5 South Africa Safari Lodges Our Clients Love
Choosing a safari lodge in South Africa can feel overwhelming: there are so many beautiful options, each promising the Big Five, sunset game drives and crackling campfires. To help narrow it down, I have picked out five lodges that are especially popular with my clients and fellow Travel Counsellors. They combine superb game viewing with standout service, style and atmosphere.
These are places that consistently earn “we did not want to leave” reviews!
1. Safari Lodge, Amakhala Game Reserve (Eastern Cape)
Tucked into the picturesque Amakhala Game Reserve, Safari Lodge offers that magical feeling of being “away from it all” without compromising on comfort.
Why clients love it
Intimate, thatched suites with a cosy, authentic bush feel
and modern comforts like air‑conditioning and WiFi.
A lovely pool and hot tub area for relaxing between game
drives.
Excellent full‑board dining with the option to cater for a
wide range of dietary needs.
Malaria‑free game viewing, which makes it a brilliant choice
for families or anyone who prefers not to take anti‑malarial medication.
It also works perfectly at the end of a Garden Route or Cape Town itinerary, so guests finish their trip with a real “wow” moment.
2. Kapama Southern Camp, Kapama Private Game Reserve (Greater Kruger)
Kapama Southern Camp offers a sleek, contemporary take on safari luxury in a private reserve close to Kruger National Park.
Why clients love it
Beautiful suites and villas, many with private pools, ideal
for couples and honeymooners.
High levels of comfort and polish in both the rooms and the
main lodge areas.
Consistently excellent feedback on food, guiding and warm,
genuine service.
Easy access from Hoedspruit, which keeps transfers simple
and stress‑free.
For guests who imagine stylish sundowners, elegant surroundings and a high chance of Big Five sightings, Southern Camp ticks a lot of boxes.
3. Ulusaba Safari Lodge, Sabi Sand Nature Reserve
Part of Sir Richard Branson’s Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, Ulusaba Safari Lodge is set in the legendary Sabi Sand, one of the best places in Africa to see leopard.
Why clients love it
Stunning design: treehouse‑style rooms that make you feel
completely immersed in the bush.
Superb guiding and tracking in a top private reserve
renowned for exceptional predator sightings.
Two pools, an indulgent spa and beautiful outdoor dining set‑ups
that make every day feel special.
A very personal, boutique feel: staff quickly get to know
guests by name and preferences.
Ulusaba is ideal for a milestone celebration, honeymoon or anyone wanting that once‑in‑a‑lifetime “pinch me” safari experience.
4. Shiduli Private Game Lodge, Karongwe Private Game Reserve
Shiduli offers a warm, welcoming lodge atmosphere with plenty of space and a lovely social feel, backed up by excellent wildlife viewing.
Why clients love it
Comfortable rooms and family‑friendly facilities, including
a children’s pool and kids’ activities.
A relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere: guests often describe
it as “home from home” in the bush.
A good balance of value and experience: lots is included,
without losing that sense of luxury.
Beautiful pool and garden areas for downtime between drives.
This is a great option for families or groups of friends who want a genuine safari adventure without feeling too formal.
5. Impodimo Game Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve
In malaria‑free Madikwe near the Botswana border, Impodimo blends contemporary comfort with wide, wild views and a reputation for warm hospitality.
Why clients love it
Elegant suites with private terraces overlooking the
reserve, often with wildlife wandering past.
A peaceful pool and spa area, plus cosy lounges and a bar
for evenings by the fire.
Strong feedback on guiding and game viewing in a quieter
private reserve.
Family‑friendly touches like a mini‑club and flexible dining
help it work well for multi‑generational trips.
Impodimo is a favourite for guests who want a luxurious yet laid‑back safari in a malaria‑free area.
Which lodge is right for you?
All of these lodges offer:
Twice‑daily game drives with experienced rangers and trackers.
Comfortable, stylish accommodation immersed in nature.
Delicious meals and that special South African warmth and hospitality.
The “best” lodge is the one that fits your travel style: secluded and romantic, social and family‑friendly, ultra‑luxury or great value for a first safari.
If you would like help choosing, I can listen to what you are dreaming of, then recommend the lodge and itinerary that are the perfect match for you.
046 9094972 / miriam.kelliher@mytc.com
