The Top 10 Safari Lodges to Visit in South Africa

Views of the South African wilderness for as far as the eye can see, food that makes you look forward to every single meal, and tiny touches that take luxury to another level… These are just some of the things that make a safari lodge extraordinary.

At Discover Africa, we know that where you stay while you’re on safari is not just about having somewhere to rest your head after game drives. Safari lodges are about enhancing your wilderness adventure and facilitating a story that you’ll look back on fondly for many years to come.

Our safari planners have travelled across South Africa’s best safari destinations, from lodges with wine collections that will impress any oenophile to opulent suites with every possible amenity, to ensure they can create South African safari itineraries that will exceed all expectations. These are 10 of their favourites:

1. Singita Boulders Lodge

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

Vast decks and walkways continue the immersion in nature, while various experiences and activities offer exclusive access to 45,000 acres in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. From game drives and guided bush walks to birdwatching excursions and stargazing journeys, a stay here gives you a variety of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature.

After a day out spotting elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, wild dogs, and other game, tuck into the lodge’s extensive collection of wines during dinner. Singita Boulders is renowned for its vast collection of vintages.

2. Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve

In the Big Five Sabi Sand Game Reserve lies Leopard Hills, a safari lodge that offers an oasis of luxury in the wilderness. The eight suites are built on a hill overlooking a watering hole. Imagine walking out to your own private deck, drink in hand, watching animals drinking and playing in the water below. Each deck is complete with a private plunge pool, the perfect place to cool off after a day in the bush. But elephants of the reserve have also been known to enjoy the plunge pools, so you may see an elephant trunk dipping in for a drink of water.

Opulent bathroom amenities, both indoor and outdoor showers, air conditioning, king-sized beds, and stocked minibars finish off the suites as lush retreats.

“Leopard Hills was amazing – we loved the huge balcony overlooking the bush. The restaurant’s outdoor seating area had a beautiful view of a watering hole where we could sit and watch animals.” – Jon, Singapore.

Besides game drives to spot the Big Five (morning and afternoon), you can go on photographic safaris to capture stunning wildlife memories and take to the walking trails to find out more about the environment around you. As the name suggests, Leopard Hills is a fantastic destination for big cat safaris, with the star of the show being the graceful leopard.

3. Tanda Tula Safari Camp

Situated along the Nhlaralumi River, Tanda Tula Safari Camp in Timbavati Game Reserve stands out for its spectacular location, photographic hide, and memorable food experiences.

Tanda Tula won in the category of Best New Safari Property in Africa at the 2024 Safari Awards, and walking around the glass and canvas accommodations, it’s easy to see why. Expansive views of the wilderness and sunken outdoor seating areas from which to enjoy them, private plunge pools, and spacious bathrooms are just some of the elements of this incredible property.

The camp also has a photography hide overlooking a watering hole. Water sources are popular stops for wildlife. From here, you may see a variety of animals, from families of elephants and impala herds to a lone leopard and southern carmine bee-eaters.

Dishes take inspiration from childhood favourites and traditional recipes, creating comforting meals that highlight delicious local produce. In the morning, enjoy a full breakfast in the bush, continuing sightings from your morning game drive; take your time to indulge during an outdoor lunch; and share dinner with fellow safari-goers under the stars. To complement lunches and dinners, opt for pairings with South African wines.

A stay in Timbavati allows you to participate in hands-on conservation work, such as helping monitor endangered vultures and assisting in ground-hornbill research.

4. andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge

Set within a rare sand forest is Phinda Forest Lodge, the perfect place to combine a land and ocean safari. After spending time on day and night game drives to see the Big Five as well as cheetahs, tiny suni antelopes, and over 400 species of birds, head to the coast.

Phinda Private Game Reserve is located in KwaZulu-Natal, a stunning oceanside region in South Africa. An ocean safari can include sightings of dolphins and humpback whales and snorkelling experiences among colourful coral reefs.

Within the forest are 16 fairytale suites with expansive glass windows and doors to ensure sweeping views of the trees surrounding you. Sustainability and eco-conscious travel are a big part of the Phinda Forest Lodge ethos, so not a single tree was removed or damaged during the construction of the lodge.

Discover Africa Tip: For a unique safari experience, participate in the pangolin conservation project. You’ll join a researcher as they track a pangolin, do a general health check, and download critical data from the pangolin’s tag.

5. Marataba Mountain Lodge

With just five rooms, Marataba Mountain Lodge in the Waterberg Mountains of Limpopo is the perfect off-the-grid retreat for those looking for an intimate, secluded safari experience. Here, minimalism helps ensure that the wilderness views take pride of place, but not at the expense of luxury. From the wood-burning fireplace and the viewing deck to the rain shower and air conditioning, every element ensures that you can relax in your room in utmost comfort and style.

There are a variety of ways to explore the bush, including game drives, walking safaris, and sunset water safaris on the Matlabas River. For the ultimate adventurers, the rhino conservation experience will take you into the wilderness to take part in veterinary care of a rhino. This can include fitting a tracking collar, microchipping horns, and collecting tissue samples.

Must-Do: If you’re on a couple’s safari, spend a night under the stars in the treehouse. You’ll arrive in time for sundowners, enjoy a catered picnic, and be lulled to sleep by the sounds, scents, and activities of the bush.

6. Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge

In the malaria-free wildlife haven of Madikwe Game Reserve sit five private villas and an exclusive lodge that take luxury South African safaris to new heights. Curl up in front of the fireplace in your villa after a sumptuous dinner, take a dip in your private rim-flow pool after game drives, and relax in the sala overlooking the watering hole – you can have these experiences and more during a safari at Jamala Madikwe.

The opportunity for “sofa safaris” is one of the reasons why Jamala stands out. Imagine heading to the pool deck, choosing your favourite safari drink (whether it’s a crisp white wine or a refreshing gin and tonic), lying back on a lounger, and watching elephants play in the water in front of you.

You can see the attention to detail in all aspects of a stay here, especially in the dining experiences. From the edible flowers on your plate (there are no buffets) to the plentiful, beautifully presented treats at high tea and the numerous stunning locations to enjoy dinner, like the watchtower.

Fun Fact: Madikwe is home to the “Super Seven”. This is the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes), along with wild dogs and cheetahs.

7. Tswalu

Tswalu offers three safari camps in the magical environment of the Kalahari: Loapi, Motse, and Tarkuni. At Loapi, there are six individual tented homes designed for exclusive use, each operating as a mini camp, complete with plunge pool and fire pit.

Perfect for family safaris and travelling couples, Motse comprises six suites for two people each and three family suites. Here, walk among the indigenous gardens and spot birds and antelopes in the brush.

Tarkuni Homestead is an exclusive-use property for 10 guests in five suites. A dedicated host, private chef, and private safari vehicle, guide, and tracker ensure a truly exclusive experience where your whole safari – from activities to dining – is tailored to you.

8. Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge in the Sabi Sabi Game Reserve was conceived to blend in with the natural environment from every angle. Get in touch with nature’s restoring tranquillity while soaking up undisturbed views of the endless bushveld.

Notable features include the Day Bar with ankle-deep waters to dip your feet into, a wine cellar with some of South Africa’s best vintages, a spa that offers holistic treatments, and a one-of-a-kind outdoor boma. Local trackers and highly experienced guides are on hand to take you on daily game drives for a wilderness experience you won’t soon forget.

Each of the 12 suites at this luxury safari lodge features bespoke furniture, an indoor-outdoor lounge, a private plunge pool, a spacious bathroom, and both an indoor and outdoor shower.

“My trip to Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge was amazing. I saw every animal possible!” – Vicki, USA

9. Dulini Moya

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

Fine wine and dining, enhanced by the culinary tradition of African flavours, complements this unforgettable safari accommodation. Enjoy a workout in the well-equipped gym, relax in the guest lounge, dine under the ancient trees, or steal away for a romantic private dinner in your suite.

Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, the home of Dulini Moya, can be explored during game drives, walking safaris, and photographic safaris. The off-road vehicles are a nature photographer’s dream! They include padded camera mounts and spacious central storage boxes for spare lenses and batteries.

10. MalaMala Rattray’s Camp

Sharing an unfenced border with Kruger National Park, MalaMala Private Game Reserve offers a spectacular safari experience for those wanting to see the Big Five. With over 300 species of birds, birders will not be left out either!

The South African wildlife safari experience here is made even more incredible with a stay at Rattray’s Camp set along the banks of the Sand River. Here, the untamed wilderness is mixed with elegance, creating the perfect space for travellers wanting a bush experience without letting go of luxurious amenities.

In the eight suites, his and her bathrooms feature a ball-and-claw-foot bathtub and double shower. Air conditioning and fans ensure you’re never uncomfortable, and the indoor and outdoor dining settings are perfect for romantic meals when you don’t want to dine in the traditional reed boma. The indigenous private garden is the perfect place to soak in the peacefulness of nature while watching the birds of the reserve flitter around.

“Rattray’s Camp on MalaMala Game Reserve was an incredible experience! Our expectations were exceeded in terms of accommodations, food and drink, staff, customer service, and the overall experience. Very high value for the money.” – Gina, USA

These safari lodges offer so much more than just a place to stay – they’re destinations unto themselves offering amenities that become highlights of a South African safari experience.