Safari lodges in South Africa come in all shapes and sizes. Here Exclusive Getaways lists some of those that have a special twist of appeal for one or other reason – ranging from imaginative natural treehouses to dome structures, sky lofts, reinvented train carriages, ‘underground’ sanctuaries and ravine hideouts.
Lion Sands Treehouses, Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve
Lion Sands has three fabulous treehouses in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. These allow guests to to have a very close-to-nature experience in all its sensory majesty. Typically guests at Lion sands will book one night of their stay in a treehouse and spend the remaining nights at one of the Lion sands lodges. Chalkley Treehouse is built in an ancient leadwood tree; Kingston Treehouse is set amid great boulders; and Tinyeleti Treehouse is set in dense woodland. Mail us.
Jaci’s Tree Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve
Jaci’s Tree Lodge offers a delightful treehouse safari experience in Madikwe Game Reserve. Eight luxurious treehouses stand on stilts and are connected by elevated walkways. The lodge is set in a forested area and has views over a waterhole where animals come to drink. Mail us.
Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge, Kruger National Park
Kruger Shalati in Kruger National Park is a first-of-its kind safari lodge consisting of Carriage Suites of the ‘Train on the Bridge’, overlooking the Sabie River. This elevated safari is luxurious and available in South Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserve. This is a unique, modern take on the old railway safaris of the 1920s. Mail us.
Singita Lebombo, Kruger National Park
Singita Lebombo Lodge is a uniquely contemporary space, suspended above the N’wanetsi River in the Kruger National Park. Inspired by the eagles’ nests in the area and built into the cliff face of the river bank, Lebombo’s ‘lofts’ are organic, light-filled structures, suspended between river and sky and blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. Mail us.
Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve
The splendid Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge offers a unique, eco-friendly safari experience in Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, South Africa. The lodge is built into the very landscape, with grass-covered roofs and walls made of natural materials such as adobe and straw bale. The lodge features a modern spa, library, and art gallery. The suites are large and luxurious, with private verandahs overlooking the wilderness. Mail us.
Villa iZulu, Thanda Private Game Reserve
Villa iZulu is an exclusive, butler-serviced villa in Thanda Safari Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, specifically ideal for V.I.P. guests, having its own helicopter pad and separate quarters for childminders or guest security staff. Described as ‘Afro-chic’, Villa iZulu has been built after the style of a traditional homestead, offering five separate suites, each with a private deck and outdoor shower. The lodge also includes a magnificent dining room and spacious lounge, a state-of-the-art kitchen, traditional boma and bonfire area, verandas and terraces, beautiful entertainment areas, games room, private business area, outdoor gym, Jacuzzi, heated swimming pool and wine cellar. A personal chef, ranger, and butler are at the service of villa guests. Safari drives, guided walks and spa treatments are tailored to individual preferences. Mail us.
Dwyka Tented Lodge, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
Set on a striking weathered landscape in the bend of a dry ravine in the Karoo, Dwyka Tented Lodge is simultaneously luxurious and romantic. All around are magnificent rock formations, and the sense of awe and stillness is palpable. The camp sports gorgeous leisure and dining areas, and decks that make the most of nature. There is also a boma for dining outdoors under the stars. The tents are opulent and private, and best of all, each has a private deck with a heated plunge pool from which to contemplate the awe-inspiring wilderness. Mail us.
Kwena Lodge Suites, Gondwana Private Game Reserve
Kwena Lodge Suites are located in Gondwana Private Game Reserve, in the Mossel bay area of the Garden Route. A unique design has produced 14 luxurious, thatched, geodesic dome units, modeled on the traditional Khoi-San hut. The central lodge offers a pool, boma, and star deck. Guests can enjoy game drives, guided walks, conservation activities and mountain biking in Gondwana Game Reserve. Mail us.
Mail us to book your luxury safari anywhere in South Africa, or call +27 21 797 7122.
