant Plains Game Lodge, Manyeleti honeymoon suite, and Luxury Suites.

Cost – From R7,400.00 in The Manyeleti Honeymoon Suite

Kapama Game Reserve

Country – South Africa 

Kapama Game Reserve in South Africa is one of the most beautiful and unique reserves in Africa. From the majestic savannas and vast plains to the stunning wildlife and breathtaking scenery, this reserve is an adventurer’s paradise. The 15 000 hectares of virgin African bush that make up Kapama provide the ideal haven for a variety of species. The reserve contains 350 bird species as well as more than 40 different types of mammals, including the Big 5 (elephant, lion, leopard, African buffalo, and rhinoceros), which flourish in their native habitats. With twice-daily guided game drives and after-breakfast bush walks, guests have the rare opportunity to see these amazing animals in the wild and fully immerse themselves in the African bush experience. The best time to visit Kapama Game Reserve is May to September. The visitors have the option of the best safari experience at one of four luxurious lodges. The accommodation includes Buffalo Camp, Southern Camp,  River Resort, and Kapama Karula. 

Cost – From 5 January to 19 December 2023 Spa Suites from R9 000 per person sharing. 

PLANNING A TRIP TO KAPAMA GAME RESERVE? CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR PERSONALIZED ITINERARY… .

Singita Ebony – Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Singita Ebony Lodge is a luxurious and exclusive lodge located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa. This iconic resort offers guests a truly unforgettable African safari experience, with stunning natural surroundings, luxurious suites, and exceptional service. Visitors at Ebony Lodge have access to 45,000 acres within a magnificent wildlife refuge that is well known for its dense populations of big game and regular leopard sightings. The reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards, and guests can enjoy game drives, guided walks, or helicopter safaris to get up close and personal with these incredible animals. Singita Ebony Lodge also offers a range of cultural experiences, including local village visits, dance performances, and traditional cooking demonstrations. The best time to visit Singita Ebony Lodge is between May to September. There are 12 suites at Singita Ebony Lodge, each with a private plunge pool. 

Cost – ZAR 48,475 per person per night.

Chinzombo – South Luangwa National Park

Country – Zambia

Chinzombo, located in South Luangwa National Park in Zambia , is a luxurious and exclusive safari resort known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and exceptional service. Guests can enjoy game drives and walking safaris through the reserve’s lush, verdant landscapes, spotting a wide array of wildlife, including leopards, lions, elephants, and buffalo. Chinzombo also offers cultural experiences, such as village visits, traditional cooking demonstrations, and cultural performances, giving guests a glimpse into the local way of life. The resort’s accommodations are spacious and comfortable, with luxurious tents, a spacious dining room, and a poolside bar, offering guests a cozy and relaxing retreat after a day of adventure. Chinzombo is truly one of the most unique and breathtaking safari resorts in Africa, offering guests an unforgettable experience in a stunning natural setting. The best time to visit the lodge is during the Dry season which is between  July to November. 

Cost – Starting from US$ 1,270 Per Person Per Night.

NEVER MISS THE CHANCE OF VISITING SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK – CLICK HERE TO CUSTOMIZE YOUR TRAVEL

Matetsi River Lodge

Country – Zimbabwe 

Matetsi River Lodge, located in the iconic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, is a luxurious and exclusive lodge that provides a true African safari experience. Nestled along the pristine Chobe River, the lodge offers guests a front-row seat to witness the majesty of the falls, as well as the incredible diversity of wildlife in the area. From the lodge, guests can participate in game drives, guided walks, or boat safaris to see some of the most impressive animals on earth, including elephants, wildebeest, giraffes, hippopotamus, zebra, and crocodiles. The lodge also offers activities such as river rafting and bungee jumping, for thrill-seekers who want to experience the falls from a different perspective. The driest months, August to October, are ideal for spotting wildlife. Less spray makes it easier to see the falls and go to places like Devil’s Pool. The activities you can do in the lodge are victoria falls visit, safaris, boat cruise, and canoeing. 

Cost – River Lodge Suite in high Season is 1,250 USD

EVER DREAMED OF VISITING VICTORIA FALLS – CLICK HERE TO KNOW THE PRICE OF YOUR DREAM JOURNEY!!!!!!!

Sasaab – Samburu National Park

Country – Kenya 

Sasaab Camp, located in the majestic Samburu National Park in Kenya , is a luxurious and exclusive safari resort that offers guests a truly authentic African safari experience. The camp is situated on a hillside overlooking a water hole, where guests can witness an incredible array of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebra, lions, and buffalo. Sasaab Camp is also committed to sustainability and conservation, ensuring that the resort is not only a comfortable and luxurious experience for guests but also has a positive impact on its surrounding environment. Guests can participate in game drives, guided nature walks, and other activities led by the camp’s experienced and knowledgeable guides, who are passionate about wildlife and the natural world.

Cost – The rate for June 2023, is $3505.

Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Sabi Sands Lodge, located in Sabi Sands Game Reserve in South Africa, is a luxurious and exclusive safari resort that offers guests a truly authentic African safari experience. The lodge is set among the stunning natural landscapes of Sabi Sands, where guests can spot a diverse array of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and buffalo, as well as a wealth of birds and other animals. Sabi Sands Lodge is dedicated to sustainability and conserving the natural beauty of the reserve, offering guests a truly responsible and eco-friendly safari experience. Guests can participate in game drives, guided walks, and other activities led by the resort’s knowledgeable guides, who are passionate about wildlife and conservation. The best time to visit the Sabi Sabi game reserve is May to September. The accommodation options are Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp, Selati Camp, and Earth Lodge. 

Cost – Luxury Suite for ZAR 20800 per person per night

Chief’s Camp – Okavango Delta

Country – Botswana

The Chief’s Camp is located in one of the Delta’s and Africa’s most wildlife-rich regions. There are options for exploration on foot, in mokoros, and in-game vehicles. The camp is in line with its bush location and offers accommodations with floor-to-ceiling windows, private plunge pools, and spacious interiors. Chief’s Camp offers some of the best game watching in Africa and one of the most opulent safari experiences. It is located on Chief’s Island in the prestigious Mombo Concession of the Moremi Game Reserve. This outstanding camp provides a luxurious safari experience. The ultimate luxury safari vacation includes opulent lodging, an incredible environment, and exceptional animals. a well-deserved flagship Okavango property. For wildlife, July through October are the driest months.

Costs – 1 to 3 nights in the luxury Pavilion in 2023 is $2,400

CLICK HERE TO PLAN YOUR OKAVANGO DELTA TRIP

Angama Mara

Country – Kenya

Perched high above the Great Rift Valley in Africa, Angama Mara is a magnificent safari lodge with a gorgeous perspective of Kenya’s Maasai Mar a, which many consider to be the most beautiful wildlife reserve on the continent. Angama Mara is a luxurious and exclusive safari lodge in the famous Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya, offering guests a truly authentic African safari experience. The Masai Mara is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and buffalo, as well as a wealth of birds and other animals. The reserve is also known for its annual migration of millions of wildebeest, zebra, and antelope, which provides guests with a truly unforgettable and epic wilderness experience. Angama Mara is an extraordinary safari resort that overlooks Kenya’s Maasai Mara, often regarded as the most beautiful game reserve on the continent, and is perched high above the Great Rift Valley in Africa. A safari in one of Africa’s most recognizable reserves is a once-in-a-lifetime experience because it is home to all of Kenya’s major mammals year-round and more than 450 different bird species. 

Cost – In peak season US$2275 per person per night

CLICK HERE TO PLAN YOUR NEXT TRIP TO MASAI MARA NATIONAL PARK.

Singita Faru Faru – Grumeti Reserve

Country – Tanzania

Singita Faru Faru is a luxurious and exclusive lodge located in the heart of the famous Grumeti Reserve in Tanzania. The lodge offers guests a truly authentic African safari experience, with an impressive array of rare and elusive wildlife, including lion, leopard, Cape buffalo, and hippopotamus. Faru Faru, located in the northern Tanzanian region of Singita’s 350,000-acre private reserve, is a novel interpretation of the allure of the African bush and ushers in a new era of opulent wilderness safaris. Guests can participate in game drives, guided walks, and other activities led by the lodge’s knowledgeable guides, who are passionate about wildlife and conservation. The activities you can participate in Singita faru faru are game drives, community visits, wine-tasting experiences, balloon safaris, and guided safari walks. 

Cost – In suite in the year 2023, USD 2,785 per adult per night

Jabali Ridge – Ruaha National Park

Jabali Ridge in southern Tanzania’s little-visited park offers eight apartments and a gorgeous infinity pool that all have views of the environment covered in baobabs. One of the top lodges in Ruaha, which is also home to wild dogs, cheetahs, sable and roan antelopes, and one-tenth of the world’s lion population, is Jabali Ridge. For wildlife viewing, June to October is the best time to travel. The eight rooms at Jabali Ridge are surrounded by enormous granite rocks. Unwind with a book while lounging in the hammock on your wooden terrace. With views across the Ruaha savannah that go all the way to the Mwagusi River, Jabali Ridge is perched atop a rocky kopje. One of Tanzania’s major national parks, Ruaha National Park is situated in the middle of the nation. With its golden fields of sun-bleached grass and aged baobab trees, it serves as a crossing between the landscapes of East and Southern Africa. 

Cost – High Season from 01 Jul 2023 to 31 Oct 2023 is US$1318

PLANNING YOUR NEXT TRIP TO RUAHA NATIONAL PARK ? CLICK HERE TO SEE THE ITINERARY.. ..

Puku Ridge, South Luangwa

Country – Zambia 

Puku Ridge, located in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia, is known for its exceptional resorts and lodges that offer a unique and immersive safari experience. Puku Ridge is a private game reserve located in South Luangwa, Zambia. The reserve covers an area of over 17,000 hectares and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, zebra, kudu, giraffes, impala, and many more. The reserve offers guided game drives, walking safaris, and overnight stays in luxurious tents. Puku Ridge is also known for its birdwatching opportunities, with over 500 different species of birds found in the area. The refined and exquisite Puku Ridge, with just eight luxury safari tents on a steep ridge overlooking plains and woodlands, is located in this uncharted reserve The dry season, from April to October, is considered the best time to visit Puku Ridge. During this period, wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The peak months for game viewing are usually from July to October. Apart from game drives and walking safaris, other activities and attractions in the area include night drives, Birdwatching, and Village visits. 

Cost : From 01 Jul 2023 to 15 Oct 2023 from $1,635 per person sharing

Thorntree River Lodge, Victoria Falls

Country : Zambia  

Thorntree River Lodge is a luxury lodge located on the banks of the Zambezi River, near Victoria Falls in Zambia. Thorntree River Lodge is situated within the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, just upstream from Victoria Falls. Its prime location offers beautiful views of the river and easy access to the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the world’s largest waterfalls. On the Zambezi River’s banks, close to the fabled Victoria Falls, Thorntree boasts a serene location. This eco-conscious lodge is exquisitely constructed from local wood, stone, and repurposed railway sleepers, striking the ideal harmony between nature and contemporary architecture. The best time to visit Thorntree River Lodge and Victoria Falls is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this period, the water levels of the Zambezi River decreased, offering better visibility of the falls. The unique attraction of the lodge includes victoria falls, Sunset River Cruises, Game drives, cultural experiences, and walking safaris. The lodge offers an intimate and luxurious stay with 26 rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar. Guests can take part in a range of activities such as game drives, fishing, and hiking. Thorntree River Lodge is a perfect base for exploring Victoria Falls and the surrounding areas. 

Cost – From 01 Jun 2023 to 31 Oct 2023 from $1,185 per person sharing

PLANNING A TRIP TO VICTORIA FALLS? CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR PERSONALIZED ITINERARY.

Jao Camp, Okavango Delta

Country – Botswana  

Jao Camp is a luxury safari camp situated in the heart of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. It offers a remarkable wilderness experience with its exceptional accommodations and diverse wildlife encounters. Jao Camp is located within a private concession in the Moremi Game Reserve, which is part of the Okavango Delta. The best time to visit Jao Camp and the Okavango Delta is during the dry season, which typically falls between May and October. The spa at this hotel is regarded as one of the best in Botswana, and the spacious suites are exquisitely furnished with regional carvings and artwork. Guests can enjoy activities such as game drives, walking safaris, and fishing, while also taking advantage of the camp’s amenities, such as a boutique, spa, pool, and restaurant. Jao Camp is a unique and breathtaking choice for those looking for a one-of-a-kind luxury safari experience in the Okavango Delta.

Cost – From USD 1,445 per person per night 

GET READY WITH YOUR WILD SELF – CLICK HERE TO PLAN A VISIT TO OKAVANGO DELTA

Xigera Safari Lodge, Okavango Delta

Country – Botswana 

Xigera Safari Lodge is a luxurious and environmentally conscious safari lodge located in the heart of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. It offers a unique and immersive experience in one of Africa’s most pristine and diverse wilderness areas. Here’s some information about Xigera Safari Lodge. The lodge is set on a stunning private island in the middle of the delta, offering guests uninterrupted views of the surrounding wilderness. The lodge offers a variety of safari activities, including morning and afternoon game drives, guided walks, and river safaris. The best time to visit Xigera Safari Lodge and the Okavango Delta is during the dry season, from May to October. During this period, wildlife is more concentrated around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. It is the location of the renowned Xigera Safari Lodge and some of Botswana’s best predator sightings. Xigera Safari Lodge offers boatloads of safari flair, individualized service, and a highly private Delta experience. It boasts some of the area’s most opulent suites.  

Cost – From USD 2,784 per person per night 

Little Kulala, Sossusvlei

Country – Namibia

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure as we delve into the natural wonders, luxurious accommodations, and unique experiences that await in this Namibian paradise. Little Kulala offers a distinctive experience in one of Africa’s hidden corners with an astonishing choice of visitor activities like wildlife walks and drives, hot-air balloon safaris, and eco-sensitive quad bike (ATV) trips over the dunes of our planet’s oldest desert. Little Kulala offers a range of luxurious accommodations, including elegant villas and spacious suites, all exquisitely furnished with local materials and inspired by the desert’s colors and textures. 

Little Kulala is a luxurious camp nestled in the serene landscape of the Namib Desert, near the iconic Sossusvlei. Surrounded by the towering red dunes of the Namib-Naukluft Park, Little Kulala offers guests an exceptional experience in this majestic desert wilderness. The camp offers breathtaking views of the dunes and the surrounding ecosystem, with an emphasis on sustainability and environmental conservation. The best time to visit Little Kulala is between May and November. 

Cost – From 01 Jun 2023 to 31 Oct 2023 from R18,730 per person sharing

Nyamatusi Camp, Mana Pools

Country – Zimbabwe  

Nyamatusi Camp is a luxury bush camp located in the beautiful Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe. Surrounded by towering trees and lush vegetation, the camp offers guests an unforgettable safari experience. One of the main attractions of this camp is the opportunity to spot various wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos, in their natural habitat. In this region of Zimbabwe, amenities like air conditioning in every suite, private plunge pools, and a tastefully decorated wine cellar offer a unique luxury safari experience. To reach Xigera Safari Lodge in the Okavango Delta, you would typically fly into Maun International Airport in Botswana. What is special about Xigera Safari Lodge is its unique location within the Okavango Delta. The lodge is situated in a remote and pristine area, allowing for an exclusive and authentic safari experience. It is known for its commitment to sustainability and conservation, offering a luxury stay while minimizing its environmental impact. 

The best time to visit Xigera Safari Lodge and the Okavango Delta is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. Xigera Safari Lodge itself is the recommended place to stay within the Okavango Delta, as it offers luxurious and environmentally conscious accommodations. The lodge features 12 beautifully designed suites, elevated on wooden platforms, with private decks, en-suite bathrooms, outdoor showers, and indoor and outdoor living areas. 

Cost – Starting from US$ 557 Per Person Per Night

Gibb’s Farm, Karatu

Country – Tanzania 

Gibb’s Farm is a charming and historic lodge located in Karatu, Tanzania, near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Serengeti National Park. It offers a tranquil retreat in a scenic countryside setting. Gibb’s Farm is known for its rich history, warm hospitality, and commitment to sustainable practices. The lodge is set on a working farm that has been in operation for over a century. It offers a unique blend of luxurious accommodations, farm-to-table dining using organic produce, and a range of activities that connect guests with the local community and natural surroundings. The best time to visit Gibb’s Farm and the surrounding area is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to October. Gibb’s Farm offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences. These include cottages, farmhouses, and the recently added Forest Suite, which provides a secluded and luxurious experience amidst the trees. The farm is set amongst the magnificent Meru National Park and is surrounded by the stunning Mount Meru, which is home to various wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and cheetahs. Guests can relax in the charming and luxurious accommodations while enjoying the stunning views of Meru National Park. 

Cost – Check their official website to see the pricing for different seasons. 

CLICK HERE TO SEE YOUR TAILOR-MADE ITINERARY FOR TANZANIA.

Bwindi Lodge, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Country – Uganda

Bwindi Lodge is a luxury lodge located in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in southwestern Uganda. It offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors seeking to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Bwindi Lodge is renowned for its exceptional location near the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to approximately half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. The lodge provides comfortable accommodations and offers an immersive experience for guests, allowing them to trek to observe and interact with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. The best time to visit Bwindi Lodge and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is during the dry seasons, which occur from June to August and December to February. During these periods, the trails are generally drier and easier to navigate, making gorilla trekking more accessible. 

The activities you can do are gorilla trekking, bird watching, and community visits. Bwindi Lodge itself is the recommended place to stay when visiting the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The lodge offers comfortable and eco-friendly accommodations, with options ranging from individual bandas (thatched cottages) to the exclusive Forest Cottage. The most fashionable and vibrant bar in the region is the award-winning Bwindi Bar, located on the village’s high street. Visitors can also savor casual tapas-style meals that are based on Ugandan cuisine. 

Cost : In July 2023, per person per sharing room is $4325

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a safari lodge or resort a luxury african safari destination .

Luxury African safari resorts and lodges offer exceptional accommodations, personalized service, and exquisite amenities. They often provide exclusive access to wildlife-rich areas, private game drives, gourmet dining, spa facilities, and luxurious touches that enhance the overall safari experience.

When is the best time to visit luxury African safari resorts and lodges?

The best time to visit luxury African safari resorts and lodges depends on the specific destination and desired wildlife experiences. However, the dry seasons, typically from May to October, are popular for game viewing as animals gather around water sources. It’s advisable to check the specific destination’s climate and wildlife migration patterns for the most suitable time to visit.

What activities can be enjoyed at luxury African safari resorts and lodges?

Luxury African safari resorts and lodges offer a wide range of activities. These can include game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, guided bush walks, boat safaris, cultural interactions with local communities, birdwatching, hot air balloon rides, and spa treatments. Some lodges also provide opportunities for conservation-focused activities or specialized photography safaris.

Are luxury African safari resorts and lodges suitable for families?

Yes, many luxury African safari resorts and lodges are family-friendly and offer activities and amenities suitable for guests of all ages. They may have dedicated children’s programs, specialized guides for family safaris, and accommodations that cater to families, such as interconnecting rooms or family suites.

What is the approximate cost of staying at luxury African safari resorts and lodges?

The cost of staying at luxury African safari resorts and lodges can vary depending on factors such as the location, time of year, duration of stay, and specific inclusions. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars per person per night to several thousand dollars. It’s advisable to check with a specific resort or lodge or consult with a travel agent to obtain accurate and up-to-date pricing information for your desired destination and travel dates.

Grab your adventure self and get ready for a luxurious retreat…..

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Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

South africa’s best luxury safari accommodation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury safari lodges in South Africa…

Nottens Bush Camp

Sabi Sands, South Africa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Phinda Mountain Lodge

Phinda Game Reserve, South Africa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Singita Sweni Lodge

• Kruger National Park, South Africa

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

Singita Sweni

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zebra Hills Safari Lodge

Manyoni Private Game Reserve

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

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

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

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

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

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

Samara Private Game Reserve

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

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

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

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

Amakhala Game Reserve

Giraffe-spotting on a game drive

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

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

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

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

Kariega Game Reserve

Three luxury safari lodges at Kariega, South Africa

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

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

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

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

Shamwari Game Reserve

One of Shamwari’s waterside lodges

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

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

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

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

Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve

The pool area at Tswalu, South Africa

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

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

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

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

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

Madikwe Game Reserve

Views of the bush from a Madikwe balcony

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

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

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

The Ant Collection

Horseback safari at the Ant Collection, South Africa

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

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

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

Entabeni Safari Conservancy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leobo Private Reserve

Bush views from open lounge area at the Leobo lodge

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

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

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

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

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

Mabalingwe Nature Reserve

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

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

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

Welgevonden Game Reserve & Marakele National Park

Drinks time at Welgevenden’s pool area

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

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

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

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

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

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14 Top-Rated Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Singita Sabi Sand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Africa’s wild and wonderful natural spaces have compelled generations of adventurers to seek them out. But gone are the days when going on safari meant roughing it in the wild. With a wide array of opulent safari lodges to choose from, today’s safari-goers have little more to worry about than ticking off the Big Five and deciding whether to order red or white with dinner; all without losing the romance and adventure of days gone by. It’s here, in some of the far-flung corners of incredible African reserves, that you’ll find some of the world’s most luxurious safari lodges.

If you’re looking for luxurious lodges with incredible service, comfort, and indulgence, you could do a lot worse than checking yourself into one of the best and most luxurious safari lodges from my list below. Note that because I simply can’t decide which lodges are the best, I’ve gone alphabetically by country!

1. Mombo Camp

Okavango, botswana.

The award-winning Mombo Camp sits amongst the trees on Chief’s Island in the game-packed Moremi Reserve. This is ultimate luxury in the best game viewing area of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Mombo really raises the bar for safari lodges with its combination of fantastic game viewing experiences and the incredible luxury and service in camp. Nine plush tents with private plunge pools will have you relaxing in no time at all. In between game drives, relax in your thatched gazebo and watch buffalo and impala graze on the flood plains below. At night dine under the stars.

The camp is committed to conservation, with much of the power provided by a solar farm and a portion of your rates going toward their preservation projects.

Pro Tip: Little Mombo, situated on Chief’s Island, is a smaller and more intimate camp than its sister and has its own dining and lounge area and a sparkling pool.

2. Angama Mara

Masai mara, kenya.

Two 15-tent camps dot the edge of an escarpment about 300 yards above the game reserve at Angama Mara . The location on a hilltop overlooking the plains is breathtaking and unbeatable, with the views over the Great Rift Valley so sensational that you’ll be tempted to just stand and stare, without ever leaving your room. The floor-to-ceiling glass-fronted suites, with handcrafted and designer furniture, and the Masai Mara plains stretching out below you as far as the eye can see, make this a really special place and an exciting addition to the classic tented camps in Kenya.

Each day’s activities are tailored around you: enjoy a morning of game viewing with a delicious picnic breakfast, or opt for a lie-in and catch up with the wildlife later. Add to this exceptional food and drinks, an organic garden where lunches can be enjoyed, the Maasai beading workshop, the spa pavilion with the most well-equipped gym of any lodge in Kenya, a beautiful pool with plenty of sun loungers, a robust activity list, and doting staff, and you have the perfect place to stay for the ultimate and memorable safari experience — ideal for couples or families seeking an African adventure.

The lodge is perfectly complemented by Angama Safari Camp, an exclusive-use mobile tented camp sited deep in the Mara Triangle, and amidst the mega herds during the Great Migration.

Pro Tip: Another draw here is the spot where Meryl Streep and Robert Redford had that iconic photo taken, used to promote the film Out of Africa . Nowadays guests can enjoy a gourmet picnic in this exact location and create their own romantic memories.

3. Mahali Mzuri

Said by many to be the best safari lodge in Africa, the Richard Branson-owned Mahali Mzuri brings together every element you could ever wish for in your safari experience. Set within the private 33,000-acre Olare Motorogi Conservancy (part of the Masai Mara ecosystem but outside the national park boundaries), the 12 luxury tents, interconnected by walkways, sit on the edge of a gentle rise, looking out over the beautiful landscape. You’ll have a front-row seat, not just to the migration, but also to the abundant game you can see all year round, with monkeys scrabbling in the trees, giraffes wandering through to nibble on acacia trees, and perhaps a leopard stopping to drink from the rocky stream that runs below the camp. Being outside the national park means you get all the richness of wildlife to yourself, with no other cars in sight and no jockeying for position when out on a drive or the annoying chatter of other safari-goers.

Mahali Mzuri means “beautiful place” in Kiswahili, and the camp definitely lives up to its name.

4. Little Kulala

Sossusvlei, namibia.

Situated in a private reserve with exclusive access to the iconic Sossusvlei sand dunes and salt pans in the Namib Desert, the world’s oldest desert, Little Kulala has 11 climate-controlled, thatched “kulalas” (meaning sleep ) which blend perfectly into the desert landscape, each with their own private plunge pool and rooftop bed for star-gazing. The décor is stunning and takes its inspiration from the incredible surroundings with neutral colors, gorgeous textures, and expert use of the natural light.

You can choose from a range of activities here including nature walks/drives, hot-air balloon safaris, and eco-sensitive quad biking excursions. Desert adapted wildlife, such as ostrich, springbok, and gemsbok eke out a harsh existence in the surrounding landscape, and larger carnivores, like the spotted and brown hyena and occasionally cheetah, are sometimes present.

5. Bisate Lodge

Volcanoes national park, rwanda.

Built within an eroded volcanic cone, Bisate was the first lodge in Rwanda to combine world-class luxury with a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience. The lodge’s one-of-a-kind design pays homage to traditional hut design, while the sumptuous interiors offer comfort, warmth, and luxury with fantastic amenities like cozy fireplaces and a well-stocked wine cellar. Bisate Lodge is one of Africa’s most talked-about camps, not only because of the great mountain gorilla viewing opportunities but because of its incredible design, with the rooms resembling giant bird’s nests.

6. Londolozi Private Granite Suites

Sabi sands, south africa.

This elegant and luxurious lodge only has three suites, with stone walls, polished concrete, and a color scheme of charcoal, silver, and elephant gray, and it offers complete exclusivity. Each of the suites at Londolozi Private Granite Suites opens out onto a heated infinity pool and magnificent views over the granite rocks of the Sand River. Sabi Sands is known as one of Kruger’s finest private concessions and is renowned for leopard sightings. Londolozi was the first game reserve in the world to be given Relais & Châteaux status, and this place could definitely be your ultimate luxury safari experience.

It’s not all about luxury though; Londolozi is involved with community upliftment, rural education, and healthcare programs. The creation of protected areas has also meant that rhinos and other iconic species can roam freely here. These are just some of the ways your safari is having a positive impact on local people and wildlife. 

7. Royal Malewane

Thornybush private reserve, south africa.

Royal Malewane strikes the perfect balance between stylish splendor and relaxed retreat. Situated in a private concession within the Greater Kruger National Park, this famous safari lodge hosts no more than 20 guests at a time, in luxury and style. Six suites, each with a private infinity pool, offer total seclusion with stunning views, while the lodge itself has an atmospheric library, curio shop, and dining and sitting areas with fantastic outlooks over the bush. There are also two completely private suites each sleeping four for an even more exclusive safari experience.

There’s also the self-contained Africa House, just a few minutes’ drive from the main lodge, which is the perfect accommodation option for families or friends with space for up to 12 people. With private chalets and impeccable service, game drives that deliver great wildlife, a butler service , unforgettable culinary experiences, and, of course, their award-winning safari spa, it’s no wonder high-profile visitors celebrities such as Nicolas Sarkozy and Bono have chosen to stay here.

8. Singita Sweni Lodge

Kruger national park, south africa.

Located in South Africa’s Kruger National Park, Singita Sweni epitomizes the very definition of safari luxury. The lodge is located on 33,000 acres of private concession land on the banks of the Sweni River, with hippos, crocs, elephants, and other wildlife often to be spotted meandering past the lodge. Located far away from the crowds that are often associated with Kruger National Park, Singita Sweni Lodge offers an intimate setting with its seven large and luxurious suites, each designed to bring the feeling of the outdoors in. Large floor-to-ceiling windows, big wooden decks, and a combination of modern décor and natural elements are all incorporated into the design.

The lodge has a strong focus on sustainability, and an ethos of a minimal footprint and touching the earth lightly. Menus are designed around seasonal produce, with many of the ingredients sourced from local suppliers. The lodge is also involved in a number of local conservation and social initiatives, including a solar power plant, which has meant the lodge saves on close to 1,000 tons of carbon emissions each year. This is an eco-lux safari experience and definitely a one-of-a-kind destination.

9. Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

Ngorongoro, tanzania.

With views from the rim of the world’s largest intact caldera enough to take your breath away, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is not just a stunning location; it also somehow captures the romance of its location with its timeless elegance and design. Circular clay buildings with thatch roofs create a warm and inviting space, while opulent furnishings, with brocade sofas, gilt mirrors, and beaded chandeliers, all transform the rooms into truly beautiful spaces. Located right on the rim of the ancient volcanic Ngorongoro Crater, the lodge offers not only some of the best views in Africa but also the opportunity for a fantastic safari, as the crater floor is teaming with wildlife.

10. Singita Grumeti Reserve

Serengeti, tanzania.

Singita in the Grumeti Reserve, Tanzania, offers a variety of accommodation options with something for every style: crystal chandeliers and gilded frames at Sasakwa Lodge, rattan chairs and campaign tables at Sabora Tented Camp, and breezy furnishings and woven basket-style light fixtures at Faru Faru Lodge. Each is special in their own way.

Sasakwa Lodge is a great choice for families or groups who enjoy the bush but still want to have all the luxuries of a five-star establishment. With impeccable service and exceptional facilities, this grand Edwardian-style manor house and stone cottages offer a private slice of the Serengeti and boasts antiques, glittering chandeliers, and plush sofas that invite you to sink into them and gaze out across the Serengeti plains; but even these opulent interiors can’t compete with the incredible views stretching out across the seemingly endless plains.

Faru Faru Lodge is built on a gently sloping hill and positioned on the great migration route that’s traversed annually by more than two million wildebeests. Informal, unconventional, and surprising at every turn, Faru Faru has seven one-bedroom suites, one family suite, and a two-bedroom suite with a private pool. With close proximity to the river and plains, guests have the unique opportunity to enjoy a close connection with the wilderness.

Sabora Tented Camp strikes the perfect balance between classic tented safari and timeless modernity and is located right on the Serengeti Plains, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the setting and enjoy Sabora’s understated yet tailored luxury. With superb game viewing opportunities all year round, Sabora’s nine tented suites are set on the Great Wildebeest Migration route.

11. Time + Tide Chinzombo

South luangwa, zambia.

Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park is one of Africa’s hidden treasures, boasting incredible untouched natural beauty, great walking safaris, and crowd-free big game viewing. Set in this relatively unexplored reserve on a sweeping curve of the Luangwa River, lies the sophisticated and elegant Chinzombo , with just six gorgeous villas, designed by award-winning architects Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens. Time + Tide Chinzombo is one of Zambia’s most exclusive safari lodges. The beautiful and luxurious villas combine a modern architectural feel with natural materials such as leather, reeds, and canvas

 Each villa boasts its own private plunge pool and is situated on an elevated deck with views of the river and the abundant wildlife that visit its banks. A boat ride across the river gives guests direct access to the game-rich national park. Chic and remote, this is definitely one for your bucket list. 

12. Nyamatusi Camp

Mana pools, zimbabwe.

The beautiful Nyamatusi is a wonderful luxurious haven in one of the wildest parts of Southern Africa, Mana Pools, on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. The camp comprises six spacious, luxury canvas suites with private plunge pools and air-conditioning, essential for those hot dry season months. The focus at Nyamatusi is on experiencing the area through walking safaris led by an experienced professional guide. Fabulous game viewing opportunities abound, especially African wild dogs and elephants, and if you want to try your hand at the iconic tiger fish, then you’ve come to the right place. A carefully curated wine cellar will doubtless enhance your safari along with the excellent meals. 

And there you have it, my favorites amongst the many outstanding and luxurious safari lodges in Africa. I hope I’ve inspired you to take a luxurious African adventure of your own.

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

Jaci's Safari Lodge

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Right in the heart of the 75,000-hectare conservation of Madikwe, Jaci’s Safari Lodge offers guests the perfect destination for unrivaled game-viewing, unique accommodation options, outstanding service and tailor-made safari activities.

• Conservation safaris at Jaci’s Lodges are designed to help everyday bush lovers contribute to on-the-ground wildlife conservation efforts taking place in the greater Madikwe Game Reserve.
• Bordering Botswana, the diversity of plant and animal species in the Madikwe reserve is remarkable. Besides the sought-after Big Five - lion, buffalo, leopard, elephant and rhino, Madikwe also boasts over 300 bird species and a variety of antelope.

You should know

• Children from 6 to 12-years-old sharing a room with their parents qualify for special rates.
• The Jaci's Safari Suite and Nare Suite can be booked for families or small groups. Children of all ages are accommodated in the Nare and Safari Suites.

The details

Jaci's Safari Lodge boasts two exclusive Starbed Suites, six luxury Tented Suites, and two private Family Suites. Decorated in vibrant colors and African textures, each of the six Luxury Tented Suites feature air conditioning, overhead fans, a private outdoor shower, a lavish handcrafted-mosaic indoor bath and private viewing decks. 

The two new Starbed Suites are set over two levels and are perfect for those romantic getaways. These suites are decorated with striking colors and bold and luxurious furnishings, and offer guests the choice of sleeping indoors or under the African sky, with each suite boasting two king-size beds (one on the roof under the stars). Other features include outdoor showers and indoor bathrooms, a comfortable lounge area, a private safari bar and viewing deck.

The Nare Suite , which accommodates up to six people (four adults and two children), is ideal for families or small groups traveling together. This suite includes two bedrooms, an open-plan bathroom with a large stone bath and outdoor shower; and an upstairs loft. The Nare Suite is equipped with a private game viewing vehicle and professional guide. 

The Safari Suite can accommodate up to eight guests (four adults and four children) and is perfect for larger families or groups traveling together. The main bedroom and adjoining second bedroom share an outdoor shower and open-plan bathroom. Across the passage, there is a lounge with adjoining guest room and an upstairs loft. The Safari Suite is equipped with a private game viewing vehicle and professional guide. 

The lodge facilities include an indoor and outdoor dining area, viewing deck, open-plan kitchen, cozy fireplace, lounge and guest-welcome area, outdoor boma area, fully stocked bar, bush swimming pool, bush gym and river walk.

Jaci's Safari Lodge is ideal for solo explorers, couples and families looking for a well-rounded Big Five safari experience. 

Price includes

• Twice daily game drives, including sunset / sunrise stop & night drive with astronomy. Light lunch, Dinner & Brunch, local & specialised teas as well as fabulous filter coffee. Private game viewing vehicle & field guide for the duration of your stay. Select house drinks, which include a selection of South African wines (Red, White & Sparkling), select local beers, non-alcoholic beverages as well as select house spirits. Fireside, starlight dining as often as possible. Transfers to & from the Eastern Airstrip when flying with FedAir / private charter
• Our rates are per person sharing unless we note differently.
• Single supplements may apply.
• Request a quote or speak to one of our Agents for the best, most current rates available.

Rates & Pricing

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What our guests say about Keith

May 20, 2024

The gentleman Keith assisting me with…

The gentleman Keith assisting me with my booking was absolutely amazing and patient.

May 17, 2024

Safari booked. SA here I come.

I have never been to SA before, so naturally I was a bit apprehensive about booking a safari on my own. I turned to safari.com for help and I'm so glad I did. Keith was so helpful, patient and saved me money! That's a win, win, win. I would recommend safari.com to anyone planning their trip and their experiences in SA.

April 10, 2024

Keith was extremely helpful during the…

Keith was extremely helpful during the booking process. He is the only reason I continued the booking process with your firm. There were issues with your website among other things that had me feeling uncomfortable. Keith has great energy which eased my concerns. I feel the package Keith put together is great and I expect to have a wonderful trip.

Jul 12, 2024

Wonderful experience!

Dolan has been amazing getting everything set up for our trip to South Africa next year. He has made the process so stress free and has been so responsive with every question I’ve had! Will absolutely be utilizing Dolan and safari.com again in the future!

Who could ask for a better agent than Mel

Our agent Mel listened to our proposed itinerary whilst in South Africa and came up with great suggestions to make it memorable She was very quick to answer any questions we had, efficient at providing quotes and very compassionate when a family crisis derailed the booking process for a while

Jul 11, 2024

Well structured with comprehensive…

Well structured with comprehensive details provided and easy guidance for choosing and booking. All trip operators were prompt and professional in their responses.

Jul 10, 2024

Great, efficient, going above and beyond service by Nicole!

Nicole has been extremely helpful with my queries, and going above and beyond to help me understand the Sabi sands experience better. When one of the lodge I enquired was sold out, she also recommended various options I could explore, and offers her valuable point of view. Examples - she ensured to pass on my room requests successfully and liaised with the lodge efficiently, ensuring to make our anniversary experience at the safari a great one. She also proactively offered to help me to continue looking for alternatives when I told her the transport options were beyond my budget. Thank you so much Nicole! Because of this we look forward to our experience with Safari.com and at Arathusa lodge.

Makinbooking a pleasure

Tanya has been great, efficient, friendly and went the extra mile in providing information not only to me but also to people (who joined late) in my group. A pleasure to work with.

Jul 9, 2024

I made a request for a safari…

I made a request for a safari reservation on short notice. The Safari Consultant Lisa Liprini jumped on my request and successfully found me a safari that suited my timelines. She was prompt and very communicative.

Repeat customer

I used Safari.com in 2022 when my husband and I went on our first safari to Kruger National Park. They were professional, quick and easy to work with. I was anxious to return again in 2024 and Mel didn't disappoint with her planning, quick response and attention to my requests. Unfortunately, I cannot complete my wish to return this year but when I do return...Mel is who I will reach out to.

Jul 8, 2024

Excellent very nice

Excellent safari company and agent

I have booked 2 safaris with Safari.com and Anja in particular. We have yet to take the second one but the first was a safari in Botswana. Everything far exceeded expectations and every detail handled with top notch drivers, hotels, safari lodges and guides. Anja was very responsive and helped us plan our safari. We were so happy with it that we are doing another this year.

9 incredible luxury family safari lodges for the ultimate African adventure

Giraffes and zebras and elephants — oh my! What child wouldn't want to go on an African safari and see these wondrous animals up close, in the wild and in their natural environments? (Not to mention, lions, warthogs, antelope, cheetah, jaguar, wild dogs and the myriad other wild things that call the African bush their home).

How, though, do you take the kids on a bucket list African safari and have not only the space, but also the comforts and attention, necessary to keep you all happy?

The answer is simple: luxury safari lodges built for families.

These incredible accommodations run the gamut from elegant villas to multi-bedroom glamping tents. What they all have in common is plenty of room to spread out, ultra-luxurious furnishings, gourmet dining and top-tier service all within arm's reach of some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.

Take your family along to these nine fantastic lodges in Africa.

Singita Pamushana Malilangwe House — Zimbabwe

Perched high on a sandstone ridge overlooking the shimmering expanse of the Malilangwe Dam sits Singita Pamushana, the only safari lodge located in the exclusive, 130,000-acre Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve.

I've been on dozens of safaris and found this safari lodge to be a truly special wild corner of Africa: You'll never see another safari vehicle as you explore the reserve populated by endangered black rhino and large populations of elephant, cheetah, wild dog and leopard.

Captivating views of wildlife-filled wilderness stretch everywhere you look, but the camp itself is a family-friendly oasis of paved walkways (a rarity at African safari camps), protected from wildlife, so you can walk without an escort in the evenings.

Also perfect for families: The five-bedroom, five-bathroom Malilangwe House, an expansive, exclusive-use African home overlooking the Malilangwe Dam.

Among the highlights of this sophisticated retreat are a large, private infinity pool, a spacious dining room and living room with floor-to-ceiling windows, and a chef's kitchen — complete with a personal chef. It's designed with a mix of traditional Shangaan materials mixed with a bright palette that makes the house feel fun for kids instead of stuffy.

Another perk of staying at Malilangwe House: A private vehicle and dedicated driver and ranger will take your family on twice-daily game drives tailored to suit your personal interests, whether that's looking for majestic birds or herds of elephants.

Age considerations and rates: Children of any age can join on game drives, but they must be over 16 and older to participate in a bush walk.

All-inclusive rates start at $12,390 per night for up to six guests, or $14,380 per night for seven to 10 guests, at off-peak times (Jan. 6–31, May and Oct. 1–Dec. 14) and rise to per night rates of $16,220 for up to six guests and $18,880 for seven to 10 guests during peak periods (July and August and Dec. 15 –Jan. 5).

Related: Everything you need to know about going on safari in Africa

Time + Tide Chongwe House — Lower Zambezi, Zambia

For all the comforts of home, but with a dramatic change of scenery, Time + Tide's two-story, four-bedroom, four-bathroom private Chongwe House feels a bit like if the Swiss Family Robinson hired an interior designer to create an upscale treehouse home.

Open-air rooms incorporate natural elements such as rocks and stone slabs and look like they've been carved from a secret tunnel of caves.

There's also furniture created from fallen winter thorn trees, couches perched on river rocks, slab rock coffee tables, open-air bathtubs that seem to float over the river, outdoor rainfall showers open to the sky and terraces that jut into the open air. It's a dream destination for kids made complete when elephants follow the river walk by the private pool.

A dedicated house staff — including a cook and a private guide — will help plan your days and accompany your family on not only game drives, but also on treks that take advantage of the unique river setting such as canoe safaris, boat cruises and angling trips to catch tiger fish.

Age considerations and rates: Children of all ages are welcome at Chongwe House; minimum age for walking safaris is 12.

All-inclusive rates start at $900 per adult, per night (minimum of six adults) in April, May and November, and $1,200 per adult, per night in June to October (the property is closed the rest of the year). Children 4 to 18 pay 50% of adult rate, children 3 and under stay free.

Natural Selection's Safari House — Etosha, Namibia

For a desert-focused safari destination, Namibia thrills with the ability to see both black and white rhinos along with fascinating desert species such as black-faced impala, oryx and the elusive Hartmann's zebra, in addition to lion, cheetah, eland and antelope species.

To experience a desert safari with your family, Natural Selection's aptly, if not creatively, named Safari House, a private use farmhouse in Etosha Heights Private Reserve, bordering famed Etosha National Park, fits the bill.

The farmhouse offers a home-away-from-home feel with overstuffed couches and lots of comfortable spaces where little ones can unwind after a long day listening for the crashes of white rhinos the area is known for.

Don't think, though, that luxury isn't at play at this three bedroom, three bathroom farmhouse. There's a fully fenced and enclosed swimming pool and adjacent lush garden — ideal for kids to safely play in — and a full kitchen with a private chef who can serve meals catered to your family's tastes inside in the dining room or outside under the open Africa sky by your boma (fire pit).

A private safari car and guide will tailor game drives to your family's interests either on excursions to the waterhole just a mile from the house or traversing the private reserve.

Age considerations and rates: Children of any age can join on game drives, but they must be over 12 and older to participate in a bush walk. The entire property can be yours for $2,100 per night, all-inclusive, for up to six adults and three children.

Related: How to have a royal-inspired honeymoon in Namibia with points and miles

&Beyond's Tengile River Lodge — Sabi Sands, South Africa

Two enormous free-standing (and air-conditioned) suites are connected by a covered walkway to create a self-contained family suite at Tengile River Lodge nestled in Sabi Sands, the exclusive private reserve that borders famed Kruger National Park. From this posh lodging perch, you and your family will be able to view animals that are drinking from and following the Sand River, which runs alongside the camp and right outside the family suite.

This double unit comprises two suites, so your family will get not one but two pools, plus two spacious decks with sunken living rooms, two outdoor showers and two oversize tubs that could also be mistaken for plunge pools. When booking the family suite you can also arrange a private safari vehicle and guide for the duration of your stay so you can look for the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino) and explore the 5-million-acre Sabi Sands conservation area (roughly the size of New Jersey) in comfort.

Age considerations and rates: Children ages 12 and up are welcome at Tengile. The all-inclusive rate for the family suite is $6,385 per night for four people.

Related: Safaris, cities and lots of elephants: How I returned to South Africa this year using points, miles and cash

Asilia's Jabali Private House — Ruaha National Park,Tanzania

Tucked into Ruaha National Park, an expansive wilderness area that's nearly half the size of Switzerland, is Jabali Private House, a stylish stand-alone property that gives your family the exclusive run of the three-bedroom home and the surrounding area without encountering other guests nearby. The private house includes two bedrooms lightly decorated in a light and airy, cream-toned palette so you can focus on the views outside instead of the spaces inside.

Whether you're lounging in beanbag chairs on the deck or floating in your infinity pool, you'll be able to keep an eye on the bordering Ikuka escarpment where large herds of elephants can often be seen. Jabali Private House also comes with the included services of a private chef who can offer cooking lessons in the house's kitchen as well as a curated menu for your family.

A private vehicle and guide will cater game drives specifically to your family's interests.

Age considerations and rates: Children ages 5 and up are welcome at Jabali.

Low season (November–Dec. 19 and Jan. 6 –March 14) the all-inclusive rate is $4,375 per night; high season (July to October and Dec. 20–Jan. 5) it is $6,130 per night (rates are for entire house).

Related: TPG readers' best tips for visiting Africa on points and miles

Great Plains' Mara Nyika — Maasai Mara, Kenya

For true "Out of Africa" vibes, it's hard to beat this luxurious tented camp tucked into the lush green plains of the Maasai Mara's Naboisho Conservancy where you and your family will have a front-row seat for the great migration of thousands of wildebeests and zebra. Although you'll be able to see wildlife here any time of year, the best chance to see peak numbers during migration are August through October.

Mara Nyika is a Relais and Château property that demonstrates why tented "glamping" safaris in Kenya became the industry leader. Picture copper soaking tubs, leather couches and rich silk carpets all within the canvas walls of ultra-plush tents.

Mara Nyika sleeps just 14 guests across an area spanning 50,000 acres — so you won't have to share the camp with other people. Unique to this kind of tented safari, the camp has two new family suites comprising two bedrooms each. In such a remote spot, it's a special perk to have your kids staying under the same roof in spacious accommodations, and not in cots crammed into the corners of a tent.

Activities here include not only morning and night game drives but also the unique opportunity to visit a local Maasai Mara community. One more reason: You can take the kids on a hot air balloon ride across the Maasai Mara to spot wildlife.

Age considerations and rates: Children ages 6 and up are welcome at Mara Nyika.

All-inclusive rates per two-bedroom family suite per night range from $3,600 for off-peak (April–June 14; November–Dec. 19) to $7,050 for peak season (June 15–Oct. 31, and Dec. 20–Jan. 10).

Toka Leya, Wilderness Safaris — Victoria Falls, Zambia

A visit to Victoria Falls, also known as Moasi a Tunya ("The Smoke that Thunders"), is a popular part of an African family safari. When I visited with my own daughter, I chose Toka Leya , a Wilderness Safaris property, for its fabulous location perched right on the Zambezi River and its family tents that comprise two en suite bedrooms with four-postered, canopied beds and a shared living room with an enormous deck to relax on.

We found it to be a very laid-back stay after some hectic travel — until, that is, the monkeys started jumping on our tent roof (actually a real perk of this safely fenced lodge). Another family perk of the river-front lodge — a real pizza oven serving up hot and gooey cheese-topped, wood-fired dough that we enjoyed to a chorus of hippos nearby.

Since this is a lodge and not a hotel, there are plenty of activities included in the rate: game drives into a nearby wildlife reserve; boat trips on the Zambezi River; and yes — the best for last — escorted trips to Victoria Falls, where you'll feel the mist of the falls as you witness the thundering waters up close.

Prepare to get wet — very wet — in peak season, February to June, but having a private escort means someone will be waiting with a nice, dry towel and a bottle of chilled water once you get back to the vehicle.

Age considerations: Recommended minimum age for Toka Leya is 6 years old. All-inclusive rates range from $684 per person, per night (Jan. 6–March 31) to $870 per person, per night (June through October).

Royal Malewane's Africa House — Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa

If your safari plans include an extended family group for a special reunion or celebration journey, this is the safari you've been looking for.

Royal Malewane's Africa House (part of The Royal Portfolio) in South Africa's Greater Kruger National Park bills itself as a "bush villa" and it delivers the type of grandeur that description conjures. There are six en-suite bedrooms, all with outdoor showers and decks, and space for 12 guests to spread out and fully relax. Since the house is completely self-contained, the kids can wake up early or play without worrying about disturbing anyone. (Also note that there is an additional room to house a nanny or private guide, photographer or pilot.)

The home is elegantly furnished with antique furniture, carved four-poster beds, plush silk pillows and Persian rugs, but it will still feel comfortable for kids since there are pops of color and whimsy, outdoor day beds to relax on, and a private pool.

A dedicated staff is included with a stay at Africa House, so you'll have a personal chef to plan meals to please all palates, plus two private cars and guides if you've brought nine to a dozen people, or one guide and safari car for groups of eight or less.

On those game drives you'll have a fantastic chance of spotting the Big 5 of African lore that Kruger is renowned for: lion, elephant, leopard, Cape buffalo and rhino.

Age considerations and rates: Children of all ages are welcome at Africa House.

All-inclusive rates start at $14,000 per night for one to eight guests (with one private vehicle) and $17,000 for nine to 12 guests (with two private vehicles)

The Stable Cottage, The Manor at Ngorongoro — Tanzania

A rolling verdant grass lawn leads up to The Stable Cottage at Ngorongoro , a whitewashed Dutch Colonial manor house that feels more like a country estate in Europe instead of the famed safari conservation area that's attracted travelers since the time of Teddy Roosevelt.

Don't worry though — just beyond the comfy confines of this spacious private home is the wild Africa you've come to explore. Here, your kids will have plenty of space to spread out across two floors, featuring a master bedroom and twin bedroom — each with their own individual bathrooms — a family lounge area downstairs, and another twin room, plus a bathroom and playroom upstairs.

Along with an elegant home to call your own, The Stable Cottage comes with the option to book a full "game package," which I highly recommend. With this package, your family with receive a private vehicle and driver/ranger for guided gamed drives to search for wildlife like lions and zebra in Ngorongoro Crater or Lake Manyara wildlife area. More uniquely, you'll also be able to participate in horseback riding on the estate, a truly special way to explore this corner of Africa.

Age considerations: Children of all ages are welcome at The Stable Cottage.

Rates range from $2,729 per night for all-inclusive use of the cottage, including all safari outings (April 1–May 31) to $3,826 per night (July 1–Oct. 31 and Dec. 20–Jan. 3).

Related: Dreaming of an African safari: How I'll book my bucket-list trip to Tanzania on miles and points

One&Only's Gorilla's Nest — Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

For safari aficionados, there are few adventures more thrilling than trekking up a volcano to search for the elusive and endangered silverback gorillas in their natural habitat.

For families looking to expand their safari travels beyond their vehicle, gorilla trekking ranks high as the penultimate safari, a thrilling and immersive opportunity to view nature on foot. You'll hike into the deep jungle with your small safari group and expert guide and then trek into the mountains until you rendezvous with one of the remote families of gorillas that the rangers work round-the-clock to protect. You may have to work a bit to finally meet these incredible primates, but it's a moment you and your family will never forget.

When you're not adventuring into the bush, you'll have a luxurious base for your exploring at the incredibly swank One&Only's Gorilla Nest . The jungle-chic chalets are tucked into the eucalyptus forest and make you feel like you're living in the trees. The family option, the two-bedroom Forest Lodge, stretches over nearly 1,000 square feet and includes two bedrooms: one giant primary suite and a second room that can either be for two children 12 and under (although note that gorilla trekking is ages 15 and up) or one "adult" over 12. This is a sleek modern hideaway, but it still offers old school safari touches such as a fireplace and a standalone bathtub with forest views.

Age considerations: Children 10 and up are welcome on property. Note that visitors should be comfortable in rugged walking and hiking environments — the only way to see the endangered mountain gorillas is to trek into the mountains.

The all-inclusive property rate for a family of four starts at $7,800 per night. Note that while on-property activities are included in the nightly fee, gorilla trekking fees of $1,500 per person, per trek are paid directly the Rwandan government and are an additional cost.

Additional reporting by Michaela Barrett.

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Travel + Leisure Readers’ 20 Favorite Safari Lodges and Safari Outfitters in Africa of 2024

Readers voted for their favorite African lodges and safari outfitters in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2024.

How Voting Works

What readers loved about africa safari lodges, safari lodges winner, safari lodges full list, what readers loved about africa safari outfitters, safari outfitters winner, safari outfitters full list.

Travel + Leisure readers’ votes this year proved that people are essential to the best safari experience, in regards to both lodges and outfitters. From warm, welcoming on-the-ground staff to a reliable and knowledgeable travel specialist pulling all the trip details together, readers highlighted how a great team can make all the difference — in addition to epic wildlife sightings and transportive accommodations.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Over 186,000 T+L readers completed the 2024 survey. A total of more than 700,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

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

• Rooms/facilities

Tour operators and safari outfitters were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Staff/guides
• Itineraries/destinations
• Accommodations

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

Courtesy of MORE Family Collection

South Africa was the most popular country this year, with three lodges in the top ten. Coming in at No. 1, Monwana Game Lodge is a solid all-rounder, overlooking a waterhole in a wildlife-rich safari reserve, supported by a compassionate team.

Asilia Namiri Plains (No. 2) in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park garnered plenty of praise for its team, too. “The staff were kind and made this a trip of a lifetime,” wrote one reader. The tents were also a highlight: “The rooms were huge, comfortable, and gorgeous, and the outdoor tub overlooking the Serengeti was unbeatable.”

But it wasn’t only lodges in famous Big Five destinations that T+L readers loved. Uganda’s Mount Gahinga Lodge, Volcanoes Safaris (No. 4) with direct access to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Kyambura Gorge, Volcanoes Safaris (No. 6) — where chimpanzee trekking is the big draw — reveals the popularity of primate safaris.

Monwana Game Lodge: Thornybush Nature Reserve, South Africa

In Thornybush Nature Reserve — part of South Africa’s Greater Kruger area, one of the best regions in Africa for Big Five sightings — Monwana Game Lodge is located by a waterhole frequented by elephants, lions, and other key wildlife. The lodge was the top choice for T+L readers this year, with one reporting “an amazing experience throughout, from staff to game viewing.” With just six suites, and a private residence for up to five guests, Monwana is ideal for honeymooners or families with kids over age 10. As well as twice-daily game drives, guests can go on bush walks, take a massage at the spa, or head out after dark for stargazing.

1. Monwana Game Lodge : Thornybush Nature Reserve, South Africa

Reader Score: 98.90

2. Asilia Namiri Plains : Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Reader Score: 98.73

3. Finch Hattons : Tsavo West National Park, Kenya

Reader Score: 98.67

4. Mount Gahinga Lodge, Volcanoes Safaris : Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Reader Score: 98.37

5. Mfuwe Lodge, The Bushcamp Company : South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Reader Score: 98.26

6. Kyambura Gorge, Volcanoes Safaris : Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

Reader Score: 98.00

7. Lion Sands Game Reserve : Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

Reader Score: 97.89

8. Singita Grumeti : Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Reader Score: 97.87

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

Reader Score: 97.83

10. Angama Mara : Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Reader Score: 97.47

T+L readers valued expert teams with enthusiasm and reliability in their favorite safari outfitters this year.

2024’s No. 1 winner — Alluring Africa — scored perfect marks, making it readers’ top choice for the second year in a row.  Vegas-based Dazzle Africa (No. 2) is also no stranger to high scores from T+L readers, one of whom said they’d discovered the Zambia specialist through our 2021 World’s Best Awards — after an initial call with a “helpful and committed” trip planner, they “didn’t need to look any further.”

South Africa-based Go2Africa (No. 9) earned praise for going above and beyond — for example, one reader reported their coordinator “got us into Kenya’s Sheldrick Wildlife Trust elephant orphanage after they had sold out.” The word “dream” came up repeatedly as guests described their Go2Africa vacation — “We can't wait to plan another dream trip to Africa!” one concluded.

Alluring Africa

Sunit Sanghrajka/Courtesy of Alluring Africa

Last year’s winner retained the top spot for 2024, with a perfect score of 100 — up from 99.21 in 2023. Alluring Africa is a Florida-based agency, specializing in travel to Africa and the Middle East. The type of experiences they book for their clients include tracking desert rhinos in Namibia, watching wildebeests’ dramatic Great Migration in Tanzania and Kenya, and meeting mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda. A strong database of repeat customers suggests the team really knows how to deliver a trip of a lifetime.

1. Alluring Africa

Reader Score: 100.00

2. Dazzle Africa

Reader Score: 98.82

3. Asilia Africa

Reader Score: 98.66

4. Micato Safaris

Reader Score: 98.56

5. Piper & Heath Travel

Reader Score: 98.31

6. Extraordinary Journeys

Reader Score: 97.91

7. Rothschild Safaris

Reader Score: 97.60

8. Thomson Safaris

Reader Score: 97.38

9. Go2Africa

Reader Score: 96.22

10. Deeper Africa

Reader Score: 94.91

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13 African Luxury Safari Lodges that Offer the Best Value for Money

Devryn Panaino

Safari Travel Planner

Author: Devryn Panaino - 11 May 2023

Last Update: 6 May 2024

Going on safari doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. With the right advice and careful planning, you can enjoy a great safari experience at any number of luxury safari lodges and get excellent value for money at the same time.

Our safari experts are ready and waiting to guide you on where and when to splurge and save, so you have an unforgettable vacation. Get inspired with our list of African luxury safari lodges that offer the best value for money.

1. Lion Sands River Lodge

Not only does Lion Sands River Lodge boast spectacular river views from the main guest areas and rooms, but it also offers guests a welcoming ‘home away from home’ ambiance. What makes the lodge unique is its position within the only South African reserve to offer safaris in both the Sand River and Sabie ecosystems.

Lion Sands River Lodge is also one of the few destinations in this region that offers treehouse sleep-out experiences – something you really have to try at least once.

Off-road driving, night drives, open-sided safari vehicles, a team of experienced rangers and trackers, and reliable Big Five game viewing all add up to make Lion Sands River Lodge an unforgettable destination for an authentic safari. 

Location: Sabi Sand Game Reserve , Kruger National Park , South Africa

Room Types: 12 Luxury Rooms, 6 Superior Luxury Suites, 2 River Suites

Lodge Facilities: Dining area, safari lounge and bar, barista station with artisanal coffees, art gallery, boutique, spa, gym, two swimming pools

Rate Inclusions: Luxury accommodation, all meals, Skukuza airport road transfers, local branded beverages, safari activities

Experiences: Morning and afternoon game drives, guided walking safaris , bird watching, hippo tours, local school visits, wildlife lectures, astronomy, bush sleep-outs

2. Madikwe Safari Lodge

Covering a massive 76 000 hectares, Madikwe Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s largest wildlife sanctuaries. Madikwe Safari Lodge features three one-of-a-kind lodges that are situated in a sprawling area of the reserve, and each has been designed to welcome couples, families, and solo travelers.

The safari experience at Madikwe Safari Lodge is world-class and features open safari vehicles with highly trained guides. You’ll easily be able to spot the Big Five, African wild dog, and up to 60 other species of mammals. Being located in the North West Province, it’s also a great option to pair with a stay at the Sun City resort .

Location: Madikwe Game Reserve, North West Province, South Africa

Room Types: 20 Suites

Lodge Facilities: Wellness spa, relaxation areas, WiFi connectivity, outdoor dining areas, swimming pools, private viewing decks

Rate Inclusions: Luxury accommodation with a private plunge pool, all meals, teas and coffees, selected local brand beverages, twice daily game drives, snacks and refreshments on game drives, transfers to and from Madikwe airstrip

Experiences: Morning and evening game drives, bush walks, bird watching, ecology house and local community village tour, bush dining, astronomy, spa treatments 

3. Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

Kwandwe Ecca Lodge is a luxury lodge located in a private reserve not too far away from the seaside town of Gqeberha.

This malaria-free Big Five game reserve is perfect for families and can easily be paired with a Garden Route tour or a holiday at one of Gqeberha’s beachside hotels for a great bush and beach experience.

Location: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, Eastern Cape , South Africa

Room Types: 6 Suites

Lodge Facilities: Various lounging and dining areas, wooden viewing decks, interactive kitchen, bar, a rim-flow lap pool, play center for kids

Rate Inclusions: Luxury accommodation, local brand beverages, meals, teas and coffees, nature walks, twice daily game drives, big game walking safari, laundry, complimentary child-minding, emergency medical evacuation insurance, transfers to & from the reserve’s airstrip

Experiences: Big game walking safaris , interpretive bush walks, morning and afternoon game drives, spa treatments, fishing

4. Phinda Forest Lodge

Set within a rare and gorgeous sand forest, Phinda Forest Lodge is one of the world’s first eco-designed lodges.

The suites feature glass walls that leave you feeling close to nature, and you’ll be able to explore two habitats on game drives that provide spectacular Big Five game viewing as well as other unique species.

Location: Phinda Private Game Reserve , KwaZulu Natal, South Africa

Room Types: 16 Suites

Lodge Facilities: Rim-flow swimming pool, dining area, bar, lounge, interactive kitchen, outdoor boma, safari shop, WiFi connectivity

Rate Inclusions: Luxury accommodation, local brand beverages, meals, teas and coffees, laundry, refreshments on game drives, scheduled safari activities

Experiences: Morning, afternoon, and evening game drives, Zulu village tours, seasonal night turtle drives, Black rhino tracking on foot, scuba and ocean safaris, guided bush walks, birding and photographic safaris , family safaris , rhino notching, private safaris 

5. Matetsi River Lodge

Matetsi River Lodge is a luxurious lodge offering superb accommodation, outstanding service, and an authentic safari experience featuring both land and river-based activities.

The lodge is also reasonably close to Victoria Falls , the largest waterfall in the world and classified as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Location: Matetsi Private Game Reserve, between Zambia and Zimbabwe

Room Types: River Lodge is made up of two river-facing camps. Each camp features 8 suites and one family suite.

Lodge Facilities: Outdoor boma, Alfresco lounge areas, fitness studio, library, boardroom, shopping boutique, complimentary laundry service, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, 20-meter lap pool, massage sala, private wine cellar, iPads for guest use, free WiFi connectivity

Rate Inclusions: Luxury accommodation, local brand beverages, all meals, laundry, safari activities, refreshments on game drives, emergency medical evacuation insurance

Experiences: Zambezi canoeing, morning and evening game drives, full-day game drives, night game drives, Zambezi River boat cruises, walking safaris, fishing, bird watching. There is also a range of activities you can do at Victoria Falls, including bungee jumping, seasonal whitewater rafting, guided tours of the falls, micro lighting, and scenic helicopter flips.

6. Ulusaba Safari Lodge

Nestled in the private Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Ulusaba Safari Lodge offers some of the world’s best sightings of the ever-elusive leopard. You’re also guaranteed to see the Big Five up close.

Featuring cutting-edge equipment and facilities, Ulusaba Safari Lodge is one of South Africa’s most upmarket safari destinations and will not disappoint. 

Location: Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sands, South Africa

Room Types: 10 Rooms and one Suite

Lodge Facilities: Lounge area, swimming pool, two tennis courts, reception area, dining area, gym with a treadmill, stationary bike, free weights, and multifunctional weight station, spa treatment room, bush observatory, wine cellar, outdoor boma, gift shop

Rate Inclusions: Luxury accommodation, beverages including fine champagne and top quality wines, all meals, twice-daily game drives, informative talks, walking safaris, laundry service

Experiences: Panorama tours, helicopter flights over the bush, morning and late afternoon open vehicle game drives, authentic Shangaan experiences, local village visits

7. Vumbura Plains Camp

Vumbura Plains Camp provides guests with the chance to experience authentic tented safari accommodation and an array of land and water-based activities. Not to be missed is a hot-air balloon safari.

During the annual floods, the plains surrounding this exquisite destination are flooded, attracting a diverse abundance of wildlife and offering spectacular game viewing opportunities.

Location: Okavango Delta, Botswana

Room Types: 14 tents split between two camps

Lodge Facilities: Dining area, bar, lounge, spacious viewing deck with a fire pit

Rate Inclusions: Luxury accommodation, local brand beverages, all meals, laundry, park fees, twice-daily scheduled camp activities

Experiences: Night game drives, boating safaris, mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions, morning and afternoon game drives, guided nature walks, bird watching, catch-and-release fishing, hot-air balloon safaris

8. Zarafa Camp

Linking the world-famous Okavango Delta , Chobe, and Savute corridors, Zarafa Camp is situated in an incredible wildlife viewing area.

Guests at Zarafa can expect an exclusive safari experience (there are few other safari lodges in the area) and look forward to an array of land and water-based activities, not to mention luxurious tented accommodation. 

Location: Selinda Game Reserve , Botswana

Room Types: 4 luxury tents

Lodge Facilities: Dining area, library, lounge area, curio shop, in-room massage treatments

Rate Inclusions: Luxury accommodation, beverages excluding champagne, all meals, daily laundry, scheduled safari activities, return airstrip road transfers

Experiences: Boat cruises, game drives, guided bush walks, bird watching

9. Mala Mala Main Camp

Mala Mala Main Camp is situated in one of South Africa’s most immaculate private game reserves featuring 39 536 acres of pure unfenced wilderness.

On the border of the world-famous Kruger National Park , wildlife ambles freely between the Sabi Sands and Kruger, making for spectacular Big Five game viewing. Amazing wildlife viewing is also on offer from the lodge’s viewing deck overlooking the Sabi Sand River, an essential source of water for wildlife thriving in this region. 

Location: Mala Mala Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sands, South Africa

Room Types: 10 Luxury Suites, 8 Luxury Rooms, and one Single Room

Lodge Facilities: Lounge, historic bar, free WiFi connectivity, library with satellite television, large wooden safari deck, indoor dining room

Rate Inclusions: Luxury accommodation, local brand beverages, all meals, laundry service, snacks, nature walks, twice-daily game drives, transfers to and from the Mala Mala airstrip

Experiences: Guided bush walks, bush dining, bird watching, game drives

10. Sabi Sabi Little Bush Camp

Sabi Sabi Little Bush Camp offers guests an intimate and world-class safari experience that’s well-suited to small groups and families.

The mix of well-appointed suites, open safari vehicles, night drives, off-road driving, exemplary service, and guaranteed Big Five game viewing all adds up to make Sabi Sabi Game Reserve one of the best safari destinations. 

Location: Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Kruger National Park , South Africa

Room Types: 6 Luxury Suites

Lodge Facilities: Boma, bar, boutique, lounge, WiFi connectivity, swimming pool

Rate Inclusions: Luxury accommodation, walking safaris, twice-daily game drives, a house selection of beverages, all meals, WiFi, transfers to and from Sabi Sabi airstrip

Experiences: Guided bush walks, bush dining, bird watching, morning and afternoon/evening game drives

11. Sanctuary Baines Camp

Sanctuary Baines Camp is located in one of Africa’s most sought-after safari destinations, offering top-notch luxury accommodation, world-class levels of personalized service, and an unbelievable authentic safari experience with both water and land-based activities available to guests.

Botswana’s approach of low-volume, high-cost tourism makes it a bit more expensive than most destinations, but Sanctuary Baines Camp squeezes in every ultimate drop of value available. 

Location: Private concession bordering the Moremi Game Reserve , Botswana

Room Types: 5 Suites

Lodge Facilities: Lounge, bar, swimming pool with open pavilions, laundry service, dining area, spacious viewing deck

Rate Inclusions: All meals, non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages (except Champagne and premium brands), all game viewing activities, airstrip transfers, luxury accommodation

Experiences: Motorized boating excursions (when the water level allows), walking safaris, mokoro safaris , living with elephants activity, game drives

12. Kariega Settlers Drift

Kariega Settlers Drift offers a one-of-a-kind safari experience, exploring a variety of habitats that feature five different ecosystems – savannah grasslands, acacia woodland, fynbos, valley bushveld, and riverine forests.

The 10 000 hectare Kariega Private Game Reserve is perfect for families, with no malaria threat in the area and guaranteed Big Five game viewing. Its proximity to Kenton-on-Sea and Gqeberha make it an ideal destination for travelers who want a bush and beach safari experience.

Location: Kariega Private Game Reserve, Eastern Cape, South Africa

Room Types: 9 Tents

Lodge Facilities: Wine cellar, spacious decks, restaurant, bar, boma, pool, library, curio shop, spa treatments

Rate Inclusions: Luxury accommodation, safari activities, selected beverages, all meals

Experiences: Photographic safaris, fishing, guided bush walks, river cruises, canoeing, morning and afternoon game drives

13. Royal Chundu River Lodge

Royal Chundu rests on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River , a crucial water source for animals living in the area. The lodge’s unique situation provides a laid-back setting and spectacular wildlife viewing.

There are relatively few destinations in this region that can offer trips to the iconic Victoria Falls as well as water-based safaris in the Matetsi Private Game Reserve just beyond the lodge. With your every need met, the luxurious accommodation and the jaw-dropping views of the river, Royal Chundu provides excellent value for money. 

Location: Livingstone , Zambia

Room Types: 10 Riverfront Suites

Lodge Facilities: Swimming pool, restaurant, kids club, wine cellar, cocktail bar, library, free WiFi connectivity, outdoor boma, television room, helicopter pad, spa treatments

Rate Inclusions: Luxury accommodation, teas and coffees, local branded beverages, all meals, return airport transfers, scheduled activities

Experiences: Birding safaris , canoeing, fishing, river cruises, Victoria Falls tours ,  village tours, full-day safari in Chobe National Park

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12 once-in-a-lifetime african safari vacations.

Cross this must-do activity off your bucket list.

Top African Safari Vacations

Courtesy of Expert Africa

Safari vacations in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself, though these types of trips typically require a large sum of money. Whether you want to spend a few days gorilla trekking in Uganda or a couple weeks spotting the "big five" – lions, leopards, African elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalos – in South Africa, you'll find an array of experiences to suit your needs. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News compiled a list of 12 can't-miss African safari tours. Read on to find your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Note: Some of the African countries visited by tours in this article may require travelers to get an entry visa and certain vaccinations (particularly yellow fever) in order to visit. Jump to the list of visa and vaccination requirements by country for more information.

&Beyond: Kings of the Jungle Tour

Courtesy of &Beyond

Length: 10 days Starting price: $14,265

Visitors who don't want to sacrifice creature comforts while on safari will appreciate &Beyond's diverse offerings across numerous African destinations. For a classic safari, consider the tour operator's 10-day Kings of the Jungle tour, where travelers will see breathtaking natural wonders like Ngorongo Crater and the Maasai Mara savannah with its elephants and cheetahs. Arguably, the highlight of this journey is its four-night stay at Tanzania's Serengeti National Park .

After watching animals like wildebeest and zebras partake in the great migration while also spotting lions, giraffes and more, vacationers retreat to high-end tents and lodges with private bathrooms. Prices start at $14,265 per person, but are higher around the peak season of June to October.

Wild Rwanda Safaris: Bwindi Gorilla Safari

Courtesy of Wild Rwanda Safaris

Length: Three days Starting price: $1,450 for two people with lowest-cost lodging

Adventurous travelers sticking to a more conservative budget should consider Wild Rwanda Safaris' Bwindi Gorilla Safari. The three-day package features a full day in southwestern Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a haven for gorillas) and adjacent Batwa Pygmy communities. Wild Rwanda Safaris offers a choice of midrange, luxury and super luxury accommodations, allowing you to keep costs down if necessary.

The company's packages include the $700 permit required to visit the gorilla park. The round-trip journey by safari vehicle to and from Kigali, Rwanda, as well as English-speaking guides are covered in all rates. The tour can begin from Kampala, Uganda, as well, although you'll spend a lot longer on the road to the park. Contact the safari company for pricing information.

Nomad Tanzania: Southern Tanzania

Courtesy of nomad-tanzania.com

Length: Eight days Starting price: $6,055

Sign up for Nomad Tanzania's Southern Tanzania safari and you're bound to get an up-close look at Tanzania's diverse wildlife. Offering eight days of activities, including game drives and boat trips in Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, this safari gives you prime opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards and elephants, among other species.

You'll get around the parks with the company's custom-built vehicles, ideal for catching a glimpse of that spectacular wildlife. What's more, the package rates include lodging at the company's campsites; select meals; and the short, scenic flights to and from Dar es Salaam as well as to the parks. Prices are only available upon contacting the company; they vary depending on the time of year, and the tour isn't offered in April and May.

Micato Safaris: The Micato Grand Safari

Courtesy of Micato Safaris

Length: 15 days Starting price: $29,500

If you want to explore multiple destinations while on safari with plenty of comfort (but a price tag to match), book the 15-day Micato Grand Safari. This extraordinarily thorough itinerary from Micato Safaris starts with a two-day visit to bustling Nairobi, Kenya, before continuing to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the Amboseli and Serengeti national parks. You'll be treated to wildlife-viewing excursions that just might check every animal off your bucket list, from lions and cheetahs to rhinos, hippos and more. During your trip, you'll get to see Mount Kilimanjaro as zebras, gazelles and more roam in the foreground.

The package costs at least $29,500 per person (based on double occupancy rates) and includes activities like a sunrise hot air balloon ride and a camel tour led by members of the Samburu tribe. Lodging at upscale properties like the Serengeti's Four Seasons Safari Lodge and glamorous safari camps with en suite bathrooms is also included. The company also offers various extensions allowing you to explore other parts of Africa, from the island paradise of Zanzibar to the deserts of Namibia.

Rothschild Safaris: Essence of Tanzania

Courtesy of Rothschild Safaris

Length: Nine days Starting price: Contact company for pricing details.

If your ideal safari vacation consists of customizing your trip from start to finish, consider an outing with Rothschild Safaris. The company offers itineraries in locales like Zambia and Ethiopia, but if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the "big five" animals, the Essence of Tanzania safari is a good bet.

This nine-day experience, which embarks from Arusha, Tanzania, and returns there by plane, includes game-viewing drives spotting animals like ostriches, zebras and impalas in Tarangire National Park, plus accommodations like luxurious tents and farmhouse lodges. You'll also have the opportunity to go on a nighttime safari to spot nocturnal wildlife. If you time your safari right, you may also be able to see the famed wildebeest migration, when more than a million animals move between the Maasai Mara Reserve in Kenya and Tanzania's Serengeti plains.

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Lion World Travel: The Best of Cape Town & Botswana

Courtesy of Lion World Travel

Length: 10 days Starting price: $4,899

As the trip name implies, the 10-day Best of Cape Town & Botswana vacation package from longtime safari operator Lion World Travel combines a few days of sightseeing in Cape Town, South Africa – where you'll visit the iconic Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula – with a classic safari in Botswana. During the latter half of the itinerary, visitors will explore Botswana's Okavango Delta, home to cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos and more; you'll have the option of a helicopter flight to spot wildlife from above for an extra fee. Then, you'll visit Chobe National Park, which is believed to have the world's largest African elephant population.

Prices start at $4,899 per person based on double occupancy. Rates cover game drives; many of your meals; and stays in a four-star hotel in Cape Town as well as luxury tents in Botswana. You'll need to pay an extra charge for the flights within the tour (from Cape Town to Botswana and from Botswana to Johannesburg ).

Discover Africa: Botswana – Chobe, Okavango & Makgadikgadi

Matthys Van Aswegen | Courtesy of Discover Africa

Length: Nine days Starting price: $4,800

For an inside-out trip through the natural wonders of Botswana, Discover Africa's nine-day trip through the country's sprawling game reserves and national parks is a formidable option. You'll start out at a riverside lodge on the Chobe River – a great location for spotting elephants – before moving on to the marshy Okavango Delta, a wildlife-rich area where you can spot a huge range of animals like leopards, rhinos, hippos and more. The safari ends at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a good place to admire wildlife such as zebras and buffalo on the savannah as well as the ethereal white salt pans from a former lake.

You'll stay in upscale lodges and camps within close reach of the wilderness. All meals and transport along the tour are included in the price tag (which starts at $4,800 per person and varies by time of year), but international flights to get to Botswana are excluded.

Wild Wings Safaris: 8 Day Battlefields, Bush & Beach Safari

Onne Vegter | Courtesy of Wild Wings Safaris

Length: Eight days Starting price: About $4,160 for self-drive option

If you're looking to have a broader experience that mixes in some local history and beach time, consider Wild Wings Safaris' eight-day Battlefields, Bush & Beach Safari. With an itinerary focused on the east of South Africa, you'll start off visiting some of the country's historic sites from the Boer wars, including locations where local Zulu warriors defeated the British, before moving on to Phinda Private Game Reserve. This park doesn't allow day visitors, so you should be able to look out for the "big five" without too many crowds.

The tour wraps up at Thonga Beach Lodge, where you can snorkel or scuba dive near coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. Kayaking and walks through coastal forests are other activities on offer here. As far as safaris go, this one is a somewhat more affordable option, starting at about $4,160 per person with all meals included as well as a rental car; for the cheapest price, you will need to drive yourself between the destinations, but it's possible to pay an additional fee for a driver to guide you instead.

Cuckoo Safaris: 4-Day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park and Hwange National Park

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Length: Four days Starting price: $1,015

This tour company kicks off many of its tours from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, with a host of safaris that range from three to nine days, across Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana, including some family-friendly choices. For an affordable option, consider the four-day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park and Hwange National Park safari. It will take you on two full-day tours to Chobe National Park in Botswana and Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest national park, where you should keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants and more, while also visiting rural villages. This safari includes a wildlife spotting boat cruise on the Chobe River as well.

The price starts at $1,015 per person, which includes the tours plus breakfast, lunch and well-rated lodging in Victoria Falls. Travelers will need to pay for their own travel to Victoria Falls. Dinners aren't included, although you'll be staying in the town of Victoria Falls, with access to restaurants.

Compass Odyssey: 8-Day Namibia Wildlife Safari

Courtesy of Compass Odyssey

Length: Eight days Starting price: Contact company for pricing details.

Explore the savannah and deserts of southwest Africa with Compass Odyssey's eight-day Namibia Wildlife Safari. You'll visit a community-based conservation area in Damaraland – known for its desert-adapted elephants, oryx, giraffes and other wildlife – while staying in the rustic-chic Doro Nawas Camp. Travelers will also spend two days in Etosha National Park, seeking wildlife like giraffes, zebras and elephants at the park's bustling waterholes by day and embarking on an evening game drive with a knowledgeable ranger as well.

The company provides prices on request. The tour includes most meals and all park entry fees, but not flights or the optional "Cheetah Walk." Compass Odyssey allows the tour to be customized on request.

Expert Africa: Big Cat Fly-in Safari

Length: Nine days Starting price: $5,010

Expert Africa offers safaris and other tours in a host of African countries. For a relatively classic tour, consider the Big Cat Fly-in Safari. It offers two different looks at Kenya's stellar wildlife. Firstly, you'll fly north for four nights at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, a sanctuary that channels all its profits into protecting the wildlife in its roughly 100-square-mile reserve. You'll stay in classic tented rooms and enjoy three-course dinners, with the option of going on horse- or camelback safaris for an extra fee.

Despite the tour name, you're most likely to see elephants, giraffes, zebras and rhinos here. In fact, you're more likely to see big cats at the tour's second stop, when you fly south to the Maasai Mara National Reserve. The tour company reports a high success rate for travelers spotting lions (and a decent chance of spotting leopards or cheetahs too). Here, you'll spend four days in upscale tents and have the option of soaring over the plains in a hot air balloon. The tour starts at $5,010 for eight nights, with all transport within Kenya included – although Expert Africa customizes most of its tours, so you can likely adjust your safari to your preferences.

Volcanoes Safari: 7 Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari

Courtesy of Volcanoes Safaris

Length: Seven days Starting price: $8,430

If you're looking to spot some great apes, Volcanoes Safari focuses exclusively on primate tours within Rwanda and Uganda – and with partnerships with the Jane Goodall Institute and Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, they're responsible too. One of its signature tours, this seven-day itinerary kicks off in Uganda, taking travelers to the famed Kyambura Gorge to spot chimpanzee communities, as well as on a trek through the Bwindi Forest to look for gorillas.

But it's not all about monkeys: The tour also includes chances to see lions on the Ugandan plains and to meet locals engaging in cooperative work raising bees and roasting coffee. Along the way, guests stay in stylish lodges with views of Uganda's mountains and forests. The tour starts at $8,430 per person based on double occupancy in the low season, with all meals included.

Vaccination and visa requirements for African countries

Some popular safari destinations may require you to have received certain vaccinations in order to enter the country as a tourist. Although COVID-19 vaccination requirements no longer exist, it's not uncommon for countries to require you to be vaccinated against illnesses such as yellow fever before departing on your trip. Be sure to bring proof of vaccinations with you. If you are transiting through another country en route to your safari tour, you must check that you also meet immunization requirements for the stopover location.

For many destinations, there are a number of other vaccinations that aren't mandatory but are still recommended, such as for cholera or rabies. Consult with a doctor and ensure you're up to date and fully protected before you travel. In addition, many safari locations are prone to malaria; you should consult with your doctor about potentially bringing anti-malaria medication on your trip.

Safari countries have varying visa requirements for travelers from the U.S. – these are detailed below. Depending on your itinerary, you may need a single- or multiple-entry visa, and some visas require you to apply in advance of traveling and/or have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Regardless of destination, your passport should be valid for at least six months before you leave for your trip.

Here are the vaccine and visa requirements for major safari destinations as of July 2024:

Botswana: If you have recently visited or transited through a country where yellow fever is common, you will need to be vaccinated against this illness. This does not include the U.S. but does include a number of countries in Africa as well as Central and South America. Consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, including Kenya and Uganda.

U.S. citizens and nationals can stay in Botswana for 90 days per year without a visa.

Kenya: Kenya is a country where you'll be at risk of yellow fever transmission; it also requires those traveling from other places where yellow fever is endemic to be vaccinated against it. The CDC recommends that you protect yourself against yellow fever before your trip here.

Americans need an eVisa to enter Kenya. You should apply online at the eVisa government website no less than two weeks before your trip, as visas are not available upon arrival in Kenya. See more on the U.S. Department of State's website .

Namibia: Those traveling from a country where yellow fever is common need to be vaccinated against it. No visa is required as long as you're staying for 90 days or less per year.

Rwanda: If you're coming from a country where yellow fever is endemic, a yellow fever vaccination is required before departure.

U.S. citizens and nationals can be issued a 30-day visitor visa on arrival in Rwanda or through the Rwandan Embassy in Washington, D.C. A single-entry visa costs $50 for a single entry or $70 for multiple entries, and it's recommended you bring sufficient cash in U.S. dollars to pay for this (although credit card payment may be accepted at Kigali International Airport). Consult the State Department website for more information.

South Africa: A yellow fever vaccination is required if you're traveling from a country with a risk of transmission, including transits of 12 hours or longer in such countries. No visa is required for stays of 90 days or less.

Tanzania: Yellow fever vaccines are mandatory if you're traveling from a location where yellow fever is present – including if you spend more than 12 hours in transit in such a country. The vaccine should be administered 10 days or more before arrival

Visas are required for tourism in Tanzania. You can apply for a single-entry, 90-day visa online for $50 or a multiple-entry, one-year visa for $100. Be sure to print a copy of the approval (called a "grant notice") to bring with you. The processing period takes up to 10 days. You can also obtain a single-entry visa on arrival in most cases, although the Tanzanian government still recommends the advance online application. Find more Tanzanian visa information on the State Department website .

Uganda: Like Kenya, Uganda is a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. All visitors must show proof of vaccination against yellow fever to enter Uganda, regardless of where you're traveling from.

American visitors to Uganda must apply online for an electronic visa before departure. The processing time is around seven days, but the Ugandan government recommends applying 30 days before you travel; arriving in Uganda without completing this process could result in your detainment. A single-entry visa costs $50. Visit the State Department website to learn more.

Zambia: Yellow fever vaccines are only required if you're coming from an area considered at risk, including long transits (12 hours or more) through such countries. Visas are not required for U.S. citizens visiting Zambia. Check the State Department website for more details.

Zimbabwe: As with other countries on this list, visitors from countries with yellow fever outbreaks require a vaccine against this illness. This includes long transit stopovers of 12 hours or more.

U.S. visitors can obtain a 30-day, single-entry visa upon arrival in Zimbabwe for $30. If you're taking a tour that requires you to leave and reenter Zimbabwe, be sure to get a double-entry visa for $45. You can learn more from the State Department website .

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This Safari Lodge In The Heart Of An African National Park Is Any Wildlife Lover's Dream

N estled in the wild and untouched wilderness of the African savannah is a luxury wildlife paradise. Founded in 1982,  Desert and Delta Safaris is on a mission to foster a sustainable ecotourism model, bridging the gap between humans and nature without disrupting the sacred life cycle of the African savannah. Their highly trained guides invite visitors on an unparalleled journey through the African wilderness, offering up-close encounters with large predatory wildlife, including lions, leopards, zebras, and elephants. Guests can choose from 10 different safari opportunities that weave through the various regions of the surrounding area with their all-inclusive luxury packages. The safari tours throughout the surrounding territory range from four to 10-night excursions.

The luxury camps provide the perfect blend of modern living and authentic outdoor adventure. Each location site was specially curated to sit in the heart of where all the activity occurs in this region. Desert and Delta now manage properties in some of the most exotic and remote regions of Botswana, including the Moremi Game Reserve, Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, the Okavango Delta, and Chobe National Park. Not only does the brand focus on sharing the natural serenity of Botswana with visitors from around the globe, but the global mission has just as large of an impact in their hometown by creating new job opportunities and supporting local communities. There's no better place to spend an all-inclusive vacation than in the  African safari , drenched with populous flora and fauna!

Read more: 28 Bucket List Destinations That Everyone Needs To Experience At Least Once

Explore The Wild, Untamed Wilderness Of Botswana

Desert and Delta Safaris's Four Night Moremi and Boteti Package offers up-close and personal encounters with the country's indigenous inhabitants — a rare and intimate experience! The journey is split between Leroo La Tau and Camp Moremi. The Boteti River, which is part of the larger Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, borders the region where the annual zebra migration occurs. Guests spend the second half of the excursion at Camp Moremi, one of several luxury safari camps. Located in the Moremi Game Reserve, professional guides point out exotic wildlife species, ranging from wild leopards and impalas to herds of African elephants and prides of lions.

The Six night Savute and Delta Green Season Discovery occurs during the savannah's green season, which falls between late October to March. The excess rain in the region beckons mammals in the Savute marshlands to venture further along the channels, creating the perfect opportunity to view apex predators up close in their natural habitat. The damp grasslands of the channel were once part of a large inland sea, yet today, they provide a bountiful hunting range for predators. Today, they're known for housing large populations of elephants, cheetahs, leopards, and wild dogs.

The back half of the trip is spent at the lodges in the Okavango Delta. The waterways and channels of the Okavango Delta have been described as "the jewel of Kalahari" and one of the best locations to spot African wildlife. Papyrus swamps and lagoons are home to everything from hippos and gazelles to various species of exotic birds.

A Luxury, All-Inclusive African Safari Experience

Guests who are looking for a true taste of the wild should consider the Six Night Best of Desert and Delta Safari trek. This epic safari route criss-crosses the African savannahs, starting from the Moremi Game Reserve and ending at Chobe National Park. Days one and two are spent exploring the Moremi Game Reserve, followed by two days in the Okavango Delta. Boating excursions, guided night drives, and bush walks allow guests to leave the reserve with a local's perspective of this region of Botswana. The best is saved for last on this safari excursion, with the final two days spent in the Savute Savage Kingdom in Chobe National Park. Featured in National Geographic's mini series, "Savage Kingdom", this thriving wildlife oasis is one of the best destinations to view wild game in action.

The various safari camps and lounges provide a modern, organic sanctuary in the heart of Botswana's vibrant hunting grounds. Inside the thatched chalets, spacious living quarters, luxurious amenities, and a neutral color palette create an airy and open space to rest and rejuvenate after a long day in the arid grasslands. Private balconies, al fresco dining areas, and pool loungers give each of Desert and Delta's camps a posh look without stripping the beauty of the natural landscape. Panoramic views of the surrounding savannah are visible from nearly any point in camp to ensure guests don't miss a thing!

Read the original article on Explore .

Welcome to Arranview Holiday Park

Luxury lakeside lodges and glamping pods in east ayrshire made for outdoor lovers, arranview holiday park, set in stunning moscow, a hamlet in east ayrshire, this is one of the gateways to the scottish highlands nestled in the heart of the countryside yet only a few miles from the city of glasgow..

Our Luxurious Lodges and Pods are perfectly located for a leisurely weekend break or a more active holiday. With sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, the clearest night skies and the freshest air you might have ever breathed, we offer an exceptional place to stay.

Our Lodges and Glamping Pods are surrounded by fields, large lochans stocked weekly full of three different types of Trout, Rainbow, Brown and Blue and on a clear day you can see the Isle of Arran.

Our self-catered lodges have everything you need to make your stay as comfortable as possible. It comes with its own hot tub with stunning views. It has two bedrooms, the master has an ensuite shower room. A kitchenette with a hob, oven, fridge freezer, microwave and all the essentials. The open plan living area is the perfect entertaining space, with a wood burner effect electric fire. We also have WiFi with Netflix included in the cost. The lodge has central heating, double glazing and sliding doors. Each lodge can sleep up to 4 guests.

Each pod is furnished with a comfy king size bed, double sofa bed, (with bed linen and towels provided), your own en-suite toilet/shower and a fully equipped kitchen. Complimentary tea and coffee is also provided for an immediate cuppa when you arrive. Our state-of-the-art pods are ideal for couples and friends sharing. Each luxury pod is for 2 but sleeps up to 4, has its own parking and your own secluded hot tub on the decking!

Chill or venture out and explore – the choice is yours!

We have won!

Best holiday park in the scotlands business awards 2021.

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Now that you know what we’re all about here at arranview holiday park, secure your luxury break away with us now, privacy overview.