5 Safari Lodges in South Africa

Located in the Sabi Sand Reserve is the quaint yet luxurious Savanna Lodge.  With a mere 16 suites on property you’re primed for one-on-one service where the managers of the lodge are also the head guides.  With healthy rhino populations in the area, you will check off the prized Big Five in no time: lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo.  The lodge will take you on daily safari drives with night drives as an option, as well as walking tours to explore the area.

Vaulted ceilings and thatched roofs so you can hear the local wildlife are only a few minor notes on this fabulous location.  MalaMala Sable Camp is also located in the Sabi Sand Reserve so spotting elusive animals throughout your stay will be elementary.  Additionally, you’ll be right along the MalaMala Game Reserve for viewing fun.  The camp only accommodates 14 guests at a time so you will have an exclusively upscale experience.  Oh, and the outdoor pool will be largely reserved for you; did we mention the outdoor pool?  That means you can observe wild elephants while taking a dip, not too shabby.

This may be the most elegant camp on the list.  Tswalu Kalahari is located in Southern Kalahari which is the largest game reserve in South Africa.  With a private fireplace, independent bath tub, and a vast and expansive view of the savannah you will not want to leave.  You’re also treated to indoor and outdoor showers, unlimited drinks, and a fitness center in the event you aren’t burning enough calories exploring the property.

Kwandwe is located on the Eastern Cape of South Africa and, unlike Kruger, the crowds are minimal in this area.  This means you’ll be photographing mammals indigenous to Africa, rather than other mammals with cameras aimed at the same thing.  The Kwandwe Great Fist River Lodge is perfect for an unbelievably luxurious stay paired with wildlife immersion as the river adjacent to camp serves as a waterhole for animals to soak up.  Relax in the pool, hang in the beautifully decorated lobby area, or have a massage outside where you can close your eyes to chill, or open them to observe a giraffe walking by.  #NBD

Now, for the folks who have a slightly greater concern for full immersion with a lower focus on luxury.  With that said, this is not anything less than fantastic on all sides, even if it is technically “tent camping.”  Tanda Tula Safari Camp is located in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve with a front row seat to the river and the wildlife that surrounds it.  Are they chilling on bean bags overlooking the river and a bunch of elephants?  Yes, yes they are.  Take a moment to admire these tents as they’re basically 5-star glamping at its finest.