Best Hotels & Lodges

The seasonal Monwana River is a central artery for startling volumes of wildlife that inhabit the area. There's something indescribably special about this lodge: it could be the stellar service and attention to detail; it could be the understated indulgence found in the accommodation, or it could be the invitation to immerse yourself in nature at such a close proximity to abundant wildlife. We suggest you do yourself a favour and find out.

In 1976, Tanda Tula became the first East African inspired luxury tented camp in South Africa. Recently refurbished with a fresh look and lighter footprint, old-fashioned values and service still distinguish Tanda Tula today. Situated in the central region of the private, unfenced Timbavati Game Reserve, the camp is ideally located to view the wandering wildlife from the mighty Kruger. Remember to bring your camera to lunch, as the entire main area offers some excellent photo opportunities!

The thick, comforting smell of thatch welcomes you to your holiday home in the bush. This is the classic South African safari at its best, but with the distinct advantage of location. Found in the private Sabi Sand Game Reserve, on a very frequented waterhole, you won't believe your luck for discovering such a homely spot in the midst of a prime wildlife viewing reserve where the abundant wildlife from the Kruger roam across freely.

Feel like you're the only people in the Manyeleti Private Game Reserve when you spend a few nights at Tintswalo Safari Lodge. Intimate and limited to only a handful of guests, the lodge is tucked under an ancient sycamore tree grove, fringed by a waterhole. Being open to the Greater Kruger National Park, incredible wildlife often wander through the camp to drink and play while guests look on, G&T in hand. Devoid of Big Five-chasing crowds, the lodge is also perfect for spotting an array of incredible bird species.

Set in the heart of the Klaserie, one of the largest privately-owned reserves in South Africa, Camp George couldn't be more in the centre of the action. Led by highly-experienced guides who know the landscape like their own backyard, game drives and bush walks will take you closer than ever to the Kruger wildlife - and even when you're in camp, there's a strong chance of an elephant wandering along the pathways! The camp has stayed true to its founder and namesake, George Huysamer, weaving together art, nature and heritage in one sublime package. Still in the family today, you'll feel well and truly taken care of, especially in one of the dapper suites, beautifully positioned along the dry riverbed.

Centred around a waterhole in the Kapama Game Reserve near Hoedspruit in Limpopo, Camp Jabulani is an exclusive safari lodge in this Big Five landscape. There may be many other camps of similar description in the Greater Kruger Park area, but Jabulani is different – it has a resident herd of trained elephants and is the only camp that offers night safaris on elephant back. Interacting with these intelligent and gracious mammals is a magical experience. The camp is small – there are just six suites – and the service is up there with the very best.

Experience total tranquillity and true African hospitality at Lion Tree Top Lodge near Hoedspruit, they are situated in a private nature reserve in the heart of the game-rich area, bordering the Kruger National Park’s western boundary in Limpopo, this is Glamping near the Kruger Park at its best. They are a small exclusive lodge offering a unique African experience. There are five intimate and private, luxury tree top tents with sunken or corner baths, inside and outside showers, large decks, fans and bar fridges. All accommodation offers a choice of king or twin beds with canopy-style mosquito nets. There are also cosy sitting areas with tea and coffee stations in all our tents. Please email the lodge for more information.

Game Lodge, situated in the malaria-free Welgevonden Game Reserve in the Waterberg, is both luxurious and child friendly. Private and exclusive (the lodge has recently been renovated), it's the perfect wilderness retreat for families and small groups wanting to explore the bushveld on guided game drives to see the abundant wildlife. And you can expect great sightings at this 34,000-plus-hectare Big Five Reserve. A major attraction, also newly constructed, is the underground waterhole hide in front of the lodge, which allows guests to get close to the animals as they drink.

Schoone Oordt Country House is a charming and intimate country hotel in Swellendam, only two hours away from Cape Town and perfectly situated as the gateway to the Garden Route. Set on extensive lush grounds, the property consists of the Victorian Manor House and ten luxury bedrooms. Guests have access to woodland glades, a stunning swimming pool and a fragrant rose garden. Meals are made with love and served with true flair and style. The emphasis here is on unpretentious luxury, elegance, quality, and attention to detail. This is the ideal romantic getaway for guests looking for pure relaxation.

De Hoop Nature Reserve on South Africa's southern shoreline (about halfway between Cape Town and Plettenberg Bay) is undoubtedly one of the country's best kept secrets. The reserve is probably most famous for its incredible land-based whale and dolphin watching, but it's also one of the most spectacularly beautiful areas on the continent: a melee of fynbos, pristine white beaches and wetlands, all framed by towering mountains to one side and the Indian Ocean to the other. And there's a picture-perfect spot from which to enjoy it all - Lekkerwater Beach Lodge.

Nestled within the heart of South Africa’s Lapalala Wilderness, this exclusive-use villa offers a luxurious sanctuary for up to 16 guests. Melote House features six elegant suites in the main residence and two additional suites in a nearby cottage. Guests enjoy complete privacy, with dedicated staff, including a private chef, and access to three pools, a private spa, and an infinity pool overlooking a waterhole. Surrounded by untamed landscapes, it’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Tucked away in the wilds of north-western Madagascar, Namoroka National Park is one of the island's most unexplored and biodiverse regions. The park spans six ecosystems, including over 100 kilometres of caves (among Africa's largest collection) and miles and miles of otherworldly tsingy (the island's iconic limestone formations). Set just outside of the park itself, Namoroka Tsingy Camp is the only accommodation in the area, making for a secluded and totally exclusive experience. The luxury tents have everything you need, whilst also retaining a genuine closeness with the wild. The camp also places the protection and study of the park's unique and fascinating flora and fauna at the forefront and the focus on conservation is top notch.

The Hostal takes pride in providing excellent service, offering you a cozy atmosphere and the comfort of a true home. Our highly trained team is committed to making your stay an unforgettable experience.