Luxury hotels in Greater Kruger National Park

Hey! When I travel I love to stay at luxurious hotels - especially the kind of places that offer over the top extras and really spoil their guests with great service, nice spas, awesome restaurants and beautiful views. What more can you want? To save some time, I've put together this list of my favourite 5-star hotels and resorts in Greater Kruger National Park. I hope you will like it!

• 1 Kilima Private Game Reserve & Spa Gravelotte, South Africa

  

  Resort. Kilima Private Game Reserve & Spa features an outdoor swimming pool, garden, a shared lounge and bar in Gravelotte. This 5-star resort offers a concierge service, luggage storage space and free WiFi. Some units at the property include a balcony with a mountain view. The units in the resort are equipped with a kettle. Each room includes air conditioning, and certain rooms at Kilima Private Game Reserve & Spa have a terrace. All units feature bed linen. A à la carte, continental or Full English/Irish breakfast is available daily at the property. At the accommodation you will find a restaurant serving African, French and Pizza cuisine. Vegetarian, vegan and dairy-free options can also be requested. You can play table tennis at this 5-star resort. Leydsdorp is 11 km from Kilima Private Game Reserve & Spa. The nearest airport is Phalaborwa, 67 km from the resort, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service. Show full description Guest review score 9.1, rooms from around 1680 ZAR.

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• 2 Kapama Southern Camp Kapama Private Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Kapama Southern Camp is situated in the greater Kruger Park area within the Kapama Private Game Reserve. Surrounded by nature in a tranquil setting, this luxury accommodation offers modern and air-conditioned suites with views. Decorated in warm earth tones, the suites come with a private patio, a full en suite bathroom, a minibar and tea-and-coffee making facilities. The more spacious Luxury Suites have their own private lap pool as well as inside and outside showers. Meals are served in the contemporary open dining room, which also hosts a wine cellar. The dinner is served outdoors at the traditional boma. Kapama Southern Camp arranges game drives in open safari vehicles, accompanied by experienced rangers. For relaxation, guests can read a book in the lounge or unwind in the pool. Guests at Southern Camp also have access to the spa and wellness centre and fitness facilities at a nearby lodge. The property offers a free airport shuttle service for scheduled flights into Hoedspruit Airport. Show full description Guest review score 9.4, rooms from around 13875 ZAR.

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• 3 Shumbalala Game Lodge Thornybush Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Shumbalala Game Lodge is situated in the heart of the 14000-hectare Thornybush Game Reserve and lies adjacent to the Greater Kruger National Park. This African themed 5-star lodge features a swimming pool, sun terrace and a private viewing deck. Elegantly decorated in neutral and white shades, the beds are draped with a mosquito net and feature a modern combination of wooden and stone finished floors. The suite includes a cosy seating area and fireplace. Each suite has a minibar, tea-and-coffee-making facilities and a private viewing deck. Shumbalala Game Lodge's restaurant offers scrumptious dishes prepared by the in-house chefs. Dinners are hosted in the intimate and elegant dining room, as well as the uniquely designed cellar that offers views of the water hole. Shumbalala offers an African safari experience and features an array of wildlife ranging from lions, leopards, impalas, cheetahs and birds of prey. Hoedspruit’s Eastgate Airport is 25 km away. Show full description Guest review score 10.0

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• 4 Thornybush Game Lodge Thornybush Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Neighbouring the Greater Kruger National Park, the 5-star Thornybush Game Lodge is spread across 14000-hectares of unspoilt African bushveld and boasts a sun terrace encircling the swimming pool. Overlooking the seasonal Monwana River from your private viewing deck, the elegant air-conditioned suites boast African décor combined with earthy colours and feature a mosquito net draped over the bed, a minibar and a private entrance. The luxury en suite bathrooms have a private indoor and outdoor shower, bath and complimentary bathroom amenities. The restaurant dishes features influences of local and contemporary cuisine. Guests can enjoy a cocktail at the bar or by the poolside which offers scenic views across the bushveld. For relaxation, the Amani African Spa offers an array of wellness treatments. The game reserve is home to a variety of diverse animals and birdlife. Activities range from dawn and dusk game guided drives in open vehicles and by foot. Kruger Park's, Orpen Gate can be reached in 63 km and Hoedspruit’s Eastgate Airport is 24.5 km away. Show full description Guest review score 10.0

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• 5 Pondoro Game Lodge Balule Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Pondoro is set on the banks of the Olifants River inside the 50 000 ha Balule Private Game Reserve inside the greater Kruger National Park. Pondoro has three architecturally designed chalets overlooking the Olifants River. Each chalet has been beautifully decorated with an African theme. All chalets have en-suite bathrooms (with a shower and bath overlooking the river), lounge area, air-conditioning, mosquito nets and a wooden deck. All our suites are air-conditioned and architecturally designed offering modern comforts in an ancient setting. Each suite is provided with a private wooden deck, Jacuzzi, lounge area and an outside shower for those who are adventurous at heart. A fusion of traditional African and modern European cuisine can be enjoyed on the wooden deck overlooking the river. Guests can taste fine wine from Pondoro’s extensive wine cellar or grab a snack at the bar. Meals and drinks included. Revitalize your mind, body and soul with classic spa treatments which range from a glass covered steam room, a spa bath under the wide African sky to a massage in the privacy of your room or visit our fitness centre. Morning and evening safari drives on open-topped Land Rovers, bird-watching and nature walks are included. Experienced guides will not only use their knowledge and bushcraft to try and show you the Big Five and other plains game, but they will do their best to paint memories of an Africa that will never fade away. A nature walk with an armed guide would add the thrill of encountering animals on foot. The Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is 131 km away. Hoedspruit Airport is a 60-minute drive from the camp. Show full description Guest review score 9.9

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• 6 Jabulani Safari Kapama Private Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Jabulani, where luxury and purpose meet. As a proud Relais & Châteaux member and 5-star luxury lodge in Kapama Private Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger Park area, a Jabulani safari promises nothing but the best experience from start to finish. Jabulani, with its six superior suites and the exclusive, family-friendly Zindoga Villa, offers a unique opportunity for gracious living in a five-star luxury lodge. Each spacious and elegant suite is luxuriously furnished and features both a private deck and a plunge pool. Children are welcome at Jabulani from the age of six and at Zindoga Villa at any age. Protecting the gentle giants was one of the founding principles at Jabulani. The lodge was started to help care for a rescued elephant herd nearly 20 years ago. Today, they continue with this by sharing the experience with guests while guests help to conserve this magical species just by visiting. Devoted elephant carers share insightful stories of their life journeys with the Jabulani herd, whilst you have an opportunity to respectfully observe the elephants during their daily routines – while they enjoy their midday swim and forage in the wild. There are also plenty of other things to do, such as game drives, walking safaris, bird-watching, exploring the little creatures, helicopter flights, hot air balloon rides, and spending time at Jabulani’s onsite facilities, like the luxury bush spa. Jabulani offers a one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive dining experience. Enjoy fine cuisine in the best setting, from breakfast bush picnics and sundowner canapés, to star-lit private dinners or gatherings in the boma. Twice-daily morning and evening game drives are designed to coincide with the times of day that the wildlife is most active. Head into the bush on an open, custom-built safari vehicle, with our experienced and knowledgeable rangers at the helm. Jabulani is a soulful, insightful and unforgettable experience. Show full description Guest review score 9.8, rooms from around 26400 ZAR.

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• 7 Klaserie Drift Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Located within a Big Five Game Reserve in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Misava Safari Camp offers a traditionally decorated accommodation with African bush surroundings. There is an outdoor pool, 2 terraces and a garden. All 6 air-conditioned rooms feature a bush theme. Each has a private entrance and an en suite bathroom. Guests can relax and enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner on the outdoor patio, sun terrace or in the dining room, all featuring traditional décor, wooden furnishings and loungers. The Misava Safari Camp has game viewing and offers game drives and walking safaris. During the day guests can sunbathe poolside or enjoy a picnic in the open garden, by night relax with a drink by the boma. Klaserie River is 2 km away and the closest airport is the Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, 37.4 km away. An airport shuttle is available on request and free private parking is available on site. Show full description Guest review score 9.8, rooms from around 14500 ZAR.

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• 8 Kapama Buffalo Camp Kapama Private Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Luxury tent. Kapama Buffalo Camp is situated in the greater Kruger Park area within the Kapama Private Game Reserve. This luxury tented camp is set amongst tall shady trees with a seasonal river below, and combines old world charm with contemporary design. The lodge's tented suites are set on stilted wooden decks, built on an elevated riverbank. Each tents has wooden floors, leather and dark wood finishes and each is equipped with a minibar, a Nespresso coffee machine and a lock-up safe. Meals are à la carte, and breakfast and lunch are served under a canopy of thatch, while dinner is usually enjoyed in the traditional outdoor boma around an open fire. Kapama Buffalo Camp arranges game drives in open safari vehicles, accompanied by experienced rangers. For relaxation, guests can unwind in the pool. Guests at Kapama also have access to the spa centre and fitness facilities at a nearby lodge. The property offers a free airport shuttle service for scheduled flights into Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport. Show full description Guest review score 9.7, rooms from around 15225 ZAR.

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• 9 Kapama Karula Kapama Private Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Part of the Greater National Kruger Park, Kapama Karula is situated in the expansive Kapama Game Reserve. Kapama Karula arranges game drives in open safari vehicles, accompanied by experienced rangers. The luxurious suites offer views over the Klaserie River. The spacious Suites at Kapama Karula are each luxuriously decorated and boast an outside deck area with heated swimming pool and sun loungers. They feature a full private bathroom as well as an outdoor shower. There is a stocked minibar and a Nespresso coffee machine. For guest comfort and convenience, the suites also offer a telephone, an iPod docking station, an overhead fan and air conditioning. Each suite also comes with a seating area and a gas-heated fireplace. The family suites have a open plan living area, a master bedroom as well as children's bedroom. Kapama's modern lounge and bar offers an contemporary African feel. With prior arrangement, the lodge can set up a romantic dinner for two in the library. For relaxation, guests can unwind in the Karula's luxury spa, which is surrounded by glass to enhance the African bush scenery. The spa combines rustic warmth with neutral colors and a calm atmosphere. Guests can also relax in the multipurpose library, equipped with audiovisual equipment. There are 2 internet stations with complimentary WiFi for guests to use. Show full description Guest review score 9.7, rooms from around 31875 ZAR.

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• 10 Karongwe River Lodge Karongwe Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Situated in Karongwe Game Reserve, Karongwe River Lodge features accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning, and access to a garden with an outdoor swimming pool. The nearest airport is Hoedspruit Eastgate, 69 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service. A terrace can be found at Karongwe River Lodge, along with a shared lounge. -Full Board with 2 game drives p/p (PM & AM) -Complimentary Sundowner - limited to 1 x local beer, house wine or soft drink p/p per PM drive -All other Drinks for Guests' own Account Show full description Guest review score 9.7, rooms from around 8603 ZAR.

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• 11 Kapama River Lodge Kapama Private Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Part of the Greater National Kruger Park, Kapama River Lodge is situated in the expansive Kapama Game Reserve. Enjoy a luxurious stay in modern accommodations, while surrounded by the African bush and wildlife at the bend of the seasonal Kapama River. Kapama is the largest luxury game lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park area, including 64 air-conditioned suites all stylishly furnished and set against the backdrop of the Drakensberg Mountains. Each suite has a private bathroom fitted with a bath and shower, and complete with complimentary amenities. Each is also equipped with a minibar and coffee machine. The lodge features a swimming pool and spa. Kapama River Lodge offers free WiFi and guests enjoy a variety of activities game drives and bush walks. All drinks and buffet meals are served at the on-site bar and restaurant, and special diet menus are catered on request. Show full description Guest review score 9.6, rooms from around 12375 ZAR.

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• 12 Kuname Lodge Karongwe Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Set on 9000 hectares of unspoiled African bush, Kuname Lodge offers exclusive and luxurious accommodation in Hoedspruit. Located in the Karongwe Private Game Reserve, the lodge is 45-minutes' drive from the Kruger National Park. Kuname Lodge also has a swimming pool. Guests are accommodated in individually furnished villas with luxurious wooden finishes and beautiful linens. Each one is air-conditioned and has a spacious seating area, offering views of the natural surroundings. Featuring a private, enclosed garden with an outside bath and shower. Rates at Kuname Lodge include all meals. Game drives in open safari vehicles at dusk and dawn are also included. Kuname Lodge is bordered by the magestic Drakensburg escarpment on the west, and set in a lush ravine with a variety of game to view. Hoedspruit Aerodrome is 78km from Kuname Lodge. Show full description Guest review score 9.6, rooms from around 12836 ZAR.

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• 13 Lion Sands River Lodge Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Take in the African plains at Lion Sands Private Game Reserve at the heat of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. The main lodge is a picture of opulence with its high thatch roof, luxurious wooden finishes and African decor. Guests can relax or dine on the large viewing deck as it opens up onto the African bush veld. Guest suites at Lion Sands are peaceful retreats with draped beds and a comfortable seating area with a fireplace. Each offers a private bathroom fitted with a bath and shower, and an additional outside shower. Both the bedroom and bathroom are air-conditioned and feature a private courtyard. Lion Sands Private Game Reserve are treated to daily safaris and guided walks. Other facilities include a private lounge and bar, swimming pool and gym facility. The health spa is there to pamper you with a variety of treatments This lodge is a 2-hour drive from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. Show full description Guest review score 9.4, rooms from around 31080 ZAR.

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• 14 Lion Sands Narina Lodge Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. With river views, Lion Sands Narina Lodge is situated in Sabi Sand Game Reserve and has a restaurant, a kids' club, bar, garden, year-round outdoor pool and terrace. The lodge features both WiFi and private parking free of charge. There is a private bathroom with shower in every unit, along with free toiletries, a hairdryer and slippers. Kruger Gate is 12 km from Lion Sands Narina Lodge, while Skukuza Indigenous Plants Nursery is 4.3 km from the property. The nearest airport is Skukuza, a few steps from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service. Show full description Guest review score 9.2, rooms from around 35235 ZAR.

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• 15 Sangasava Safari Lodge Balule Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Private 5-Star upmarket self-catering safari lodge inside the 'Big-5' Kruger Park (KNP) Nature Reserve, on the banks of the Olifants River. Four double bedrooms en suite, sofa beds, for 8 adults & 4 kids. Booking is for 2 nights minimum. No price up to a 2 year old. Large terrace with pool. Lounge and open kitchen. Fireplace for barbecues in garden. Entertainment area at the riverfront, 300m from house. No other guests, one party at a time. No loud music is allowed in the game reserve. Serviced by 2 staff, mobile and WiFi connection. 1 hour to Kruger Park gates. Game drives/bush walks: R550/650 pp. Newly renovated lodge, fitted with top-end furniture and appliances. Staffed 24-hours a day. High quality beds, linen and bathrooms. Large entertainment deck with pool, overlooking an open field towards the Olifants River. House and garden fenced with an electric wire for protection against wildlife. Separate fenced patio at the river front, 300m from the lodge, with fireplace, shallow pool to sit in while watching the animal and bird life in and around the river. The Balule Parson gate to the game reserve is at the R40 road, just north of the Tzaneen turn-off (R526): open between 05:00 and 19:30. NOTE: It is not possible to get to the lodge if arriving late (make sure you arrive before 7pm)! Entrance gate will be notified ahead of guest arrival. Guest numbers cannot exceed the number in the booking, to enter the game reserve. Please note gate entrance fee is currently (2022) R200.00 per vehicle, plus R100-300 pp, once per visit, payable in cash at the gate. Inside the game reserve, follow the directions on road plinths towards Parson No 20 (Sangasava). The Balule Parson gate to the game reserve is at the R40 road, just north of the Tzaneen turn-off (R526): open between 05:00 and 19:30 - Parsons (not Parson)The game reserve road is possible to negotiate with a standard car, but a SUV with higher ground clearance much better. 4x4 not needed. All guests will need to sign an Indemnity Form on arrival. Firewood provided for the evening barbecue. Kruger Park is a Malaria risk area, bring anti-mosquito spray and long sleeve trousers and shirts for dawn and sunset. Consult your doctors regarding anti-malaria medication. Show full description Guest review score 9.1

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• 16 Tintswalo Safari Lodge Manyeleti Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Situated on Manyeleti Game Reserve between Sabi Sand, Timbavati and Kruger Park, Tintswalo Safari Lodge features exclusive lodge accommodation. It overlooks a waterhole, frequented by elephants and other game. The luxurious and well-appointed suites all have a deck with private plunge pool, and a spacious bathroom with bath and shower. All suites are equipped with mosquito net, air-conditioning, ceiling fan and a minibar. Raised wooden walkways lead to the main lodge. Activities at Tintswalo Safari Lodge include guided game drives and safari walks. Guests can unwind at the spa, which offers a variety of massages and beauty treatments. There is also a library with a selection of rare books. Other facilities offered at the lodge include a 24-hour front desk, a gift shop and a shared lounge. Free WiFi is available. Show full description Guest review score 9.0, rooms from around 21000 ZAR.

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• 17 Becks Safari Lodge Karongwe Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Overlooking the Makhutsi River, Becks Safari Lodge is located in the Karongwe Game Reserve. The lodge boasts an outdoor pool, spa and on-site restaurant. The luxurious tent-like suites have folding glass doors that lead onto a patio featuring river views. The suites are equipped with tea-and-coffee-making facilities, indoor and outdoor shower and air conditioning. The beds are draped with a mosquito net. -Full Board with 2 game drives p/p (PM & AM) -Complimentary Sundowner limited to -1 x local beer, house wine or soft drink p/p per PM drive -All Drinks for Guests own Account -Reserve Fees Included in Rate The lounge areas have internet facilities and there is a fire pit and main lodge deck overlooking the plains across the river. Show full description Guest review score 8.5, rooms from around 18080 ZAR.

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• 18 Ezulwini Game Lodges Balule Game Reserve, South Africa

  

  Lodge. Ezulwini Lodges offer modern accommodation with private bathroom facilities in the picturesque Balule Private Nature Reserve. Rates include 2 game drives per day. Surrounded by lush flora and fauna, Ezulwini Lodges are standard chalets and ultra-luxury suites. Rooms are offered in Ezulwini Lodges’ 2nd property, the Ezulwini River Lodge. River Lodge’s suites overlook Olifants River and have a private bathroom. At Ezulwini Lodges, guests can enjoy an English breakfast and as well as traditional game-based dishes. Show full description Guest review score 8.5

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I try my best to keep this guide up to date and I last refreshed it in December 2022. Did I miss a luxury hotel that should be on this list? Send me an email and let me know!