Top 5 Most Expensive Lodges In South Africa

South Africa has some of the best and most expensive game lodges in the world with spectacular views and direct access to many of the big 5 animals the continent is adored for. Here are Top 5 Most Expensive Lodges In South Africa

1.Royal Malewane – R57,500

Located in Thornybush Private Game Reserve, Royal Malewane is a secluded luxury retreat adjacent to the Kruger National Park. The lodge features a spa centre, gym and private pools.

The stylishly decorated suites combine colonial charm, old world elegance and stylish decor. Each is fully air conditioned and boasts a private wooden deck with plunge pool. Walkways connect the suites to the main lodge. The spacious and elegant 6-bedroom villa is equipped with four-poster beds, antique furnishings and a private pool.

The lodge has a dining area overlooking a waterhole with game viewing opportunities. Meals under the stars are served around the fire in the traditional boma or out in the African savannah. Special dietary menus are available on advance request. Guided game drives with expert rangers and trackers are conducted in the morning and afternoon aboard specialised open-top Land Rovers.

The Royal Malewane Bush Spa includes a fully-equipped fitness centre, heated lap pool, steam room and a hot tub. The in-house therapists provide a wide range of massages and beauty treatments.

The lodge is easily accessible by air and road. Hoedspruit is a 45-munite drive away and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is 130 km from the lodge. Airport transfers can be arranged for a surcharge. Royal Malewane also has its own private airstrip.

2.Lion Sands Ivory Lodge – R52 332

Situated in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, 43 km from Hazyview, Lion Sands Ivory Lodge features a restaurant and free WiFi. Accommodation is comprised of a living room, a kitchen with a fridge, and a private bathroom with shower and bath. A patio with river views is offered in each unit.

The lodge offers a continental or Full English/Irish breakfast. Lion Sands Ivory Lodge offers a fitness centre. A kids’ club is also available at the accommodation, while guests can also relax in the garden.

The nearest airport is Skukuza, 14 km from Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

3.Tswalu Kalahari Reserve – R52 000

Set in Faans Grove, Tswalu Kalahari Reserve offers free WiFi, and guests can enjoy a restaurant, a fitness centre and a bar. All units are air conditioned and include a seating and/or dining area.

The lodge offers a à la carte or Full English/Irish breakfast.Tswalu Kalahari Reserve offers a terrace.

Guests can swim in the outdoor swimming pool, go hiking or horse riding or relax in the garden.

4.Royal Madikwe Luxury Safari Lodge – R45 000

Royal Madikwe Luxury Safari Lodge features modern, African-inspired décor and the main clubhouse features a cosy lounge, restaurant and kid’s club. The elegant units offer air conditioning, a minibar and a safe. Some units have a seating area and viewing deck with a hot tub. Each unit comes with an en suite bathroom and features views of the bush and mountain.

Royal Madikwe Luxury Safari Lodge serves wholesome meals with local and international influences. The restaurant offers gourmet game dishes and breakfast is served on the lower deck which overlooks the water hole.

The reserve boasts a variety of wildlife and panoramic views of the African savannah. A massage can be arranged upon request and children can enjoy a variety of activities in the games room.

5. Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve –R37 400

Leopard Hills is a luxury game lodge situated in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. It is built on a hill overlooking a natural waterhole and offers panoramic views of the African bushveld. Decorated in earthy colour tones, each luxurious suite has floor to ceiling glass windows. The suite opens onto a private deck and rock pool.

Each bathroom has a freestanding bath as well as an indoor and outdoor shower. Breakfast is served on the main deck, lunch is served under big shady umbrellas and dinner could either be under the stars around a fire or fine silver service in the dining room.

Guests can enjoy daily activities at Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve such as game drives and walking trails in the reserve. Cultural tours and Elephant interaction and rides can also be arranged. Free Wi-Fi and a gym is available on the property. The Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is 105 km away.