Coming to South Africa on safari is a dream holiday for many, which means you want to choose a special safari lodge that will deliver the finest safari imaginable. Here, Exclusive Getaways recommends half a dozen safari lodges – and there are many more, please ask us! – that really measure up when it comes to providing incredible safari holidays.
SINGITA SWENI, Kruger National Park
Singita Sweni stands amid trees at the edge of the Sweni River in a private concession of Kruger National Park. This is a sought-after and utterly splendid safari destination. The lodge is a tranquil space of contemporary design, inspired by the small creatures of the wilderness. Seven open-plan suites have private decks from which the views are glorious. Outdoor showers overlook the river, and outdoor day beds hold the possibility of nights under the stars. Wild animals come frequently to the river to drink and wallow, resulting in superb sightings within this splendid camp. Safari drives into the wilderness take place every day, in the early morning and again at night. Mail us.
Cheetah Plains is a splendid, contemporary safari destination in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Three exclusive-use Plains Houses make sublime bush homes for small private groups and families. Each designer-crafted house accommodates up to 8 guests and offers sumptuous, king-bedded suites; formal lounge and living room; dining area; expansive sun deck, day bed and heated swimming pool; wine gallery and chef’s kitchen. Living spaces embody a calm perfection, and display bespoke African art. Meals are prepared by a private chef, for outdoor dining as often as possible. Spa and gym facilities are available between the twice-daily safaris in a game reserve that shares an unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park. Mail us.
DULINI COLLECTION, Sabi Sands
The Dulini Collection comprises three boutique safari lodges – Dulini, Leadwood and River Lodge – which enjoy splendid riverbank settings in the bio-diverse Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa. Sophisticated and luxurious, the lodges are ideal for honeymoon safaris, exclusive celebrations and first-rate wilderness retreats. The Dulini safari experience is highly personalized, Dulini’s rangers and trackers leading exhilarating safaris and sharing a wealth of environmental knowledge with their guests – all this in one of South Africa’s most prized safari locations. Mail us.
CHITWA CHITWA PRIVATE GAME LODGE, Sabi Sands
Chitwa Chitwa Private Game Lodge has a spectacular location on the edge of a large lake in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. From the wide central sundeck and pool you can watch animals gathering around the lake. Air-conditioned suites are splendidly luxurious with superb views of the wilderness. The main lodge is a sanctuary of luxury, enlivened by bold contemporary art pieces and sculptures, and offering endless game viewing from stylish relaxation and dining spaces. Daily safaris provide wonderful opportunities for close viewing of wildlife in one of South Africa’s most visited private game reserves. Mail us.
MOLORI SAFARI, Madikwe Game Reserve
Molori Safari provides an exclusive safari in the Madikwe Game Reserve in North-West – an area well known for its wild dog population and the absence of malaria risk. Five opulent suites invite lavish living in the wilderness, complete with floor-to-ceiling retractable glass walls, private splash pools, fireplaces, freestanding baths and indoor / outdoor showers. In addition to daily guided safaris, Molori offers hands-on conservation activities and a range of wellness and fitness experiences. Molori’s several viewing decks and pools provide exquisite private spaces from which to appreciate the wilderness. For romantics and honeymooners, this is a winner. Mail us.
KAPAMA KARULA, Hoedspruit Area Limpopo
Kapama Karula is a sleek and luxurious safari camp secluded along the banks of the perennial Klaserie River in South Africa’s Limpopo Province. Open-plan living areas are light, chic and contemporary, with floor-to-ceiling glass doors inviting the surroundings in. Guest suites offer superb luxury in a beautiful riverside setting. All the suites have their own leisure decks complete with pools. The Karula Spa and Fitness Centre is a luxurious space offering a range of spa treatments and body workouts. Mail us.
