South Africa has a longstanding tradition of safari and wilderness tourism going back over a century. Today, that history is reflected in the variety and quality of the experiences, and the lodges are open to visitors looking to explore what the country and continent offer. See the juggernauts of the animal kingdom up close, guided by expert sons and daughters of the soil, without compromising on comfort, luxury, or convenience.
The story of the Lion Sands Game Reserve and the story of conservation in South Africa are intimately intertwined. This family-owned reserve, now in its 4th generation of stewardship, is part of the greater Sabi Sands, the oldest private game reserve in the country. At Ivory Lodge, guests will see all the Big Five up close, and the continued spirit of improvement throughout Lion Sands has given birth to a host of new experiences and accommodation types. Along with the spa, beautiful lodging, and classic safari experiences, Lion Sands now boasts luxury treehouses, experiences involving the local cultural history, and family-focused activities.
On a hill overlooking the N'wanetsi River, just a few kilometers from the border with Mozambique in South Africa's famous Kruger National Park, lies the Singita Lebombo Lodge. The wooden decks and halls of this luxury camp house are everything a boutique hotel would, from a gym, spa, and wellness center to a beautiful swimming pool with a view of the surrounding landscape and an art gallery. The wine cellar is brimming with a vast collection of some of the best wine reserves in the country, and a wine pairing after a day spent on safari is a wonderful way to fuse contemporary luxury with adventure.
This unassuming lodge, built under a canopy of trees and overlooking the perennial Sand River that forms the border between the Kruger National Park and the Mala Mala Game Reserve is an ideal explorer retreat. Rattray's has a library detailing stories from this part of the world, and a boutique where guests can browse fine craftsmanship, along with all the wellness facilities that come standard in a place like this. The camp is intimate, with only a handful of suites, and guests can be assured of personal service from the friendly staff.
Leopard Hills is another gem in the Sabi Sands, with a spectacular view from a small hill overlooking the greenery of the bush below. The suites are beautiful, the food delicious, and the entire experience is carefully planned to ensure guests fully experience the wilderness during their stay. Helicopter flights over the nearby Blyde River Canyon and untouched savannah landscapes are a special treat for those looking to explore the area further. They can be organized for an additional fee.
Lukimbi, in the far south of Kruger National Park, has perched thatch roofs on a private concession in prime bushveld. The Big 5 and a host of other animals and birds all await being spotted and photographed by the curious visitor. Guided walks through the vegetation are the ideal way to fully immerse oneself in the natural world in a thrilling and adventurous way. These walks are routine at Lukimbi, and guests can simply decide to join the day's walking party.
Jock Safari Lodge sits dramatically at the intersection of two perennial rivers whose dry sands look like high streets in the African wilderness for most of the year. Dinner is often organized down below on these white sands, where visitors are treated to delicious food and wine under the light of the stars and with the sounds of the night echoing from one river bank to the other. Game drives, wilderness walks, and bird watching are all on the cards, as is a golf day at the nearby Leopard Creek Golf Course.
Kings Camp lies in the Timbavati Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger National Park Region. The lodge is a mix of the old and the new, with a classic colonial feel and all the modern facilities one would expect. Guests looking to spot animals at the nearby waterhole can access the underground hide at any time, while bush walks and yoga safaris might challenge the more outgoing travelers to a new experience that will not be easily forgotten.
Phinda Rock Lodge is perched on a hill with the most breathtaking views of the savannah, woodland, and rocky hilltops in this beautiful part of northern KwaZulu-Natal. Here, guests are treated to safari game drives and luxury holidaying, but also a host of cultural experiences exploring the local Zulu heritage and impact experiences that ground this luxury camp firmly in its surroundings, offering a great example of how conservations can benefit the surrounding communities.
The Shamwari Game Reserve has become famous for its television series focusing on the team's conservation efforts, and the Shamwari Eagles Crag is the flagship lodge in this beautiful reserve. The name alludes to the lodge's views, which lie atop a series of hills. The lodge has stunning suites and a warm, vibrant atmosphere. The reserve is located in the Eastern Cape, one of the untouched beauties of the country, with incredibly biodiverse nature and a host of animals to spot.
Madikwe Hills blends seamlessly with the beautiful surroundings and savannah landscape. It features an infinity pool, captivating safaris, and a family-friendly environment that accommodates everyone. Expert game rangers, world-class chefs, and friendly staff cater to guests' every need and ensure the highest level of comfort for anyone looking to explore the African wilderness here.
