Taking a safari in South Africa was one of the most wonderful travel experiences I have ever experienced. It's something I recommend to every traveler, at least once in a lifetime. The country is a great destination for safaris, due to its breathtaking scenery, rich wildlife and unrivaled hospitality.
In this post you will have access to a list of the best lodges in Kruger. Find out more about the private reserves that make up the Greater Kruger region, and choose the ideal lodge for you!
There are many ways and places to do a safari in South Africa, but without a doubt, staying in a luxurious lodge in one of the private reserves near Kruger Park is an unforgettable experience.
Not the cheapest option, since most lodges work on an all inclusive system, with daily rates that include all meals, beverages - including alcoholic beverages - and 2 game drives per day, but certainly worth the investment.
Greater Kruger
The region called Greater Kruger is formed by the Kruger National Park and private reserves adjacent to the park, which knocked over their fences thinking about the animals and their migration behavior.
Some advantages of doing a safari in a private reserve near Kruger are:
It's pretty much like being in Kruger Park in terms of nature, scenery and animals.
The 4 × 4 open vehicles of the private reserves can do off road when you like (it increases the adrenaline, right?)
You will rely on the wisdom of a guide and tracker who specializes in finding animals in the African savannah
Exclusivity (less people to share the car and the road)
Accommodation and luxury gastronomy (who does not like comfort and stewardship?)
The reserves of the Greater Kruger National Park
The Greater Kruger National Park is home to more than 20 private reserves, and many of them are divided into smaller reserves. These bookings usually have one or more lodges, which offer a more sophisticated and exclusive safari experience. The 'level of luxury' and daily rates vary from lodge to lodge, and if your budget allows, my advice is: invest!
The main private reserves near Kruger Park are:
- Balule
- Kapama
- Klaserie
- Timbavati
- Thornybush
- Sabie Sands
The best lodges in Kruger Park
I have prepared a list of the best lodges in Kruger, in each of the major private reserves of Greater Kruger National Park.
»Balule Nature Reserve
In the language of the Shangaan people, 'Balule' means buffalo. The reserve is about 40,000 hectares in extent and lies on the western border of Kruger Park. There you will have the chance to see both the buffalo and the other Big Five, plus antelopes, wild dogs, giraffes, zebras, and many birds.
Naledi Bushlodge (★ 9.6)
This exclusive lodge has three secluded suites, overlooking the African savannah, outdoor pool, restaurant and bar.
Each suite has air conditioning, a safe and a fan. Some units have a seating area and a private pool. They also offer free Wi-Fi and airport transfer (extra cost). Phalaborwa Gate of Kruger National Park is 69 km from this lodge.
The daily ($ 500) includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and two daily game drives in an open car. The lodge accepts children of all ages (including babies).
To get to the Balule Nature Reserve, you can rent a car and drive for about 6 hours from Johannesburg International Airport. Remember you're going to have to 'face the English hand', huh ?! But it's easier than you think. Want to know more about driving in South Africa?
You can also board one of the daily flights to one of the 3 airports in the area from the main cities in South Africa. Hoedspruit Airport is closest.
»Kapama Private Game Reserve
The Kapama Private Game Reserve is one of the favorite Kruger reserves of Brazilians. With 13,000 acres, you're sure to have the chance to shoot some, if not all, Big Five!
Kapama River Lodge (★ 9.5)
Luxury accommodation in modern accommodation surrounded by African vegetation and wildlife. The lodge has 64 air-conditioned suites, each with an en suite bathroom with a bathtub, a minibar and a coffee maker.
Kapama River Lodge also offers a pool, spa and free Wi-Fi, plus 2 daily game drives and savannah walks. The daily rates, which cost on average $ 658 (double), include three daily meals in buffet.
Kapama Southern Camp (★ 9.5)
The Kapama Southern Camp offers luxurious accommodation offering modern, air-conditioned suites with a view. The suites have a private first floor balcony, private bathroom, minibar and tea and coffee making facilities. The most luxurious deluxe suites feature a private narrow pool, indoor and outdoor showers, and fireplace.
Kapama Southern Camp offers game drives in open jeeps, and the daily costs about $ 844 (couple) and work in the all inclusive system. The hotel also offers a free shuttle service at scheduled times to Hoedspruit Airport.
Kapama Buffalo Camp (★ 9.7)
Kapama Buffalo Camp is a luxury high-rise campsite, accessible only by raised wooden walkways. Luxury tents occupy suspended wooden decks and all units have hardwood floors, private bathrooms, minibars, coffee makers and safes.
The daily cost about $913 (double) and works in the all inclusive system. Kapama Buffalo Camp also offers 2 daily game drives and a free shuttle to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport.
Kapama Karula (★ 9.4)
This 5 star safari lodge has 12 suites with approximately 90m² each, which include outdoor deck, heated pool and sun loungers. All suites have air conditioning, a seating area and a gas fireplace.
The family suites have an open-plan living area, a master bedroom and a child's bedroom.
Kapula Karula offers two daily game drives included in the daily, which revolves around $2.018 (couple) and works in all inclusive system.
»Klaserie Private Game Reserve
One of South Africa's largest private reserves, with 60,000 hectares along the Klaserie River. It is one of the reservations where you will have more exclusivity.
Makumu Private Game Lodge (★ 10)
Our choice was the excellent and mega exclusive Makumu Private Game Lodge, an unfenced lodge with only 3 suites, virtually a dream.
And it's no wonder that the Makumu is the only lodge rated 10 on this list. Completely isolated, to be here is to feel the full force of African nature. It's one of those unique experiences in life, you know ?! How much is this worth?
How much I do not know, but the daily rate for the couple is around R $ 3,700, in the all-inclusive system. A special touch is that the suites are lit by candles, since there is no electricity in the rooms. It's turn off to turn it back on!
I consider the days I spent at Makumu magical. It was all incredible. I wrote a full account of my experience here, oh: Makumu Private Game Lodge, unique experience in South Africa.
