Fodor's Expert Review Jackalberry Lodge

Editor's Note: This property is currently undergoing renovations.

This lodge offers understated luxury, excellent food, superb guiding, and the Big Five at half the price of some of the better-known lodges. The air-conditioned thatch-and-stone chalets which face the purple Drakensberg and lie in pristine bushveld all echo a simple but elegant African theme that nudges the public areas and pool. Chalets have stone floors, braided straw rugs with leather bindings, deep armchairs, and beaded cushions in soft earth tones, all echoing a simple but elegant African theme. Spacious bathrooms have his-and-hers sinks, a tub with a bushveld view, and indoor and outdoor showers. The rangers are terrific, the staff friendly and efficient, and a particular bonus is that kids of all ages are welcome. Trained babysitters keep them occupied while you are off on game drives. For a little extra you can book the two-bedroom family chalet or one of the two large rooms where the bush comes right up to your doorstep. Always check the website for special offers.