Buffelsdrift Game Lodge

The heart of the lodge is a wooden deck that wraps around the waterhole's edge, with a lookout lounge centred on a huge round stone fireplace – rather cosy when those Klein Karoo evenings turn crisp. The restaurant specialises in honest Karoo cooking: think homemade preserves, slow-braised game and freshly baked bread, all paired with a wine list that's picked up a DinersClub Diamond award for its Route 62 selection. French doors open onto the deck in summer, bringing in balmy evenings and the occasional hippo serenade. A residents' pool overlooks the water, and there's an on-site spa for post-safari pampering.

Thirty-four canvas-clad tents are scattered across the property, each a step up from traditional camping. The waterhole tents sit right at the water's edge with private decks that practically overhang the dam – ideal for sundowners and early-morning wildlife spotting without leaving bed. Horizon View tents are slightly elevated, offering broader vistas across the fynbos to the Swartberg peaks beyond. All come with air-conditioning (essential in summer), en-suite bathrooms, private outdoor showers, mini-bar and tea and coffee facilities. Family tents have two bedrooms sharing a bathroom, sleeping up to five – perfectly workable for a multi-generational trip.