49 Best Hotels in Mpumalanga and Kruger National Park, South Africa

For an Out of Africa experience and great game, you can't beat Selati, an intimate, stylish, colonial-style camp that was formerly the private hunting lodge of a famous South African opera singer. The early-1900s atmosphere is created by the use of genuine train memorabilia—old leather suitcases, antique wooden chairs, nameplates, and signals—that recall the old Selati branch train line, which once crossed the reserve in the 1870s. At night the grounds flicker with the lights of the original shunters' oil lamps. Dinner is held in the boma whereas brunch is served in the friendly farmhouse kitchen. Glitterati and European royalty have stayed at the spacious Ivory Presidential Suite, with its Persian rugs and antique furniture.

Leadwood is the smallest lodge of the Dulini collection with just four stunning suites generously spaced across the confluence of the Mabrak and Sand Rivers with views among the best in Sabi Sand. It's got an undeniable hideaway feel (room four is particularly secluded) and each comfortable, understated elegant suite features a lounge area with a cozy wintertime fireplace, a private pool (bigger than most in the area), a bathroom big enough to house Noah's cargo, and a curated minibar that brims with local craft liquor. The dining boma is also uniquely open to the river, and a fire crackles each evening for a drinks stop before dinner or a story-filled nightcap afterward. It's easy to book out as an exclusive retreat for friends or family. Blankets, sunscreen, binoculars, and protective eyewear for bugs and gnats are a nice touch on the game drive vehicles. 

This lodge, one of South Africa’s loveliest, is set among 14,826 acres of private concession in southwest Kruger—the park's first with game-rich traversing rights as a result—with 12 comfortable, spacious suites, each with a plunge pool and stunning views over the Biyamiti River. Had Sir Percy Fitzpatrick, author of the famous Jock of the Bushveld, and his canine superstar still been alive, they would have highly approved of today’s camp, which is authentic and steeped in history. The food, service, and rangers are superb, but the game-viewing is spectacular—think night drives in Kruger. The nearby Fitzpatrick’s Camp is better for families and intergenerational trips, but pricey.

If you're looking for safari accommodations that are the opposite of typical khaki trappings, the swanky suites at the Kruger Shalati sit aboard an ingeniously upcycled (and permanently stationary) train that's been converted from 1950s coaches painstakingly collected from scrapyards across South Africa and suspended 15 meters (49 feet) above the sightings-rich Sabie River. Each cabin enjoys generous views, and even sitting in the bathtub affords visuals of animals—hippos, elephants, antelopes, hyenas, or even perhaps lions—ambling below. Children are not permitted on the train, but rooms on solid ground at the Bridge House give families an opportunity to experience this unparalleled journey. 

The first Relais & Chateaux game lodge in the world, this gorgeous camp (think leopards, lanterns, leadwoods, and leopard orchids) is tucked into the riverbank overlooking indigenous forest. The lodge is themed in chocolate and white, with exquisite leopard photos on the walls, airy and stylish interiors, and elegant yet simple furnishings. Huge bedrooms, en suite bathrooms, and plunge pools continue the elegance, simplicity, and sophistication. From your spacious deck you look out onto a world of cool-green forest dominated by ancient African ebony and marula trees. Treat yourself to a bottle of bubbly from the champagne library and then dine with others while swapping bush stories or sip it alone in your private sala.

Stone and thatched, air-conditioned rondavels with two bathrooms and an outside shower are decorated in creams and browns and luxuriously furnished with natural finishes like copper and wood, colorful handwoven tapestries and rugs, terra-cotta floors, and original artwork. Public areas have a traditional safari feel, with plush couches, animal skins, and African artifacts. Shaded by ancient jackalberry trees, a huge deck overlooks the Sand River and its continuous passing show of animals. Browse in the air-conditioned Monkey Room for books and wildlife videos, sample the magnificent wine cellar, sun yourself by the pool, or stay fit in the well-appointed gym. The food is tasty, wholesome, and varied. Children over four are welcomed with special programs, activities, and goody-filled backpacks; children under four are not allowed on game drives. One guest room is geared toward travelers with disabilities.

This exclusive camp with seven ultra-luxurious suites lies at the southern end of Main Camp and overlooks the Sand River and surrounding bushveld. If it's privacy and exclusivity, or a perfect family or friends getaway you're looking for, then this is the spot. With its own pool, library, and boma, it's smaller and more intimate than Main Camp, but it shares the same magnificent all-around bush and hospitality experience. No children under 12 years old are allowed.

Marula seeds softly falling on the tents seem to be applauding this gorgeous little camp shaded by a canopy of giant trees. You'll feel like a sultan as you lie beneath your billowing, honey-colored canvas roof, which acts as a ceiling for your basket-weave handmade bed and headboard. Polished wooden floors, gauze-screened floor-to-ceiling windows, a roomy dressing area with two stone washbasins, and a fabulous en suite bathroom create a feeling of such roominess and elegance that it's hard to believe you're in a tent. The camp's dining area, lounge, and huge wooden decks almost nudge the very edge of the Timbavati River.

This lovely, reasonably priced lodge offers fine food, superb hospitality, and all the facilities you'd expect at a top lodge. Whitewashed walls, thatch roofs, delightful gardens, and panoramic views over the rolling Sabie River valley make for a country-house atmosphere, and—a special bonus—all rooms have verandahs. However, the spacious garden suites are worth the extra expense. Not surprisingly, the inn gets lots of repeat visitors. Meals are served in the restaurant or on the patio overlooking the pool. For breakfast choose Continental or the Full Monty, a full English feast. For tasty snacks, try the à la carte menu; for dinner, check out the local and vegetarian specialities. The lodge will also book excursions, supplemented with a tasty picnic basket.

Overlooking the Sand River, Singita Boulders Lodge intermingles the wildness of its setting among boulders with traditional African decor at its most luxurious. Inside and outside blend so seamlessly that you feel a part of the wilderness rather than an observer. Terra-cotta, polished stone floors blend with cowskin rugs, hide-covered armchairs, hand-carved tables, and carefully chosen artifacts. From every side, there are stunning bushveld views. Luxuriate in a sumptuous suite with comfortable leather and wicker armchairs, and desks and tables fashioned from organic wood. A herd of impalas could easily fit into the bathroom, with its claw-foot tub, his-and-her basins, and an indoor and outdoor shower. All doors lead out onto a big wooden deck with a private plunge pool (heated if it's chilly), sun loungers, and bushveld views. Children over the age of 10 are welcome.

Named for the nearby Lebombo mountain range, this breathtakingly beautiful lodge—winner of numerous international accolades and eco-driven in concept—hangs on the edge of a cliff (inspired by eagle nests) with wooden walkways that connect the aptly named "lofts" (suites) seamlessly fusing the outdoor and indoor areas. Organic materials—wood, cane, cotton, and linen—are daringly juxtaposed with steel and glass. Service and food are superb and a cooking class (where local community members are trained) at the on-site culinary school (for a donation of R1,000) is not to be missed. Twice-daily game drives (dawn and late afternoon) in an open vehicle are led by a highly experienced and knowledgeable ranger. You can also take a bush nature walk or camp out under the stars.  A carbon-neutral levy has also been automatically included in every booking. The property, and its sister lodge Singita Sweni (not to be confused with their sister Singita camps in Sabi Sand private reserve), are located in the privately operated, 37,000-acre N'wanetsi Concession in the park's extreme northeast. The area was once the base for the park's foot and horse patrols, and until the building of the lodges, it had never been traversed by vehicles. Today it's home to the Big Five as well as zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, hippos, hundreds of bird species, and varied flora.

Tanda Tula has a well-deserved reputation as one of the best bush camps in Mpumalanga. When lions roar nearby, the noise sounds like it's coming from under the bed. The reason is simple: you sleep in a large safari tent with huge window flaps that roll up, leaving you gazing at the bush only through mosquito netting. Each comfortable thatch tent has electricity, a freestanding fan, a private bathroom with a Victorian-style tub and outdoor shower, and a private wooden deck overlooking the Nhlaralumi River. First-class rangers give you a very thorough understanding of the environment, local history, and animals without concentrating solely on the Big Five. True adventurers might enjoy getting a taste of safaris of a bygone time at Tanda Tula's non-permanent field camp (open April through to October); after bush walking or driving all day, you set up camp in the bush; there's no electricity and limited cell phone coverage, but you'll be wined and dined at the elegant mess tent.

You'll feel as if you've stepped back in time at this camp because rooms are strategically clustered around the original 1920s homestead, which, with its colonial furniture, historic memorabilia, and wraparound verandah, makes you feel like a family guest the moment you arrive. The lodge was named after renowned cattle farmer turned conservationist, Harry Kirkman, who first lived here one hundred years ago, and who can be seen in the old photographs found about the lodge. Interiors have crafted out light and airy communal spaces for guests to mingle. Seek out a cocktail Paul's Pub (and slide your sightings into the tally board) or settle down with a glass of sherry in front of a blazing log fire. There's game galore in Sabi Sand (the size of New Jersey), which has the highest density of leopards in the world. Kirkman's is ideal for families and family reunions.

If you want to make the most of the viewpoints along the Panorama Route (and get the best photographs), this old-school holiday resort with campsites, self-catering chalets, and a restaurant, is your best bet. Don't expect oodles of personality, you're here for the location---epic views all to yourself (ask for directions to World's End). There are also horse rides and mini-golf. 

Expect a warm, sincere welcome at this owner-run guesthouse situated on spacious grounds with verdant lawns shaded by indigenous trees. The German-speaking Böhm family have been dispensing good old-fashioned hospitality since 1975. Chalets are perfect for groups and come fully equipped, with bathrooms, tea/coffeemaker, a heater, air-conditioning, and hair dryers. Take time to sit on your private verandah and gaze at the spectacular view of the Sabie River Valley and the prolific birdlife, order a picnic lunch, or walk the steep 4-km (2½-km) walking trail down to the river. A three-course dinner (R300) could include Sabie trout, succulent Karoo lamb, ostrich and venison, and local mushrooms served with fresh herbs and vegetables from the lodge's own garden. Book your first night's dinner in advance.

Dulini Moya Lodge comprises six stone-and-thatch bungalows for a maximum of just 12 guests in prime game-viewing territory. Ancient ebony trees shade each explorer-glam room, where a brass-edged writing desk invites you to record sightings, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows to your private pool prompt yet another swim before the afternoon activity. A high-ceilinged, thatched hangout completes this classic safari stay, where classic leather armchairs and deep sofas paired with vintage finds furnish the elegantly airy main area. There's also ample space to stretch your legs on the lawns or explore the artworks secreted into the indigenous garden. Dinners in the exceptionally stocked wine cellar are a delight. Children over the age of eight are welcome. 

One of Sabi Sand's oldest lodges, Dulini River Lodge scores 10 out of 10 for its gorgeous location—one of the best in the whole reserve—with lush green lawns sweeping down to the Sand River. Game-viewing is so superb that you'd be unlucky not to spot the Big Five. The experienced rangers and staff, some of whom have been at the lodge for years, will look after you in a friendly, unfussy way. Children 8 years and older are welcome, and this is the best family option in the Dulini Collection. Your roomy, air-conditioned suite (try to sleep with the windows open, so you don't miss that lion roaring or hyena whooping) is decorated in soft earth colors and has its own heated plunge pool. The South African wine list is very impressive and showcases some very fine wines.  

This delightful, value-priced camp owned and operated by Honeyguide is situated on both sides of a riverbed within Manyeleti Private Game Reserve. Simply designed and built of corrugated iron and wood, the large public areas overlook green lawns leading to the pool and outside bar. There's a private space in front of each of the 12 platform tents (all with modern conveniences and en suite bathrooms) to chill out and take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding bush. As part of the Children's Safari activities, kids can make clay footprints, learn about the little bugs and critters they see on their guided walks, play soccer, swim, relax in the playroom, and then dig into a special kids' menu.

This tented camp, built on wooden platforms, minimalist but with surprising luxury touches (owned and operated by Honeyguide within Manyeleti Private Game Reserve), gives you the total bush experience at half the price of some of the more upscale lodges. Designed to reflect Hemingway's Africa, it sits in a tamboti grove overlooking a dry riverbed. You'll feel very close to the bush (but quite safe and secure) in your large, comfortable tent with its leather couch and en suite bathroom with concrete bath, double shower, and separate toilet. Tea or coffee is served in your tent at dawn, and meals are served communal style in a big safari tent around a long wooden table in an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Spot game as you lounge on the swimming pool deck, or browse in the temperature-controlled wine cellar. No children under 12, but children are allowed at its sister camp, Khoka Moya.

Overlooking the Sabie River with quick access to Kruger National Park, this sprawling hotel is large but has excellent good-value accommodations in a prime location. Tastefully decorated comfortable rooms with tiled floors in a gray, russet, and white palette come with all mod-cons, including a workstation and free Wi-Fi, and have floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto greenery. The panoramic infinity pool (where you'll likely spend most of your time) is set below towering riverine trees, with cocktails and simple toasted sandwiches on the café menu. Eat, drink, and swim with elephants and waterbuck antelope tiptoeing across the view. Don't miss a massage in an open-air spa sala—it's an excellent bang for your buck.

Renowned for its relaxed and informal atmosphere, Leopard Hills is one of the premier game lodges in the Sabi Sands area. Set on a rocky outcrop with panoramic views of the surrounding bushveld, this small lodge offers privacy and luxury. Its main draw is its spectacular game-viewing; during a two-night stay you're almost guaranteed to see the Big Five at close quarters. Rangers are eager to share their knowledge and quick to rush guests off to see big game. The decor has an authentic bush theme, which gels well with the surroundings. Each double room has its own private pool (in addition to the main pool) and deck overlooking the bushveld. Bathrooms have his-and-her showers both indoors and out. 

Ivory Lodge offers the ultimate in luxury, privacy, and relaxation. Suites are really more like villas, as each has its own private entrance, separate sitting room and bedroom joined by a breezeway, and superb views overlooking the Sabie River and Kruger—the spacious deck comes equipped with a telescope and a plunge pool. Suites are decorated in contemporary African-European style with wood-burning fireplaces, a butler's passageway—you'll have a personal butler—and an indoor and outdoor shower, as well as a freestanding tub. For something even more special (if possible), inquire about spending the night at the Chalkley Treehouse. 

Set on one of the longest and best stretches of river frontage in the Sabi Sands, you can watch the passing animal and bird show from your deck or from the huge, tree-shaded, wooden viewing area that juts out over the riverbank facing Kruger National Park. The guest rooms are comfortable and attractively Africa-themed, with honey-colored stone floors with pebble inlays, cream wooden furniture, embroidered white bed linens, and lamps and tables of dark indigenous wood. The food is imaginative and tasty, the staff enthusiastic, and the rangers highly qualified. After an exhilarating game drive, take a bush walk, browse in the classy curio shop, or relax with a beauty treatment at Lalamuka Spa (lalamuka means "unwind" in Shangaan). 

This friendly camp has 10 stone-and-thatch individual chalets set amid thick riverine bush; some chalets are linked by interconnecting skywalks, which is great for families or groups traveling together (children six years and older are welcome). Decorated in warm, comforting earth tones, each chalet has its own wooden viewing deck and plunge pool. Old family photographs decorate the walls and tables in the public areas, reminding you of Londolozi's decades-old history. Relax on the huge thatched dining and viewing deck that juts out over a quiet backwater of the Sand River, and watch the mammals and birds go by. Or join a group yoga class under the African sky.

The most secluded of all Londolozi's camps, Pioneer's three private suites overlook the river and are perfect if you want seclusion and privacy. They can also be adapted into a temporary family homestead if you choose to rent the whole place (children over the age of six are welcome). Suites have floor-to-ceiling glass sliding panels with great wilderness views. Super-elegant bathrooms and classy bedrooms meld contemporary chic and classic African styles while the  out-of-Africa furnishings in the public rooms blend perfectly with faded sepia photographs, old hunting prints, and scuffed safari treasures. Check out the unique wallpaper behind the inviting bar. In winter sink deeply into your comfortable armchair in front of your own blazing fireplace; in summer sit outside in your outdoor dining room and listen to Africa's night noises. There are inside and outside dining areas, viewing decks, and a gorgeous S-shaped pool in the surrounding bush.

Londolozi's largest camp, centered on a thatched A-frame lodge that houses a dining room, sitting areas, and a lounge, has been around for decades and is the very soul and center of Londolozi. Meals are served on a broad wooden deck that juts over the riverbed and under an ancient jackalberry tree. The thatch rondavels, which were the Varty family's original hunting camp, now do duty as a library, a wine cellar, and an interpretive center, where you can listen to history and ecotourism talks—don't miss the Londolozi leopard presentation. If you're looking for romance, have a private dinner on your veranda and go for a moonlight dip in your own plunge pool. In suites, the pool leads right to the riverbed. All rooms are decorated in African ethnic chic—in creams and browns and with the ubiquitous historic family photographs and documents—and have great bushveld views. Families are welcome (children must be over six), and the fascinating kids' programs should turn any couch potato into an instant wannabe ranger. Then there's the unique Healing House wellness center on-site. This is no typical spa massage parlor, but a holistic all-in-one retreat including wilderness walking and ancient forms of sound therapy.

The breathtakingly beautiful Rattray's Camp merges original bushveld style with contemporary African luxury. Stay in one of eight opulent villas with spacious double bathrooms, dressing rooms, and private heated plunge pools. The entrance hall, with art by distinguished African wildlife artists such as Keith Joubert, leads to a huge bedroom with a wooden four-poster bed, lounge with comfy furniture, writing desks (for crucial nightly journal entries), antique Persian rugs, and a dining nook. Floor-to-ceiling windows with insect-proof sliding doors face the Sand River and open out onto your own game-viewing deck. Public areas include viewing and dining decks, an infinity pool, lounge areas, a library, a bar, and an impressive wine cellar.

If you’re looking for a truly exclusive experience, this lovely camp set high on stilts overlooking the Sand River at the southern end of the main MalaMala Camp fits the bill. Perfect for couples or a family or friends gathering, enjoy total privacy in your spacious air-conditioned suite or sit out on your big wooden viewing deck and enjoy the passing parade of game. There’s a great Out of Africa feel to the comfortable accommodation which echoes the colors of the surrounding bushveld, but Karen Blixen could never have imagined this present-day luxury.

Set in Kruger National Park's fertile south (near the Numbi Gate), this attractive tented camp—think enormous infinity pool overlooking a waterhole—has partnered with the local Mdluli Community (some 45,000 people that live adjacent to the park) to help them earn back 2,100 acres of land inside the borders of the iconic Kruger that was seized by the government in 1967. If you're not on a game drive in the morning, each capacious and contemporary en suite tent has a deck and swing seat for lapping up the bushveld view with a mug in hand (ask for a unit directly overlooking the Kruger as some are obscured by other tents). There are four disability-friendly tents, and the entire lodge is wheelchair accessible. Daily drives can be done either in your own vehicle on public roads or pre-booked with safari guides, where you'll traverse quiet, private roads—a luxury in this game-rich, tourist-filled southern section of the park.