11 of the most luxurious safari lodges in Africa

#6 Ulusaba Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge
A part of Sir Richard Brandson’s hospitality portfolio, Ulusaba Rock Lodge is the epitome of style and comfort and commands some of the most stunning views in the area. Perched high on a rocky structure, the safari lodge is set against a backdrop of the Drakensberg Mountain range far in the distance.

You have a plethora of options to stay in; namely the new Makwela Suites, Rock Cliff Rooms, and the stunning stand-alone Master Suite. The beautiful split level rooms hang over the cliff and makes for a great view.

In addition to the usual game drives, guests can also choose a tour of the Shangaan Village or spend their time at the on-site tennis court.

#5 Tswalu Kalahari, Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, South Africa
Housing a maximum of 30 guests at any given time across their two accommodation options, Tswalu Kalahari Reserve yet covers nearly a quarter of a million acres. The National Geographic Lodge entails 9 suites and a private homestead with 5 suites.

Crafted from desert sand, rock, and thatch, each suite includes a private sundeck and an outdoor shower with majestic bush views. From daily game drives and night drives to horseback riding experiences and bush walks, this property offers it all.

#4 Londolozi, Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa
An integral part of the world-famous collection of game lodges that have belonged to the Varty children for over 75 years, the Londolozi is home to five camps ranging from chalets and suites to treehouse suites and granite rooms; some of which entail private swimming pools.

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Throughout the camp there is a sense of history thanks to the well-restored memorabilia of photographs, old suitcases, silver, crystal glass and gramophones.

For rhino lovers, rhino tracking is a special activity which will focus only on rhinos. In May, June and July the bushveld can be experienced by joining the absolute stillness of the bush walks. You can also experience a bush breakfast or an adventure picnic in the spectacular wilderness.

#3 Singita Sabi Sand, Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa
Singita Boulders Lodge is a masterpiece built among the rocks of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. The two luxurious game lodges at Singita Sabi Sand, namely Singita Boulders Lodge and Singita Ebony Lodge, entail secluded thatched suites that reflect an eclectic mix of colours, fabrics and textures.

The main lodge features a lounge and timber deck dining areas overlooking the Sand River, a bar area and traditional open boma, gymnasium, health spa, library and wine cellar.

#2 Ivory Lodge, Lion Sands Game Reserve, Mpumalanga
The only reserve to have access to the Sabie river, the Ivory Lodge if one labeledegion’s finest lodges and has been labelled as one of the best hotels in the world.

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At Ivory Lodge, instead of the standard luxury-lodge formula, they opted for a Zen-inspired series of spaces with an ivory and black decorative leitmotif across just 6 luxurious suites. From glass walls to heated plunge pools, you have it all. You can also spend a night in one of the lodge’s 3 treehouses: one in a high jackalberry, one overlooking the river, and the other in an ancient leadwood tree.

#1 Royal Malewane
Set on the Thorneybush private game reserve, Royal Malewane definitely tops our list as it offers some of the best luxury safari accommodation around, sleeping only 20 guests in very private suites.

What sets it apart? Well, the Royal and Malewane Suites are some of the largest rooms in African lodges and come with exclusive private hideaway with private chef, butler, sole-use game vehicle and four massages offered per suite per day.

The standard suites are just as fancy with high colonial style decor, each featuring a fireplace, antique furniture and canopied king size bed as well as a large bathroom with Victorian claw foot bath and indoor and outdoor showers.

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