Top Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa You'll Want To Visit

South Africa has some of the most luxurious safari lodges in Africa, if not the world.

Safari camps are located on private game reserves or on the borders of national safari parks and offer superior luxury and indulgence. Decor, comfort, and service, fused with safari chic, offer a stay in the heart of the African bush that is hard to beat.

Daily game drives allow guests to view the incredible wildlife of South Africa, including the Big 5. Lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo can be seen in a natural wilderness alongside the region's varied birdlife and flora.

After a day on safari, return to your luxury camp and enjoy mouthwatering gourmet meals and first-class service before retiring to your sumptuous safari lodge accommodation.

You will never forget the experience of staying in a luxury African safari lodge in South Africa.

Thank you to fellow travel bloggers who have stayed in some of the top luxury safari lodges in South Africa and have contributed to this post.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will you see the Big 5 in the Luxury Safari Camps?

Most of the Big Five can be spotted while staying at one of South Africa's luxury safari camps; however, the leopard is elusive and can be hard to spot.

Which animals make up the Big 5?

Rhino - Leopard - Elephant - Buffalo - Lion

What is the difference between a Safari Park and a Safari Reserve?

The difference between these is relatively straightforward.

A national park is government-owned and managed, usually a vast expanse of unfenced wilderness.

A private game reserve is owned and managed by a private entity, and the land is fenced.

Kruger National Park Safari Lodges

Kruger National Park is Africa's most popular wildlife safari destination. It is located in the northeast of South Africa, bordering Mozambique. It is home to more animal species than any other African safari destination, including over 140 large mammals and over 500 bird species. 

On the outskirts of Kruger National Park are some of the most luxurious safari lodges in the world. Luxury safari camps such as Sabi Sands and Klaserie Drift await your arrival!

Klaserie Drift, Misava Safari Camp - 5-Star Luxury #1

Stepping into Klaserie Drift Misava Safari Camp, we felt any tension melt away as its restful, easy atmosphere welcomed us back to nature. With a five-star rating, this camp offers casual luxury and a place to feel at home with nature.

Overlooking the meandering Klaserie River, with panoramic views across the South African bushveld, it is no wonder Klasarie Drift Safari Camp won TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice Award 2022.

The safari lodge sits west of Kruger National Park, with no fences separating the two, so the animals of Kruger are free to roam where they please.

Misava’s tastefully appointed rooms reflect their natural surroundings and make the most of the breathtaking vistas across the African wilds. Misava’s staff were warm and welcoming, and the safari guides were extremely knowledgeable, with nothing being too much trouble for one of South Africa's best luxury safari camps.

Two daily safari drives immerse you in the heart of Mother Nature, each lasting around three hours. We saw giraffes, elephants, hippos, zebras, hyenas, kudu, and our favourite afternoon sighting, a herd of impala barking their warning at a female leopard as she strolled by.

After an invigorating safari, the best way to relax is to swim in Misava’s incredible infinity pool overlooking the river. A bar and dining area beside the pool is a perfect place to chill.

Beautifully presented food is a treat for the taste buds, prepared by the resident chef with locally sourced ingredients. Sitting, eating a delicious lunch beside the shimmering pool and looking out across the bush, we couldn’t think of a more pleasurable and relaxing place.

Prices and Reviews for Klaserie Drift Misava Luxury Safari Camp

Ulusaba Safari Lodge, Sabi Sand Reserve - 5-Star Luxury #2

Ulusaba in Sabi Sand is the place for an indulgent safari on all levels. This 5* Virgin-owned safari camp is easy to get to from Johannesburg and borders Kruger National Park. There aren't any fences here, so wildlife is free to roam, offering you Kruger's diversity with the exclusivity of a private reserve. 

There are two luxury safari camps at Ulusaba – Safari Lodge and Rock Lodge. I spent a few nights at the former, in an opulent suite right in the heart of the bush, where animals could wander past at any time of day. I loved watching vervet monkeys scamper about on the deck as I soaked in the tub! 

Ulusaba at Sabi Sands is famed for its leopard sightings, and I was lucky to encounter two on daily game drives during my stay. The daily safaris here are superb, with abundant wildlife, knowledgeable and friendly guides, and plenty of new places to explore. Yet, the accommodation made me choose to come to Ulusaba.

Ultimate luxury safari camps at Ulusaba

The lodge ticks all the boxes for high-end luxury yet has a chilled vibe that makes everyone feel welcome. The tastefully furnished rooms are all very private, with fun bridge walkways between them. A pool, gym, and a well-stocked bar also cater to international tastes. 

The highlight was perhaps the food, which was locally sourced and somewhat creative, with an African touch.

I tucked into bush breakfasts, including chocolate pancakes rustled up by a chef who had set up shop on a rocky outcrop and enjoyed leisurely lunches overlooking the dry riverbed.

Boma braai dinners were taken beside the campfire under the stars whilst musicians and dancers serenaded guests. It is a wonderful place, offering a relaxing and enchanting experience with fantastic staff and first-class service, and I can't wait to return. 

Lion Sands Safari Lodge, Sabi Sand Reserve - 5-Star Luxury #3

One of the best luxury safari camps in South Africa is Lion Sands in Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. Located next to Kruger National Park, the safari camp is ideal for spotting the Big Five. Twice daily game drives or bushwalking safaris with an expert field guide allow close observation of Kruger's wildlife.

Lion Sands set the bar for my first safari in South Africa, which was incredibly high compared to other luxury safari accommodations. Lion Sands Game Reserve has four safari lodges, each with a different style. To say I was in awe when I entered my safari suite, River Lodge, would be an understatement. 

A patio separated the room with two loungers overlooking an infinity pool. On one side of the patio deck was a living room with two comfortable couches for reading or just relaxing. The other side had a bedroom, a second living room, a toilet room, a bathtub room, and an outdoor shower. They even put my name in leaves across the bed to welcome me to my home away from home! 

Safari Gastronomy

The lodge restaurant overlooked the river where water buffalo, hippopotamuses, and even elephants like to wander past. The friendly staff members all learned my name and my morning tea or coffee preferences.

As a picky eater, I was concerned about the meal choices during my safari stay, but my anxiety was unfounded. The menu had an international variety. From peanut butter French toast (which I still think about) to grilled kudu - each meal left me delightfully full.

The Lion Sands Ivory Lodge offers three sumptuous meals per day plus snacks. And the bush dinners in the wilderness are a one-of-a-kind experience!

Whenever someone tells me they are visiting South Africa to experience a safari, I cannot recommend the five-star luxury of Lion Sands Sabi Sands enough. The camp had such amazing amenities that made it feel more like glamping than anything else. 

Prices and Reviews for Lion Sands Luxury Safari Camp

KwaZulu-Natal Safari Lodges

KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) is one of South Africa's most popular holiday destinations, with magnificent scenery, including the Drakensberg Mountains to the west, the Lebombo Mountains to the north and sensational Big 5 Safari Experiences. 

Thanda Safari Game Reserve - 5-Star Luxury #4

Set in the heart of northern KwaZulu-Natal, Thanda Safari Camp is situated in one of the best game reserves in KZN if luxury and unparalleled wildlife viewings are what you're after during your trip to South Africa. 

Thanda Luxury Safari Camp boasts three properties: Thanda Safari Lodge, Villa iZulu, and Thanda Tented Camp. I stayed at Thanda Tented Camp, which offers 15 luxury safari tents in the heart of the bush, each with a private sun deck. Every tent offers a ton of space from the one next to it, so you'll feel like you're the only guest at the camp!

I chose Thanda for several reasons: their deep commitment to wildlife conservation, and the fact that the entire camp is a privately owned 14,000-hectare reserve.

The latter means you won't have to share wildlife viewings with dozens of others. Moreover, I loved how my experience combined unparalleled luxury, cultural immersion, and mouthwatering food.

Conservation at Thanda

Aside from the game drives (which were the best I've ever experienced, thanks to the passionate guides and the fact that I pretty much got them all to myself), Thanda Safari offers many activities and facilities to keep you entertained between viewings. 

Think wellness activities, an infinity pool, and a cosy deck overlooking a water hole where tons of animals will pop by for a drink. You can also book various experiences around the reserve to learn more about their conservation efforts.

Cheetah and rhino tracking, rhino darting, and private bushwalks to get up close with the wildlife that calls Thanda their home are all available to guests.

Prices and Reviews for Thanda Luxury Safari Camp

Pilanesberg National Park Safari Lodges (Malaria-Free)

Pilanesberg National Park is located in the North West Province of South Africa. Set in a volcanic crater, it is home to the Big Five and some rare African mammal species.

Mankwe Dam, an artificial lake, attracts animals to drink, and concealed wildlife-viewing shelters throughout the park allow visitors to observe their natural behaviour. Birdlife includes eagles and ostriches.

Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge - 4-Star Luxury #5

Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge is 170 km from Johannesburg in the Pilanesberg National Park in the North West Province of South Africa.

I have been visiting since the early 1980s, with my parents and then as a parent myself. One of my most memorable times at the safari lodge was when I took my 13-year-old daughter on a safari.

Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge offers guests a luxury African safari experience in the heart of a malaria-free national park. This is an absolute deal-breaker if you don't want to take anti-malarial medication but want to experience a South African safari. 

Kwa Maritane, meaning "place of the rock", offers many tastefully decorated accommodation options, including standard twin, executive twin and executive king rooms. All rooms have sliding doors that open to a balcony or patio, with great park views. 

Often, animals can be seen walking to the watering hole near the hotel. There is a hide near the waterhole, which is accessible from the hotel via an underground tunnel.

Live webcam footage is shown on the TV in your bedroom, so you know when to hotfoot it down to the hide to see an elephant or other African wildlife stopping off at the watering hole for a drink!

Kwa Maritane is one of Pilansburg's premier luxury safari camps, so naturally, amenities are superb.

They include a spa set in the bushveld, a swimming pool under the shade of palm trees, tennis courts, putt-putt, free WiFi, a children's playground, a wildlife centre, and a museum. 

Leisure Time at Kwa Maritane

Kwa Maritane offers several dining options, including two bars: the Kwa Maziout bar and lounge, and a relaxing, cosy cocktail lounge.

For dinner, head to Kwa Lefikeng restaurant and savour traditional South African dishes while taking in the wonderful views over the park.

The buffet evenings are held throughout the week; don't miss the Lamb on a Spit on Sunday. Kwa Maritane offers a bush boma dinner in the braai area on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Daily game drives and guided walks in the park are available. The sundowner game drive is excellent, with your guides stopping to teach you about the night sky and stars.

Kwa Maritane is home to Africa's Big 5, so be prepared for your game drive and don't forget your camera and binoculars! 

If you want to explore outside the national park, the world-famous Sun City is a mere 10-minute drive away. Kwa Maritane lay on a transfer bus, and afternoon tea at the Lost Palace is a fantastic experience.

Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge Prices and Reviews

South Africa's Western Cape Safari Lodges (Malaria-Free)

The Western Cape is a wonderful destination for a safari holiday. You can combine Big Five game viewing with the beauty of Cape Town, the Cape Winelands and the Garden Route's diverse flora.

Kwena Lodge, Gondwana Game Reserve - 5-Star Luxury #6

Gondwana Safari Game Reserve is a four-hour journey along the scenic Garden Route from Cape Town.

Nestled in 26,000 acres of natural wildlife habitat, this malaria-free luxury safari camp offers sweeping views of the Outeniqua and Langeberg Mountains. Once, these mountains formed part of the supercontinent known as Gondwanaland.

As Gondwana is easily accessible from the country's capital city, it is the perfect Big Five safari destination. Guests can combine Cape Town's must-see attractions with the beauty of South Africa's wilderness.

The safari camp offers abundant wildlife and a choice of luxurious accommodations, including private lodges, family villas, and even eco-tents.

Kwena Lodge is a unique and luxurious twist on the traditional Khoi-San African circular dwellings. The open-plan living space gives 180-degree views of the surrounding bush and ceiling skylights for nightly stargazing.

The spacious bedroom overlooks two waterholes across the valley, and deep bathtubs and walk-in showers offer total relaxation after a long, dusty game drive.

Kwena Lodge has an infinity pool, open-plan lounge/bar and a gourmet restaurant serving traditional African fare for guests to enjoy during their stay.

Gondwana Game Reserve Prices

South Africa's Eastern Cape Safari Lodges (Malaria-Free)

You will find several Eastern Cape private game reserves along the Garden Route - the best being Shamwari and Amakhala. Enjoy discovering this part of South Africa, from the ethical wildlife experiences in Plettenberg to the mighty Tsitsikamma Forest, not forgetting the beautiful beaches.

Eagles Crag, Shamwari Game Reserve - 5-Star Luxury #7

Shamwari Game Reserve is close to Port Elizabeth. It has been synonymous with luxurious accommodations and sensational game viewings since the early 1990s.

It is also one of the best malaria-free Eastern Cape Game Reserves. Seven unique lodges offer the discerning guest the choice of low-key luxury to full-blown safari decadence.

Shamwari's Eagles Crag is perched between lush vegetation and a rocky outcrop. An upper-deck observation station lets guests view the eagles soaring overhead.

Exquisite suites fuse natural African elements with sophisticated interiors. Each has an outdoor shower and a private plunge pool, where guests can relax after a safari game drive.

Shamwari offers various experiences, such as Safari Drives, Bird-watching, Bush Walks, and Photographic Safaris.

Being at the forefront of wildlife conservation, guests can visit the on-site Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary and the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. Guests looking to relax can enjoy the spa facilities, including a steam room, sauna and treatments.

The food and wine at Shamwari Game Reserve are abundant, from teas and coffee before early morning game drives and buffet breakfasts on your return to gourmet lunch and dinner. And, of course, let's not forget those sundowners overlooking the African bush - what's not to like?

Shamwari Game Reserve Prices and Reviews for Eagles Crag

Bush Lodge, Amakhala Game Reserve - 5-Star Luxury #8

Amakhala Game Reserve is a 7,500-hectare protected wilderness and malaria-free safari area. It is Shamwari's next-door neighbour and another private reserve.

It is home to the Big 5, as well as zebra, giraffe, cheetah, wildebeest, warthog, jackal, and antelope.

Amakhala Game Reserve offers luxury accommodations in both safari lodges and luxury safari tents.

Amakhala Bush Lodge is a luxury-tented safari camp. It holds a superior position overlooking the valley and the Bushman's River that runs through its heartland. But don't think staying in a tent will forfeit a luxurious stay - far from it!

The five safari tents in Bush Lodge each have a wooden deck, private plunge pool, and top-class in-tent amenities.

King-size beds, ultra-luxe fabrics, armchairs, large oval bathtubs, and romantic alfresco double showers make this the perfect bush retreat.

Daily activities include safari game drives, birdwatching, star-gazing and bushwalking. River cruises unique to Amakhala allow guests to observe wildlife along the riverbanks.

Another genuinely authentic experience in Amakhala Game Reserve is Quatermain's Camp.

It is a 3-star rustic camp modelled on a 1920s expedition camp. Owned by a British vet nurse and her South African ranger husband, it is amazing - I can vouch for that!

Amakhala Game Reserve Prices and Reviews for Bush Lodge

If these fabulous Safari Parks in South Africa have inspired a visit to Africa, you may also want to check out some equally beautiful parks to visit in this Kenya Safari Travel Guide.

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