Kruger National Park, South Africa
Kruger’s finest: the 5 best safari lodges in Kruger
Kruger’s best safari lodges
If you dream of waking up to the sounds of the African bush and spotting wildlife right from your room, then a safari in Kruger National Park is calling your name. This iconic park offers incredible wildlife and landscapes and it’s also home to some of the best safari lodges in the world. In this guide, we’ll dive into our top picks of the finest safari lodges in Kruger, offering a distinct experience that immerses you in the heart of the African bush.
Overview: Kruger’s best safari lodges
01
Simbavati Hilltop Lodge
Elevated on a hill within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge offers jaw-dropping views of the bush below. It’s a place where you’ll wake up to the sight of elephants ambling along the river from your private deck or maybe catch a glimpse of a leopard on your evening game drive. The lodge is small, intimate and all about blending luxury with nature, with eco-conscious tented suites with outdoor showers and the quiet hum of the wild as your background soundtrack. We love that this area is home to white lions – you might just spot one of these rare animals while on a drive!
Simbavati Hilltop Lodge
Timbavati Game Reserve
Hoedspruit
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Simbavati Hilltop Lodge
02
Singita Boulders Lodge
There’s something about Singita Boulders Lodge that feels otherworldly, almost as if it’s a natural extension of the Sand River itself. Built around massive boulders that have stood here for millennia, the lodge’s design is earthy, organic and effortlessly luxurious. It’s very easy to fall in love with the chic, stone-clad suites and private plunge pools. The Sabi Sands Reserve is home to some of the best leopard sightings in the world and the lodge’s expert trackers ensure you get front-row seats to these elusive cats in action. A little bonus that we loved at this lodge is the wine cellar, an unexpected surprise with over 200 South African wines to choose from.
Singita Boulders Lodge
Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Kruger National Park
Hazyview
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Singita Boulders Lodge
03
Lion Sands River Lodge
If you’re looking for a safari experience that blends luxury with a deep connection to nature, Lion Sands River Lodge is a perfect match. Positioned right on the Sabie River, the lodge’s location is a game changer, especially during dry months when wildlife flocks to the water for a drink. Watching elephants bathe from your suite is pretty common here! What makes this lodge unique for us is the small, thoughtful touches. The lodge is elegant yet inviting, with riverside rooms that are beautifully designed to feel like a home away from home and the infinity pool is also stunning! Another little touch we like is the option to book a romantic treehouse sleepout under the stars – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Lion Sands River Lodge
Sabie Park
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Lion Sands River Lodge
04
Singita Sweni Lodge
Hidden deep within a private corner of Kruger, Singita Sweni Lodge feels like a secret oasis for those who crave an intimate, luxurious safari. The lodge has a minimalist design that melts into the surrounding landscape. With earthy tones, glass walls and private decks that overlook the Sweni River – the perfect spot for spying birds or a passing herd of elephants. This lodge has only 7 suites, each fitted with a private wooden deck with daybeds, perfect for stargazing. The lodge provides exclusive access to 33,000 acres of wilderness – you will be treated to exceptional game-viewing experiences.
Singita Sweni Lodge
Sweni River
Kruger National Park
Mpumalanga
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Singita Sweni Lodge
05
Tengile River Lodge
True to its name, meaning tranquil in the local Tsonga language, Tengile River Lodge offers a peaceful getaway along the meandering Sand River. With only nine ultra-private suites, you’ll feel as though the world has slowed down just for you. The suites are designed to bring the outside in, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows framing your personal view of the river, where hippos splash and elephants wander. Each suite also boasts a private deck and plunge pool. Sabi Sands is renowned for its high density of leopards and the expert rangers and trackers will get you up close to these elusive cats, among other rare encounters.
Tengile River Lodge
Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve
Sabi Sand
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Tengile River Lodge
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