South African safari lodges are some of the most exquisite and luxurious in all of Africa – when it comes to the quality of the décor, food and guides South Africa’s safari lodges have been way ahead for quite some time. It’s one of our favourite safari destinations as you have some of the best game viewing in the world, and also have access to some of the world’s most exclusive and luxurious safari properties. There are many great properties to choose from but here are just a few of our very favourites for luxury South African safaris.
Royal Malewane
The mother jewel in Liz Biden’s Royal Portfolio crown, Royal Malewane sets the safari standards for the Kruger area which the rest try to follow. As luxurious as it gets deep in the bush – palatial and opulent, furnished with antiques, burnished silks, chandeliers and Persian rugs. There are just eight spacious suites, each with its own spacious wooden deck, private plunge pool and butler service. Wooden walkways link each one to the main camp with its dining room, boutique and library. There's also a spa that would not look out of place in a five- star city hotel, but for a passing springbok. Food is also an important element in any stay here with gourmet feasts held under the stars in the boma, hidden in a Bedouin tent or in the elegance of the dining room. This, plus great game viewing with the Big 5, over 300 different species of bird and some of Africa’s finest safari guides equals an unrivalled experience.
Singita Boulders
Situated on the banks of the Sand River in Singita’s privately owned reserve within the Sabi Sand Reserve, Singita Boulders was redesigned in 2014 taking inspiration from the lodge's natural surroundings. The result is a striking and beautiful space where the lodge and nature merge with pared down interiors with hues of ochre, chalk and copper and contemporary artwork sits alongside dramatic furnishings of solid stone, fossilised wood, wrought iron and leather. The twelve suites are designed to maximise privacy and to create tranquil spaces inspired by and celebrating the natural surroundings in which they sit. The stunning design of the lodge, combined with Singita's legendary service and cuisine, produces a unique luxury safari experience.
Londolozi Private Granite Suites
Space, light and privacy are the hallmarks of Londolozi Private Granite Suites, which provides some of the most luxurious accommodation in the Sabi Sand Reserve. Sited beautifully on a rocky outcrop overlooking the river bed, this family-owned and run property has just 3 suites which are a unique and luxury oasis entirely dedicated to your privacy and intimacy. Furnished with unrivalled elegance, the suites have Bedouin-inspired beds and large doors and windows, leading out to a private plunge pool overlooking the flat boulders of the Sand River. The three suites are available individually or can be booked as a whole camp. As only six people can stay here at any one time it is the ideal hideaway for a private celebration or for a family gathering, and if rented exclusively guests benefit from private game drives.
Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
An extraordinary property from the famed Sabi Sabi portfolio, Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge provides an intimate safari experience, with each of the 13 suites boasting ultra-luxury comforts, furniture and atmosphere. Individually designed, decorated with touches of gold and silver, they comprise en-suite glass-fronted bathrooms with deep stone baths, shaded showers, private plunge pools and lounging chairs looking the bushveld. The property also has the Amber Suite, often described as the most beautiful suite in the world: elegant chandeliers, private landrover, hand-crafted tables, armoires and mirrors are just few of the numerous luxurious facilities which will amaze even the most demanding travellers. The lodge also offers an art gallery showing local work, a fine wine cellar, a spa and a meditation garden, and of course game excursions into the world-famous Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve.
Lion Sands Ivory Lodge
Cosmopolitan chic meets African art and attitude on the banks of the Sabi River – Lion Sands Ivory Lodge has to be the hippest lodge in the bush. Voted one of the most luxurious safari lodges in South Africa, there are just six suites in shades of ebony & ivory, each with a huge open-plan bathroom complete with egg-shaped bath and indoor & outdoor shower. Each also has a wide viewing deck with plunge pool and a day bed from which you can watch the animals at the river or finding shade under the trees - should you not wish to stray far from base.
You really can't beat South African safari luxury, soIf you are interested in booking any of the luxury lodges in South Africa mentioned in this blog, please get in touch with our Africa Travel experts on 020 7843 3500 and they can start planning your dream South Africa safari holiday today.