Madikwe Lelapa Lodge

The structures echo the wilderness, with wood floors, thatched roofs, natural rock walls and broad open sides that draw your eye to the view. The decor throughout is contemporary and stylish, from the lovely curved fireplace and the standing wood-burning stove to the crystal chandelier that hangs above the lounge and its cream-and-grey cushioned seating. Dining often takes place outside on the elevated sandy patio with views across the thicket canopy.

Twelve suites blend beautifully into the surroundings, with grass-thatched roofs and sinuous sand-coloured walls. There is ample use of stone, flagstone tiles and plenty of natural light. Each suite is private, spacious and extremely well-appointed, with an en-suite bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers, a private plunge pool for when temperatures skyrocket, and a big fireplace for chilly evenings. A seating area faces the view. In the family suites, room for the kids takes the form of bunk beds.

On game drives you have a good chance of seeing those big, charismatic creatures we all know and love, from elephant to lion. Night drives offer the opportunity to see some of them in action, (predators, for instance, often hunt after dark). The guides are knowledgeable and happy to track down your favourites. Popular with families is the children's programme, led by keen, well-trained guides who inspire youngsters to love the bush, and the Eco House – a bush class-cum-playroom.