Rhino Africa’s Top Safari Lodges 2013

There is an abundance of safari lodges in Africa, each with its own unique characteristics. The choice of where to stay can be daunting for the first-time traveller. That’s why we’re here – to offer first-hand, expert advice; to help you find the perfect romantic getaway or the ideal place to spend family time with the kids. Without the fuss.

We’ve decided to let you in on a little secret and give away some of our favourite spots for every occasion, whether your goal is to see a leopard in a tree or to soak in your own private plunge pool as an elephant chomps away in the distance.

The Big 5

Many visitors to Africa won’t know what to expect. Few know about the cosmopolitan lifestyle of Johannesburg and the gourmet hot spots of Cape Town, but there is one phrase that most travellers will be familiar with…The Big 5. The ultimate check-list for any safari goer. There is one place that almost guarantees (nothing is guaranteed in the bush) the Big 5 experience – The Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve.

Londolozi

Londolozi Private Game Reserve is one of our all time favourites – combining pure luxury with some of the best game viewing in the world, it also gives you the best chance of spotting a leopard (the hardest member of the gang to find). There is something for everyone with 5 unique lodges on the reserve, expert guides and mouthwatering cuisine – you’ll never want to leave. Read more about Londolozi and watch our video.

Singita

With numerous properties throughout Africa, Singita has placed three within The Sabi Sand Game Reserve: Singita Boulders, Singita Ebony and Singita Castleton. Each known for its impeccable style and spectacular game viewing. And how about gourmet cuisine and a wine tasting after a relaxing massage? Read more about the Singita properties here and watch our video.

Chitwa Chitwa

Chitwa Chitwa is a Game Lodge where opulent décor meets nature. Here meals are a social feast, a combination of African and Mediterranean dishes, listening to the noises of the bush as lions and hippos sneak through the camp at night. Chitwa Chitwa earned its name as an affectionate ode to the ageing giraffe bull who shared the lakeside home as an extended member of the original owners. Read more about Chitwa Chitwa here, our experiences and watch our video.

The Great Migration in East Africa

The annual Great Migration of wildebeest, zebra and antelope should feature on any traveller’s bucket list. Thousands of animals are on a constant circuit visiting the Masai Mara of Kenya and the Serengeti of Tanzania in search of feeding grounds, moved by their instincts to follow the seasonal changes of East Africa, braving the hungry mouths of crocodiles in the rivers and the pride of lions on the plains – nature at its most spectacular.

Kichwa Tembo

Both Kichwa Tembo Bateleur and Tented Camp sit at the foot of the Oloololo Escarpment in the Masai Mara. Our favourite is the tented camp, bringing you closer to nature with spectacular views of the game-filled plains. Being on a private concession, guests can also experience the magic of night drives, often restricted to most visitors to the Masai Mara.

Singita Grumeti

The untouched wilderness of the Singita Grumeti Reserve is the perfect spot to see The Great Migration as part of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem – Africa’s No.1 World Heritage Site. There are a number of lodges to choose from – tented Singita Explore to the exclusive Singita Faru Faru Lodge – there is something to suit each and every traveller. Read more about Singita Grumeti and watch our video.

Mahali Mzuri

Opening this year, Mahali Mzuri will be the newest edition to the Virgin Limited Edition of Sir Richard Branson’s exclusive portfolio of retreats. Perched on the side of a lush valley with views over the rolling plains, each suite sits on a raised platform – perfect for spotting animals passing by.

Romantic Getaways

Africa is the ultimate romantic destination. With crimson sunsets, nature at your doorstep and stylish accommodation, couples can’t ask for much more. A few nights on safari before heading on to a romantic beach paradise makes for an ideal honeymoon. Safari lodges pull out all the stops to create your African fantasy, from surprise dinners in the bush to private plunge pools – it is the ultimate escape.

Lion Sands

With views over the perennial Sand river, Lion Sands Ivory Lodge is the ideal romantic destination. Suites are positioned far apart, connected with a fairytale like wooden walkway. Guests can even spend a night at Chalkley Treehouse – a completely private treehouse built around a majestic 500 year old Leadwood Tree. Guests will enjoy sundowners and dinner under the stars and will be collected at dawn for game drive. Read more about Lion Sands and watch our video.

Royal Malewane

Royal Malewane is the quintessential colonial-chic lodge, and one of Elton John’s favourite hang outs. Refreshing cocktails and decadent treats come hand in hand with some of the best game viewing Africa has to offer, and there’s a luxurious spa to fill the gaps. Each free standing and private suite is in total harmony with the magnificent surroundings. Persian rugs, Victorian bath tubs and Ralph Lauren decor are all housed beneath thatched roofs to create the romantic setting in the bush.

Tswalu Kalahari

At Tswalu Kalahari’s Malori Sleepout Deck you can choose to sleep either under the thatch or right out in the open on the raised deck. A king-size bed, Aldona linen and panoramic views set the scene for a breathtaking romantic getaway. A guide will escort you to the sleepout deck on a game vehicle from The Motse or Tarkuni Private Villa. Enjoy welcome drinks and snacks, sundowners and a dinner prepared by the executive chef. Read more about Tswalu and watch our video.

Take the Kids!

Kids on safari need not make your dream holiday difficult. We know that some lodges and hotels do not accept young children on safari, but there are plenty that do. We have selected a handful for you that promise to ensure that the whole family gets enjoys an African Safari.

Royal Chundu

The child-friendly Royal Chundu on the Zambezi River hosts the Chundu Children’s Club, a bespoke kids on safari programme aimed to entertain and accommodate little ones. There are several activities offered by trained staff including a treasure hunt, frog safari, butterfly and insect capture and release, fishing tag and release, cosmic safari, birding and cooking lessons with the Chundu Chefs. Children under 2 years will be cared for at the lodge by child minders while parents enjoy Sunset Cruises.

Lion Sands 1933

All four suites at Lions Sands 1933 Lodge are elegant and designed to be a home away from home, but the true selling point is the children’s dormitory – it can host up to eight children if you want a cocktail away from the kids and there is a connected bedroom for au-pairs. A few added luxuries such as the lap-size swimming pool, the private chef and ranger and the exclusive use of a 4×4 vehicle, make this the perfect family destination.

Kwandwe

Ecca Lodge is the family friendly property on Kwandwe in the Eastern Cape – a Malaria-free destination. It is a modern safari lodge with an interactive kitchen at meal times and a play centre for children with a TV & DVD player, arts & crafts, toys, books, puzzles and more. Spacious, open rooms provide the perfect accommodation for a family.

Phinda Mountain Lodge

Mountain Lodge is the place for kids at Phinda Game Reserve. The warm smiles of the staff as you arrive set the scene for the rest of your stay, as they make the impossible possible for your family. From children’s activities to special surprises in the bush, no chance to surprise and delight you is lost. It is a memory that will last with you, and your children, forever.

Contact Rhino Africa to begin planning your African adventure with one of our expert travel consultants.