South Africa
Scenic stays: the 5 best luxury hotels along the Panorama route
The Panorama route’s best luxury hotels
The Panorama route is a famous stretch of breathtaking landscape in Mpumalanga with dramatic cliffs and lush valleys – but the journey isn’t just about the views. Along the route, you’ll find some exceptional luxury hotels and lodges that make exploring this iconic part of South Africa even more special. This guide will take you through the top luxury hotels along the route – staying at one of these hotels will be just as memorable as the sights you’ll see along the way. Here’s where you should book for an unforgettable experience along the Panorama route.
Overview: Panorama route’s best luxury hotels
01
Moditlo River Lodge
Moditlo River Lodge is located on a private 36,000-acre reserve within the Blue Canyon Conservancy, near the famous Kruger National Park. The lodge’s 18 luxury thatched chalets offer understated elegance with king-sized beds, air conditioning and outdoor decks to soak up the bush views. Moditlo River Lodge is well-known for its twice-daily game drives led by experienced guides who provide in-depth knowledge about the Big Five and other wildlife in the area. We love the dining experience at Moditlo River Lodge – meals are served in the boma, a traditional outdoor dining area, where you can enjoy meals by the fire while stargazing and sharing stories with other guests.
Moditlo River Lodge
Hoedspruit
Limpopo
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Moditlo River Lodge
02
Safari Moon Luxury Bush Lodge
Safari Moon Luxury Bush Lodge sits on a 10-hectare private reserve, with only six suites, offering an intimate and chic bush escape. The lodge offers individually designed suites featuring a blend of earthy tones, outdoor showers and private patios with views of the savannah. Going for a guided bush walk or game drive is a must when staying here – you can spot some giraffes, zebras and an abundance of birdlife here. Other than game drives, the lodge offers a saltwater pool and a communal deck with views over the savannah, ideal for relaxing and sipping a cocktail while watching the sunset.
Safari Moon Luxury Bush Lodge
Wildlife Estate
372 Kierieklapper St
Hoedspruit
Limpopo
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Safari Moon Luxury Bush Lodge
03
Umvangati House
If you’re after peace and stunning views, Umvangati House delivers. Situated near the Blyde River Canyon, Umvangati House features just five rooms and three suites, all designed with floor-to-ceiling windows, letting you take in sweeping canyon views right from your bed. We think the infinity pool overlooking the canyon is stunning and found the views from our private balcony beautiful – a highlight when visiting the Panorama Route. The lodge also offers a range of activities, including boat trips on the Blyde Dam and scenic hikes in the surrounding area.
Umvangati House
Swadini Road
Blyde River Canyon
Mpumalanga
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Umvangati House
04
Summerfields Rose Retreat & Spa
When staying at Summerfields Rose Retreat & Spa you will be surrounded by the fragrance of roses and the soothing sounds of the Sabie River. This retreat features 12 luxury tented suites, all with river views, private outdoor showers and freestanding baths surrounded by nature. While the suites and surroundings are amazing, the real highlight here is the spa. Try the unique rose quartz therapy or the Sabie River stone massage, where they use botanicals from the farm. For a farm-to-table dining experience, head over to the on-site Riverside Restaurant and the Rose Café serves delicious coffee and freshly baked goods.
Summerfields Rose Retreat & Spa
Sabie Road
Hazyview
Mpumalanga
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Summerfields Rose Retreat & Spa
05
Tanamera Lodge
Tanamera Lodge is set above the Sabie River Valley, offering views of the lush Lowveld forest. The timber chalets overlook the valley with private decks and plunge pools and the views are simply unbeatable – mornings on the deck with a coffee in hand are something special. The lodge balances rustic touches with luxury comforts, featuring African-inspired interiors and cosy fireplaces for cooler nights. And if you’re into exploring, Tanamera Lodge is perfectly placed for hikes to nearby waterfalls or day trips to the Kruger. It’s a spot that offers the best of both worlds – adventure by day and comfort by night.
Tanamera Lodge
Sabie Road
Hazyview
Mpumalanga
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Tanamera Lodge
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