The 15 Most Romantic Safari Lodges in South Africa for Couples
Published on: November 19th, 2018
Last updated: October 28th, 2024
South Africa is the perfect destination for a romantic adventure. From the bustling streets of Cape Town to the idyllic Winelands, it offers endless opportunities for exploration. Intrepid couples can take a luxury train journey or sample world-class cuisine together. But of all the incredible things to do in South Africa, there’s nothing quite like going on safari.
Imagine stargazing in wide open plains, sipping sundowners as elephants meander by or enjoying a private picnic in the bush. The country’s best spots offer an ideal mix of exciting activities and luxurious accommodation for couples. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon or just some quality time together, here are the most romantic safari lodges across the enormous Kruger National Park, exclusive Sabi Sands, remote Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, the stuning Western Cape Mountains and more.
1. Singita Lebombo – Kruger National Park
Perched atop a cliff in the gorgeous Singita Concession, Lebombo is a haven of contemporary style and modern comforts. Relax by the pool or indulge in a couples spa treatment – a tempting way to unwind after thrilling game drives and excursions into the wilderness of Kruger National Park.
Need to know: There are 15 luxurious suites at Lebombo, all with private decks that overlook the river and with refresing outdoor showers.
2. Simbavati Hilltop Lodge – Kruger National Park
This scenic lodge is situated in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve on the western border of the Kruger. Simbavati Hilltop Lodge’s remote location makes it a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing and exclusive experiences. Here you can have a romantic dinner under the stars on the viewing deck or take in the surroundings from the infinity pool with your partner.
Need to know: There are only 8 tented suites at Simbavati and each one has a large wildlife viewing deck with a sumptuous outdoor bed, perfect afternoon relaxing in the sunshine. There’s also outdoor rain showers on the bathroom decking.
3. Saseka Tented Camp – Kruger National Park
Arriving at Saseka Tented Camp feels like stepping straight into the wild. Its panoramic windows and carefully chosen materials allow it to blend seamlessly into the landscape. Set in the private Thornybush Nature Reserve within the Kruger, it’s an ideal place to experience South Africa’s natural beauty in style.
Need to know: The main camp offers 8 tented suites, all with a luxurious private splash spool. There’s an another accommodation option too, Little Saseka, a totally private lodge with a sunken fire pit and private pool
4. Motse Camp – Tswalu Kalahari Reserve
This is the primary camp in the Tswalu Reserve: a privately owned section of the Kalahari grasslands where no more than 30 guests can stay at once. Motse Camp offers unparalleled privacy and impeccable service, making it hard to beat for a romantic safari getaway. It’s also renowned for its conservation efforts and commitment to sustainable travel.
Need to know: There are two romantic sleep-out options in the Tswalu Reserve. Sleep under the stars at the Naledi or soak up the solitude at the Malori for dinner, drinks and the chance to totally disconnect and relax with overnight stays.
5. Bushmans Kloof Main Lodge – Western Cape Mountains
This incredibly luxurious lodge stands in sharp contrast to the country’s other safari destinations. Bushmans Kloof is a 7,500-hectare private reserve featuring waterfalls, wildflowers and ancient rock art. At its Main Lodge you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing couples holiday, from breathtaking views to exquisite dining.
Need to know: Bushmans Kloof is one of the best places for adventure. Our favourite trail is a challenging route where you’ll have the chance to swim in natural pools under cascading waterfalls. There’s also mountain biking, fishing, canoeing and more.
6. Phinda Vlei Lodge – KwaZulu-Natal
For such a small area, the Phinda Private Game Reserve boasts more than its share of natural beauty and biodiversity. This is where you’ll find Phinda Vlei Lodge, one of the most exclusive and intimate places to stay in South Africa. Take a walk through the nearby sand forest together and then enjoy dinner or a glass of wine on your private terrace.
Need to know: This is an intimate camp with only 6 luxurious thatched lodges, all with private lap pools. As well as excellent safari experiences it’s also possible to take part in fascinating and important Pangolin conservation.
7. Londolozi Granite Suites – Sabi Sands
If you want to see all of Africa’s Big Five in one trip, Sabi Sands is the place to be. Within this legendary South African reserve, Londolozi is widely renowned as one of the best honeymoon safari lodges in Sabi Sands. Its Granite Suites are particularly inviting for couples, thanks to their extraordinarily secluded location on the shores of the Sand River.
Need to know: One of the most intimate safari lodge in Sabi Sands with just 3 exquisite suites, each with a private swimming pool and outside bath with an epic view to the river.
8. Tengile River Lodge – Sabi Sands
For a peaceful escape into South Africa’s lush forests, look no further than Tengile River Lodge. Set on the banks of the Sand River, this delightfully decorated lodge is a lovely choice for honeymooners and couples. Its ‘floating’ suites are elevated above the ground for exceptional views of the verdant surroundings.
Need to know: The 9 rooms here are particularly luxurious and spacious. Each one features a huge bath next to massive windows. There’s an indoor and outdoor lounge and dining ‘rooms’, and a private swimming pool.
9. Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge – Sabi Sands
Within Sabi Sands, the Sabi Sabi Reserve is a must-see destination with an unusually high concentration of wildlife. It’s home to four award-winning lodges, among which the Earth Lodge deserves special mention. Its sustainably-focused suites combine contemporary design and chic minimalism with an undeniably cosy and romantic ambience.
Need to know: There are 12 luxury suites here, all contemporary, yet completely in tune with the surroundings. The Amber Villa stands alone in a secluded spot, extremely spacious and the chance to experience complete privacy on your safari.
10. Lion Sands River Lodge – Sabi Sands
The Lion Sands Reserve has been family-run for nearly a century, lending it the kind of welcoming atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s only accessible to guests of two lodges, one of which is the fabulous Lion Sands River Lodge. Here you can book an elegant River Suite for extra privacy, and sleep out under the stars for one of the best luxury treehouse experiences in South Africa.
Need to know: Lion Sands River Lodge offers a range of different room types: Luxury, superior, rivers suites and a larger two bedroom lodge. For a romantic stay we love the river suites with private deck, plunge pool, outdoor showers and of course stunning river views.
11. Dulini River Lodge – Sabi Sands
At Dulini River Lodge you can watch wildlife wander by from your own private plunge pool with a cocktail in hand. This inviting lodge is set within Sabi Sands, which means you’ll have an especially good chance of spotting leopards and other iconic species. Take a break from thrilling game drives to relax with a couples massage in the comfort of your own suite.
Need to know: The 6 suites here have cantilevered decks and the pools are heated, for those chillier evenings. Photographers will enjoy game drives as the safari vehicles are complete with camera mounts and bean bags, and there’s binoculars and fleece lined ponchos too.
12. Singita Ebony Lodge – Sabi Sands
Among all the luxury lodges in Sabi Sands, Singita Ebony stands out for its distinctive design. This opulent lodge features vintage furniture and a black and white colour scheme inspired by the ebony trees that surround it. Beyond its privileged location and top-notch views, it also offers refined yet simple cuisine and thoughtfully selected wines.
Need to know: Luxurious accommodations and exceptional safari experiences combine here. Along with game drives you can take part in interactive canine tracking activities, stargazing, walking safaris, wellness experiences and there’s a boutique and art gallery to visit too.
13. Singita Boulders Lodge – Sabi Sands
Located within a privately owned reserve, Singita Boulders is a timeless favourite for couples. Elevated slightly above the bush, it promises total immersion in the wilderness through panoramic windows and open-air decks. Venture outside after sunset for a nighttime game drive or stargazing session.
Need to know: Romantics can choose between the bush and river suites. Both locations offer a total immersion in nature. Enjoy wildlife activities by day and then visit Singita’s premier wine cellar in the evenings.
14. Molori – Madikwe
In the heart of the wonderfully remote Madikwe Game Reserve you’ll find Molori: a chic safari lodge tucked into a remote corner of South Africa. Its gorgeously decorated suites are set far enough apart to provide you and your partner with total privacy. For a truly memorable stay, choose one of the spacious presidential suites, outfitted with only the finest furnishings.
Need to know: For a standout wildlife experience be sure to visit Molori’s luxury hide, which adjoins the atmospheric whiskey and gin bar. Sip on your favourite drinks while watching animals visit the camp’s watering hole.
15. Ngala Tented Camp, Ngala Reserve
Ngala Tented Camp sits within a private reserve that shares an unfenced border with the wildlife-rich Kruger National Park. This intimate camp offers just 9 sophisticated tented suites that feature romantic secluded decks with outdoor bathtubs and showers. A particularly romantic highlight is the ‘treehouse’, a remote overnight experience where you’ll sleep under the stars, listening to the sounds of nature at night.
Need to know: Ngala offers incredible wildlife experiences including photography safaris, specialist walking safaris, interpretive bushwalks, where you’ll get to notice the intricacies of the African bush, and taking part in once in a lifetime rhino conservation.
Embark on a Romantic Safari in South Africa
Beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, idyllic vineyards: when it comes to romance, South Africa really has it all. With our hand-picked selection of luxurious lodges and travel designers’ decades of expertise, your journey will be nothing short of extraordinary.
FAQs
The best time to visit South Africa for a safari experience is typically the dry winter, June to September because it’s easier to spot wildlife. That being said, South Africa is also considered a year round destination and Cape Town and the Wine Regions are glorious in the summertime, December to March.
How long you spend in South Africa on your romantic safari trip depends on what you’d like to do. A seven night trip will give you the opportunity to go on safari and experience Cape Town and the Winelands. If you’d like to combine a few different safari locations, and then explore the rest of South Africa then ten to twelve nights would work well.
There are plenty of romantic things to do in South Africa. Some of our favourites include stargazing and sleep out experiences in treehouses and star beds. Private dining options are romantic, select candlelight dinners in secluded spots or gourmet picnics and bush breakfasts while on safari. Private sundowners at stunning viewpoints are the best places to toast your honeymoon and romantic trip for two.
