10 Amazing Game Lodges (in no particular order):
- Inyati Private Game Reserve
- Elephant Plains Game Lodge
- Lion Sands Private Game Reserve
- HillsNek Safaris
- Pumba Private Game Reserve
- Tswalu Kalahari Reserve
- Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge
- Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
- Rhino Walking Safaris
- Jock Safari Lodge
Please bare in mind that this is a subjective list, not a definitive list – there are hundreds of outstanding game lodges in South Africa. It is not my intention to offend other game lodge owners, but rather to inspire travellers with the beauty of our country.
1. Inyati Private Game Reserve
Inyati is set in 65 000 hectares of unspoilt bushveld within the Sabi Sand Reserve, adjacent to the world-renowned Kruger National Park. Inyati Lodge is situated on the banks of the Sand River allowing for fantastic game viewing from the lodge. With no boundary fences between the Sabi Sand and the Kruger National Park, this Reserve benefits from the great diversity of wildlife found in one of the richest wilderness areas on the African continent along with the additional benefits experienced on a private game reserve. See Inyati Private Game Reserve
2. Elephant Plains Game Lodge
adjacent to the Kruger National Park, Elephant Plains Game Lodge offers comfortable style and affordable luxury. This owner-run lodge accommodates a maximum of 24 guests, which ensures personal service and a warm, friendly atmosphere. The lodge offers a variety of accommodation options, varying from rondavels and luxury suites to the Manyeleti honeymoon suite. Elephant Plains is world-renowned for excellent game viewing and guests can enjoy two game drives and a bush walk per day. See Elephant Plains Game Lodge
3. Lion Sands Private Game Reserve
A wooden platform has been constructed high up in the top of an ancient Jackalberry tree. Amongst the branches, the most romantic bush bedroom is set up to accommodate a couple for the night, with secure access and as many of the room comforts as are practically possible. The guests are driven to the hide after dinner and “settled” in for the night where after the ranger returns to the lodge (15 minutes away) leaving the guests in complete privacy to spend a night under the stars. An absolute must for visitors! See Lion Sands Private Game Reserve
4. HillsNek Safaris
Nestling on the banks of the Bushman’s River with a breathtaking vista of rolling African plains, lies HillsNek Safaris, an exclusive-use safari lodge situated in a remote corner of the pristine, malaria free Amakhala Game Reserve of the Eastern Cape. The main lodge and three private luxury safari tents are elevated on wooden decks overlooking the vast panoramas of the reserve and embracing nature’s daily ebbs and flows. This “exclusive-use” lodge has a dedicated host, chef, ranger and Land-Rover safari vehicle at your disposal. See HillsNek Safaris
5. Pumba Private Game Reserve
Only 105km from Port Elizabeth, Pumba Private Game Reserve is in the heart of the Eastern Cape malaria-free game viewing region. Here, visitors have every opportunity to enjoy the ultimate essence of South Africa’s luxury and style. Msenge Bush Lodge offers 11 exclusive chalets, which flow naturally into the African bushveld, allowing you to become one with nature. Dreamy bathrooms with magnificent views, luxury bedrooms opening onto private timber decks complete with plunge pools and outdoor showers. See Pumba Private Game Reserve
6. Tswalu Kalahari Reserve
Designed to blend inconspicuously into the surrounding mountain range, Motse at Tswalu Kalahari Reserve is surrounded by nine spacious suites and designed in classic African style whilst offering unrivalled elegance. At Motse, guests can relax in the lounge or enjoy meals in the dining room. A patio overlooks the outdoor heated swimming pool and pool terrace. Guests can dine under the stars in the traditional African boma. In addition, Tswalu has an enviable collection of South African Wines … See Tswalu Kalahari Reserve
7. Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge
Established to protect the previously endangered white rhino now numbering over 1000 in the park, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi is a triumph of conservation efforts. Celebrate this legacy in exclusive luxury at Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge offering exceptional safari experiences in the heart of Big 5 territory. Rhino Ridge is a lodge of contemporary design with overtones of organic forms utilising natural finishes and materials. Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge offers 18 rooms nestled in natural bush high up on the ridge with commanding views of the Reserve. See Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge
8. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
The sheer expanse (54,000 hectares) and stark beauty of Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, in the Klein Karoo of the Western Cape, gives one a sense of humbleness. Dwyka Lodge comprises of 9 luxurious and secluded tents, which exude an atmosphere of adventure. Each luxury tent has its own private deck, outdoor shower and plunge pool. One of the true joys of Sanbona is the freedom to do nothing at all in absolute luxury. But for those who choose to venture beyond the comfort of the Lodge, a world of experiences awaits. See Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
9. Rhino Walking Safaris
Rhino Walking Safaris specialises in luxury walking safaris in 12,000 hectares of pristine bushveld in the only wilderness concession in the Kruger National Park. Rhino Walking Safaris and its two camps, Plains Camp and Rhino Post Safari Lodge, lie within a private wilderness concession just north of Skukuza in the Kruger National Park, offering exclusive walking trails and game drive safaris. The park is home to an impressive number of species, has 16 different ecosystems, and ranks as a prime Big Five game viewing area. See Rhino Walking Safaris
10. Jock Safari Lodge
This luxurious lodge is situated in the southern area of the Kruger National Park at the confluence of the Mitomeni and Biyamiti rivers, half way between Skukuza and Malelane. Magnificent trees and an abundance of bird life surround the Lodge. Twelve individual thatched suites, screened by lush trees and reed walls, offer guests utmost luxurious privacy, creating a unique experience of gracious old world elegance surrounded by unspoilt wilderness. See Jock Safari Lodge
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