Cheap Hotels in Chicago: Where to Stay for Less Than $100 a Night

Orpen

Orpen Rest Camp is located in the centre of Kruger's western border.

Small in comparison to the park's larger rest camps, Orpen derived its name from the original donor of the land, Eileen Orpen. Accomodation on offer is bungalows and guest cottages.

With scattered trees and vast, sweet grass covered plains, the surrounding area attracts a large variety of browsers. Which in turn, attracts the iconic predators -  cheetah, lion and leopard.

Well known for its biodiversity, Orpen offers visitors opportunities to experience close encounters with the Big Five in their natural environment. Wild dog, zebra and giraffe are also prominent in the area.

The camp is situated right at the Orpen Gate.

Shingwedzi

In the heart of mopane country, in Kruger National Park's northern region lies Shingwedzi Rest Camp.

With regular sightings of waterbuck, nyala, kudu, elephant and some incredible bird life, a game drive along the Shingwedzi River towards the Kanniedood Dam is one of the most rewarding drives in the park.

The rustic camp carries an essence of the bush, untouched by modern technology. Accommodation is arranged in two separate circles and ranges from camp sites and huts to cottages.

Impala, duiker, bushbuck and Sharpe’s grysbok are browsers to look for in the area while buffalo and waterbuck are the most common grazing species. Baboon and vervet monkey are prominent as are tree squirrels, especially within the camp itself.

Predators in the area include lion, leopard, spotted hyena and a couple of packs of wild dog are also known to roam these northern reaches of the Kruger National Park. On the open plains north of Babalala Picnic Site, cheetah are regularly recorded.

Shingwedzi is accessed most easily from Punda Maria gate, however with a 71 kilometre drive it still takes around 3 hours.

Pretoriouskop

Set among spectacular, ancient granite outcrops, Pretoriuskop Rest Camp is situated in the southwestern corner of Kruger National park.

Around 3500 million years ago, molten rock forced its way through the earth's crust and solidified to form the spectacular granite outcrops, the most famous being 'Shabeni Hill'.

Pretoriuskop is the park's oldest rest camp and offers a unique atmosphere with red trees and exotic flowering plants dotted throughout, with accommodation that caters for campers, couples and families.

Both species of rhino, elephant and buffalo can all be seen along the loop roads which surround and camp, and numerous rocky outcrops make perfect habitat for rock hyrax, klipspringer, oribi and red duiker. The chance of also seeing herds of sable, eland and Lichtenstein’s hartebeest make Pretoriuskop a special location within Kruger.

Wild dogs are frequently spotted in the area and so are cheetah, although sightings aren't as easy as in other parts of the park due to the dense vegetation.

Pretoriuskop is easily accessible with a 9 kilometre drive from Numbi Gate.

Mopani

Along the banks of the Pioneer Dam, and nestled against the mopani tree-covered hills, lies Kruger's best kept secret - Mopani Rest Camp.

Named after the vast mopane veld that surrounds the camp, its signature feature is the giant baobab tree in the centre of the camp. The foliage within its boundaries is left wild, adding to it's unique atmosphere.

Accommodation includes bungalows, cottages, guest cottages and guest houses.

The dense mopane veld has a reputation for being a poor game-viewing area. However hippo, waterbuck, impala, warthog, elephant, buffalo and sometimes even lion can be spotted.

The Nshawu pans and the Tropic of Capricorn loop are excellent areas for spotting wildlife. The surrounding plains host species like blue wildebeest, Burchell’s zebra, and tsessebe. Caracal have also been spotted in the area.

Bush Camps

Kruger National Park's Bush Camps offer a more authentic bushveld experience, with more remote locations and no tourist traffic. The camps do not have any commercial shops or restaurants and access is restricted to overnight guests. Appliances like hair-dyrers and cell phone charges can't be used at three of the five camps and each unit's veranda often serves as a kitchen and dining room. Kitchen areas are fitted with refrigerators, stove/oven and cooking utensils including cutlery and crockery.

Bataleur

Set on the banks of the Mashokwe spruit, approximately 40 kilometres southwest of Shingwedzi, Bateleur Camp lies in the picturesque northern Mopane woodland savannah of the Kruger Park.

The oldest and smallest of all the bushveld camps, Bateleur camp was named after the majestic eagle, commonly found in the area. The camp offers 7 family cottages and a game-viewing hide that overlooks a waterhole adjacent to the camp. Two large dams - Silwervis and Rooibosrand - are within close range and restricted to residents of Bateleur camp.

The dams offer regular sightings of hippo, crocodile and bushbuck, and for the lucky few - leopard. The nearby Nshawu pans are open plains that host species such as blue wildebeest, Burchell's zebra, buffalo and tsessebe.

Bateleur Camp is most easily accessible from the Phalaborwa gate, but the 140 kilometre route still requires at least 4 hours.

Biyamiti

Nestled between the Mbiyamiti river and dense Delagoa thickets - Biyamiti bush camp is one of the most beautiful places to stay in Kruger National Park.

Ideally situated between ginormous Wild Fig and Jackalberry trees, the camp attracts an abundance of wildlife including: giraffe, kudu, duiker, impala, steenbok, elephant, rhino, buffalo and hippo as well as predators like lion, leopard and hyena. The area also offers the chance of seeing the cheetah and packs of wild dog.

The camp offers 15 guest cottages and is easily accessed from the Malelane gate with a 39 kilometre drive that shouldn't take any more than 2 hours.

Shimuwini

Shimuwini, which translates to "Place of the Baobab Tree," gets its name from its scenic location along the Letaba River, where it's adorned with numerous majestic baobab trees, including one remarkable specimen believed to be over 2,000 years old.

This camp, featuring 15 cottages overlooking the river, is named for its lush surroundings.

As the most updated bush camp in Kruger National Park, Shimuwini underwent a complete renovation following flood damage about two decades ago. The area is renowned for its diverse wildlife sightings, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, giraffes, kudus, impalas, wildebeests, zebras, duikers, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species, alongside baboons and buffaloes.

Located about 50 kilometers or a two-hour journey from the Phalaborwa Gate, Shimuwini offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife encounters.

Sirheni

Sirheni Bush Camp is situated on the very edge of Kruger National Park's northern plains within the region's Mopane  veld. The word 'Sirheni' is a Tsonga word meaning 'cemetery' - referring to an elephant graveyard site near the camp.

The camp's 15 cottages, as well as its two bird hides, overlook the Mphongolo River which runs adjacent to the camp and visitors have been woken by the sounds of lion and hyena as there are regular kills around the river's edge. Sirheni also has a resident leopard that is regularly seen as it comes down to the river to drink.

The area surrounding the camp is renowned for its density of rare antelope species , such as roan, sable, tsessebe, lichtenstein's hartebeest and reedbuck.

A poster at reception calls for guest to record sightings of these rare species. Elephant and buffalo are also common. Sirheni is 54 kilometres from the Punda Maria gate and around 2 hours should be allowed for the drive from the gate.

Talamati

Talamati, which translates from Xitsonga as "Lots of Water," presents a stark contrast with its dry riverbed. Despite the absence of visible water, the riverbed's clay soil functions like a massive sponge, retaining an extensive underground water supply.

This natural reservoir nourishes the area's vegetation throughout the year, making Talamati Bush Camp a verdant oasis in the midst of a wide, open valley. Offering 15 family-friendly cottages, this camp is a prime spot for exceptional wildlife watching in Kruger National Park.

The fertile grasslands nearby draw large herds of animals, closely followed by their predators, ensuring rich game viewing experiences. Regularly spotted wildlife includes giraffes, kudus, elands, impalas, zebras, rhinos, buffaloes, lions, and hyenas.

Located about 30 kilometers from the Orpen gate, Talamati can be reached with a drive of approximately ninety minutes, offering visitors a secluded retreat amidst the park's natural beauty.

Bush Lodges

Kruger National Park's bush lodges are exclusive, private lodges with a unique styling and a peaceful atmosphere as only residents are allowed access.

There are no shops or restaurant facilities, but all units have a kitchen fitted with a gas stove with oven, fridge, freezer, cutlery and crockery. Braai and barbecue facilities are provided.

Boulders Bush Lodge

Around 25 kilometres south of Mopani Rest Camp, Boulders Bush Lodge is rooted in rocky outcrops, iconic for the northern Kruger Park.

The rock formations create a majestic backdrop for all the units, which are built on stilts with wooden boardwalks connecting the bedrooms to the communal living area. Rooms are close together, but still provide privacy. They are ideal for close families and friend groups that want to experience the bush together.

Boulders can accommodate a maximum of 12 guests at a time. Be sure to allow about two and a half hours drive, as the lodge is about 55 kilometres from Phalaborwa Gate.

Pafuri Border Camp

Pafuri Border Camp is situated in the northern most part of the Kruger National Park, close to Punda Maria and near the meeting point of the Luvubu and Limpopo rivers. It is renowned as some of the most productive birding territory in South Africa.

The camp's accommodation comes in the form of 3 family-sized cottages, where all are fitted with en-suite shower and bathroom.

The camp is situated 70 kilometres from the Punda Maria gate.

Roodewal Bush Lodge

Situated on the banks of the Timbavati River, Roodewal Bush Lodge is a secluded lodge around 44 kilometres north of Satara.

Each sleeping unit is offered extreme privacy and the braai area offers picturesque views over the Timbavati river and the Natal Mahogony and Jackalberry trees which line it on either side.

The camp has a total of 18 beds, and all units have a lounge and kitchen, as well as a private braai area. Roodewal is a 3 hour, 75 kilometre drive from the Orpen gate.

Satellite Camps

Satellite Camps are small, intimate camps located near to the main rest camps. They only offer self-catering accommodation and camping facilities which provide a true wilderness experience. This means they are also low-traffic camps and the morning and noon hours allow for a vibrant bush feeling as the nocturnal animals are abuzz.

Balule

Set right at the heart of Kruger National Park, Balule camp is named after the Tsonga word for the Olifants river, from which it is found only short distance away, and the same can be said for the nearby Olifants Rest Camp.

With no electricity and only the most basic of facilities, a low fence is the only protection between the camp and the wildlife that surrounds it.

Elephant are common in the surrounding area while baboon and vervet monkeys are prevalent within camp. Balule lies 85 kilometres from the Phalaborwa gate, so allow for an extra 3 hours on your journey in.

Malelane

Malelane camp is found where the powerful Crocodile River separates, rolling sugar cane fields of the neighbouring farms and the majestic savannah of the Kruger National Park.

The only camp found on a park boundary, Malelane is a small camp which provides an intimate bush experience only 5 kilometres away from the Malelane gate. Accommodation on offer are electrified campsites and bungalows.

The surrounding area is a hotspot for game viewing with regular sightings of the Big Five.

Maroela

Another small satellite camp, Maroela is a situated on the banks of the Timbavati River, on the western boundary of the Kruger Park, a stone's throw east of Orpen Rest Camp.

Maroela is one of only two camps in Kruger that caters exclusively for caravans and campers and there are no other pre-erected accommodation structures in camp. Close to the fence is the ideal place to be as visitors can watch the variety of wildlife that visits the small watering hole which neighbours the camp. There is also a rustic viewing platform that overlooks the Timbavati River.

The game-rich surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for viewing large herds of zebra and wildebeest and the predators who prey on them.

The camp is a short 3 kilometre drive from the Orpen gate.

Tamboti

Tamboti tented camp is also situated on the banks of the Timbavati River, not far from Maroela. It's size and location makes Tamboti one of the most popular camps in Kruger. The exclusively tented accommodation ranges from budget offerings to semi-luxury safari tents.

It boasts a boma area, ideal for small groups and families to gather around and enjoy an evening bonfire, as well as a hide in which keen birders can spend hours watching some of the region's vibrant bird life.

The naturally 'wild' feeling is preserved within the camp with tall acacias and marula trees sharing the grounds with red bush willows.

The camp is a 4 kilometre or 10 minute drive from the Orpen gate.

Overnight Hides

The Sable and Shipandani hides in Kruger National Park double as sleepover hides where guests are provided with a nature experience unparalleled in any of the park's other camps. The hides offer the opportunity to truly immerse yourself in the nighttime activity of the African wilderness. With no electricity and no water, any luxuries will need to be brought by you and once you've settled in for the evening, there's no leaving until dawn.

Sleeping units fold down from the walls, where they are bolted away during the day time hours, and basic boma/braai facilities are offered with no cutlery or crockery. Guests are expected to vacate the hide, atleast 30 minutes before gate opening times.

Sable

Sable Sleepover Hide, is a bird hide by day, and transforms into a primitive overnight dwelling by night.

The hide overlooks the Sable Dam where a plethora of animals gather to drink. Lion's roar throughout the night and the grunt of hippos, which originate just meters away from you, ring out into the night.

Sable hide is situated approximately 10km from of Phalaborwa Gate.

Shipandani

Shipandani Sleepover Hide, is found 3 kilometres south of the Mopani Rest Camp, along the Tsendze River.

The hide transforms into overnight accommodation at dusk and allows a select few to experience the African wilderness under the cover of darkness.

Large buffalo herds and bull elephant bachelor groups are known to frequent the area, near to the sleeping area.

Shipandeni is most easily accessible from the Phalaborwa gate, from which it is a 70 kilometre or 3 hour drive.

We paid our conservation fees at the gate, and proceeded with the 17km journey to the lodge. The road network is all dirt/gravel roads, but the main roads are very well maintained and we had no troubles with our rental Volkswagen Polo Vivo.

The Lodge

Upon arrival at the lodge we were greeted by Licia with a warm smile and a couple glasses of refreshing lemonade. Exactly what we needed after a long drive! We were introduced to Marius (@mariuszeil) - our dedicated guide - before having our bags whisked away and being given a tour of our home for the week.

The lodge is immaculate! Situated on the banks of the Olifants River and sleeping just 16 guests, the property boasts a very intimate setting while still being incredibly spacious. The communal area at the heart of the lodge is the perfect example of this, with ample space for guests to get together and buzz about the day's sightings and various breakaway areas to enjoy a quiet drink should you wish to do so.

The outdoor dining area is like something out of a movie, set on a raised viewing deck adjacent to the main lodge, in and amongst the giant trees. It felt as if we were dining in a tree house, with exceptional views over the mighty river as it thundered past.

If you've ever been to a wild part of Africa, you'll know that primates are often quite a nuisance. One of our favourite lunch time activities was watching the vervet monkeys try their luck at getting in and around the food. Ever-persistent but unsuccessful as member of staff 'Remember' and his trusty slingshot were always two steps ahead.

Accommodation comes in the form of suites and chalets, each of which is uniquely named and designed. We stayed in the 'Tree' suite which I would highly recommend if you're a fan of river views and awesome bush landscape!

Sightings from our room included; elephant, hippo, crocodile, water buck, giraffe, warthog, impala, baboon, vervet monkey as well as a kingfisher and various other bird species.

On day three we were informed of the presence of a lone lioness across the river, directly opposite our suite. However this one I missed out on during one of my many rotations between our private jacuzzi and outdoor shower. Oops!

The Food

As a self-proclaimed foodie, a great menu is often all you need to get me excited about an experience!

Being a five-star lodge, we knew the food at Pondoro was going to be good. What we didn't know was how much variety there was going to be! The catering team worked tirelessly and left nothing to be desired with their menus, meal plans and snack options.

Our typical day's eating looked like this:

• Coffee/Tea - 05:45: A quick pick-me-up before the first game drive of the day, every morning we were greeted with a huge spread of hot coffee, tea, fruit juices, biscuits, rusks and snacks.
• Mid-safari coffee/tea - 08:00: For me, one of the of best parts of a game drive is pulling over for a quick stop to stretch your legs and enjoy a beverage as you take in the sights and sounds of the bush waking up. Once again, nothing was spared as Marius provided coffee, tea and a selection of biscuits and rusks.
• Breakfast - 10:30: After a couple hours out in the bush, all the excitement usually leaves me starving (surely can't just be me?) and there's nothing better than coming back to a bespoke breakfast. The menu features the all-the-works, from cereals and fruits to muffins and cooked breakfasts. I tried something different every morning, but the Pondoro breakfast was definitely the winner!
• Light lunch - 14:30: I have to say, I do feel the Pondoro team is being very moderate when they refer to these as 'light lunches'. With very healthy portions, a bread roll to start and a well laid out snack table to pick at after, there was nothing light about me after lunch. Excitingly, lunch is the only meal you go into 'blindly' and we were treated to quiche, beef wraps, burgers and a fantastic Bobotie, during our stay.
• Mid-safari sundowner - 17:30: Sundowners are traditional in South Africa, and a special part of afternoon game drives. Marius always ensured to bring along everyone's favourite drinks and served them with a selection of snacks like biltong, dried fruit and chips. All of this while watching the most beautiful sunsets on earth (again, I might be biased) - this is what I'll miss the most.
• Dinner - 20:30: We would typically arrive back at the lodge at around 19:30, and most guests headed straight to the bar where we would huddle around the fireplace and defrost before tucking into the lodge's impressive selection. This includes a large variety of local beer and wines, and multiple top-shelf spirits including Pondoro Game Lodge's very own gin! Dinner selections were made during breakfast and included a set menu from which you could choose your preferred starter, main meal and dessert options. Our mains choices included; fillet steak, lamb shank and ostrich fillet paired with a glass of red wine, however every evening also offer a fish and vegan option.

Things to do

Game Drives

Two game drives per day is customary during a stay with Pondoro. The morning drive leaves at 06:00 and the afternoon drive around 15:30. If you're like me - not a morning person - don't worry, one of the Pondoro team will head down to your suite to give you a wake up call around 05:15 before coming to collect you at 05:45.

Our game drives were led by Marius and a highly knowledgable tracker named Erik - you might recognise hime from one of the most viral pieces of safari content of recent times. Together they make an incredible team and their ability to find and spot animals in the bush is quite astonishing.

We were lucky enough to see the whole Big Five, despite the leopards really testing our resolve. It took 7 game drives before we eventually spotted one! Despite the frustration, it was incredibly thrilling to finally find them after hours of searching. Especially because we stumbled upon a mating pair!

Other highlight sightings included;

• A pride of lions feeding on a giraffe carcass
• A herd of elephant approaching and surrounding our vehicle
• A huge herd of buffalo surrounding the vehicle as they moved through the bush
• 10 lion cubs cuddled up with a lioness
• Lion cubs suckling, which is a first for me.

Bush Walk

Pondoro Game Lodge also offers on-foot bush experiences. Ours was hosted by Erik, who guided us along the Olifants River and shared some of his plentiful knowledge from a lesser experienced perspective. We didn't see much, other than a couple nile crocodile and a few vervet monkeys, however we did learn a lot about the many uses for elephant poop!

Spa

Only for sheer excitement at all the other actives on offer, we didn't actually get to enjoy a treatment at the Pondoro spa. We did however have a look at the spa menu before leaving on our last day and really regret not making some time for a massage!

Treehouse

One of our favourite experiences while at Pondoro Game Lodge was the afternoon picnic at the lodge's dreamy bush treehouse!

Here, we were treated to an amazing spread of picnic snacks and finger foods, laid out in the treehouse hide which overlooks a dam. Unfortunately we didn't see any big game animals come down for a drink, but it was a very relaxing afternoon and an overall great experience.

You can also choose to spend in a night in the treehouse should you wish to do so, which is definitely on my list for our next visit!

Check it out here.

Relax on your private deck

Each of the suites at Pondoro have a large, private viewing deck with sun loungers, a rock jacuzzi, outdoor shower and exceptional river views.

Although June is technically winter in South Africa, the Hoedspruit area never really experiences winter in the way some other parts of the country does. During the day time hours, temperatures rose above 25 degrees Celsius and made for the perfect environment for us to soak up some vitamin D.

The jacuzzi was conveniently fitted with both hot and cold taps, which made it really easy to adjust for comfort in accordance with the ambient temperature.

Dinner on the river bed

On our last evening, Ashlee and I - along with our fellow guests - were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime dinner on the bed of the Olifants River. Not only was the fire-lit setting exceptional, but we were treated to an amazing display of traditional song and dance by the Pondoro staff. This stunning display of South African culture made it impossible to not get goosebumps, even for a local!

Conclusion

Pondoro Game Lodge offered the perfect blend of luxury experience and African hospitality.

Thank you to Robbie and Lize, who along with their incredible staff made us feel incredibly welcome throughout the duration of our stay.

If the idyllic location, picturesque property and wildlife sightings weren't enough, the service at the lodge itself was second to none! We definitely felt like part of the family and would love to return one day.

3. Private Game Reserve in Waterberg 

West of Kruger National Park lies the Waterberg region and within it, a private game reserve owned and run by the Baber family of The Ant Collection, a pair of homely yet luxury houses in the middle of South Africa’s bushveld.

The Waterberg region is about 80% the size of the Kruger and is largely a conservation area, providing a haven for the Big 5 along with antelope species like the sable and roan.

The Marakele National Park is also found in this region, which makes the Waterberg a good option if you want to do both a private game reserve and national park in one trip.

Interestingly, the 12500 acres of reserve has been awarded World Biosphere status by UNESCO and is the only savannah biosphere in the world. Its diverse typography lends it to hosting a wide variety of game as well as over 300 bird species.

The Baber family has championed the sable antelope, which is one of the most conservation-dependent antelopes in South Africa, having gradually established a healthy population and viable breeding herd within the reserve. 

A safari in a national park can be more restrictive in terms of how you can experience the wilderness as walking safaris, night drives and off-road driving are often not permitted.

Furthermore, camps may not be family-friendly and age restrictions on certain activities higher, without any alternatives to keep the kids busy.

At family-oriented safari houses like Ant’s Hill and Ant’s Nest , the experience is truly about getting off the beaten track on horseback, walking and even mountain-biking safaris.

A wider variety of activities means that everyone in the family gets a chance to be part of the wildlife action.

4. iSimangaliso Wetland Park 

On South Africa’s east coast in the KwaZulu Natal-Province, lies a UNESCO World Heritage Site called the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

So naturally splendid is iSimangaliso that is has 10 jewels in its wilderness crown – coastal forest, Cape Vidal, False Bay, Kosi Bay, Lake Sibaya, Lake St Lucia, Maphelane, Sodwana Bay, uMhkuze and Charters Creek.

All of these unique ecosystems interlink to create a sanctuary for a wide array and abundance of terrestrial, water and airborne creatures.

The park and its ecological variety make it a unique wilderness destination as you can take a game drive in the morning and a cruise on St Lucia in the afternoon. Lake St Lucia is Africa’s largest estuarine system and is known as the heart that sustains the wonder of iSimangaliso.

Eighty kilometres long length and with a 23km width, St Lucia is a comfortable home for 50% of all water birds in the province, 155 fish species, 2180 species of flowering plants and, of course, abundant game like hippo, waterbuck, kudu and nyala.

With all these beautiful protected environmental zones coming together in one place, it would be a shame to have to share them with hordes of other people.

As the only privately-owned and owner-managed game lodge within iSimangaliso, the well-appointed Makakatana Bay Lodge ensures exclusivity and serenity. This makes the most of the spectacular view of the St Lucia wetlands and any wildlife visitors that may pass by.

Boat cruises on the lake are, of course, the epitome of a stay here and there are also other activities, like game drives in the iSimangaliso bush as well as the possibility of watching dolphins and whales in the Indian Ocean.  

5. Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve 

In South Africa’s Eastern Cape, near to the small beach town of Port Alfred, is the Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve.

Aptly named the Sunshine Coast, this part of the country enjoys more daylight hours, which in turns mean more time to experience this breath-taking private coastal reserve.

As it is privately-owned and -managed, this reserve upholds an ethos of individuality, authenticity and freedom in all aspects of the safari experience. It also offers that perfect combination of beach and safari; it is where the wilderness of the bush meets the vibrant waters of the Indian Ocean.

The traditional bush wilderness of this reserve homes more than 220 bird and 30 animal species, including giraffe, zebra and elephant, which may be encountered on daily game drives that will not be overcrowded due to the limited nature of the reserve.

The ocean aspect of the reserve entices you to explore the 7km of pristine unspoilt beach; head down to the shoreline at dawn to watch the shoreline and dip your toes in the warm water or take a stroll at dusk to soak up the last of the sun’s rays. 

Such a special reserve deserves equally special accommodation. The boutique hotel of  Oceana, which of course is responsible for both the name and management of the reserve, blends in with its natural surrounds and in many ways reflects it in its interior design.

There are also many activities nearby to Oceana so fun day trips out of the reserve are also a possibility if you want to explore the area more.  

Cover image © Carmen Berdeguer at Garonga Safari Camp 

Lukimbi Safari Lodge

Lukimbi Safari Lodge is a 5-star luxury camp in the southern portion of the Kruger National Park, on the 15,000 hectare Lwakahle concession.

The lodge is decorated with carved plaster panels showing intricate portrayals of mystical creatures and African patterns.

The lodge features 14 luxury suites with an additional two considered as 'ultra-luxury'. Each suite is fitted with both indoor and outdoor showers, en-suite bathrooms and a private deck overlooking the river and its surrounding plains. The premier suites have private splash pools that provide some much need respite from the African summer heat. The lodge also offers conference facilities, a private chapel, a gym and a library.

Activities include guided walks, and two safaris per day in open game-viewing vehicles - one in the morning and one in the late afternoon - through 123 kilometres of private roads.

Rhino Post Safari Lodge

Situated on a 12,000 hectare private concession in Kruger National Park, Rhino Post Safari Lodge shares a 15 kilometre unfenced border with the famous Mala Mala and Sabi Sands Game Reserves. The concession is well known as an exceptional game viewing location as the animals move freely between each reserve. Sightings of the Big Five are extremely common.

The lodge is set on the dry Mutlumuvi Riverbed, under the magnificent Tamboti trees and has been expertly put together with natural materials - stone wood, thatch and canvas - providing an authentic wilderness ambience. Each of the 8 suites offer views over the riverbed, a hotspot for wildlife activity!

After one of the twice-daily game drives, guests can cool off in the swimming pool or take in the spectacular views from the shaded patio, looking on as wildlife make their way down to drink at the waterhole. The camp's outdoor dining area, set beneath the trees, provides a dreamy scene for a romantic dinner while the lounge, with its extensive wine cellar, cosy fireplace and bar, is the ideal winter spot.

Shishangeni Private Lodge

Shishangeni Private Lodge is situated on a 15,000 hectare private concession in the southeastern section of Kruger National Park, bordered by the Crocodile River to the south and Mozambique in the east.

The lodge is comprised of three main camps, Shishangeni Lodge, Camp Shawu and Camp Shonga, each of which offers a slightly different experience while keeping the focus on nature and luxury.

The main lodge accommodates 44 guests in 22 individual chalets, all equipped with en-suite bathrooms, outdoor showers, air conditioning, fireplace and private timber decks.

Guests are treated to daily game drives, with frequent Big Five sightings, and fireside boma dinners or spa days are also on offer.

Singita Lebombo Lodge

The unique Singita Lebombo Lodge is comprised of 13 glass-walled suites, suspended above the N'Wanetsi River, and providing some of the most breathtaking views of any of the private game lodges inside Kruger National Park. These light-filled structures, seemingly float between river and sky, and were inspired by the many eagles nests built into the cliff face on the river bank.

The 13,000 hectare Singita concession provides a richly diverse habitat that teems with wildlife, beneath endless African skies. Aside from the 13 contemporary suites, the private villa is the most exciting feature of the lodge. Set apart from the main lodge, it features a pair of 2-bedroom suites, each with a private pool, that link together to create a spectacular four-bedroom offering.

Activities include daily game drives, guided walking safaris, stargazing, spa days and looking for game while lounging around the pool.

Singita Sweni Lodge

Tucked into the banks of the Sweni River, the intimate Singita Sweni Lodge is a hidden gem of the bushveld that provides an African context to contemporary design, architecture and cuisine. The lodge's seven suites - with the addition of a family pool suite - are hidden amongst a canopy of trees, each of which features open plan interior with two bathrooms and an outdoor shower that overlooks the river. Each unit is constructed almost entirely of wood and glass.

Guests have access to a 33,000 acre private concession within the Kruger National Park, which is excellent game viewing territory as the area holds the highest densities of game and bird life in the park.

Along with a comprehensive wine cellar stocked with the finest selection of South African wines, guests are treated to exceptional cuisine with traditional African ingredients that combine simplicity with an abundance of flavour.

Activities include daily game drives, guided walking safaris, stargazing, spa days and wildlife spotting as the animals come down to the river to drink.

The Outpost

In the northernmost part of Kruger National Park, The Outpost lies in a vast wilderness called the Makuleke region, bordered by the Limpopo River and Zimbabwe in the North and Crooks Corner and Mozambique in the East.

The lodge comprises of one large main building with twelve stand-alone living spaces set on the side of a hill overlooking the Luvuvhu River. All are connected by a 500 metre long wooden walkway.

The contemporary design of each unit is added to with retractable screens that open to provide a 180 degree view of the Luvuvhu River valley. The living area comprises of an outdoor terrace with daybed, indoor lounge and bedroom with king size bed, beautifully positioned under mosquito netting and an en-suite bathroom with award winning views of the valley below.

Lion Sands Kruger

Situated in one of the most wildlife rich regions of Kruger National Park, Lion Sands Kruger lies on the banks of Sabie River, which is home to the highest density of leopards anywhere in Africa and one of the highest number of predators.

Lion Sands' twin lodges, Tinga and Narina, each boast nine luxury suites, each of which are well spaced to ensure exclusivity, and are equipped with a private heated plunge pool and viewing deck with an unobstructed view of the Sabie River. The river is the lifeblood of Kruger's southern region and many visitors have been treated to spectacular sightings from the decks of their suites.

The lodge sits within an exclusive 5,000 hectare private concession, where guests can enjoy searching for wildlife on game drives or bush walks, whilst accompanied by experienced field guides, and away from the hustle and bustle of the park's public roads.

However, Lion Sands vehicles do also have access to the entire Kruger road network, which means guests can view the areas of historical significance and aesthetic beauty outside of the concession should they wish to do so.

Pafuri Luxury Tented Camp

Pafuri Luxury Tented Camp is situated in the Makuleke Contract Park in the north of the Kruger National Park. The luxurious tented accommodation stretches along the Luvuvhu River on raised wooden walkways.

The remote 24,000 hectare concession is the largest and most biodiverse in Kruger with many species found no further south than Pafuri. As much as 75% of the park's total biodiversity occurs here in an area only slightly more than 1% of its total size.

The camp features 19 designer tents with en-suite bathrooms and both indoor and outdoor showers. There are seven ‘family tents’ that sleep families of four and each tent offers stunning views over the river. A bush bar, swimming pool and al-fresco dining area make up the everyday entertainment, and there’s plenty of space to unwind beneath the branches of the giant trees embracing the camp.

Three meals are served each day and guests are invited to take advantage of professionally guided morning and afternoon game drives to experience the extraordinary biodiversity, scenic splendour and history for which the Pafuri region is renowned. More adventurous guests can opt for bush walks, where guides will reveal many of the intimate secrets of the African bush. Close encounters with animals, both large and small are commonplace.