Best hotels in South Africa

Built around a waterhole that attracts hundreds of animals daily, from elephant, cheetah, lion, wobbly-legged giraffe, antelopes (including kudu) and warthog to snakes and many birds, Phinda Zuka is a heavenly lodge. There are just four cottages tucked into the bush and densely wooded hills, so Zuka is the ideal getaway for a honeymoon party or family groups of up to eight. It's an exclusive-use lodge with a dedicated host and ranger, tracker, butler, chef, and private safari vehicle. This upmarket destination is not cheap, but a visit is worth every cent.

Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge is set on the banks of the Mluwati River in the heart of the Kruger National Park. It is one of only three luxury lodges in the 10,000 hectare Mluwati Concession. The lodge celebrates local Tsonga culture, from its traditional round rooms to the splashes of tribal decor and earthy tones in its interiors. Hoyo Hoyo offers a uniquely African way of life and a perfect blend of earthy luxury and superb service. The world-class cuisine at Hoyo Hoyo is served with a delicate balance of traditional African and western dishes.

In the wild and sprawling Marataba Contractual National Park, a private sector of the Marakele National Park, conservation is king. Spread out under a leafy canopy of fever trees, it’s a small, exclusive-use camp with only four bright and beautiful suites and a main area overlooking the tranquil waters of the Matlabas. This is a family nature retreat where you set your own safari agenda, spend leisurely afternoons observing wildlife along the riverbank, and enjoy sundowners and memorable alfresco dinners.

A charming manor nestled at the foot of the world-renowned Swartberg Mountain Pass is perfect for anyone that wants to get away from it all and soak up the peace of its tranquil surroundings. The extraordinary panoramic views of the Swartberg Mountains from the veranda of the original farmhouse inspired the creation of the manor and its grounds, which you'll find is a peaceful getaway beauty and relaxation. But this isn't just an endearing home-away from-home. The world-renowned Cango Caves are nearby, and it’s only a 15km drive to the top of the Swartberg Pass for unparalleled views of the Cango Valley.

Safari lodges often promise family-friendly experiences, but few deliver quite like this newcomer on the Kruger fringe. Located at Elephant Point with sweeping views over the Sabie River toward the national park, Shiviko takes a refreshingly different approach – one where families actually do things together rather than being separated into adult and kids' programmes. Each of the four villas tells a different South African cultural story through its art and décor, while your dedicated butler, private chef and nature guide take care of everything from dawn game drives to candlelit dinners on your terrace. The clubhouse – complete with water slides and a soundproofed cinema – seals the deal for younger guests, though the adults-only bar upstairs has rather impressive sunset views to keep everyone happy.

Built high atop an old anthill, Nambu Camp is entirely elevated, offering soaring views across the Olifants West Nature Reserve. Sharing an unfenced border with Kruger National Park, wildlife is free to roam in their numbers and the camp's guides have a real talent for finding just what you're longing to see. With only six chalets, the camp has an exclusive and intimate feel, and there's ample space to relax and soak up the view – this includes a well-loved waterhole below where herds of elephant arrive to drink. The team is highly efficient and treats you like family, always ready with a smile.

Out of all the private reserves surrounding the Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands is probably one of the most exclusive and it’s home to some of the most luxurious lodges on the continent. Meaning ‘tranquil’ in the local Tsonga language, the lodge appears to float above the Sand River and the interiors are a clever mix of open areas and intimate spaces, allowing you to enjoy your safari just as you wish. As well as top-notch game drives and walks, relaxing is the name of the game here and when you’re not spotting leopard and enjoying sunset G&Ts, take a dip in your private pool, visit the gym or indulge in the spa.