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How Safari Resorts Bring Luxury and Entertainment Together

Matthew Diederichs • January 31, 2024

Safari resorts are just another name-take at a safari bush lodge. The concept of being able to ride water slides and frolic in the sun whilst being able to enjoy the peaceful serenity that the bushveld has to offer tends to be an oxymoron. However, there are plenty of lodges that do have amenities which one can enjoy whilst still being in the bush, surrounded by unkempt wilderness.


two people are riding horses in a field with a zebra in the background .

What Safari Resorts try to Accomplish


Safari resorts offer a unique blend of wilderness and luxury, providing guests with an immersive wildlife experience combined with the comforts and amenities of a high-end accommodation.


These establishments are well put together with strong fences to provide an oasis of safety so one can hear the lions roaring even when basking by the poolside. The safari experience typically involves guided tours through expansive game reserves or national parks, where guests have the opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitats.


Accommodations range from luxurious tented camps to elegant lodges, all designed to harmonise with the surrounding environment while ensuring utmost comfort for travellers. The rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as ensuite bathrooms, comfortable beds, and private balconies or terraces that offer breathtaking views of the wilderness. Leave your caravans behind and let the professionals cater for you in ways they do best.


An array of activities is available for adventurous souls seeking excitement during their stay at a safari resort. Game drives are the most common, being led by experienced guides, guests are taken on thrilling expeditions through the untamed landscapes, offering opportunities to spot iconic African animals like lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras. Walking safaris provide a more intimate encounter with nature and are only for the most steel-willed of guests as participants explore on foot under the guidance of knowledgeable rangers who are armed for your protection.


For those desiring relaxation amidst nature's beauty many top tier safari resorts will offer spa facilities. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments curated from around the world while enjoying tranquil surroundings and breathtaking views. Gourmet dining options showcase regional cuisine prepared using fresh ingredients sourced locally.


What the Safari Resorts of Kruger Park Have to Offer


Kruger Park offers those staying at certain rest camps an amazing environment for the family. Located in the heart of South Africa's most renowned national park, these resorts provide an unparalleled opportunity to witness the beauty and diversity of the country's wildlife up close.


One can bring a tent and camp right against the fences where hyenas prowl, haunted by the smell of cooking fires, and still be safe and sound. Caravans are also an option under the same circumstances. Being so free to walk about using pool amenities with slides and shade, visiting the convenience store for ice cream and biltong, all the while being surrounded by pristine wilderness is a remarkable experience. Skukuza even boasts a 360 degree cinema with a wrap around screen that has you immersed regardless of your orientation.


As usual with such reserves one can book guided game drives that are the only way to experience Kruger Park at night as everyone must be at their allocated resort by sunset for safety purposes. Ride around the park by day at a leisurely pace exploring the maze of routes that run by river beds and edge past gorges. There are even some opportunities to get out and observe the environment around you outside of the vehicle but always be on the lookout as no section of the Park outside of the fenced areas is ever tame.


With such a balance of luxury resort options, camping and swimming, guided drives and beautiful chalets, Kruger Park certainly has some of the best of the whole bushveld tourism world. It’s particularly amazing as a family experience with all sorts of means of entertaining both adults and children within the bounds of the wilderness. Especially as a lesson of personal security, always be aware of the animals around you, only through proper respect and awareness is anyone safe in the wilderness of the lowveld.


5 Qualities of a Top End Safari Resort (Plus a Bonus)


  • Isolation
  • Professional Staff
  • A Pool With a View
  • Refrigeration
  • Good Food
  • Walking Tours


Throughout the lowveld and indeed the rest of South Africa and farther on, safari resorts seek to show tourists and even curious locals the wonders of our natural environment. An untamed landscape is the start of this adventure and so point by point we will attempt to convey the attributes of the most exquisite safari resorts:


1. Isolation : you don’t want to hear the vehicles on the road or the planes flying through the air unless it is the low hum of a game vehicle and the once a week twin engine flying supplies. More wilderness mean wilder animals although that can imply less sightings at times the permission of a mother elephant to observe her and her calm, or the cold scrutiny of a lion that can smell but not see you within a game viewer is an experience that touches the soul.


2.
Professional Staff : Some folk have their noses too high and others want to get drunk with the guides. The staff of any resort are the grease to the wheel of your experience. Whether it be the housemaid that provides you with an extra chocolate on your second night, the guide that calls you from your room at 2AM because there’s a leopard at the water hole or the cool confidence of a chef that knows the spices of their trade better than the sound of their own name a professional staff is the cream of the safari experience.


3.
A Pool With a View : There’s always downtime at a safari resort and only the sorry spend it in their rooms. Pack a swimming costume and cool off between tanning sessions at the poolside. The view from the pool is crucial, it should ideally have a water source even if it’s small to encourage the movement of animals through the area. Don’t make too much noise and scare them off because a patient heart is guaranteed to spot something extraordinary right there.


4.
Refrigeration : It’s hot out there. Very hot. You will want cold water and colder beers and powerful refrigeration is evident. Keep an eye out for it and make a point of recognizing the effort that went into providing a 5 degree coke in 40 degree heat.


5.
Good Food : Breakfast, lunch and dinner these three meals are the pivotal moments of our day. Each one sets you up for success in whatever endeavour comes between. An experienced chef knows what to make and when so that guests are not only well fed but rolling around exhausted in that comatose state that african heat has on a full belly.


Bonus:
Walking Tours : Game drives are phenomenal. They give you a safe, relatively, environment to observe an environment that would turn a layman to fodder. A walk through the bush with a guide in front and a guide at the back, feeling the bush swallow you, the sounds sharp and danger uncertain, is awe inspiring. Walks are a measure not only of the length a resort will go to give you what you came for but a statement of their confidence in themselves to make sure you’ll survive it.


There are always additional amenities, perks or entertainments that safari resorts may have. Keep an eye out and inquire as to what can be organised for you. It’s impossible to judge a lodge by not having any additional activities as what they do might be so brilliant there’s no need except to appease the insatiable tourist. But the points above are excellent indicators of a safari lodge that doesn’t just look good but knows what it’s doing.



an aerial view of a tent in the middle of the bush.

The Range of South Africa National Safari Resorts


When people think of South Africa's National Parks they think solely of Kruger Park. Perhaps a few more experienced might say the Karoo or Namaqua National Parks as well. However not many would claim to know that South African National Parks encompasses 19 independent national parks. Expand your horizons and discover these game reserves that stand for national integrity.


Agulhas National Park is located at Cape Agulhas and encompasses the southernmost tip of the African Continent and the surrounding coastal plain and interior. The park’s most renowned feature is the official meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. The result is a coastline of tremendous richness and diversity. Discover the legendary ‘Cape of Storms’. Stand at the Southernmost tip of Africa, where two oceans meet. Explore the historic Cape Agulhas lighthouse. Marvel at the shipwrecks that dot this rugged, beautiful coastline. Curl up in front of a cosy fire with the sound of the crashing waves in the background.


Nestled in the rolling foothills of the Maluti Mountains of the north eastern Free State lies the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Rejuvenation is on offer at Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Spend time in the majestic Maluti Mountains, hiking, horse riding, exploring caves and much more in their indescribable golden glow. The vulture’s restaurant (bird hide) welcomes birders to a proper vulture feast.


Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is where the red dunes and scrub fade into infinity and herds of gemsbok, springbok, eland and blue wildebeest follow the seasons. Imposing camel thorn trees provide shade for huge black-mane lions and vantage points for leopards and raptors fly above. In the northern tip of the Northern Cape you’ll find a single solitary outpost where you can watch it all.


Marakele National Park is located in the transitional zone between the dry western and moist eastern regions of South Africa, therefore allowing for a remarkable variety of wildlife. A moderate and pleasant climate ensures an enjoyable stay, with perfect summer rainfalls keeping the worst heat at bay. Visitors flocking here can expect a welcoming mixture of tranquillity, delight and overall satisfaction – and the picturesque paradise in which the park is set forms just part of the promise. Rare yellowwood and striking cedar trees, grand mountains in the background, and Cape Vultures soaring through the royal blue skies set the scene of this reserve.


Just inland from the secluded harbour of Saldanha Bay, and only 1,5 hour’s drive from Cape Town’s City Centre, one finds the azure waters of the Langebaan Lagoon, focal point of the West Coast National Park. Against the backdrop of the azure blue lagoon, white dunes, rare fynbos, green wetlands and unbounded waves, there is much to experience. A paradise for hikers, cyclists and mountain bikers, birders, and nature-lovers alike. West Coast National Park hosts a total of over 250 bird species annually, over a quarter of South Africa’s total. Visit one of the bird hides and spend some time enjoying the quiet.


Only five of the 19 have been showcased above and quickly it becomes evident the natural wonders that South Africa holds. Visitors to South Africa have been enamoured with its beauty for hundreds of years and should we protect it with the vehemence that it is due they will for hundreds more.


The All Inclusive African Safari Resort


African safari resorts that offer all-inclusive packages provide guests with a comprehensive and convenient experience, ensuring that their accommodation, meals, activities, and other amenities are included in one upfront cost. By providing a seamless package, these resorts aim to enhance the enjoyment and relaxation of their guests.


All-inclusive African safari resorts often boast luxurious accommodations from spacious tented camps to elegant lodges, these properties offer a range of options for discerning travellers. Each room is meticulously designed to provide comfort while showcasing the beauty of Africa's landscapes and often decorated with hand made art that satisfies more than just the eye.


The culinary experiences at these resorts are equally captivating. Gourmet chefs prepare delectable dishes using fresh local ingredients, allowing guests to savour both traditional African cuisine and international flavours. Dining venues may vary from intimate candlelit dinners under the stars to communal feasts where guests can share stories and connect with fellow adventurers. Often lodges that provide packages such as these will know what you want before you want it and give it to you.


In addition to exceptional lodging and dining experiences, all-inclusive safari resorts offer an array of activities tailored to suit different interests. Game drives led by experienced guides introduce visitors to Africa's diverse wildlife, providing opportunities for up-close encounters with iconic species such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and rhinos. Other popular activities include bush walks, birdwatching excursions, cultural visits to nearby communities or conservation projects.


To further enhance their guests' stay, these resorts often provide additional amenities such as swimming pools overlooking breathtaking vistas or rejuvenating wellness centres offering spa treatments inspired by ancient African healing practices.


Overall, all-inclusive African safari resorts combine adventure and luxury in a way that allows travellers the freedom they desire while ensuring a memorable experience filled with relaxation and exploration amidst nature's wonders.


Our Choice of the Best Safari Resorts in South Africa


South Africa offers a diverse range of safari resorts that provide guests with exceptional accommodations, breathtaking views, and immersive wildlife experiences. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, these resorts cater to every traveller's needs.


Here are some of the best safari resorts in South Africa:


1. Singita Sabi Sand: Located in the famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve, this luxury resort offers an unparalleled wildlife experience. With exclusive access to prime game-viewing areas, guests can spot the Big Five and other rare species up close. The resort also boasts elegant suites and world-class dining options.


2. Londolozi Private Game Reserve: Situated within the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Londolozi is renowned for its intimate atmosphere and expert rangers who provide exceptional game drives and bush walks. The luxurious lodges offer stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.


3. Madikwe Safari Lodge: Nestled in the heart of the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, this lodge provides a tranquil escape from city life. Guests can choose between three distinct lodges, each offering spacious suites with private plunge pools overlooking water holes frequented by wildlife.


4. Shamwari Private Game Reserve: Located in the Eastern Cape region, Shamwari offers an authentic African safari experience combined with luxurious accommodation options. The reserve is dedicated to conservation efforts and is home to a variety of endangered species.


5. Royal Malewane: With accommodation throughout the Great Kruger National Park Royal Malewane is the most luxurious game lodge money can buy. Fly straight into their private air strip, get chauffeured around the bush in a private game vehicle and luxuriate in their bounty of amenities till you forget the troubles of life.


These safari resorts not only offer comfortable accommodations but surpass all expectations and then some. These lodges hold a position amongst a handful across the country that can claim to truly be the best at what they do. Visitors to South Africa can expect an unforgettable experience that combines adventure with luxury at these top-notch safari resorts.



EXCITED YET? ENQUIRE HERE
  • Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children Staying at Safari Resorts?

    Because the behaviour of children can never be guaranteed in certain situations

    age restrictions may apply for children staying at safari resorts. It is important to consult with the specific resort as policies can vary. Some resorts may have minimum age requirements for only specific activities to ensure safety and enjoyment for all guests. 


  • What Are the Most Popular Activities Offered at Safari Resorts?

    The most popular activities offered at safari resorts include guided game drives, nature walks, bird watching, and cultural excursions. Beyond that remember that there are plenty other activities within a short drive of the resorts themselves, don’t forget to inquire.


  • Can Guests Bring Their Own Vehicles to Explore the Safari Parks?

    Certain parks, reserves and resorts will allow guests to explore the environment with their own vehicle. More private resorts that are not publicly accessible will not however and provide game vehicles with trained guides to escort you around.


  • Are Safari Resorts Wheelchair Accessible?

    Safari resorts' accessibility for wheelchair users is a topic of interest. Many resorts will be wheelchair accessible along with their luxurious tents and chalets whilst camping areas will be harder to navigate.


  • What Safety Precautions Are in Place to Protect Guests From Wild Animals at Safari Resorts?

    Fences or barriers are the primary means. There are strict rules about interacting with wildlife and by that there is no permissible amount of it. On arrival guests will be briefed on acceptable behaviour and as long as you adhere to the information given you’ll be safe. Always remember that you are in the home of the animals and they are not in yours.


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