Simbavati Hilltop Lodge

The main lodge sits midway up the rocky hillside facing out across the river, and consists of a huge open-plan lounge and dining room, and a stunning circular bar. Interiors are warm and inviting, with classic safari-style tones and textures brought to life by splashes of citrus and quirky African artefacts. The infinity pool and sun deck (with shade if you'd like it) juts out over the valley in front, and just below is a traditional open-air boma where you'll dine on fabulous pan-African cuisine under the stars.

The eight luxury tents have an unusual pavilion-style design: two individual tents are joined by a screened walkway, with an air-conditioned bedroom on one side, and an ensuite bathroom with an indoor and outdoor shower on the other. The elegant interiors and creamy swathes of canvas are super stylish, and the earthy colours and the warm glow of the timber blend seamlessly with the surrounding bush. Each has a private viewing deck overlooking the river. An in-suite massage or hot stone treatment is also a must.

Game viewing activities follow the traditional format of early morning and late afternoon drives, with the privilege of being able to stay out after dark in search of leopard, lion, and rarities like African wild dog and pangolin. A highlight here is the possibility of encountering Timbavati’s famous white lions, which only occur in this area. They even provide hot water bottles for those chilly morning drives.