Top 10 Lodges to Book for your Holidays
Taking a trip abroad is an experience in itself, but getting away from it all in a natural environment requires making an excellent choice of accommodation for your own well-being, whether you're traveling solo or with your family.
South Africa, one of the African cradles of the Big 5, also offers you several lodges in its various cities for an unforgettable experience in natural beauty and peace of mind. So, let's embark on an adventure where we present 10 lodges that can be booked for your vacation in South Africa.
Lodges preferable for families
For an unforgettable family holiday in specially adapted lodges, offering fun activities for children and safaris suitable for all ages:
Located in South Africa's North-Western Province and family-owned, this establishment offers various types of lodges, most notably the 'Lelapa' suites (which means family in Setswana). These suites invite you and your loved ones to enjoy the warm atmosphere of the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. Enjoy breathtaking views of the reserve from the comfort of the suite's private terrace, complete with outdoor shower and swimming pool.
The resort offers a wide range of activities, including walking and driving safaris, birdwatching, and spa treatments for adult relaxation.
2. Gorah Elephant Camp
Located in the Eastern Cape province, this wonderful lodge is in the Addo Elephant National Park. Child-friendly, it's an excellent choice for a family holiday.
Here, you can spot these giant animals close to the reserve and enjoy a variety of activities. Experience guided safaris through magnificent landscapes, guided walks, children's safaris, swimming and much more.
Comfortable lodges for couples
A romantic getaway in intimate lodges, perfect for couples seeking comfort and intimacy in the heart of nature:
3. Kariega Settlers drift
Whether you're looking to propose, spend some time together or get to know each other better, Kariega Settler's Drift, located in the Eastern Cape, is a chic accommodation in a wilderness setting ideal for couples.
Each suite has a private terrace overlooking the Bushman's River, offering stunning panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscape.
4. Ndlovu Safari Lodge (Camp Ndlovu)
In the province of Limpopo amidst the impressive ravines and mountains of the Welgevonden wildlife reserve This lodge is perfect for couples, as it consists of just 3 suites, perfect for moments together.
In addition to the Big Five, this territory is also home to rare and extraordinary creatures such as cheetahs, brown hyenas, caracals, proteles and aardvarks, which you can observe on safari.
Night under the stars
A unique experience, spending the night under the stars, in open-air beds or luxurious tents, close to the wildlife:
5. Motswari Private Game Reserve
Located in the private Timbavati Nature Reserve in South Africa's Limpopo Province, this lodge offers luxurious safari bungalows and lodges designed to blend into the natural environment. Each suite is well equipped with modern amenities, ensuring comfort and closeness to nature.
You can enjoy game drives, guided bush walks, birdwatching and opportunities to see the Big Five. The lodge focuses on an immersive wildlife experience with expert guides. It also features a swimming pool, bar, lounge and library. The emphasis is on creating a peaceful and exclusive environment.
6. Klaserie Sand
Also in the Limpopo province, this lodge features luxurious suites with private terraces overlooking the dry bed of the N'tsiri River. Each suite is designed to offer comfort and elegance, providing an intimate retreat.
It offers unique wildlife encounters through safaris and guided bush walks. You can explore the reserve's rich biodiversity, including the Big Five and other rare species.
The lodge offers first-class South African cuisine accompanied by fine wines, served in a serene and picturesque setting. It also features a swimming pool, spa services and communal areas for relaxation.
Lodges offering a complete spa-fari experience
Relaxation and adventure in lodges offering luxurious spa treatments and exciting safaris, for a total wellness experience in the heart of nature:
7. Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge
The North West of South Africa offers this lodge, which offers all the facilities of a five-star hotel with its vast, glass-enclosed suites, entirely private and scattered on the hillside. The lodge includes secluded suites, a central open-plan lounge, bar, wine cellar, TV room and dining room, among others.
It also features an Africology wellness program, a fully equipped gym, and implements conservation efforts to care for your well-being as well as the environment.
8. Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat
Located in the Western Cape, this award-winning five-star lodge is a luxury retreat focused on wellness and wilderness. This family-run establishment and ecological oasis is set in a private reserve, offering luxury accommodation and inspired South African cuisine.
It offers unique access to over 130 ancient rock art sites, some dating back 10,000 years, and the chance to discover the region's ancient San culture in the company of experienced local guides.
Guests can enjoy dining in walled gardens, riverside bomas, restorative spas and many other experiences.
9. Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa
Set in the Welgevonden Nature Reserve in Limpopo, this lodge offers a variety of luxurious suites and a private villa, combining African chic with contemporary European design. The lodge contains a variety of suite types, including an executive suite, a family suite, a luxury pool suite and a honeymoon suite.
It includes several facilities and activities such as the "Underground Waterhole Hide", a wellness center and spa, swimming pools, and exclusive safaris. Guided safaris with limited vehicle access guarantee an exclusive experience.
10. Esiweni luxury lodge
This lodge in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province offers luxurious, intimate suites with private terraces overlooking the Sundays River.
Activities include a swimming pool overlooking the bush and river, fine dining with gourmet cuisine accompanied by South African wines, guided safaris, birdwatching and excursions exploring the region's rich biodiversity, including the Big Five.
Bonus info
Two additional lodges for lovers of sustainability:
Designed with ecological practices and a deep respect for the environment, these lodges will appeal to travelers concerned about their impact on the planet.
- Gondwana Game Reserve
The Western Cape offers a luxurious lodge designed to blend harmoniously into the natural environment. A place that a lover of nature and sustainability can't ignore, with facilities such as a spa offering a variety of treatments, dinners featuring South African cuisine, and pools for your relaxation.
It also offers activities such as safaris, guided walks and conservation experiences focusing on the reserve's diverse wildlife and ecosystem.
- Hitgeheim Country Lodge & Eco Reserve
Located in Addo, in the Eastern Cape, Hitgeheim Country Lodge & Eco Reserve offers luxury lodges with panoramic views over the Sundays River valley.
The establishment offers fine cuisine, a swimming pool, as well as eco-friendly practices and activities, such as safaris in the Addo Elephant National Park, birdwatching and guided tours of the surrounding landscapes.
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