Best hotels in Kruger

Tucked in a riverine forest, Greenfire Game Lodge offers an idyllic setting, peace and privacy – plus all the action of Kruger National Park. Here you're in Balule Nature Reserve, a wilderness area that shares an unfenced border with South Africa's most prolific wilderness area. The benefits are the sheer variety of wildlife and landscapes of its neighbour (though Balule's 50,000 hectares are spectacular in their own right – the activities are not restricted to daylight hours, nor are off-road sightings off-limits). And for your rest and amazing meals, Greenfire's superb hospitality is just the ticket.

Running through the very heart of the famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve, is the Sand River, a mightily beautiful seasonal river that attracts herds of elephants and buffalo, prides of lions and the endangered white rhino. And on the banks of the river sits Londolozi's Pioneer Camp, undoubtedly the most exclusive camp in the region. If Ralph Lauren designed safari lodges, this is how he would do it, and the three gleaming mahogany suites are impeccable in every way. Book one of the suites and enjoy a romantic hideaway in the shade of the ebony trees, or book all three and bring the family for an exceptional safari that everyone will enjoy.

Umlani Bushcamp is situated within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger Park, and is renowned for its world-class game viewing. The camp has been designed to operate in an eco-friendly manner, and reflects the traditional African style - simple, yet comfortable, with just the right degree of rustic. Accommodation ranges from reed and thatched huts for couples and families, to the slightly more luxurious Eco Hut, plus a secluded treehouse a short distance from camp if you feel like a sleep-out. The extra feel-good factor of being environmentally responsible is what makes this camp so special.

Relaxed King's Camp gives you a real sense that you've travelled not only to another place, but to a more elegant era. There are just a few bungalows, all beautifully furnished, and the books, old cameras, typewriters and silver that are used in the decor throughout give a Downton Abbey touch. The lodge overlooks a watering hole that draws a steady stream of animals, so you can breakfast while watching elephants and their skittish young at the water's edge below. Your surroundings? The famed Timbavati Private Game Reserve, home to the Big Five, the small creatures and much more.

The award-winning Londolozi Private Granite Suites are the most exclusive suites in the prestigious Londolozi Collection and are part of the Relais & Châteaux portfolio. They can be booked individually or as a private camp for six guests. Children under 16 are not allowed unless the camp is booked for exclusive use. The elegant suites incorporate Feng Shui in their decor and integrate seamlessly with the surroundings. They have large French doors and huge windows which open directly onto the Sand River, and private heated plunge pools. Game drives, bush walks and birdwatching will provide you with incredible wildlife experiences in this renowned game reserve that borders the Kruger National Park.

Ngala means 'lion' in Shangaan, the traditional language of the local people, and it's an apt name for this beautiful lodge set in the heart of Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, known for sightings of the Big Five, wild dogs and a host more species. Decorated in chic minimalist style, Ngala Safari Lodge is an exclusive destination sheltered by spreading mopane and tamboti trees beside a well-frequented waterhole. The lodge and its sister tented camp are perfectly placed to explore this wild region adjacent to Kruger National Park. Experience excitement, Africa-style, on game drives and walking safaris.

Leopards here, there and everywhere are a magnetic attraction to this aptly named lodge set in the western sector of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, bordering South Africa's beloved Kruger National Park. Expect rewarding game drives (the rest of the Big Five are also regularly sighted), excellent guiding, five-star accommodation, great cuisine and panoramic views across the bush and the active waterhole on the plains below.

To the west of Kruger National Park is a lovely, and world-famous, private reserve. Its landscape is dominated by undulating acacia scrub, several seasonal rivers and streams, and animals that roam freely across the unfenced border with Kruger. The reserve is Timbavati, of white lion fame, and home to Kambaku River Sands. This luxury lodge, named for a famous (now sadly dead) elephant known for its huge tusks, sprawls along a dry riverbed with superb views of the bushveld and its animals. You'll see the Big Five here, and much, much more besides. No wonder we love it so...

Both lodges situated within close proximity of each other are set amongst ancient Jackalberry and Boer-Bean trees on the banks of the Mohlabetsi River. Each one unique in its décor and layout, offering you the ultimate ‘Nyala Safari’ experience, one that you have always dreamed of, one that offers everything an African Safari should offer. Our small, unique and intimate safari lodges offer the perfect authentic safari retreats on a catered or self-catered basis. Our lodges are ideal for couples, groups of friends or families, giving you the chance to unwind, relax and reboot. Whilst on your guided early morning and afternoon game drive, marvel at the beauty of your surroundings as your senses are awakened by your interaction with nature.

Chalkley Treehouse is named for Guy Aubrey Chalkley, the early 20th-century hunter and African explorer who founded Lion Sands Game Reserve and famously climbed a leadwood to escape attack by predators. Built to echo the spirit of adventure shown by the reserve's founder, the treehouse is a private bush escape like no other. Not only is it on a level with the highest tier of trees, it's extremely luxurious and well-appointed. Lion Sands lies in the game-prolific Sabi Sand game reserve (which borders southern Kruger National Park), which means a truly wonderful setting for your wild and wonderful escape.

Still, tranquil waters of the waterhole reflect sweeping blue skies, a backdrop to a grove of primal green fever trees, producing the perfect canvas for the calming elegance and colourful intrigue of Waterside at Royal Malewane. Waterside presents an immersive setting that will engage your senses, rest your mind and reawaken your soul. It is perfect for couples or families who value memorable experiences, personalised service and unrivalled game viewing. The lodge provides a bold new African context for Liz Biden’s opulent, bright and breath-taking designs. It draws on the timeless luxury that Royal Malewane has become synonymous with while adding thoughtful innovations to complement its own surroundings and anticipate every need of a modern luxury safari.

This exclusive lodge is tucked away within the Timbavati Private Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger Park, and with just five luxury suites, makes a classy choice for families or small groups of friends. It holds a commanding position on a rocky ridge, with stunning views over the surrounding wilderness. This was once a family home, and personal touches are evident in the quirky décor and African artwork throughout. In this scenically beautiful game-rich area you’ll be treated to some exciting viewing, and the chance to explore on foot with highly trained guides and trackers is to be recommended.

Ximuwu: Where Luxury Meets Nature. Experience the perfect blend of modern comfort and stunning natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the bushveld, reconnecting with your senses in our serene suites. Enjoy breathtaking African landscapes, relax by the pool, or enjoy memorable moments at our firepit. Ximuwu is your peaceful haven.

Kirkman's Kamp is named in honour of W. Harry Kirkman, a famous conservationist, hunter and Kruger National Park ranger that once lived in the homestead. This lodge is a throwback to the turn of the nineteenth century, styled with colonial artwork and historic artifacts and packed with modern luxuries, ensuring total comfort and relaxation. Placed in the Southern Sabi Sands with rolling views of the inspiring African bush, encounter the incredible diversity of wildlife by vehicle or on foot.

Once a private residence reserved only for invited guests, Shimungwe remains one of the hidden gems of the Thornybush Nature Reserve. The stunning location, offering elevated views over the dry Timbavati riverbed, was hand-picked by the owners for its blissful, secluded nature and captivating array of wildlife ambling through the savanna's leafy marula and knobthorn trees. Beloved by all fortunate to visit in those early days, the decision was made to open up the magic of Shimungwe to the wider public in August 2022. Reborn as an intimate safari lodge, Shimungwe aims to retain its warm, family feel with an enchanting lounge, wooden walkways and an open-air bar and dining area encompassing the crystal-clear pool. Run by a passionate and close-knit team, our dream is to create an unforgettable home-away-from-home in the heart of the African wilderness.