Fodor's Expert Review Mpongo River Lodge

It might not technically be inEast London, but this old-fashioned lodge in the heart of a small game reserve beyond the outskirts of one of the city's rural suburbs benefits from being far from the maelstrom and surrounded by nature. The lodge is only reachable by 4x4, so you'll park your car at the reserve's entrance and be ferried to the intimate lodge which is quite old-school, full of dark wood, with a cozy lounge with a fireplace, bar and restaurant, and gardens where there's a handful of family-sized chalets, too. Friendly staffers add a homey atmosphere, and game drives are on offer at set times; don't expect to see any crazy sightings, though—there are a few elephants, but mostly you'll be inundated with giraffe, zebra, and various antelope. Nyala like to hang out at the lodge itself, sauntering not only across the lawns but wandering down the passageways and into the dining area—it makes for a very special moment when you open your bedroom door and see curious eyes watching you from behind long eyelashes.