Kapama Karula Lodge

Surrounded by thick tree canopies and twittering birds, the main areas at Kapama Karula are relaxed and tranquil, from the squashy sofas in the lounge, to the sun-soaked wooden deck outside. There's a well-stocked bar for pre-dinner drinks, and a cosy library for private dining - or you might even prefer to sit outside, under the stars. During the day, there's a large swimming pool to cool off in, and a beautiful (and very indulgent!) spa with a steam-room and four deluxe treatment rooms.

The twelve spacious suites offer the utmost in comfort, style and sophistication. All rooms are open-plan with a king-sized bed in the centre, a generous lounge to one side, and an ensuite bathroom on the other, complete with indoor and outdoor showers, free-standing bath tubs and twin basins. All rooms are fronted by sparkling, sliding glass doors, leading out onto an expansive private deck and stunning views of the sprawling bush beyond. Book a superior suite for a full-sized, heated pool and no less than two more seating areas.

At Kapama Karula, there are early morning and evening game drives, the latter of which stretch into night drives after a customary G&T on the road. Game viewing is truly excellent all year-round and you're likely to have good sightings of the Big Five, as well as giraffe, several species of antelope, and many birds. Bush walks are also available with a highly-trained guide, and it's also possible to visit the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre and the reptile park, both within 20 kilometres, as well as Camp Jabulani, where you can interact and walk with African elephants.