30 Best Hotels near the Kruger National Park
Sprawled across the southern-most frontiers of Limpopo, and Mpumalanga’s northern reaches, the Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s largest game reserves. At almost 19,485 km2, it covers an area the size of Israel. Home to all of Africa’s ‘Big 5’ (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) with a supporting cast of cheetah, giraffe, hippo, zebra, and many more, plus over 500 species of bird – it’s a must for wildlife lovers. Busier than some of South Africa’s other wildlife parks? Yes. Better managed, better connected, and with superb places to stay? Also, yes. The Kruger National Park remains one of the first places of many a traveller’s bucket list to South Africa. Our collection of the best hotels near the Kruger National Park showcase the best in budget and five-star accommodation. Suitable for families, couples, foodies, and wellness lovers, there is something for everyone in this stunning location, whether you want to be based right inside the park's perimeters or in an option close by.
For something truly special
- One of the most luxurious stays in South Africa, Royal Malewane creates an unforgettable experience with that hefty price tag. A once in a lifetime experience.
- As luxurious as it is wild Tanda Tula provides guests with an authentic stay amidst nature, without compromising on the luxury. Stylish tents are very private (perfect for couples) and surrounded by nothing but wildlife. Alfresco, candlelit dining make it an unforgettable stay.
For a great value stay
- A 20-minute drive from the Kruger Park's Orpen Gate, Timbavati Safari Lodge is one of the best value stays in the area. Designed in a traditional style, each of its thatched cottages is painted in local tribal design and provide a characterful stay amidst the African bush.
- Beautifully designed rooms, superb dining, not to mention a long list of spa treatments – it’s difficult to fathom the price tag at Unembeza Boutique Hotel & Spa. But who’s complaining!
- Thatched roof, roll-top baths, and just ten minutes from the Kruger Park’s Phabeni gate, Rissington Inn is excellent value and the ideal pick for those on a budget.
- With just eight rooms, the ever opulent Belgrace Boutique Hotel provides guests with an indulgent stay (four-poster beds, in-room Jacuzzis and fireplaces) at an enviable price tag.
- You'd be hard-pressed to find a better value stay this close to the Kruger Park than Sabie River Bush Lodge. Great for families, easy on the pocket, this 18-room hotel does not disappoint.
- The ever inviting Hamilton Parks County Lodge, comprising14 thatched suites, provides a warm welcome to travellers of all ages, at a truly inviting price. It boasts good sized rooms, characterful bathrooms, plus manicured gardens and a charming outdoor pool.
For a truly wild experience
- Experience an authentic African safari at Baluleni Safari Lodge, with a few little luxuries thrown in. Sturdy tents are decorated in animal and tribal prints – guests can sit out on their terrace and watch the wildlife pass by.
- Camping for grown-ups, Kapama Buffalo Camp’s paired-back interior designed tents are very chic, and arguably far too stylish to seriously be considered a ‘truly wild’ experience. But, with wildlife passing right in front of your terrace, it does not disappoint.
For a romantic stay
- Catering for adults and older children, The Outpost creates a sophisticated atmosphere. Not your usual colonial-style tent experience, each stylish and beautifully designed tent is the height of luxury – not to mention the spa.
- Just five rooms, the boutique and beautifully decorated Xanatseni Private Camp is a very charming stay and ideal for couples in search of seclusion and relaxation.
- Sumptuous suites, private pools, spa treatments and private dining all ensure that Kapama Karula Camp is popular with couples again and again.
- Make memories as you gaze out at the elephants drinking from directly below Kapama River Lodge’s infinity pool. Suites include private terraces with epic views.
- Beautifully designed, Simbambili Game Lodge’s sprawling suites, complete with enormous tubs (the best come with private pools), are made for lingering. Spa treatments and superb dining (in-room and alfresco) complete the package.
- Family-lodge turned five-star stay, Motswari Private Game Reserve is a favourite with couples. Superb dining plus interiors by David Strauss and artwork by Marion Geiger-Orengo; it's an interior lover's dream.
For a family stay
- With only four cottages, Kurhula Wildlife Lodge is a very intimate and very wild stay. Enticingly priced it provides budget-friendly accommodation with activities that all the family can enjoy.
- Part of an ever-growing collection of excellently priced boutique stays around Southern Africa, aha Makalali Lodge is a great find. Characterful, thatched lodged accommodation adds to the character, whilst adults' and children’s activities ensure all ages are happy.
- Kapama Southern Camp’s flexible accommodation options, and activities for all ages, make it an excellent, and very luxurious, choice for families travelling together.
- with its eight private lodges with pools and relaxed indoor-outdoor living, Elephant Point allows families travelling together enough room to spread out and enjoy themselves, amidst the African savannah.
- Child and budget-friendly, and within easy reach of the Kruger Park, Kruger Park Lodge ticks all the boxes.
- Laidback and budget-friendly, Hazy View Cabanas provides individual cottage accommodation geared towards families, with plenty of activities on offer. It’s just a short drive from the Kruger Park.
- More modern and more luxurious than its counterpart, aha Bongani Mountain Lodge is every bit as characterful. A great family stay, within easy reach of the Kruger Park.
- With private cottage accommodation, acres on which to explore, themed dinner nights and a family of elephants to befriend, Hippo Hollow Country Estate is the perfect family stay.
- Running since 1983 Idube Game Reserve demonstrates that a warm welcome and friendly service never goes out of style. Popular amongst families it’s a very comfortable stay.
- An intimate, all-inclusive stay, with just six-rooms Senalala Luxury Safari Camp, is perfect for families or larger groups exploring the Kruger Park.
For bags of character
- Full to the brim with curio pieces and original artworks, Khaya Ndlovu Manor House is an idiosyncratic stay in the heart of the African wilderness – families and couples alike, will love it.
- Antique leather suitcases, white linen table cloths, and paraffin lamps: Hamiltons Tented Camp is an authentic colonial camping experience one doesn’t often come across – an ‘adults only’ camping trip!
- There’s nothing quite like Imbali Safari Lodge. Classic interiors and colonial artwork, are juxtaposed with modern luxuries and private plunge pools. Indulgent dining is the height of opulence.
- Dating back to the 1950s, Elephant Plains Game Lodge is one of the oldest family-run properties in the area – they must have been doing something right to keep it going for all these years!
- Colourful, characterful, Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge imbibes the spirit of Africa with its vibrant colour palettes and decorative artwork. All ages will love spending the night in one of their traditional thatched cottages.
For foodies
- Fine dining and the African ‘bushveld’ might not be an obvious partnership, but at Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve they have gone above and beyond to ensure that even the gourmand is catered for at their haute cuisine stay.
Sleep under the stars
- Fancy sleeping under the stars? Well, at Klaserie Sands you can. Not a sleeping bag in sight, spend the night in a four-poster bed with the savannah to serenade you. An unforgettable experience.
- Possibly the most romantic room in all of Mpumalanga, Lion Sands Game Reserve’s treehouse suite is perfect for couples looking for the unforgettable al fresco stay. Sleep amidst the canopies at one of South Africa’s most luxurious reserves.
Still not sure which to book?
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Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Limpopo
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or the best places to stay in Mpumalanga.
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Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
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Royal Malewane Hoedspruit 6 rooms from €3112
Honeymoons - This is one to truly treat yourself, a more luxurious safari stay is difficult to findGreat walks - Guided bush walksSwimming Pool - Private poolsRestrictions on children - Adult onlyWinner of countless awards, Royal Malewane is one of, if not the most luxurious stay in South Africa. With a hefty price tag it's one to truly spoil yourself, though once you're there, it's all included. Colourful rooms are designed by the owner herself, Liz Biden. Gourmet dining. A sublime stay. See More
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Tanda Tula Limpopo,, Mpumalanga 12 rooms from €1441
Romantic Break - Rustic-luxury tents in the middle of the African bush, with candlelit dining and clawfoot tubsSights nearby - Tale a drive to Bourke's Luck PotholeGreat walks - Guided bush walksSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolFive star stay in the midst of the Timbavati Game Reserve provides opulent interiors with colonial style tents filled with antiques. Each includes a private sit out with unparalleled views and bathrooms with roll-top baths. Fine dining plus excellent activities. An indulgent stay. See More
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Timbavati Safari Lodge Limpopo 12 rooms from €113
Families - Quirky cottages plus lots of outdoor activities - it's a great family stayValue chic - Excellent value within easy reach of the Kruger ParkGreat walks - Guided safari walks and trailsSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolA 20-minute drive from the Kruger Park this quirky lodge is designed in a traditional style. Each of its thatched cottages are painted in local tribal design and provide a characterful stay amidst the African bush that all ages will love. Outdoor dining, outdoor pool, plus cultural programme. See More
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Unembeza Boutique Hotel & Spa Hoedspruit 20 rooms from €320
Value chic - Sleek, chic, accommodation with an excellent price tagViews - The viewing towers not only offer glimpses of the local wildlife but also stunning panoramas of the bush and mountainsGreat walks - Excellent hiking trails in the areaRestrictions on children - Children aged 6 and overSleek, modern hotel with beautifully appointed rooms, suites and villas offering a very stylish stay. The food is restaurant quality, no mean feat in this location, plus there are superb wellness packages, a private hot tub, and plenty of outdoor activities. An eco-friendly boutique stay. See More
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Belgrace Boutique Hotel White River,, Mpumalanga 8 rooms from €149
Romantic Break - Opulent suites, superb dining, hot tub baths - a very romantic staySights nearby - Take a driving tour of The Blyde River Canyon, Three Rondavels, God’s window, Lisbon WaterfallsKayaking - On the WitrivierFour poster beds - For romantics.An elegant eight-bedroom guesthouse boasting indulgent wellness facilities. Opulent suites provide a very romantic backdrop from which to explore the Kruger Park and some of South Africa's most famous geographical wonders. There's a pool, hot tub baths, and excellent indoor-outdoor dining. See More
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Hamilton Parks County Lodge Hazyview,, Mpumalanga 14 rooms from €62
Value chic - Excellent value stay at this beautiful, bucolic lodgeGreat walks - Excellent guided walking trailsSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolFull of characterThis inviting thatched country abode provides a warm welcome to travellers of all ages. Relax amidst manicured gardens with a charming pool and plenty of shady spots. Each of the rooms is of a good size and include enormous beds and characterful bathrooms. Day trip to Kruger Park. Excellent value. See More
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Baluleni Safari Lodge Hoedspruit (Phalaborwa,) 5 rooms from €286
Back to Nature - A very 'Out of Africa' experience with rustic tents and superb safari experiencesSights nearby - Trips to the Endangered Species Centre, where they rehabilitate injured animals and release them back into the wildGreat walks - Guided safari walksSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolRustic tented accommodation boasting a long list of activities, guided walks, and excellent safaris. The lodge is frequented by the local wildlife - sit out on your private terrace and watch it go by. Hearty dining, including a sumptuous breakfast, local African dishes, and freshly baked cakes. See More
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The Outpost Limpopo 13 rooms from €519
Back to Nature - A stylish, modern stay in the heart of the Kruger ParkSights nearby - Take a tour of the surrounding villages and local cultureBirdwatching - Excellent birding oppurtunities - bring your binoculaursGreat walks - Explore the surrounding flora and fauna on footSleek, contemporary stay in the heart of The Kruger Park. A very stylish stay with excellent wildlife spottings. There's a spa, candlelit dining, and indoor-outdoor living from your sumptuous suite. It's a very sophisticated stay. Children above the age of 10 are welcome. See More
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Xanatseni Private Camp Hoedspruit,, Mpumalanga 5 rooms from €335
Back to Nature - Luxurious suites in the heart of nature - a very relaxing stayGreat walks - Guided safari tracking walksSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolRomantic - Good for couples.Located within the Savanna Biome, covering an impressive 32% of South Africa, this intimate lodge provides full board accommodation, with bundles of charm and ambience. Its five rooms offer beautiful, luxurious interiors and large bathrooms, plus a large pool and al fresco bush fire in the evening. See More
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Kapama Karula Camp Hoedspruit 12 rooms from €2180
Romantic Break - Sprawling suites and an indulgent spa: very romanticGreat walks - Guided safari walksSwimming Pool - Private poolsRomantic - Good for couples.Modern safari lodge providing separate suites nestled in the heart of the African bush. Boasting private pools and indoor-outdoor living, it's a truly wild stay. Enormous suites spill over into luxurious bathrooms. An impressive wellness menu, fine dining, and excellent game drives. Wonderful. See More
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Kapama River Lodge Hoedspruit 40 rooms from €576
Romantic Break - Indulgent spa treatment, al fresco dining, it's a superb couples stayGreat walks - Guided bush walksSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolViews - Great views from hotelVery luxurious accommodation, boasting the option of private charters from Cape Town - you don't get much more jet set than that! Rooms include private balconies with lavish bathrooms and epic views. Relax by the pool as elephants come up for a midday drink. The outdoor spa is bliss. Superb. See More
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Simbambili Game Lodge Kruger Park,, Mpumalanga 8 rooms from €1441
Romantic Break - Private pool, candle-lit dining: an utterly romantic stayGreat walks - Guided bush walksSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolRomantic - Good for couples.Opulent safari accommodation, popular with couples wanting to get away from it all. Suites include capacious four-posters, enormous baths, indoor-outdoor living, and the best, private pools. Dine under the stars on a gourmet menu, wake up early for a sunrise safari drive. A luxurious stay. See More
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Motswari Private Game Reserve Mpumalanga 15 rooms from €659
Romantic Break - Al fresco dining, four poster beds, you can even opt to sleep under the starsRestrictions on children - Children above the age of 16 can be accommodatedGreat walks - Daily guided safari and nature walksSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolStunning family house turned safari lodge - with interiors by famed designer David Strauss and artwork by Marion Geiger-Orengo it is an aesthete's haven. Each of its suites boasts a private sit-out where you can listen to the sound of the bushveld. Superb dining, infinity pool, plus daily safaris. See More
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aha Makalali Lodge Hoedspruit,, Limpopo 24 rooms from €519
Families - A great value, family friendly stayGreat walks - Excellent guided walking trailsKayaking - On the Makhutswi RiverSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolWell priced, family friendly lodge offering comfortable accommodation with your choice of local and continental cuisine. Sprawling suites, boasting family rooms, include private terraces and airy bathrooms. Excellent wildlife viewing. Candle-lit dining and drinks by the bonfire are magical. See More
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Kapama Southern Camp Hoedspruit (R40 Klaserie River) 22 rooms from €756
Families - Family suites and lots of outdoor activitiesGreat walks - Guided bush and tracking walksKayaking - Along Hongonyi LakeSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolExcellent family accommodation boasting private pools and your choice of activities. Flexible accommodation and dining mean it's perfect for children, whilst adults will love the spoiling spa treatments. Modern suites include stylish accommodation with private sit outs and some have private pools. See More
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Elephant Point Mpumalanga 8 rooms from €392
Families - Private villa accommodation makes this a perfect family stayKayaking - On the Sabie RiverGreat walks - Guided bush walksSwimming Pool - Private poolsChoose between Elephant Point's eight private lodges, all with private pools, perfect for families travelling together. Self-catering, guests have the option of hiring a private chef, or having their shopping done beforehand: everything is taken care of! Bordering Kruger Park it's a great stay. See More
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Kruger Park Lodge Hazyview,, Mpumalanga 3 rooms from €150
Families - Family cottages and a bounty of activitiesValue chic - Excellent value safari stayGreat walks - Guided safari walksSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolExcellent value family accommodation. Choose between one and two-bedroom cottages which include private balconies and plenty of space to spread yourselves out. There are lots of activities on offer and superb dining throughout the day. Relax by the pool, play a round of golf. A fun stay. See More
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Hazy View Cabanas Hazyview,, Mpumalanga 80 rooms from €74
Families - Mini golf, tennis courts, cycling, kids' club, and so much more - it's a great family stayTennis - Tennis courts and equipment are availableKayaking - Rafting on the Sabie RiverSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolSuperb family stay, this property is brimming with outdoor activities for children, whilst comfortable cottages make for the perfect base for exploring the surrounding wildlife. Hearty meals are popular with all ages - an excellent value stay. See More
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aha Bongani Mountain Lodge Kaapmuiden,, Mpumalanga 39 rooms from €222
Back to Nature - Great for familiies wanting to escape back into natureGreat walks - Guided safari walksSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolFour poster beds - For romantics.A charming lodge, offering luxurious yet good value family accommodation. Stay in a traditional thatched style cottage with luxurious four-poster beds and large bathrooms. There is an adult's and children's pool, as well as spa facilities. Dining is superb with excellent continental dishes served. See More
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Hippo Hollow Country Estate Hazyview,, Mpumalanga 18 rooms from €103
Families - Children will love the outdoor activities and abundance of wildlife - not to mention resident elephants!Kayaking - You're right on the banks of the Sabie RiverSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolFull of characterWell-priced excellently positioned safari lodge, a few minutes drive from the Kruger Park's Phabeni Gate. Each of its 18 cottages is spacious enough to accommodate young children or provide a couple with plenty of privacy. Themed dinner nights and a family of elephants nearby - a superb choice. See More
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Idube Game Reserve Limpopo, Mpumalanga 3 rooms from €818
Families - With private chalets and all inclusive dining, this is a great family optionBirdwatching - There are approximately 400 different types of birds spotted at IdubeGreat walks - Excellent guided bush walksSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolStarted in 1983 this family-run private lodge boasts homely accommodation with plenty of luxuries. Each chalet includes its own private pool and decking area, so families and couples are afforded plenty of privacy. Tasty dishes are served throughout the day. Excellent wildlife spotting. See More
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Senalala Luxury Safari Camp Hoedspruit,, Mpumalanga 6 rooms from €705
Back to Nature - Excellent wildlife spotting - a superb stayGreat walks - Guided safari walksSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolRestrictions on children - Adult onlyIntimate six bedroom lodge within the Kruger Park, providing an excellent all-inclusive stay. Spacious rooms include tea and coffee making facilities and private terraces. Commune around a the crackling fire in the evening, after a sunset safari. Excellent dining and wildlife. See More
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Khaya Ndlovu Manor House Hoedspruit,, Limpopo 8 rooms from €380
Back to Nature - An authentic "lodge" experience in the heart of the African bushGreat walks - Guided safari walksSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolFull of characterFilled to the rafters with antiques and local curios, all of the rooms are very cosy with sink-into-sofas, antique books, and quirky artwork. Bask in the panoramic views from the infinity pool and decking area. An excellent breakfast is served each morning; lunch and dinner à la carte. See More
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Hamiltons Tented Camp Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga 6 rooms from €688
Romantic Break - Adults only accommodation boasting lavish suites, an indulgent spa, and candle lit diningRestrictions on children - Children above the age of 12 are welcomeSailing - Daily morning and evening safari drivesKayaking - Along the Ngwenyeni DamNestled amidst the Kruger Park, this adults-only safari lodge boasts luxurious suites and superb wildlife opportunities. An utterly romantic stay choose from candlelit dining and indulgent spa treatments. Delicious freshly baked cakes and pastries are served - as are gourmet dishes and fine wines. See More
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Imbali Safari Lodge Skukuza,, Mpumalanga 12 rooms from €774
Romantic Break - Private pools, candle lit dining, in-room massage - all in all a very romantic stayBirdwatching - There are over 500 species including the Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill, Crested Barbet and Burchell’s Glossy StarlingRestrictions on children - Children over the age of 8 are welcomeSwimming Pool - Outdoor and private poolsPrivate safari lodge located within the Kruger Park. Its grand colonial interiors create a refined ambience. Communal areas are filled with antiques and historic portraits. Rooms include a terrace with views of the surrounding wildlife, the best boast a private pool. Alfresco dining is superb. See More
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Elephant Plains Game Lodge Limpopo, Mpumalanga 12 rooms from €765
Active Holiday - Lots of outdoor activities for the active at heart to indulge inGreat walks - Miles and miles of walking trailsSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolKids Club - Fully staffed.Dating back to the 1950s this 12 bedroom lodge provides an intimate stay amidst the famous Sabi Sands reserve. Four poster beds look out onto private terraces with far reaching views. Large en-suites include enormous carved stone baths. Lots of activities from safaris to stargazing. A great stay. See More
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Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge Skukuza,, Mpumalanga 4 rooms from €693
Families - Quirky interiors and plenty of outdoor activities - a great family stayBirdwatching - From the fierce martial eagle to the smallest and most delicate blue waxbill - there are plenty to be spottedGreat walks - Guided safari walks and trailsSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolCharming, characterful lodge with excellent wildlife opportunities. Colourful rooms are filled with African art and local curios. Dining is superb, with a tasty mix of local and continental dishes. There's an inviting pool and plenty of shady outdoor lounging areas to relax. Divine. See More
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Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve Hazyview,, Mpumalanga 8 rooms from €2250
Romantic Break - Private pools, candle-lit dining, and spa treatmentsFoodies - Fine dining and an excellent wine cellarRestrictions on children - Children above the age of ten are welcomeKayaking - Kayaking on the Sand RiverAward-winning lodgings, located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve provides a five-star stay with private pools, an impressive wellness menu, and opulent suites with four-poster beds and luxurious bathrooms. Sample your choice of 'bush cuisine' or Western flavours, paired with an excellent wine list. See More
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Klaserie Sands Mpumalanga 5 rooms from €847
Romantic Break - A perfect romantic stay, with indulgent suites and spa treatmentsMinimum Stay - Minimum two night stayGreat walks - Daily guided walksSwimming Pool - Outdoor poolThis five-star stay, nestled amidst the Kruger Park provides lavish interiors in a very grown-up setting. Choose between lounging by the pool, head out on an expertly led safari drive, or relax with a spa treatment - you can even 'sleep under the stars'. Superb dining. A great stay. See More
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Lion Sands Game Reserve Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga 12 rooms from €1884
Romantic Break - Private pools and superb spa treatments: a very indulgent stayGreat walks - Guided bush walksSwimming Pool - Private poolsRestrictions on children - Adult onlyOne of South Africa's finest safari lodges guests are pampered beyond imagination. Gourmet dining, indulgent spa treatments, there is even treehouse accommodation for the ultimate romantic sleepover. Suites boast impressive views, indoor-outdoor living and enormous baths. Divine. See More
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