Best Game Lodges & Safari in South Africa

George, South Africa

ArendsRus Country Resort offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and natural beauty, set against the backdrop of the Outeniqua Mountains near George, the Garden Route's capital. The resort features five en-suite double rooms, a honeymoon suite, self-catering chalets, glamping tents, and campsites that cater to every type of traveller seeking comfort and relaxation. Each accommodation comes with en-suite bath and shower facilities, tea/coffee stations, in-room telephones, heating, ceiling fans, 800 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets, and bathroom gift packs. The resort's location provides easy access to numerous attractions within an hour’s drive, including Oudtshoorn and the Cango Caves, Mossel Bay's Dias Museum, Wilderness lakes district, and Knysna lagoon. Guests can enjoy panoramic views from their balconies while bird watching or simply relaxing in the fynbos gardens.

Beaufort West, South Africa

Teri-Lemveli Lodge lies virtually on the banks of the Stolsriver Dam, offering splendid views and breathtaking surroundings just 15km south of Beaufort West along the N1 highway. The lodge is a perfect blend of comfort and convenience, with fully-equipped chalets and tastefully decorated stable rooms that cater to both families and solo travellers. Surrounded by the vast expanse of the Karoo landscape, guests can enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of this unique region while being within easy reach of local attractions such as the Karoo National Park and the Chris Barnard Museum.

Hoedspruit, South Africa

Discover the magic of Mohlabetsi Safari Lodge, an intimate retreat nestled within Balule Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park Management Area. Located just 10 km north of Hoedspruit and a short drive from Eastgate Airport (Hoedspruit HDS), this serene lodge offers easy access to both the iconic Panorama Route and the Drakensberg Escarpment. Mohlabetsi's six thatched rondavels provide a blend of comfort and traditional charm, with each room featuring twin or king-size beds, private en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, ceiling fans, and bar fridges for your convenience. The lodge also offers interleading rooms for families and groups, as well as luxurious suites complete with private plunge pools and sundecks. With a 4-star TGCSA rating renewed recently, Mohlabetsi ensures quality and guest satisfaction are at the forefront of every stay.

Barrydale, Western Cape

In the shadow of the Rooiberg Mountains and at the heart of the Klein Karoo, Rooiberg Wild Private Game Reserve offers an unparalleled blend of South African hospitality and natural beauty. This charming farmhouse, built on a foundation of friendliness and comfort, invites guests to experience the serene ambience of the African night from one of its seven luxurious rooms. Each room is equipped with en-suite bathrooms and private patios that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The reserve’s commitment to accessibility is evident in the specially designed room for physically challenged visitors, ensuring everyone can enjoy this slice of South Africa's natural splendour.

Secunda, South Africa

Dormio Manor Guest Lodge offers a serene retreat in central Secunda, providing eight comfortable and en-suite rooms with private entrances for a personalised stay. Situated within easy reach of local amenities such as shopping centres, restaurants, and entertainment venues, the lodge is an ideal base for both business and leisure travellers. The property’s proximity to Eende Dam and a nearby park with a lake makes it perfect for those who enjoy jogging or walking in natural surroundings. With its central location, Dormio Manor ensures that guests can explore Secunda's attractions effortlessly.

Kosi Bay, South Africa

Kosi Forest Lodge is an enchanting wilderness retreat situated within the Kosi Bay Nature Reserve, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed iSimangaliso Wetland Park. This 20-bed lodge offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure in thatched and canvas chalets raised on wooden decks. Each room features an open-air reed-enclosed bathroom and a private patio with garden views, providing guests with an intimate connection to the natural surroundings. The lodge is located in a low-risk malaria area just south of the Mozambique border, offering easy access to pristine wetlands, ancient forests, and diverse wildlife. Guests can explore this nature lover's paradise through guided canoe tours, forest walks, and bird-watching excursions.

Great Brak River, South Africa

Botlierskop Bush Villas offers upmarket self-catering accommodations nestled on the northern side of Botlierskop Private Game Reserve, accessible via the Great Brak River. The eight fully furnished villas are perfect for families with children and guests seeking privacy and seclusion. Each villa features stunning waterhole views from glass sliding doors that open onto a wooden deck, ideal for observing wildlife and enjoying sundowners by your fire pit or taking a refreshing dip in your private splash pool. Botlierskop is situated along the scenic Garden Route, just off the N2, making it easily accessible from Cape Town via a 4-hour drive. The reserve lies in a malaria-free area and is within a short drive of George Airport and Mossel Bay’s historical attractions.

Clarens, South Africa

Amalia is a charming holiday house in a secure complex located at the foot of the mountains in Clarens, offering spacious and comfortable self-catering accommodation. Three-bedroom house with king, queen, and twin beds. The house can accommodate up to 6 guests.

Outjo, South Africa

Vingerklip Lodge sits in a timeless valley on the sprawling Farm Bertram, encompassing 3000 hectares and surrounded by a game fence to protect its wildlife. The lodge's private reserve spans 1600 hectares with three waterholes that attract an array of animals including giraffe, eland, zebra, kudu, oryx, springbok, impala, warthogs, baboons, and steenbok. Guests can enjoy guided and unguided walking trails through the reserve, offering close encounters with nature and stunning views. The lodge's location near the Ugab terraces is home to the dramatic Vingerklip rock formation, a 35-metre-high pillar of stone that stands out in this ancient landscape. This serene setting provides an ideal base for exploring Namibia’s natural beauty while enjoying the comfort and amenities of Vingerklip Lodge.

Hermanus, South Africa

Abalone Lodge stands as a landmark seafront property on Siever's Point, midway between Hermanus town centre and its beautiful Blue Flag beaches. This unique accommodation combines South African art with panoramic views of the ocean or mountains, offering luxury for travel, business, or leisure. With direct access to the Scenic Cliff Path, guests can enjoy whale watching from their private balconies or patios. The lodge is situated within a 1.5-hour drive from Cape Town and offers majestic views, delicious food, and outstanding service that make it unforgettable.

Clarens, South Africa

Gentle Presence Cottage is a historical sandstone cottage set in an enclosed large garden with stunning mountain views. It offers a home away from home experience, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Two-bedroom cottage with queen beds and a sofa bed in the living room. The cottage can accommodate up to 6 guests.

Colleen Glen, South Africa

Thunzi Bush Lodge offers an unparalleled retreat for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquillity within easy reach of Port Elizabeth's amenities. Situated on a 44-hectare forest valley overlooking a pristine wetland, this self-catering lodge provides the ultimate exclusivity just 25km west of the city. The property is perfectly positioned to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the indigenous forest and wetlands while being within a short drive of various attractions such as golf courses, beaches, and game parks. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Thunzi Bush Lodge offers a charming 'Mind Unwind' destination that caters to both local South African and international travellers.