Embark on an unforgettable journey through the African wilderness with our curated selection of the best luxury safari lodges in South Africa and Tanzania. These lodges not only offer breathtaking settings, from pristine beaches to remote savannahs and dazzling crater rims, but also provide unparalleled service, attention to detail, and the ultimate in luxury experiences. Whether you prefer the high-end elegance of a permanent lodge or the charming adventure of a mobile camp, our top picks ensure you explore the African wilderness in style and comfort.
Key Takeaways
- Our selection features the top 10 luxury safari lodges in South Africa and Tanzania.
- These lodges offer spectacular settings including beaches, savannahs, and crater rims.
- Expect exceptional service, attention to detail, and unforgettable luxury experiences.
- Options include both permanent high-end lodges and mobile-style safari camps.
- These lodges are situated in exclusive locations, offering unique and private experiences.
1. Singita Faru Faru
Singita Faru Faru Lodge is set within Singita's 350,000-acre private reserve in northern Tanzania, alongside the Grumeti River in the heart of the Serengeti. This contemporary yet rustic retreat offers an elevated setting with sweeping views of the bush and the Grumeti River. The lodge features 8 luxurious stone and canvas suites and a 2-bedroom villa, each with large picture windows that reveal amazing wildlife and a Swahili-inspired beach with two rim-flow swimming pools.
Guests at Singita Faru Faru can indulge in a variety of activities:
- Luxurious spa treatments
- Open-air Land Rover game drives
- Personalized wine tasting with an experienced sommelier
- Thrilling hot-air ballooning adventure
- Visits to Singita's anti-poaching observation posts
- Exciting biking and archery activities
Ideal for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Singita Faru Faru offers a unique blend of luxury and adventure in the Serengeti.
2. Singita Lebombo Lodge
Singita Lebombo Lodge is a celebration of cutting-edge design in an African context where everything defers to nature. This dramatic lodge comprises 13 suites and one villa that give guests a front row seat to the Kruger National Park with bold, contemporary open-plan suites suspended above the N’Wanetsi River. The exclusive concession is a richly diverse habitat, teeming with game, beneath endless African skies. Other highlights of the lodge include a roof terrace and wine studio.
3. Londolozi Tree Camp
Londolozi Tree Camp, a member of Relais & Châteaux, is one of the original safari camps in South Africa. With four generations of family-run hospitality and over 40 years of experience in ecotourism, it offers a unique and transcendent bushveld experience. Guests can choose from one of four small camps or stay in one of the exclusive Private Granite Suites, each designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding habitat.
Londolozi offers some of the most spectacular game viewing opportunities, with some of the highest densities of wild leopards in the world. The Londolozi Healing House experience allows guests to combine core safari excursions with artful resting, curated bodywork, and yoga, all set within the expansive wilderness of Londolozi.
The combination of luxury, nature, and wellness makes Londolozi Tree Camp a standout destination for discerning travelers.
4. Royal Malewane
Royal Malewane is a luxury safari lodge located in the Thornybush private game reserve on the western border of the Kruger National Park. The lodge features seven exclusive villas, ranging from one to six bedrooms, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Royal Malewane exudes the romance and beauty of a bygone era while offering every modern comfort and convenience.
Guests can enjoy exhilarating Big Five safaris and indulge in relaxing treatments at the tranquil waters of Royal Malewane’s bush spa. Nightly feasts under the African stars add to the magical experience. The lodge also operates two other luxury lodges within the same private game reserve – Farmstead and Waterside, each embodying an exquisite vision of contemporary design and ultimate hospitality.
- Hotel website: Royal Malewane
- Travel tip: Get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g., room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD gift from Royal Malewane).
- Review: Read my review of Royal Malewane here.
5. Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge is one of the most eco-friendly safari lodges in South Africa, located in the Sabi Sabi Game Reserve. The lodge is designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, offering guests a unique opportunity to connect with nature's tranquility while enjoying undisturbed views of the endless bushveld.
Highlights
- Eco-friendly Design: The lodge's architecture is crafted to harmonize with the environment, minimizing its ecological footprint.
- Exclusive Access: Guests have access to 45,000 acres in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, providing ample opportunities for game viewing.
- Luxurious Amenities: After a day of spotting wildlife like elephants, lions, and cheetahs, guests can unwind with the lodge's extensive wine collection, known for being one of Africa's most prolific.
Activities
- Game Drives: Experience the thrill of spotting the Big Five in open safari vehicles.
- Night Drives: Discover the nocturnal wildlife of the reserve.
- Spa Treatments: Indulge in a range of treatments at one of Africa's finest safari spas, surrounded by the serene bushveld.
The Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge offers a perfect blend of luxury and sustainability, making it a must-visit for eco-conscious travelers.
6. Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
Nestled on the rim of the world’s biggest volcano caldera, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge provides unmatched sweeping views of the encircled grassland – making it one of the best lodges in the region. The crater floor is home to populations of black rhino, zebra, elephant, buffalo, cheetah, and other large mammals. Based on the structural style of a traditional Maasai mud-and-stick manyatta (homestead), the architecture of each suite emphasizes authentic Africa, punctuated with refined baroque châteaux.
The Ngorongoro Crater is a World Heritage Site and a singular safari destination. Soaring above the crater floor, it feels like you've got front-row seats to some great cosmic event. Take a game drive into the crater, and you'll feel like you're witnessing the dawn of time. It's a special place.
Ngorongoro Crater Lodge has arguably the best views in Africa. It is located on the edge of the renowned World Heritage Site, Ngorongoro Crater, which is not only an amazing and unique landscape but also a home to about 2,500 animals including the Big Five. What makes Ngorongoro Crater Lodge visually striking when you see it is that it has an unusual architecture style. It is made of stilted banana thatch tree-suites, all adorned with graceful antiques.
Highlights
- Sensational setting atop the crater rim with views from everywhere
- Regal luxury with a personal butler, fine dining, and exceptional service
- Unique Ngorongoro experience with a full range of wildlife and cultural activities
- Dedicated Wild Child Programme for kids of all ages
Activities
Activities you can do here include walking safaris, hiking through the Crater rim, visits to Maasai cultural villages, sundowners with exceptional views, and of course, awe-inspiring private bush breakfasts or lunches.
Breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater views Unforgettable dining experience on the crater floor Explore the Cradle of Humankind at Olduvai Gorge Enjoy the attentive service of a private butler
7. &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge
&Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge is a luxurious retreat located in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park. This lodge offers an intimate safari experience with only 20 classic thatched cottages, ensuring privacy and exclusivity for its guests.
Lodge Facilities
- Lounge and dining area
- Bar
- Swimming pool
- Safari shop
- Wi-Fi access
Rate Inclusions
- Accommodation
- All meals
- Local brand beverages
- Teas and coffees
- Refreshments on game drives
- Laundry services
- Scheduled safari activities
Unique Experiences
Guests at &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge can enjoy a variety of unique experiences, including:
- Guided walking safaris to explore the bush on foot.
- Big Five game drives led by expert rangers.
- Photographic safaris for capturing stunning wildlife moments.
- Bird watching with over 300 species recorded in the area.
Experience the magic of the African wilderness at &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge, where luxury meets adventure in the heart of the bush.
8. Singita Sasakwa Lodge
Singita Sasakwa Lodge is located in the Western Serengeti and offers an unparalleled blend of comfort, luxury, and old-world elegance. The lodge features colonial-style palatial pads with 10 villas of varying sizes, each boasting its own private swimming pool. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the Serengeti from this elevated location, making it one of the best vantage points in Africa.
Highlights
- Explore the Great Migration route.
- Experience personalized butler service.
- Enjoy children's programs and babysitting services.
- Visit Singita’s anti-poaching observation posts.
- Play tennis.
Additional Features
- Exclusive luxury hideaway for ultimate privacy.
- Private safari vehicle and guide for each booking.
- Immerse in authentic cultural experiences with local tribes.
Singita Sasakwa Lodge transports guests back in time to the 1800s with its Edwardian architecture and timeless décor, without forgoing any modern-day comforts.
9. Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti
Nestled in the heart of Serengeti National Park, the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti offers an unparalleled luxury experience. This exquisite lodge features 77 secluded rooms, suites, and villas, each equipped with world-class amenities such as free Wi-Fi, minibars, and flatscreen TVs. Guests can enjoy a variety of wildlife encounters through game drives, guided walks, hot-air balloon rides, and bush picnics.
The lodge boasts an infinity-edge pool that overlooks a wildlife-infested watering hole, providing a unique opportunity to observe elephants and other animals up close. Dining options include the Boma Grill, Kula's Restaurant, and Maji Bar & Terrace, all offering breathtaking views and exceptional cuisine.
For those seeking a blend of adventure and comfort, the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti is the perfect destination.
10. Sanctuary Makanyane Safari Lodge
Sanctuary Makanyane Safari Lodge is a hidden gem located in the Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa. This exclusive lodge offers an intimate and luxurious safari experience, perfect for couples and adventure seekers alike. The lodge is renowned for its exceptional service and breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.
Lodge Facilities
- Wellness spa
- Relaxation areas
- Wi-Fi access
- Outdoor dining areas
- Swimming pools
- Private viewing decks
Rate Inclusions
- Luxury accommodation with a private plunge pool
- All meals, teas, and coffees
- Selected local brand beverages
- Twice daily game drives
- Refreshments and snacks on game drives
- Transfers to and from the Madikwe airstrip
Unique Experiences
Guests at Sanctuary Makanyane Safari Lodge can enjoy a variety of unique experiences, including:
- Guided bush walks
- Night game drives
- Bird watching
- Star gazing
Experience the magic of the African wilderness in unparalleled luxury at Sanctuary Makanyane Safari Lodge. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this lodge offers the perfect blend of both.
Conclusion
Exploring the best luxury safari lodges in South Africa and Tanzania offers an unparalleled experience that combines breathtaking landscapes, exceptional wildlife encounters, and world-class accommodations. Whether you prefer the pristine beaches and remote savannahs of Tanzania or the private game reserves of South Africa, each lodge provides a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and adventure. From the avant-garde design of Singita Faru Faru in Tanzania to the exclusive lodges in South Africa's renowned reserves, these destinations promise unforgettable memories and the ultimate in safari experiences. Ready to embark on your dream safari? Chat with one of our Travel Experts today to tailor-make your perfect itinerary and discover why we are the World's Leading Safari Company. See you on safari!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Singita Faru Faru?
The best time to visit Singita Faru Faru is during the dry season, from June to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak.
Are children allowed at Singita Lebombo Lodge?
Yes, children are allowed at Singita Lebombo Lodge, and there are special programs and activities designed for young guests.
What makes Londolozi Tree Camp unique?
Londolozi Tree Camp is unique for its luxurious treehouse-style accommodations and its focus on intimate wildlife encounters.
How do I get to Royal Malewane?
Royal Malewane is accessible via a short flight from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit Airport, followed by a road transfer to the lodge.
Is Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge eco-friendly?
Yes, Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge is designed with sustainability in mind, featuring eco-friendly architecture and practices.
What activities are available at Ngorongoro Crater Lodge?
Ngorongoro Crater Lodge offers a variety of activities including game drives, crater tours, and cultural visits to local Maasai villages.
Can I book a private safari at &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge?
Yes, &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge offers private safaris tailored to your preferences, providing an exclusive wildlife experience.
What amenities are offered at Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti?
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti offers a range of amenities including a spa, infinity pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options.
