10 Best Luxury Lodges in Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa, covering an impressive 7,500+ square miles. Accessible via nine main gates, it’s home to over 500 different species, some of which you won’t find anywhere else in South Africa. Whether you’re dreaming of going on safari or have made it your mission to spot the Big 5 (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion, and leopard), these are the best luxury lodges to book in Kruger National Park:
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10 best Kruger National Park luxury lodges for 2024
1. Best overall lodge: Silvan Safari
Named the World’s Leading Luxury Lodge by World Travel Awards an impressive five years in a row (and counting), it’s no wonder Silvan Safari is considered the best of the best when it comes to luxury lodges in Kruger National Park. With an innate understanding of and a deep love for the bush, Silvan Safari knows how to help guests connect with the wonders of the South African landscape with one-of-a-kind game-driving experiences. And at the end of the day when you need to rest and recharge, you’ll find all the luxury and comfort you need with restorative spa treatments, delectable food and wine, and even a bespoke gin experience.
Price: starting at $1,100 to $11,400
2. Best luxury lodge for photography enthusiasts: Savanna Private Game Reserve
Inside Kruger National Park, tucked inside the famous Sabi Sand Reserve, you’ll find the Savanna Private Game Reserve. An exclusive, five-star lodge of international acclaim, this is the place to be if you want to photograph South African wildlife. The public lounge features a spacious patio directly overseeing a watering hole, delivering picture-perfect opps of game drinking and bathing. Pro tip: There’s also a loft above the lounge that gives a hidden, birds-eye view of the watering hole for next-level pictures.
Price: starting at $1,225
3. Best luxury lodge for up-close wildlife viewing: Singita
Want to get up close and personal with Mother Nature? Get ready for the sightseeing of a lifetime with a stay at Singita. Since 1993, Singita has put the focus on environmentally-conscious hospitality and sustainable conservation. With some of the most sought-after locations in the park, this luxury South African lodge is a sanctuary for guests seeking stillness, well-being, and, above all, intense connection with nature—no wonder it’s named after the Shangaan word for “place of miracles”!
Price: starting at $2,545 to $14,070
4. Best luxury lodge for sustainable safaris: Cheetah Plains
The safari experience of the modern age is all about sustainability and eco-responsibility. Combine that with top-tier sophistication and luxury, and that’s what you’ll find at Cheetah Plains. Whether you’re staying in the Villas or the Private Guest Bush Suites, every guest can enjoy a safari experience that’s fully powered by solar energy. Moreover, the twice-daily game drives are all led by safari guides and tracker teams aboard electric safari vehicles for an all-new, zero-emission, game-viewing experience.
Price: starting at $7,600
5. Best luxury lodge for couples: Dulini
A luxury lodge in Kruger National Park is one of the best places in the world to get away from it all, connect with nature, and spend some cozy, one-on-one time with your sweetheart. For a romantic oasis that just can’t be beat, look no further than Dulini. This intimate lodge gives you the perfect mix of romance and adventure. With three wildlife sanctuaries to choose from, you and your partner can soak up the serene South African landscape, tap into your explorative side with game drives and bush walks, and truly indulge in massages and body treatments for two.
Price: starting at $1,230 to $1,930
6. Best luxury lodge for night safaris: Sabi Sabi
Think a safari is exciting during the daytime? Just wait until you try it at night. For an unforgettable safari experience with elegance and exclusivity to match, you can’t top Sabi Sabi. With the help of their expert guides, you can escape into the wonder of the bush to experience truly unspoiled nature in a new light. Plus, you can also learn about the lodge’s unique conservation approach and how they work to protect endangered species from extinction with their own dedicated anti-poaching units and ethical safari practices.
Price: starting at $990 to $1,460
7. Best luxury lodge for families: Chitwa Chitwa
Are you in charge of planning your family’s next vacation? Get ready for your Daughter-of-the-Year award because booking a stay at Chitwa Chitwa is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This luxury private game lodge in Kruger National Park is serving up all the amenities for a five-star trip that will satisfy even your crankiest cousin: sumptuous cuisine, epic safaris, and even dedicated activities for children so everyone can participate in a family trip to the bush.
Price: starting at $940 to $5,500
8. Best luxury lodge for solo travelers: Thornybush
Ready to dive headfirst into the nature of Kruger National Park, but none of your friends or family are up for the adventure? No worries—you can feel welcome at Thornybush, where they’ll help you plan your entire itinerary so you can make the most of your trip and fully immerse yourself in the park’s diverse wildlife. Explore during the day with guided bush walks, chill out at night with holistic and healing spa treatments, and learn more about sustainable safaris with a tour of Thornybush’s nearby eco-village. Best of all, for our fellow solo female travelers (hey, girl!), staff from the luxury lodge can even meet you as you step off your plane and escort you directly to the lodge so you never have to worry about being in transit alone.
Price: starting at $1,075
9. Best luxury lodge for foodies: Jabulani
If you’re a diehard foodie and can’t imagine a vacation without fabulous cuisine, then Jabulani is the place for you. And you’ll certainly work up an appetite! At Jabulani, you can pack your day with any combination of unforgettable activities, like game drives, walking safaris, bird-watching, and even helicopter rides and hot air balloon rides. Then, tuck in with a one-of-a-kind dining experience. A Relais & Châteaux-accredited property, Jabulani serves up mouth-watering meals and snacks all day long—and it’s all included in your stay!
Price: starting at $1,075 to $1,560
10. Best luxury lodge for privacy: Lion Sands Game Reserve
Whether you want to cozy up with your sweetheart or just enjoy a tranquil escape from the city hustle and bustle, Lion Sands Game Reserve is the ideal sanctuary for a private South African getaway. Located in the heart of the bush, this luxury lodge in Kruger National Park offers award-winning villas designed for comfort and privacy. Not sure how to begin planning your dream safari vacation? Lion Sands Game Reserve makes it easy. You can choose from four unique packages—each personalized specifically for couples, families, or solo travelers—or you can work with the lodge’s concierge directly to curate a truly bespoke South African vacation.
Price: starting at $1,140 to $10,090
Kruger National Park lodges - common FAQs
Which part of Kruger National Park is the best?
The southern section of Kruger National Park offers some of the best opportunities for game viewing. It’s also one of the most easily accessible parts of the park, as it’s just a few hours’ drive from Johannesburg and Swaziland.
What is the best month to visit Kruger National Park?
For the best weather and game viewing, it’s recommended to visit Kruger National Park between May and October. This is the dry season, when vegetation is sparser, making it easier to spot and track animals.
How many days should you stay in Kruger National Park?
Kruger National Park is one of the greatest scenes for diverse wildlife in South Africa. To get a real taste for the park and enjoy safaris and game viewing, you’ll want to spend at least three nights in Kruger National Park (though once you’re there, you’ll likely want to spend more!).
