Best Safari Lodges and Hotels in South Africa

Best value quality safari lodges in South Africa

With South Africa's huge diversity of wildlife areas, there comes a large variety of safari lodges which range in both price and luxury. Generally as the luxury increases, so does the price, however there are some beautiful lodges who's price is unbeatable for what it offers.

One of the best value reserves in South Africa is &Beyond's Phinda Game Reserve. Boasting a wonderful population of Big 5 as well as cheetah and wild dog, Phinda's conservation ethos really makes staying there worthwhile. Their range of accommodation ranges in price but still maintains an excellent level of luxury. The cheapest is Zuka lodge, however the Mountain and Forest lodges are not much more. Priced at around $600 per person per night, it is hard to find this quality for such a good price anywhere else. Prices do increase if you were looking at booking the family suites or the Homestead, but &Beyond's excellent honeymoon and children rates make it a must for newlyweds or families.

For options in the Greater Kruger area, Nottens Bush Camp is one of the most affordable camps in the Sabi Sands and has a more rustic charm to it. With prices starting at $450 per person per night, you can't go wrong! &Beyond also have the very affordable Ngala Tented Camp which is located in the Timbavati area of the Greater Kruger. Prices start at around $800 per person per night and qualifies for &Beyond's great specials.

Non-Malarial Safari Lodges

Malaria is normally at the fore-front of people's minds when they think of booking a trip to Africa. When going on safari, these areas often have a malarial risk, yet due to South Africa's huge diversity, there are regions that are considered non-malarial, making them perfect for younger families.

Close to the border of Botswana, Madikwe Private Game Reserve has a plethora of lodges ranging in price. Starting at $400 per person and rising to over $1,800 per person there is definitely something for everyone here. 

One of Africa's most luxurious and unique lodges is Tswalu. With a private guide and vehicle for every booking, you can be sure you are looked after from the moment you arrive and until you leave. Priding themselves on showcasing the 'elusive 5', Tswalu's pangolin and aardvark sightings are probably the best in Africa. A junior ranger programme and a baby-sitting service makes it the perfect place for families. All this does however come at a price of roughly $1,800 per person per night, but it certainly worth it.

 

The most luxurious safari lodges in South Africa

Aside from Tswalu in the Kalahari region, the most luxurious lodges in South Africa are generally found in the Sabi Sands. Singita are renowned for their ultra-luxurious lodges throughout Africa and this extends to the Sands. Boulders and Ebony lodge are both extremely luxurious and with a price of nearly $2,000 per person per night, you can guarantee your every need will be catered for, and more!

&Beyond's newest property is Tengile River Lodge. Overlooking the beautiful Sabi River, this tranquil utopia is ideal for honeymooners and older families who want fantastic game viewing whilst being pampered! Prices start from around $1,500 per person per night.

If you want to see leopards whilst also immersing yourself in the ultimate luxury experience, then Londolozi must be your choice. With lodges ranging in price from $1,000 - $1,800 the Varty and Founders camp offer great affordable prices whilst Pioneer and Tree camps top the price list.

Cape Town

An entirely different entity from the safari world, ape Town is a cosmopolitan city full of vibrant bars, restaurants and attractions.

When visiting Cape Town there is a plethora of choice for where to stay. The Cape grace is located directly on the V&A waterfront making it perfect for those who want to be in the hustle and bustle of Cape Town life. The prime location does come at a price though with $300 per person being the starting price. 

Set further back from the main areas, the quieter parts of Cape Town offer small, intimate and boutique accommodation like the Cape Cadogan. With vastly smaller price tags of around $150 per person per night, the extra ten minutes of travel to Cape Town's main attractions is certainly worth it.