Private Game Reserves, South Africa

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South Africa is a fascinating country that offers so much for visitors - acres of wilderness and forests teeming with animals, sophisticated waterside cities, fragrant exotic gardens, beaches, oceans brimming with marine life, including the great white shark, stunning mountain scenery and lush countryside.

Be amazed at the spectacular scenery and idyllic beaches of the Garden Route, visit the historical Cape Winelands, experience a real African safari in Kruger National Park or check in to Sun City, two hours from Johannesburg, which offers an endless world of entertainment and recreational facilities in the heart of Pilanesberg National Park.

South Africa's largest and most famous National Park area offers some of the best game viewing and most luxurious lodges in the world. The Kruger National park area consists of the park itself and two private game areas that are on its western border – the Sabi Sands in the south and Timbavati in the north.

Earth Lodge Sabi Sabi

A bountiful game reserve boasting panoramic views of the bushveld and hundreds of species of animals, birds and plants. Home to 13 ultra-luxurious suites including the Amber Presidential Suite, the lodge breaks with traditional bush lodge style to create a masterpiece of artistry and innovation. Each of the suites at this luxury lodge features individually designed furniture, private plunge pool, en-suite glass fronted bathroom, indoor and outdoor shower and butler services.

Bush Lodge Sabi Sabi

A bountiful game reserve boasting panoramic views of the bushveld and hundreds of species of animals, birds and plants. Sabi Sabi offers outstanding facilities, service and game viewing. Offers a boma, bar, an outdoor pool & Bush Nature Spa. 25 air-conditioned suites with private bath, outdoor & indoor showers and dressing room.

Little Bush Camp Sabi Sabi

Exuding the same warmth and effortless hospitality that characterises Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp offers unparalled intimacy and seclusion. Six luxury suites, each with a private viewing deck overlooking the riverbed, are decorated in contemporary African design, complete with luxury furnishings, full bathroom en-suite, indoor and outdoor showers and air-conditioning. Thatched roofs, romantic mosquito nets draped over the comfortable double beds and beautiful wooden finishes complete the picture of an exclusive safari getaway.

Selati Camp Sabi Sabi

A bountiful game reserve boasting panoramic views of the bushveld and hundreds of species of animals, birds and plants. This luxurious lodge offers outstanding facilities and service. Reflects yesterday's era of colonial elegance & big game hunts. Offers a dining area, boma, bar, outdoor pool & lounge. Eight air-conditioned suites with private bath, outdoor & indoor showers, dressing room & patio.

Exeter Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sand

Exeter Private Game Reserve boasts luxurious accommodation; Dulini Safari Lodge on the banks of the Mabrak River; River Lodge and family sized Leadwood Lodge situated along different stretches of the Sand River. All have outdoor showers, shady verandas and private plunge pools. Exeter Kirkman's Kamp boasts guest cottages with private verandas and spectacular views of the unspoilt wilderness and Sand River.

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sand

Owned by Sir Richard Branson, Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is set in the heart of the Savi Sands Game Reserve and offers a luxury safari experience with exceptional style and service. The Sabie River flows through this private game reserve and many animals regularly stop off here to quench their thirst. Lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhinos are regular sights along the river banks and Ulusaba's five star safari accommodation offers guests game viewing at its luxurious best. Luxury suites are air conditioned, have plunge pools and private butlers and have breathtaking views of the bushveld and nearby waterhole. The new Cliff Lodge has two magnificent suites and is ideal for families and friends seeking an exclusive getaway, or couples wanting to enjoy those special occasions in pure privacy. When booked exclusively, Cliff Lodge includes a private chef as well as your own game drive vehicle. Facilities also include a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, gym and mini Aroma Boma Spa.

Savanna Private Game Reserve

Savanna encompasses the very essence of an "Out of Africa" camp. The Executive and Luxury tented suites combine the romance of a tented roof, with the sophistication of a permanent structure that ensures luxury and privacy. Spacious interiors are well-appointed, featuring large beds and bathrooms with French baths. The executive suites also boast private plunge pools and luxurious Savanna suites are built under thatch.

Singita Ebony Lodge, Sabi Sands

Ebony Lodge comprises colonial-style suites with leather winged chairs, period antiques, ensuite bathrooms, indoor and outdoor showers, private plunge pools, private bush settings and leisure decks offering spectacular views. Cuisine is of the highest standard and an extensive cellar showcases a premium selection including some of South Africa's most sought-after private reserve wines.

Singita Boulders Lodge, Sabi Sands

The exquisite Boulders Lodge features 12 elaborate suites with stunning interiors, own living area and fine antiques, private flow pool. If you can tear yourself away from the beauty of Boulders Lodge suites, there are many activities available ranging from thrilling drives, mountain biking and tours of the local community.

Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve

Built on a hill overlooking a natural waterhole and the Perennial Sand River, this exclusive and intimate sanctuary offers 8 luxurious glass fronted suites. Each suite, complete with own sundeck and rock plunge pool, offers superb views of the African bushveld. Romantic bathrooms include Victorian baths and double indoor and outdoor showers.

Lion Sands Private Game Reserve

A superb game reserve set in an enviable location, where direct access to the Sabie River ensures as awesome diversity of wildlife. The fine facilities of the reserve's two stunning lodges makes for a luxurious and secluded safari experience. River Lodge is a tranquil and holistic retreat, dramatically perched above the Sabie River. 18 air conditioned rooms with private bath, outdoor indoor showers, ceiling fan, mini bar game viewing deck. Price includes three meals & two game drives per full day. Ivory Lodge offers six ultra luxurious suites with ensuite bathroom, outdoor and indoor shower, courtyard, lounge with fireplace, wooden viewing deck, patio and private plunge pool. Each of thesuites has breathtaking views over the Sabie River where you can view game from the luxury of your own private deck.

Londolozi Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sand

Londolozi, in the Sabi Sand private game reserve has a justified reputation as one of the finest private game reserves in Africa and is most famous for its leopard sightings. Spanning the verdant banks of the Sand River, Londolozi offers four exclusive camps where the raw splendour of the bush perfectly blends with luxurious accommodation. Londolozi Granite Private Suites are Londolozi's newest camp with just three suites which can be taken individually or as a unit for a small group of friends. The granite suites now operate as the flagship of Londolozi with an almost unsurpassed level of sophistication and luxury. The three massive and contemporary suites are decorated in a sophisticated style with Bedouin-inspired beds swathed in muslim, acres of space, luxurious bathrooms and French doors leading out to your own private plunge pool overlooking the characteristic flat boulders of Sand river below.

Malamala Private Game Reserve

Main Camp at MalaMala is set in beautiful surroundings; the ochre coloured buildings are clustered amidst shady trees and manicured lawns overlooking the Sand River. The individually decorated, spacious and comfortable rooms and suites are traditionally thatched and enjoy spectacular views. Despite the comfort offered, Mala Mala retains an authentic camp atmosphere, where the attention to detail for which Mala Mala is world famous is obvious. Fantastic cuisine is served in an authentic African manner, under the stars in a reed enclosed boma, a tradition for over 60 years. Rattray's on MalaMala offers a new level of luxury with eight magnificent Khayas, each with enormous living areas, two bathrooms and private plunge pool overlooking the river. These are traditional camps offering unsurpassed luxury, service excellence and exhilarating game drives.

Singita Lebombo & Singita Sweni

The design of Singita Lebombo is one of a kind. The sweeping wooden decks provide the perfect vantage point from which to watch the theatre that unfolds before you. The lap pool that lines the dining area reflects the beauty of the nearby N'wanetsi River, while large sunbeds beckon you to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. Each of the fifteen suites feature glass, wood, steel and contemporary finishes. Enjoy dinner in the boma, with the sounds of the bushveld as background music, and then spend the evening sleeping under the stars on the bed of your private terrace – complete with mosquito net. Flanking the Sweni River, the tranquil sanctuary of Singita Sweni is elevated on stilts with decks of timber. Even when you're indoors, you'll have the sensation of being close to the river and trees. The six secluded suites, with tactile furnishings, have been carefully created to bring in the textures and shades of the bush. Try the outdoor shower overlooking the river or – for a magical experience – 'camp out' under the stars on the day bed out on your viewing deck.

Tinga Private Game Lodge

The Tinga Private Game Reserve Concession in Kruger National Park is 5, 000 hectares and has two private camps, Tinga Legends and Tinga Narina, both offering luxurious accommodation, excellent game viewing and superb food. 18 luxury suites with en suite bathroom and shower, large outdoor shower, private infinity swimming pool, fireplace, private lounge, direct dial telephones and satellite TV.

Ngala Private Game Reserve

Ngala was the first private game reserve in the internationally renowned Kruger National Park and is host to two exclusive properties - classic Ngala Game Lodge in the north and contemporary Ngala Tented Safari Camp in the south. The reserve is a sanctuary for a wide variety of animals and birds, from great herds of elephants to large prides of lions. There are 6 luxurious tents, which all feature outdoor showers, spacious baths and overhead fans. The lap-pool is the ideal place for game viewing on the river. Ngala's tented camp offers comfort and luxury and great game viewing.

Jock Safari Lodge

Incorporates the romantic and elegance of the past colonial era, and reflects in its unique style, the indigenous Zulu and Shangaan cultures. Located in a beautiful setting on the Mitomeni Biyamiti Rivers, within the southern reaches of the Kruger National Park. 12 air conditioned suites with private bath, outdoor shower, private plunge pool, mini bar, safe & tea/coffee making facilities. Three meals & two game drives per full day plus all local beverages. Little Jocks is located 1 km down river from the main lodge, offering guests an even more exclusive experience with only 3 luxury suites for 2 adults.

Garonga Safari Camp

Garonga Safari Camp is an exclusive 12-bed safari camp offering the chance to view big game such as lions, elephants and rhinos. It promises a more intimate wildlife encounter through walking, tracking and sleep-out excursions. With just 3 luxury suites linked by pathways, Little Garonga was designed with exclusive use in mind, but can also be booked in part. Garongas holistic philosophy is to offer a safari for the soul, an unhurried and intimate wildlife encounter, a time to reflect and find inspiration in nature. Game drives, wilderness walks, outdoor bush baths, sleep-outs, aromatherapy and reflexology sessions are available, but many choose to lie in their hammocks watching the grazing game in the river bed below.

Camp Jabulani

The five star Camp Jabulani is the only camp in South Africa offering the thrill of elephant back safaris. 6 ultra-luxurious suites flank a dry river bed, and are utterly private retreats, including plunge pools, wooden deck, glass enclosed shower, massive stone bath tubs and a fireplace for chilly winter evenings. A member of Relais & Chateaux.

Marataba Safari Company, Marakele National Park

Marataba is set at the foot of the Waterberg mountains in an area that abounds with wildlife. The romantic open-plan and luxurious suites allow the sights, sounds and smells of the magnificent Marakele National Park to flood in. The romantic open-plan and luxurious suites are appointed with indoor and outdoor showers and have their own viewing deck from which you can survey the plains and the meandering river below. A member of Relais & Chateaux.

Tswalu, Kalahari

Extensively refurbished, accommodation at Tswalu epitomises the stylish yet rustic elegance typical of luxury game reserve accommodation. Motse consists of eight authentic stone-walled and thatch-roofed bungalows with spacious lounge with fireplace and sundeck overlooking the waterhole. For those looking for exclusivity and personal service, Tarkuni is ideal for a small party or family due to its privacy. In keeping with the African style of traditional thatched roofs, the main lodge boasts a galleried library, outdoor and indoor dining areas and wine cellar. Sundowners on lantern-lit dunes, boma dining and Lekgaba Lookout offer a variety of eating experiences.

Thornybush Game Lodge

Adjacent to the Greater Kruger National Park, within the famous Thornybush Nature Reserve is the exclusive Thornybush Game Lodge. Unrivalled big game viewing is complemented by exquisite accommodation and sublime cuisine. 18 stylish air-conditioned luxury suites and 2 family suites, all with extensive living areas overlooking the seasonal Monwana River. Each suite has full en suite facilities, indoor and outdoor showers and private decks with sweeping vistas over the savannah and an ever active waterhole.

Shishangeni Private Lodge

Situated in the southeast section of the Kruger National Park, bordered by the Crocodile River to the south and Mozambique to the east. Shishangeni Main Lodge offers 22 air-conditioned chalets, with game viewing decks, mini bars, en suite bathrooms including outdoor showers, tea/coffee facilities, hairdryer, safe and lounge. Facilities include swimming pool, library, gym and two game drives per day.

Cybele Forest Lodge & Health Spa, Mpumalanga

This Relais & Chateaux property, Cybele Forest Lodge, lies in the heart of Mpumalanga between White River and Hazyview and very close to many of the exclusive game reserves in the Sabi Sands. Limited to a maximum of 28 guests, housed in a variety of individual suites and cottages. With Cybele Forest Lodge's own horses, you can enjoy a ride through the breathtaking forest to the river and on an adventure of discovery. Completely private and peaceful spa with treatments designed to rejuvenate the body and soul.

Jatinga Country Lodge, Mpumalanga

Jatinga Country Lodge is housed in an original 1920's Victorian homestead and its elegant décor is an eclectic mix of African colonial, French and English country themesA secluded pool and deck with hammocks, superb cuisine, the 'Lord Milner' pub, a lounge and there are two leisurely walks along the White River for those who wish to explore the grounds a little more. 16 air-conditioned superior rooms, each furnished in a different style and each offering 5 star levels of comfort and luxury. Concrete baths dominate the bathrooms of the Provencal rooms, while step up baths and hand-made basins feature in the French Country rooms.

Kapama Main Lodge, Valley of Elephants

This vast game reserve offers a thrilling array of gaming activities, from open safari game drives, to bush walks and birding trips. The reserve is home to four game lodges, all offering excellent facilities and fine service, yet each distinct in style. 20 air-conditioned chalets with private bath, ceiling fan, mini bar, views of the lake or garden.

Tanda Tula Safari Camp, Timbavati

Tanda Tula is an intensely private affair with only twelve tents, and personal attention is simply a matter of course. Offering every comfort, the thatched en-suite tents are imbued with the romance of Africa. Wide wooden decks and spacious bathrooms with Victorian baths and outside showers are reminiscent of a bygone era. Enjoy South African cuisne, with spectacular boma dinners around the fire, complemented by an exceptional wine cellar.

Kings Camp, Timbavati Private Game Reserve

Experience the bush in true colonial style. Relax and allow yourself to be pampered by the attentive yet unobtrusive staff. Known for its numerous lion sightings, this lodge's commitment is to freely share the bush experience in a manner that is both relaxing and informative 10 air-conditioned luxury thatched suites each with en suite facilities including double outdoor showers & private verandah with a small tranquil garden.

Royal Malewane, Thornybush Game Reserve

The main camp is furnished with rich antiques and Persian carpets. Freestanding suites, reached by elevated walkways, offer a neo-classical refuge deep in the bush, complete with canopied bed, extravagant bathroom with window-side Victorian bath, thatched gazebo and spillway pool. For the ultimate in bush luxury, take a secluded Royal or Malewane Suite – the largest in Africa, where complimentary services include a private butler and chef.

Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge

Accommodation at Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge is elegant and spacious. Guests can choose to stay in one of the luxurious suites or enjoy exclusive use of Little Madikwe Hills complete with Presidential Suite and private pool, Land Rover, ranger, butler, wine collection and chef. The family suite is ideal for guests travelling with children. The elegant suites boast private decks, glass fronts and plunge pools, allowing guests to enjoy the breathtaking scenery from all areas.

Makanyane Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

Exclusive safari lodge offering every luxurious, thatched suites each with spacious sundeck, fireplace, ensuite bathroom with indoor and outdoor shower together with spectacular glass walled bedrooms offering uninterrupted views across the Marico River.

Etali Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

Exclusive bush haven with eight chic suites offering the very utmost in luxury and style. All suites have indoor and outdoor showers, air-con, fireplaces, a complimentary minibar and a private deck with heated whirlpool. Arican cuisine with Asian influences is served in the dining room or on the deck. It's also possible to dine out in the bush or in a traditional Tswana tribal kraal.

Jaci's Safari Lodge & Tree House, Madikwe Game Reserve

Jaci's Safari Lodge features only eight large en-suite rooms all beautifully decorated and with outdoor "safari" showers. The rooms have thatched roofs, canvas walls and tented windows - inviting you to enjoy your bush surroundings. The Nare Suite is Jaci's exclusive 2 bedroom bush retreat. The villa can accommodate a maximum of four guests and has its own private lounge, outdoor dining area, swimming pool and kitchen for your chef to prepare your meals in your own private suite. Jaci's Tree Lodge is the newer of the lodges and comprises of eight "tree houses." The suites are constructed on stilts above the Riverine forest six meters above the ground and are linked to the main lodge by wooden walkways. Each "tree houses" is spacious with an en-suite bathroom, large stone bath, an outdoor shower and a private deck. Families can be asured of a personal safari experience.

Tintswalo Safari Lodge, Manyeleti Game Reserve

Tintwalo Safari Lodge nestles in a prestine reserve that opens into the Kruger National Park. The main Lodge overlooks a waterhole frequented by the "Big Five". Explorer Suites and sumptuous Presidential Suite have their own plunge pools. Indoor and outdoor dining available and indulgent relaxation in the Elan Vital Spa.

Makweti, The Waterberg

The main lodge, built into natural rock formations in the craggy Waterberg Mountains, is a dramatic architectural synthesis with spectacular views of the Makweti Gorge. The secluded suites are individually decorated with antique treasures, Victorian bathtubs and log fires for the cooler winter months.

Ant's Hill & Ant's Nest, The Waterberg

Ant's Hill and Ant's Nest are both very private bush homes. Built on the edge of a cliff, Ant's Hill offers breathtaking views across the Waterberg. With spacious rooms and vast folding doors, the thatched lodge blends into the bush, while exotic furniture and brightly coloured African fabrics make it both sophisticated and comfortable. The draped four-poster beds are seven foot wide and each bathroom is spectacular, offering guests sunken baths and waterfall showers. Set in boulders on the edge of the cliff, the heated swimming pool cascades over the lip of the gorge, inducing you to relax there for hours. The six luxurious en-suite bedrooms at Ant's Nest accommodate a maximum of twelve guests. There is a 15 meter swimming pool in the garden, ideal for those needing some exercise or for purely cooling off after an active day. This is great for children as it's heated all year.

Sun City Resort – South Africa's Number One Resort!

Fine hotels set within world of spectacular gardens, waterfalls and entertainment centres, plus a casino. There are a number of fine restaurants, pools, man made beaches, world class golf, tennis courts and a bowling green. The Valley of Waves, Africa's only sub-tropical adventure park is great for families and features a wave pool, huge water slides and a lake offering a variety of water sports.

Palace of the Lost City

Offers 338 air-conditioned rooms. Facilities include two restaurants, two bars, a pool, fitness centre, boutiques and the Royal Beauty Salon.

The Cascades

Offers 243 air-conditioned rooms. Facilities include two restaurants, two bars, a pool, fitness centre and a health spa.

Pilanesberg Game Reserve

Is nearby Sun City, this is a volcano that gave birth to a game reserve. Home to good populations of a whole range of Africa's game, including elephants, black and white rhinoceros, buffaloes, lions and leopards. Here you will also see giraffes, zebras, hippos and a wide variety of antelopes. Game drives are available from all Sun City hotels.

World In One Country

13 night Escorted Tour from £2145 per person

This tour showcases the very best that South Africa has to offer – cultural visits, game drives in open safari vehicles, a cruise and a steam train ride are just a few of the memorable experiences of this excellent tour. The tour is conducted with English as the only language with expert guides, 21 meals are included in the price.

Overnight flight from London Heathrow to Johannesburg
1 night, Rosebank Hotel, Johannesburg
Head for Pretoria for a visit to the Afrikaans Voortrekker Monument, continue on to the Premier Diamond Mines, overnight in Lowveld, Royal Hotel
Explore Pilgrim's Rest, God's Window and spectacular Blyde River Canyon, continue to Kruger National Park, 2 nights Rest Camp
A full day game viewing in an open safari vehicle in Kruger National Park
Leave the Kruger and head south to the tiny Kingdom of Swaziland, overnight at Lugogo Sun
Enter the Kingdom of the Zulu and travel past traditional round huts to the town of St Lucia, a World Heritage Site, overnight at the Elephant Lake Hotel
A morning cruise on Lake St Lucia before travelling along the lush coastline to Durban, overnight at Protea Edward
Fly from Durban to Port Elizabeth. On arrival your new guide will take you to Tsitiskamma Forest and Knysna, the Garden Route, 2 nights, Knysna Lodge Inn
Take a cruise on Knysna Lagoon and visit the Featherbed Nature Reserve. Afternoon free to relax
Today ride on the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe steam train from Knysna to Wilderness, continue, via the scenic Outeniqua Pass to Oudtshoorn. After lunch visit an ostrich farm and the Cango Caves. Overnight, Queens Hotel.
Depart Oudtshoorn and journey to Cape Town. From July to November your journey will be via Hermanus in the hope of catching a glimpse of the whales, 3 nights, Protea President Hotel, Cape Town
Tour the rugged Cape Peninsula, visiting Hout Bay, the penguins on Boulders Beach and the naval village of Simon's Town
Today you will visit the wine region. Entrance to two estates in either Paarl or Stellenbosch are included
Free to relax until it is time for your transfer to the airport for your overnight non-stop flight back to the UK, or your chosen extension.

Cape Explorer – from £1799

Highlights include the beautiful city of Cape Town, the Cape of Good Hope, the Cape Winelands, The Garden Route, two game drives in the malaria-free Eastern Cape, the chance to view Southern Right Whales (Aug-Nov) along with a great selection of hotels.

Rovos Rail and The Blue Train

A luxury rail journey is a journey back in time to the days when grace, elegance and romance were more than just words! South Africa is fortunate to have a number of justly famous luxury rail journeys with trains like the "Blue Train" and "Rovos Rail" setting the standards.

Rovos Rail

(Cape Town – George, one night from £345) – Since its first journey in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned a reputation for world-class service. All have superbly appointed suites, restaurant carriage, observation car and lounge. Dining is on fine china and guests are requested to dress accordingly in the evening. The spacious royal suite is the ultimate in luxury with private lounge area and a full Victorian bath.

The Blue Train

(Pretoria – Cape Town, one night from £615) – The Blue Train owes its origins to the Union Express, which started journeys between Cape Town and Johannesburg in 1923 and now offers luxury travel from Cape Town to Pretoria. The train usually operates with one dining carriage, two bar carriages and an observation carriage. Dining is a real feature of the journey and dinner is served table d'hote style. Each carriage has a butler who is on call 24 hours to assist you. Deluxe suites are elegantly furnished and the larger luxury suites offer bath and CD player.

Tour extensions

Extend your stay in Cape Town
Fly to Victoria Falls
Relax in Mauritius
Enjoy the amazing destination of Dubai

Fact File

Flying time: Non-stop to Cape Town, approx 12 hours, Johannesburg approx 11 hours
Time difference: GMT + 2 hours
Currency: South African Rand
Visa: British Passport holders do not require a visa

Weather

Average temperatures and rainfall for South Africa
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Temp (°C)	26	26	25	23	20	18	17	18	19	21	24	25
Rainfall (inches)	0	1	1	2	3	4	3	3	2	1	1	1

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