Often referred to as ‘a world in one country,’ South Africa has a wealth of spectacular, wildlife filled national parks, glorious beaches and sophisticated cities. Along with its natural wonders is an incredible choice of holiday accommodation – from spectacular hotels to simple tented camps. Here’s our selection of some of the finest of South Africa’s luxurious lodges.

1 Family fun – Leobo Lodge

Family activities galore at Leobo Observatory, Waterberg @LeoboReserve

• This extraordinary private safari house is super cool and one of those astonishing spots sure to keep you talking for years to come.
• Glorious accommodation aside, it’s equipped with a private vehicle and guide, helicopter, quad bikes, horses, an off-road buggy, mountain bikes, clay pigeon shooting, fishing tackle, and a telescope in the observatory.

2 Riding paradise – Ant’s Hill – The Ant Collection

Private pool at World’s View Cottage, Waterberg @AntCollection

• If riding in Africa is on your list (and even if you ride just a little bit, it should be) then The Ant Collection is a great place to start.
• Two lovely bush homes are set on a private 12,500 acre game reserve through which myriad game species roam.

3 Honeymoon heaven – Singita Lebombo

River views from the suspended honeymoon suite, Singita Lebombo, Kruger @Singita_

• The contemporary, super-stylish open plan suites at Singita Lebombo appear suspended above the N’Wanetsi River and give guests a front row seat to the wildlife goings on below.
• Excellent daily game drives into the Big 5 wilderness, romantic sundowners, stargazing and alfresco dining make this a wonderful honeymoon safari spot.

4 Kalahari seclusion – Tswalu Kalahari

Luxury suite and exclusive game viewing, Tswalu, Kalahari, @Tswalu

• Fabulous scenery, gorgeous accommodation and friendly meerkats at this lovely exclusive private lodge on the edge of the Kalahari.
• Spot magnificent black maned Kalahari lion, sit with habituated meerkats and track elusive aardvark in glorious seclusion.

5 Malaria free – Madikwe Safari Lodge

Family friendly Lelapa Lodge suite, Madikwe Safari Lodge, Madikwe @LodgeMadikwe

• Malaria free Madikwe Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s biggest wildlife sanctuaries and has significant populations of elephant and rhino.
• Families should choose Lelapa lodge, four-room Kopana lodge is an intimate spot, while Dithaba lodge is great for a group of friends or an extended family party.

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6 Tented comfort – Ngala Tented Camp

Riverbed views and Big 5 private game reserve at Ngala Tented Camp, Kruger @AndBeyondTravel

• Chic and contemporary tents, flickering lanterns, romantic riverbed dinners and glorious views.
• Big 5 private game reserve in Kruger.

7 Old style glamour – Tanda Tula Field Camp

Romantic old world charm at Tanda Tula Field Camp, Kruger @TandaTula

• Tailored walking safari designed just for you, led by highly trained trackers and guides.
• The elegant camp oozes old world glamour with campaign style furnishings and simply equipped explorer tents.

8 Cape Town sophistication – Ellerman House

Exceptional hospitality and cuisine at Ellerman House, near Cape Town

• Perched on the slopes of Lion’s Head and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
• Relais & Chateaux style, the emphasis is on providing exceptional hospitality and cuisine.

9 Garden route glamour – Ecca Lodge – Kwandwe

Outstanding Big 5 game viewing and comfort at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge, Kwandwe @KwandweReserve

• Kwandwe Private Game Reserve – a Big 5 safari destination in 22,000 hectares of pristine private wilderness.
• 4 award winning lodges offering a range of accommodation for families, honeymooners and couples alike.

10 Classic Cape – Babylonstoren

Charming 17th century farm and restaurant, Babylonstoren, Winelands @Babylonstoren

• Winelands a destination in its own right.
• 17th century Cape Dutch  farm converted to elegant guest accommodation.
• Gardens and a world-class restaurant.

Any questions?

If you’ve got this far and not found an answer to a question you have that we should have included, please ask in the comments section below, or pop us an email. We’ll be sure to reply and may amend the article to include our answer.

What next?

We would be delighted to help you plan a holiday, or answer any questions if you’re at an earlier stage. Our team of experts have travelled widely throughout Africa. They can offer expert advice on every type of safari from family and beach holidays to riding and primate safaris.  If you would like to talk to someone who has been there and done it, please just send us an email or give us a call.

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