The Kruger Park spans over two million hectares and is located in the provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo in northeastern South Africa. It is one of the world’s largest national parks, comparable in size to Israel. With over 500 bird species, 300 tree species, 49 fish species, 33 amphibian species, 114 reptile species, and 147 mammal species, it is also among the world’s most wildlife-rich areas. Adjacent to the park are numerous private game reserves, which together form what is known as the “Greater Kruger.” The majority of these private reserves share unfenced borders with Kruger National Park, allowing animals to roam freely between these areas and the park. In addition to Kruger National Park, Greater Kruger includes private reserves such as Sabi Sand, Timbavati, Makuya, Letaba, Balule, Klaserie, Kapama (fenced), Umbabat, Makalali (fenced), and Manyeleti.

In Greater Kruger, you have a good chance of spotting the “Big Five,” although the likelihood depends on the season, the skills of guides and trackers, and, to some extent, luck. For an exceptional safari experience, Safari Collection recommends choosing a privately owned lodge in Greater Kruger, where the price is “all-inclusive.” This means that meals (three per day), local beverages, and two guided game drives daily are included in the cost. A unique feature of the private reserves is that safari vehicles are permitted to go off-road to get closer to the animals. Moreover, the guides and trackers in these reserves are highly skilled, significantly increasing your chances of encountering and experiencing more of the park’s incredible wildlife. Some lodges also offer walking safaris (with specially trained guides), which are particularly thrilling.

Safari Collection uses personal experience and in-depth local knowledge to guide you to the ultimate safari experience. The lodges listed below represent a carefully curated selection of the best that Greater Kruger has to offer, promising experiences and memories to last a lifetime. Get in touch with us to learn more.

Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is approximately 345 km long and 54 km wide, covering an area of around 20,000 km²—making it nearly twice the size of Wales. Dating back to 1898, when the area was first designated as a reserve, Kruger Park is the second-oldest formally protected area in Africa. The park was opened to the public in 1927.

Singita Lebombo Lodge

Singita Lebombo Lodge is an unparalleled sanctuary of luxury and serenity, nestled in the eastern part of Kruger National Park near the Mozambique border, within its own exclusive 33,000-hectare reserve. While located inside Kruger National Park, it occupies a “private concession,” meaning the area is reserved exclusively for Singita’s privileged guests. Perched on a dramatic cliffside, the lodge overlooks one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Kruger, offering a blend of seclusion, nature, and sophistication.

The lodge features 15 exquisitely designed suites, each spacious and beautifully styled with modern decor. The interiors showcase natural woods and soft, earthy tones, creating a seamless harmony with the surrounding wilderness. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows frame spectacular views of the N’wanetsi River, immersing you in nature’s grandeur from every corner of your suite. Each suite is equipped with every imaginable comfort, including a luxurious bathroom with a freestanding bathtub perfectly positioned to let you soak in the view. The private veranda invites you to relax with a meal or a book, lounge on sumptuous daybeds, or even sleep under the stars on a specially placed outdoor bed.

Singita Lebombo Lodge is renowned for its world-class dining and exceptional wine cellar. Master chefs craft gourmet dishes that celebrate local and international flavors, served wherever you desire—on your private deck, in the bush, or in the elegant dining area. Paired with fine wines from Singita’s curated collection, each meal is a sensory delight. Time seems to pause here, and leaving feels impossible.

Singita Lebombo Lodge warmly welcomes children aged 10 and above.

Singita Sweni Lodge

The luxurious Singita Sweni Lodge is a hidden gem, nestled in the lush trees along the banks of the Sweni River in the breathtaking Lebombo region. Located within Kruger National Park on a 33,000-hectare private concession, this exclusive retreat is reserved solely for Singita’s guests. The lodge offers unparalleled access to one of the most untouched areas of eastern Kruger, home to the iconic Big Five and an abundance of other wildlife.

Singita Sweni Lodge features just seven elegantly designed suites, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. One of the suites is a pool suite, complete with a private plunge pool and expansive veranda, perfect for soaking in the tranquil beauty of the surrounding wilderness. Each suite is a masterpiece of design, blending modern African-inspired decor with natural materials like glass and wood, accented by earthy tones and vibrant colors. Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors invite the outside in, offering uninterrupted views and a seamless connection to nature.

Gourmet cuisine is at the heart of the Singita experience. The lodge’s talented chefs craft exquisite meals paired with wines from an award-winning cellar, ensuring every dining moment is unforgettable. Between expertly guided safari drives, guests can unwind by the lodge’s large swimming pool or indulge in treatments at the world-renowned spa.

With only two lodges in this vast part of Kruger National Park—Singita Sweni Lodge and its sister property, Singita Lebombo Lodge—your safari experience here is both exclusive and exceptional, offering a rare chance to explore pristine wilderness in true luxury.

Children of all ages are welcome at Singita Sweni Lodge.

Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a private game reserve located adjacent to Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga, South Africa. Officially known as Sabi Sand Wildtuin, the reserve comprises several smaller private reserves. Its name is derived from the Sabie River, which forms the southern boundary, and the Sand River, which flows through the reserve. Covering an area of 62,308 hectares (623.08 km²), Sabi Sand shares a 50 km unfenced border with Kruger National Park to the east, allowing wildlife to roam freely between the two areas. The reserve is home to the Big 5—leopard, African buffalo, rhinoceros, elephant, and lion—as well as cheetah and wild dog, collectively referred to as the Magnificent 7. Sabi Sand is particularly renowned for its high density of leopards, offering some of the best opportunities in the world to observe these elusive big cats in their natural habitat.

Chitwa Chitwa Game Lodge
& Chitwa House

The elegant Chitwa Chitwa Lodge is set beside a vast waterhole in the northern Sabi Sand Game Reserve, offering a harmonious blend of contemporary elegance and African allure. The lodge features six spacious suites (130–180 m²), each thoughtfully designed with luxurious amenities, a private veranda, and a plunge pool overlooking the waterhole. Here, you can unwind with a drink as elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes gracefully pass by—a wildlife spectacle right at your doorstep.

For those seeking exclusivity, the private Chitwa House offers two elegant bedrooms with large verandas, a private pool, a stylish lounge, and a fully equipped kitchen. A dedicated chef, guide, tracker, and butler ensure a seamless and personalized experience, perfect for families or groups.

Between thrilling safaris, guests can relax at the spa, work out at the gym—both with views of the waterhole—or simply soak in the tranquil surroundings.

Chitwa Chitwa welcomes children of all ages.

&Beyond Kirkmans Kamp

Stepping into the elegant &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp feels like stepping back in time. This stunning lodge features 12 air-conditioned luxury rooms, beautifully designed in 1920s style, blending historical romance with modern comfort. Each room includes all essential amenities, an en-suite bathroom, and a private veranda overlooking the breathtaking savannah.

The century-old main building, “The Homestead,” offers spectacular views of roaming wildlife and houses a library steeped in history, an exceptional restaurant, a well-stocked bar, a large swimming pool, and a magnificent boma for al fresco dining under the stars.

Kirkman’s Kamp enjoys exclusive access to vast safari areas, making it uniquely positioned for exceptional wildlife encounters, particularly its famed leopard sightings.

Children of all ages are welcome at Kirkman’s Kamp.

Dulini

The Dulini Collection comprises three distinct lodges—Dulini Moya, Dulini Leadwood, and Dulini River—each located in the heart of the esteemed Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Despite their unique personalities, all Dulini lodges promise a truly authentic, high-quality safari experience.

Dulini Moya features six spacious, air-conditioned suites styled in classic colonial safari elegance. Think leather chairs, crystal glassware, vintage trunks, and modern amenities like floor-to-ceiling glass doors, a well-stocked minibar, and luxurious bathrooms with copper finishes and soaking tubs. Each suite includes a private deck with a plunge pool, perfect for soaking up the views. Dulini Moya’s cuisine is legendary, ensuring each meal is as exquisite as the surroundings.

Dulini Leadwood caters to those seeking privacy, personalized service, and unparalleled exclusivity. Accommodating only eight guests at a time, this lodge offers four sophisticated suites with stone accents, dark earthy tones, and fireplaces, exuding a warm, home-like feel. Each suite features indoor and outdoor showers, a veranda with loungers, and a private pool. Leadwood’s gourmet dining and exceptional wine cellar elevate the experience even further.

Dulini River sits gracefully along the Sand River, with six luxury suites featuring Scandinavian-inspired interiors—light wood tones, crisp white linens, and elegant furnishings. These airy, serene spaces also include opulent bathrooms with soaking tubs, indoor and outdoor showers, and private decks with pools overlooking the river. Meals here are crafted to perfection, continuing Dulini’s tradition of culinary excellence.

Children aged 8 and older are welcome at Dulini Moya and River Lodge. At Dulini Leadwood, children must be 12 or older.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

A true masterpiece of sustainable luxury, Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge redefines safari living. Nestled into a slope in the southern Sabi Sand Game Reserve, this lodge is designed to blend seamlessly into its surroundings while utilizing natural light in remarkable ways.

The lodge features 12 secluded luxury suites and one villa, each adorned with earthy tones and elegant natural accents. Private verandas include plunge pools, creating intimate sanctuaries for relaxation. Earth Lodge also boasts a world-class bar, a state-of-the-art gym with sweeping savannah views, and an internationally acclaimed wine cellar. The lodge’s award-winning chefs deliver exquisite meals that make every dining experience a celebration.

In addition to twice-daily game drives, Earth Lodge offers outstanding walking safaris. Its commitment to sustainability and luxury makes it one of a kind.

Children aged 12 and older are welcome.

Savanna Lodge

The charming Savanna Lodge is tucked away in the western part of central Sabi Sand Game Reserve, a region renowned for its frequent sightings of the Big 5—sometimes all in a single safari. This is a place where the magic of the wild begins the moment you step onto your veranda.

Your safari adventure starts right at the lodge as playful and curious vervet monkeys keep a watchful eye on your every move—from the safety of the windows, of course! The lodge features nine luxurious suites designed in a timeless colonial safari style, blending earthy tones with bold, vibrant accents. Each suite offers the ultimate in comfort, with amenities such as a well-stocked minibar, air conditioning, indoor and outdoor showers, and a private veranda with a plunge pool. Privacy is paramount, as all suites are thoughtfully spaced apart.

Beyond the thrilling wildlife encounters, Savanna Lodge stands out for its warm, family-like atmosphere and the expertise of its highly skilled guides. Together, they create an experience that is as personal as it is unforgettable.

Children aged eight and older are welcome.

Singita Boulders Lodge

Situated in the heart of Sabi Sand, Singita Boulders Lodge epitomizes exclusivity and luxury. Renowned for phenomenal game viewing, including frequent encounters with the “Big 5”, this lodge offers an unparalleled safari experience.

The lodge’s design is inspired by its namesake, a massive boulder around which the property is built. The luxurious suites incorporate stone, bronze, and rich wood tones, complemented by vibrant accents. Each suite features a spacious bedroom, a fireplace, and an expansive bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers. Private decks include plunge pools with panoramic views of the Sand River.

Singita Boulders Lodge is celebrated for its exceptional wine cellar, housing over 12,000 bottles of premium vintages. Activities include game drives, walking safaris, archery, yoga, and wine tastings.

Children aged 10 and older are welcome.

Singita Ebony Lodge

Nestled in the heart of Sabi Sand, close to the renowned Kruger National Park, Singita Ebony Lodge exudes a timeless colonial charm and unparalleled luxury. The lodge is celebrated for offering exceptional opportunities to witness the legendary “Big Five” in their natural habitat.

With only twelve spacious suites, each designed in a sophisticated colonial style, the lodge promises intimacy and elegance. Open-plan living and sleeping areas flow seamlessly, complemented by luxurious bathrooms with both indoor and outdoor showers. The interiors are a harmonious blend of earthy tones accented by vibrant splashes of color, reflected in carefully curated furnishings, art, and textiles. Outside, each suite boasts a private deck with a plunge pool overlooking the serene Sand River—perfect for soaking in the breathtaking wilderness.

The inviting lounge area features a well-stocked bar, setting the stage for relaxing evenings. The lodge’s culinary team crafts gourmet meals three times daily, accompanied by exceptional vintage wines from its acclaimed cellar. Beyond dining, Ebony Lodge offers a library, an art gallery, a boutique, and a fully equipped gym for a well-rounded experience.

Guests can indulge in twice-daily game drives, guided walking safaris, stargazing, yoga, and wine tastings. Families are warmly welcomed, with children of all ages invited to join the adventure.

Silvan Safari

Perched along a tranquil riverbank in the northern part of Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Silvan Safari redefines luxury. Opened in 2018, this contemporary haven is part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux collection, offering exclusivity, impeccable service, and world-class amenities.

Silvan’s design is a striking blend of modern and hyper-modern aesthetics. The lodge boasts six individually designed suites, each extraordinarily spacious and outfitted with every conceivable comfort. Lavish bathrooms mirror the grandeur of the suites, while the private decks feature expansive lounges, plunge pools, and unparalleled views where elephants, giraffes, and buffalo might wander past.

The central lounge epitomizes elegance with its bold rugs, contemporary art, and chic furnishings. Culinary delights abound, with every meal a gourmet masterpiece paired with fine wines from the lodge’s sophisticated cellar. Guests can dine in-suite, al fresco, in the lounge, or even in the heart of the bush. Other amenities include a grand pool, a world-class spa, a cutting-edge gym, an exclusive gin bar, and a photo-editing studio equipped with Apple technology.

The safari experience at Silvan is nothing short of exceptional. With expertly guided game drives, heated seats for cool mornings, and Swarovski binoculars at your disposal, every detail is curated for your comfort and delight.

Children over 12 are welcome at Silvan Safari.

MalaMala Rattray’s Camp

Set on the iconic banks of the Sand River, MalaMala Rattray’s Camp offers an immersive blend of historical elegance and modern luxury. As one of South Africa’s original safari lodges, dating back to 1927, it pays homage to its pioneering roots through timeless design and ambiance.

Rattray’s Camp features eight opulent suites, each embodying 1920s charm with Persian rugs, silk drapes, vintage trunks, and crystal glassware. Modern amenities enhance the experience, while expansive verandas (135m²) with plunge pools offer captivating river views. Inside, suites span 128m², featuring sumptuous bedrooms and dual bathrooms with indoor and outdoor showers.

The central lodge exudes sophistication, housing a well-appointed bar and offering gourmet dining either in the air-conditioned restaurant or under the stars in the enchanting boma. Guests also have access to a gym, a boutique, a library, and state-of-the-art photo-editing facilities.

Safari experiences are unparalleled, with expert guides, intimate groups of up to four per vehicle, and personalized attention. Guests aged 16 and above are welcomed, ensuring a serene and refined atmosphere.

Londolozi

A pioneer of luxury safaris, Londolozi is steeped in history and renowned for its commitment to social, environmental, and community-driven sustainability. Located in the heart of Sabi Sand Game Reserve, this family-run lodge has set the gold standard in African safaris since 1926.

Londolozi comprises five unique camps, each catering to distinct preferences: Varty Camp, Founders Camp, Tree Camp, Pioneer Camp, and Private Granite Suites. All camps share an unwavering dedication to quality and luxury, with elegant earth-toned interiors inspired by nature. Personalized service is a hallmark, with dedicated camp managers ensuring every detail exceeds expectations.

Activities abound, from yoga and spa treatments to guided runs and photo-editing workshops. Guests enjoy twice-daily safaris, walking tours, and twilight drives. Londolozi is a member of Relais & Châteaux, affirming its commitment to excellence.

Each camp has its own child policy, so inquire for tailored recommendations.

Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is located on the border between the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces, north of Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve and west of Kruger National Park. Established in 1956, the reserve spans 53,392 hectares (533.92 km²). As part of the Associated Private Nature Reserves (APNR), Timbavati shares unfenced boundaries with other APNR member reserves and Kruger National Park. This allows wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, elephants, and many other species, to roam freely across the area. Timbavati is particularly famous for its white lions, a rare and iconic feature of the region.

Kings Camp

The distinguished Kings Camp is ideally located overlooking the open savanna and a bustling waterhole, providing an exceptional wildlife experience in the vast Timbavati Game Reserve, home to the Big 5—lion, elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, and buffalo.

The camp features nine elegant suites, including a family suite and two honeymoon suites, all designed in a classic safari style. Spacious and romantic, the suites boast vintage trunks, leather armchairs, and crystal glassware, blending colonial charm with modern comforts. Each suite includes a private veranda and pool, perfect for relaxing between game drives. The open-plan communal spaces mirror this charm, offering a welcoming atmosphere.

Kings Camp is renowned for its gourmet dining, with meals served in the elegant restaurant, under the stars in the bush, or in the privacy of your suite. Guests can also enjoy a unique hide, where wildlife can be observed up close, as well as a gym, a stylish bar, a pool, and a world-class spa. Walking safaris and twice-daily game drives complete the unforgettable experience.

Children aged six and older are welcome.

Makanyi Private Game Lodge

The stunning Makanyi Private Game Lodge is the only lodge in southern Timbavati, offering unmatched exclusivity with fewer safari vehicles and less traffic in the area.

Overlooking a dam that attracts abundant wildlife, Makanyi features seven spacious luxury suites, blending classic safari romance with modern comforts. Built mostly from stone, the suites are tastefully decorated with vintage safari touches like trunks, candelabras, and leather accents, alongside modern furnishings. Each suite includes a minibar, fireplace, air conditioning, and indoor and outdoor showers. Outside, your private veranda offers a table, lounge chairs, and a plunge pool, perfect for relaxing while watching wildlife.

Makanyi is known for its warm hospitality and excellent cuisine, served in the elegant dining room, on your veranda, in the bush, or in the inviting boma (a traditional outdoor dining area under the stars). The lodge also features a spa and gym and offers activities such as walking safaris (June–August), stargazing, and helicopter tours, alongside twice-daily game drives.

Children aged 12 and older are welcome at Makanyi.

Thornybush Game Reserve

Thornybush Game Reserve is a private wildlife reserve located in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Covering approximately 14,000 hectares, the reserve is characterized by open savanna landscapes, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Thornybush borders Kapama Game Reserve to the west and Timbavati Game Reserve as well as Kruger National Park to the east.

A key feature of Thornybush is its open boundary with Kruger National Park, allowing animals to move freely between the two areas. This natural movement enhances the diversity of wildlife in the reserve, making it a prime location for spotting a variety of species, including the Big 5.

Royal Malewane

Tucked within the Thornybush Game Reserve, Royal Malewane epitomizes exclusivity and grandeur. A member of The Royal Portfolio, this award-winning lodge is famed for its opulence, personalized service, and extraordinary safari adventures.

Royal Malewane comprises eight luxurious suites, including six private Luxury Suites and two spacious Royal Suites for families. Suites feature fireplaces, libraries, grand TVs, and expansive verandas with dining areas and pools. The design blends colonial elegance with vibrant accents, incorporating wood, bronze, and rich textiles for a refined yet inviting aesthetic.

Dining is an event in itself, with the lodge’s restaurant and wine cellar delivering world-class gastronomic delights. Amenities include a celebrated spa, a state-of-the-art gym, a boutique, and an exclusive bar. Safaris, walking tours, golf at Leopard Creek, and scenic helicopter rides over Blyde River Canyon are among the activities offered.

Children over 10 are welcome in Luxury Suites, while Royal Suites accommodate children of all ages, making it a perfect destination for families.

Kapama Game Reserve

Kapama Game Reserve is a privately owned nature reserve spanning 13,000 hectares in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Established in 1993 by Johann Roode, the land was originally purchased for cattle grazing. However, Roode soon shifted focus, transforming the area into a nature reserve centered on tourism and exclusive safari experiences. The reserve remains under the ownership of the Roode family to this day.

Camp Jabulani

The sophisticated Camp Jabulani, a proud member of Relais & Châteaux, is nestled in Kapama Game Reserve, west of Thornybush and north of Sabi Sand. This family-owned lodge epitomises classic colonial safari style, where timeless luxury is woven into every detail. Persian rugs, vintage trunks, crystal glassware, silver cutlery, and silk curtains create an atmosphere of historical romance.

The lodge features six luxurious suites and two exquisite villas, all designed with the same refined elegance. Each spacious accommodation is equipped with every modern comfort and boasts a private veranda and pool, ensuring a perfect retreat.

Camp Jabulani is renowned for its world-class cuisine, where gourmet dishes are paired with premium vintage wines. The impeccable service meets and exceeds every expectation. Beyond twice-daily safaris, the lodge offers a range of activities, including wine tastings, spa treatments, a sauna, helicopter rides, hot-air ballooning, and a well-equipped gym.

Adjacent to the lodge are the Villa Somopane and the Zindoga Villa. The enchanting Villa Somopane accommodates four guests (children over six are welcome), while the grand Zindoga Villa is ideal for families or small groups, featuring two opulent suites and hosting up to nine guests. Here, children of all ages are welcome.

Camp Jabulani is also home to a remarkable elephant conservation project in partnership with the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC). Guests have the rare opportunity to meet and interact with rescued elephants and learn about their lives in their natural habitat—an unforgettable and one-of-a-kind experience.

Children over six years are welcome.

Klaserie Private Nature Reserve

Klaserie Game Reserve is located in Limpopo Province, South Africa, bordering Kruger National Park to the north and Timbavati Game Reserve to the east. The reserve spans approximately 60,000 hectares and is part of the Associated Private Nature Reserves (APNR). As an APNR member, Klaserie shares unfenced boundaries with neighbouring reserves and Kruger National Park, allowing wildlife—including lions, cheetahs, elephants, and many other species—to roam freely across these interconnected ecosystems.

Makumu Private Game Lodge

The charming Makumu Private Game Lodge is nestled in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, west of Timbavati. This intimate and welcoming lodge feels like an expansive villa in the heart of the bush, offering some of the most breathtaking views in Greater Kruger. Its spectacular vantage point, combined with Makumu’s open-plan design, creates an inviting “close to nature” experience that is both relaxing and inspiring.

The lodge features six spacious, individually styled suites, each tastefully decorated with African-inspired touches, giving every room its own unique character. These comfortable and elegant suites come with ensuite bathrooms, private balconies or verandas, and thoughtful amenities such as air conditioning, ceiling fans, and mosquito nets to ensure a luxurious stay.

Makumu offers a variety of facilities to enhance your experience, including a large and inviting pool, a traditional boma for outdoor dining, a small open-air gym, massage services, and a boutique shop. A highlight of the lodge is its hide, overlooking a busy waterhole where guests can observe wildlife up close—perfect for photography enthusiasts. For those seeking complete privacy, the entire lodge can be booked exclusively.

Children aged eight and older are welcome at Makumu, while families with younger children are welcome when booking the lodge exclusively.

Contact Safari Collection for more information about safari in Greater Kruger.

Curated Add-On I

Elevate your safari adventure in Greater Kruger by adding a few serene days on one of these exclusive paradise destinations: the luxurious Thanda Island, the exotic allure of Zanzibar (Tanzania), or the enchanting Benguerra Island and stunning Machangulo (Mozambique). Here, you’ll discover—quite literally—a slice of paradise with powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and incredible snorkelling. Contact Safari Collection, and we’ll guide you to your dream escape.

Curated Add-On II

Enhance your exclusive safari journey with a truly unparalleled train experience. Begin or end your adventure aboard a moving masterpiece of timeless elegance and unmatched luxury. The world-famous Rovos Rail and the iconic Blue Train offer journeys spanning 2 to 15 days, seamlessly blending with our spectacular safari destinations. Let yourself be captivated by the grandeur of this enchanting, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Reach out to us for all the details!

Curated Add-On III

Cape Town and its surroundings are a world-renowned haven for gourmet experiences. Combine your safari journey to this iconic city with a luxury tour filled with indulgence. Let us guide you to the ultimate wine and culinary adventure, where every moment is a feast for the senses. Contact Safari Collection to learn more and start planning your unforgettable getaway.