Best hotels in South Africa

Once a private residence reserved only for invited guests, Shimungwe remains one of the hidden gems of the Thornybush Nature Reserve. The stunning location, offering elevated views over the dry Timbavati riverbed, was hand-picked by the owners for its blissful, secluded nature and captivating array of wildlife ambling through the savanna's leafy marula and knobthorn trees. Beloved by all fortunate to visit in those early days, the decision was made to open up the magic of Shimungwe to the wider public in August 2022. Reborn as an intimate safari lodge, Shimungwe aims to retain its warm, family feel with an enchanting lounge, wooden walkways and an open-air bar and dining area encompassing the crystal-clear pool. Run by a passionate and close-knit team, our dream is to create an unforgettable home-away-from-home in the heart of the African wilderness.

Still, tranquil waters of the waterhole reflect sweeping blue skies, a backdrop to a grove of primal green fever trees, producing the perfect canvas for the calming elegance and colourful intrigue of Waterside at Royal Malewane. Waterside presents an immersive setting that will engage your senses, rest your mind and reawaken your soul. It is perfect for couples or families who value memorable experiences, personalised service and unrivalled game viewing. The lodge provides a bold new African context for Liz Biden’s opulent, bright and breath-taking designs. It draws on the timeless luxury that Royal Malewane has become synonymous with while adding thoughtful innovations to complement its own surroundings and anticipate every need of a modern luxury safari.

Nestled in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Amaya Safari Lodge is a sanctuary for those seeking the wild’s rhythm in quiet luxury. With just eight guests, enjoy an intimate experience with safari game drives and evening fireside chats amid Africa’s untamed beauty.

Toro River at Toro River Lodges is an authentic African bush lodge located within the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve. This Big-Five safari destination presents guests with a legacy experience, characterised by unique, rugged beauty. Set along the Makhutswi River, Toro River epitomises the connection between untouched African landscapes and responsible human intervention, with a commitment to ongoing conservation efforts that aim to preserve the Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve. Designed to integrate into its natural environment, Toro River exists as a blend of modern comforts and untouched wilderness.

Amani Safari Camp is the newest addition to the Klaserie Drift portfolio - a place where laidback luxury meets unfiltered nature. Nestled deep in a private part of the Greater Kruger, Amani offers sweeping bushveld views, peaceful seclusion, and an experience that’s as thoughtful as it is unforgettable. Designed with both connection and comfort in mind, the camp features three spacious lodge suites designed for comfort and accessibility, and seven riverbed suites for extra privacy and indulgence. Whilst the lodge suites have easy access to all shared facilities, including the main pool, each riverbed suites boasts a private heated plunge pool, elegant interiors, and the freedom to unwind at your own pace. Relax on the wraparound deck, enjoy a swim between game drives, or toast the day’s sightings beneath the stars in the boma.

In the heart of Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, you will find a different kind of luxury. Where solar power illuminates intimate moments, and sustainability meets sophistication in every detail. The sanctuary offers more than just Big Five encounters.

Here, among ancient trees and along the flowing Klaserie River, each stay writes its own story of conservation. From your personal reusable water bottle to our native Spekboom gardens, every choice reflects the commitment to preserving this pristine wilderness.

Tucked in a riverine forest, Greenfire Game Lodge offers an idyllic setting, peace and privacy – plus all the action of Kruger National Park. Here you're in Balule Nature Reserve, a wilderness area that shares an unfenced border with South Africa's most prolific wilderness area. The benefits are the sheer variety of wildlife and landscapes of its neighbour (though Balule's 50,000 hectares are spectacular in their own right – the activities are not restricted to daylight hours, nor are off-road sightings off-limits). And for your rest and amazing meals, Greenfire's superb hospitality is just the ticket.

Nestled in the tranquil setting of Greater Kruger National Park, Tulani Boutique offers unbridled luxury to every stay. The Boutique lodge offers an all inclusive escape for up to 8 guests. Designed with both comfort and character in mind, the lodge combines contemporary finishes with warm, inviting areas to create a truly relaxing atmosphere.

Nestled within the open system of one of Africa's most celebrated wildlife havens, this charming lodge offers an unexpectedly accessible wilderness experience. Despite being a stone's throw from civilization, you'll feel worlds away from the artificial glow and bustle of modern life. With 7,000 hectares of diverse terrain to explore—from lush bushveld and expansive dams to dry riverbeds and sweeping plains—the stage is perfectly set for extraordinary wildlife encounters. The twice-daily game drives, led by rangers who know every inch of this wild paradise, reveal the magic of the African bush in all its untamed glory.