The Ultimate Southern Africa Safari

Overview

Lebombo’s contemporary design acts as a counterpoint to the rugged landscape making it an architectural and design landmark. The large, spacious interiors are dressed in clean whites and feature vast windows which reveal the contrasting landscape outside. A spacious deck area with a long pool and comfortable outdoor beds for lounging, makes Lebombo a superior choice.

The fifteen suites sit on various points of the hill, each decorated with a delicate balance of man-made and natural materials. Bleached branches adorn the roofs whilst floor to ceiling windows let the light in, providing a light, spacious feel. As well as the communal areas of the lodge, guests can enjoy the spa and curio shop.

The game driving here is exemplary with excellent guides and trackers as well as comfortable vehicles. All in all, a stunning safari experience and beautiful lodge in terms of both design and feel.

Overview

With just six rooms, this is a small but intimate property. Care has also been taken in the design to make the lodge feel homely and welcoming, there’s an abundance of dark woods throughout. At the centre of the communal lounge area is a bar (which guests are encouraged to enter and use as their own, though service is always close at hand if they prefer). This helps to create a more relaxed convivial atmosphere, making it a particularly friendly lodge to stay in.

The six rooms here are stunning, a design masterpiece. Natural African woods merge seamlessly with the modern floor to ceiling windows. Step out onto the deck and you can observe the river below (where one may often spy hippos wallowing the river or climbing the banks on the far side). Though there are large windows guests can expect total privacy and can thus enjoy the view from the large bathtub and showers set next to the windows out across Singita’s Kruger Concession.

Rooms come with all the modern comforts one would expect in a luxury hotel (though set in the bush) with the exception of television. There’s a shared pool area to cool off in during the afternoon and guests can also enjoy the ample spa (set between here and Lebombo).

Overview

Tinga Lodge is a remote and beautiful camp situated on the bank of the Sabie River in a private concession of the Kruger, bordering the Lion Sands Reserve. Its grand, African design gives the lodge a feeling of spaciousness and true luxury, while its phenomenal location guarantees you a superior safari experience.

Accommodation is composed of nine luxury en suite rooms, in private spots overlooking the river. Each feature indoor and outdoor showers, separate lounge areas with minibars, private plunge pools and decks and 24 hour air-conditioning. The communal areas of the lodge are sophisticated and serene with a large open lounge and dining area complete with a fireplace, a central public pool and wooden decking.

Surrounded entirely by bush and sky, Tinga Lodge is one of only seven private concessions in the Kruger National Park and is a year-round safari destination. The Kruger National Park boasts the highest concentration of Black Rhino in the whole of South Africa, and the lodge offers both morning and evening game drives in open safari vehicles, bush walks and a whole host of other activities – such as nights out in the Tineyeleti Treehouse – to give you a safari experience like no other.

Overview

Strewn along the bank of the Sabie River, Narina Lodge is part of the family-run Lion Sands Reserve, sitting within a private concession of the Kruger bordering the Sabi Sands. Designed with a genuine African flair, with no compromise on luxury, each of the large thatched suites sits high on stilts for those impressive river views.

Take in the breath-taking vistas of hippos lazing in the river whilst you soak in your secluded plunge pool, free-standing bath tub or as you relax on your private viewing deck. Then, get even closer to the resident wildlife on safari drives and bush walks alongside your expert ranger, before retreating to the main lodge to swap safari stories with fellow guests.

The game found here is truly outstanding, from frequent lion and leopard sightings to a healthy population of the endangered black rhino – your safari activities are sure to impress.

Overview

A tale of companionship in a vast wilderness, ‘Jock of the Bushveld’ is on most safari travellers’ reading lists and the lodge, being owned by the family of Sir Percy Fitzpatrick (the author), is christened in tribute to this moving story of man and his best Staffie friend.

Nonetheless it is not just the novel that makes the lodge so well-liked and why guests often return year on year, but its modest, informal atmosphere, warm staff and their knowledgeable and friendly team of rangers.

Located in the Jock Concession of the Kruger National Park, game drives here are ideally placed to spot and track the Big Five and there’s a fantastic nocturnal safari option to see the area’s 34 different species of amphibians.

The Main Jock Lodge has 12 individual thatched suites done up in the traditional ‘Old World’ style of colonial adventurers and named after various places in the novel (“treacherous Pettigrew’s Road”). Twisted Jackalberry tree trunks shape the supports of the typically open-plan suites which are all designed to enhance both the wilderness around you the comfort of your more immediate surrounds. The decor pervades the pioneer romance with classic luxury in the form of roll-top Victorian baths, oil lanterns and four poster beds blending with local Zulu and Shangaan artisanship. Plus each suite has its own “sala” (private viewing deck) and plunge pool.

Fitzpatrick’s Lodge at Jock offers personal service in an intimate atmosphere, perfect for small parties and families. Fitzpatrick Lodge overlooks the Biyamiti Riverbed and has just 3 large, luxury suites (2 of the 3 rooms can sleep 2 adults sharing with 2 children) and is a bit more modern in its design. Placed a little further away from Main Jock for greater personal service and privacy, the whole property can be hired exclusively for families or a group of friends (in which case you get your own personal chef, ranger and private game drives).

The Explorer Camp at Jock Safari Lodge offers guests a unique experiential insight of a bygone era, a time when exploring really was an adventure into this unknown Big 5 wilderness, as did the legendary Percy Fitzpatrick in the 19th century. The camp and tents have been meticulously recreated with the similar style camp beds, canvas washing basins, lanterns etc in order to transport guests back in time. This two day educational, walking safari is lead by two highly specialised guides and nights are spent around the camp fire enjoying hearty bush meals whilst learning more about the history of Jock of the Bushveld, Percy Fitzpatrick and how the Kruger was born. During the day, guests explore on foot, a remote part of this private concession in the heart of the Kruger National Park, to get a real sense of how trekking was done during the early days of exploration – a tribute to the original and authentic African safari adventure.

Overview

Ngala was the first private reserve to be incorporated into the Kruger National Park and its established reputation and impeccable service is immediately sensed. In terms of wildlife, this 14,700-hectare reserve is similar to what the Kruger possesses (Big Five) but Ngala benefits from good concentrations of lion, frequent leopard spottings and wide open terrain preferred by the wild dog. Conservation is a very big part of what the lodge does, with projects focussing on land and wildlife, and educating the next generation.

Ngala Safari Lodge’s 20 thatched and spaced out chalets provide a good standard of privacy and are styled to be comfortably classic giving them a real home-like quality. Children of all ages are welcome here which, along with the set out, activities tailored for kids and warm service of the staff, makes Ngala a lodge well-matched for families.

The chalets are well-equipped for both hot and cold weather with en-suite bathrooms and pleasant verandas, and the main lodge has a particularly inviting lounge done up in all the tradition of a hunting lodge sitting room. Dining is either in the romantic outdoor boma or lantern-lit in the walled courtyard.

There is one further luxuriously appointed and spacious family suite here at Ngala which has 2 ensuite bedrooms, sitting room, private swimming pool, and a private vehicle should you be a couple or family looking for that extra slice of exclusivity.

Overview

Ngala was the first private reserve to be incorporated into the Kruger National Park and its established reputation and impeccable service is immediately apparent. In terms of wildlife, this 14,7000-hectare reserve is similar to what the Kruger possesses (Big Five) but Ngala benefits from good concentrations of lion, frequent leopard spottings and wide open terrain preferred by the wild dog.

The nine tented camps positioned on raised platforms and spaced out for more privacy at Ngala are exceptionally cosy and romantic. Soft swathes of canvas draped into a dome look over a large king bed, wooden floors, modern appliances and simple, stylish fittings.

Well-equipped for both hot and cold weather the tents have en-suite bathrooms with deep bath tubs, an outdoor shower, separate toilets, and although the tents are quite sparsely decorated, it’s all you’ll need and more.

The main tented lodge has a refreshing lap pool with loungers and some good elevated patios looking onto the Timbavati riverbed. The rolled-up sides allow for good views from the sitting room and dinner is usually under the stars on the patio.

Overview

In the eastern sector of the Mosi Oa Tunya National Park and about 12 kilometres from Victoria Falls, Wilderness Toka Leya gets immediate and fantastic views over the Zambezi River, and taking advantage of these are its twelve tented rooms.

Each comes with a large decking area at the front leading out from large glass sliding doors, behind which is your large stylish open plan lounge area and bedroom.

The camp’s main area is situated on a large decking area, and underneath a canopy of trees right beside the main channel of the Zambezi River. Perfect for atmospheric campfires on the bank and spotting the resident wildlife.

Here there is also a very spacious open-plan lounge and dining room, set beneath an enormous canvas roof and with open sides to maximise the views. The wall at the back of the living area is a really great feature; it’s made of “log tiles”, which gives the room a very natural feel.

Each tent has its very own solar panel, water geyser and batteries in keeping with the camp’s aim to lessen its environmental footprint.

Overview

You’ll find the Island Lodge in prime position on the exclusive Katombora Island, protected by the Katombora rapids. A Relais & Châteaux property, and sister to the River Lodge, the Island Lodge offers guests a tranquil, luxurious, and exclusive getaway.

Royal Chundu properties support a selection of positive impact initiatives including Pack for a Purpose, a foundation school and a seed project.

The lodge divides itself between four, spacious and magnificent villas, providing guests with the utmost privacy during their stay. Each villa sleeps between four to six people and features private decks and spacious rooms, surrounded by the island’s unique baobabs and two thousand year old Jackalberry trees.

Visit the intimate boma area for outdoor evening meals or the dining room for indoor occasions. There’s also an infinity pool, spa facilities, and two lounges for you to enjoy during your stay.

Overview

Set just a short walk away from the falls themselves on the banks of the Zambezi, one can admire the coil of steam and spray rising from the falls on the horizon.

The 173 rooms and suites are set in well manicured gardens along the banks of the river. This is one of just a few hotels from which the falls can be accessed on foot, making it ideal for those who want to be as close as possible. The hotel has been built in a colonial style, harking back to the days of it’s namesake, with grand dining and lounge areas as well as a large outdoor pool and riverside deck.

Overview

Very intimately placed in the private Jao Concession area bordering the Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta, Wilderness Jao Camp offers a luxurious way to experience this beautiful part of the world.

You will be well looked after in the nine tented rooms here, with incredible service and excellent guiding. Each of the tented rooms is situated a short distance from the main area and accessed via charming raised walkways. All of the tents have their own deck area with great views over the expanse of floodplains. Inside, you’ll find peace and comfort in the luxurious canvas setting. Wilderness Jao Camp also has a great wine cellar where you can enjoy a private dinner and a great spa where you can enjoy some superb treatments.

Within the camp itself, you have access to two plunge pools, ideal in the afternoon heat if you aren’t relaxing inside with a book from the library. Activities here are entirely dependent on the flood levels at the time of year you visit, however as a rule of thumb you can expect a split of about 30% game drives and 70% water activities, which gives you a brilliant perspective of the animals that call this place their home. Mokoro trips are highly recommended. As the camp is within its own concession area, it also can also provide night drives (weather permitting) to spot the elusive nocturnal creatures found here.

Overview

Botswana’s mesmerizing Okavango Delta is now brighter than ever with the newly transformed (as of 2022) Vumbura Plains. Nestled in a large private concession of 60,000 hectares in the far north of the Delta, the camp is enveloped in some of the most incredible landscapes, home to some of the best wildlife encounters in the area.

Inside, the camp celebrates its sense of place and culture, with design elements that pay homage to its wonderful setting with patterns, textures and colours bringing nature inside. Rooms at the lodge are amongst the biggest in the delta, all open plan, with a sunken seating area, private shaded deck and swimming pool outside as well as indoor and outdoor showers. There is an amazing sense of space here, in keeping with the wide-open plains that the rooms face onto. The rooms are open on three sides (with netting) giving a feeling of being closer to the nature and wildlife whilst still remaining is absolute comfort.

The local connections continue throughout the camp experience.The menu celebrates seasonal produce sourced directly from local farmers, suppliers and artisans.

Activities here are a mixture of game drives and water activities which will vary according to the level of the water and the time of the year. You will find day and night drives, walks and mekoro (dugout canoes) activities, with hot-air ballooning – from April to September each year – as well as scenic helicopter flights, making Vumbura an exclusive destination for the discerning adventure-seeker.

Overview

Nature meets comfort at Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp to create a unique safari experience of both land and water game activities.

Set on the edge of the beautifully remote Okavango Delta, this rustic camp boasts just nine tents with a maximum of only eighteen guests staying here at one time. Each tent provides a large en-suite with shower and w/c facilities, while a private deck offers stunning floodplain views. The rest of the camp includes a dining room, sitting room, pool and safari shop.

With a wildlife wealthy location, watch out for the impressive animals that reside in this area including buffalo, elephants and hippos plus the big cats such as lions, leopards and cheetahs. The varying range of land and water based excursions on offer consist of bush walks, exciting mokoro and power boat trips plus day and night safaris in 4×4 vehicles.

Overview

Xaranna has a uniquely contemporary style, uncommon in the delta with the use of clean whites and colourful textiles and fittings in its decoration. Set on an island in a private concession of 25,000 hectares There are 9 very spacious tents, each with their own private plunge pool.

This is a water-based camp but there is a full range of activities on offer, from the traditional Mokoro rides, to boat safaris, game drives and guided bush walks. The standard of service and guiding here is exceptional.

Xaranna is very much a place to come and look for the detail, the smaller animals and birds that live in the delta as well as the beauty of the habitat itself. This means it’s best combined with another lodge that has more big game activity to provide a balanced stay whilst in Botswana.

Overview

Caught on a riverine island in the Delta’s Moremi Game Reserve, Xigera is a truly excellent camp amidst the wetlands for its dynamic and varied activities, altered slightly according to the season so guests get the most out of the wildlife and terrain. It’s also the only camp in the area, giving you total privacy and where it doesn’t get much wilder.

Ten simple, standalone, and sublimely comfortable stilted tent rooms are shrouded in the riverine forest, and its main areas are typically and tastefully African: thatch roofs, wooden floors and furniture, warm lantern light, bonfire, a traditional boma and a plunge pool to cool off in.

Xigera’s (pronounced Keejera) position amidst permanent water all year round means you can embark on the area’s signature mokoro (canoe) safari, game drives and motorboat outings. The camp is also a good choice for keen birdwatchers, with Pel’s Fishing-Owl, African Skimmer, Slaty Egret, Wattled Crane and a host of raptors, other waterbirds and colourful kingfishers to be seen.