Although there are several accommodation options outside of the Kruger National Park, nothing quite beats being away from the hustle and bustle and in an untouched wilderness. This allows one to truly immerse with nature and enjoy the sights and sounds of the African bush. Although the Kruger does boast a number of self-catering rest camps, it is always great to enjoy some comforts on your well-deserved time off and these 3-star luxury lodges do just that, without breaking the bank.
Nkambeni Safari Camp is a hidden gem in the Kruger National Park, situated a short distance away from Numbi Gate. The camp boasts 150 beautifully appointed luxury timber and canvas tented suites, each with two extra length beds, two fold out bunk beds for the kids, an en-suite bathroom with an indoor and outdoor shower, air conditioning, and a tea and coffee making station. Activities on offer at Nkambeni include morning, afternoon and full day game drives, night drives, bush walks, bush braais, traditional dancing, and visits to local community projects.
Umlani Bush Camp nestles in the Timbavati Private Game Reserve which forms part of the Greater Kruger Park. The camp offers four traditional reed and thatch double huts, four family huts, and one eco rondavel that blend in seemingly with the surrounding bush. Each unit has an en-suite bathroom with open-air shower, comfortable beds, mosquito netting, and veranda with seating. Umlani guests enjoy two game drives per day, in open top 4 wheel drive vehicles; guided bush walks, and dining experiences in a traditional outdoor boma and along a dry riverbed.
Klaserie River Safari Lodge nestles in a private reserve of the Greater Kruger Park, on the banks of the Klaserie River. The lodge boasts eleven luxurious riverfront chalets that are dressed with comfortable beds, big glass windows to enhance the river views, and en-suite bathrooms. The lodge boasts swimming pools, bar, and a boma area. The lodge offers games drives in the Thornybush game reserve, bush walks in the Klaserie conservancy, guided tours of Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, cultural village tours, hot-air balloon excursions near Hoedspruit, and horseback safaris.
Mjejane River Lodge lies in a private conservancy that forms part of the Kruger National Park. This 3 star luxury lodge boasts seventeen rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms, hair dryers, tea & coffee stations, mini bar fridges and private patios overlooking the serene waters of the Crocodile River. The lodge has a welcoming swimming pool and outdoor boma where dinners are enjoyed under a canopy of stars. Activities offered at the lodge include morning game drives in the Kruger National Park and afternoon game drives on the Mjejane conservancy.
Bongani Mountain Lodge nestles in Mthethomusha Game Reserve which lies on the southern border of the Kruger National Park. The lodge boasts five rooms, a suite, and a villa. Each of the units features an en-suite bathroom, air conditioning, coffee & tea stations, and a sitting area. These luxurious rooms are complemented with a restaurant, outdoor boma, and a viewing deck that commands spectacular views. Activities offered at the lodge and nearby include open-vehicle game drives, rock art tours, cultural village tours, and bush walks.
