South Africa is definitely an exciting travel destination that most dream of visiting. Seeing wild animals like lions, tigers, zebras, and giraffes roaming around freely in their natural habitat is something not a lot of people can experience. When you go to Western Cape, you will get to have this adventure, plus more. From glistening beaches and surfing spots, to picturesque mountain views, Western Cape has it all. Visit Stellenbosch’s vineyards and enjoy South African wine. Go to Camps Bay and enjoy a day on the beach. Enjoy a scenic drive at Chapman’s Peak, or watch the sun go down at Table Mountain National Park. After taking in all of the province’s beauty, end your day at one of the best safari lodges in Western Cape, South Africa.
1. Gondwana Game Reserve, Kleinberg (from USD 652)
Gondwana Game Reserve is a luxury safari lodge located on Garden Route. This means the lodging is right in the heart of the safari, where you can easily see the Big Five — lion, buffalo, elephant, rhino, and leopard. If you want to experience staying at a traditional circular dwelling, choose the reserve’s Kwena lodge. Its large windows offer a 180-degree view of the outdoors, and at night, you can gaze up at the sky and enjoy the sight of bright, glimmering stars. Those who want to further immerse in the safari vibe may stay at the tented eco-camp that comes with five bedrooms; it is great for a big group.
Gondwana Game Reserve
Address: Gondwana Game Reserve Herbertsdale South Africa
Accommodates: 8
Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle
2. Garden Route Game Lodge, Albertinia (from USD 175)
Experience luxury while being close to nature by staying at this family-owned private game reserve in Albertinia. From Cape Town, the three-and-a-half-hour drive wouldn’t seem enough because of the jaw-dropping views along the way. Garden Route Game Lodge prides itself on being home to abundant wildlife. On top of that, it offers gorgeous suites, some with a plunge pool. Guests can meet fellow travelers as they dine by the fireplace at the lodge’s restaurant. The reserve also has a lovely outdoor pool, with a magnificent view of the surrounding greenery.
Garden Route Game Lodge
Address: N2, 5km after Albertinia
Accommodates: 4
Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar Tennis court Sauna Garden
3. Buff & Fellow Eco Cabins, George (from USD 126)
Located 7.6 km (4.8 mi) from George Airport, this beautiful lodging puts you just at the perfect spot where you can easily see wildlife. Soak in your cabin’s private hot tub while watching rhinos and buffalos walk around the property’s fields. Buff & Fellow Eco Cabins have six gorgeously designed accommodations that are perfect for nature lovers. Each cabin has either a lake or mountain view. To kick-start your South African adventure, the lodging provides guests with a starter pack. This includes a JBL Bluetooth speaker, a box of games, emergency lights, and a fishing gear.
Buff & Fellow Eco Cabins
Address: 226 Diepekloof, Ultreya Farm Grootbrak
Accommodates: 8
Parking Golf course (within 3 km) Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Fishing Family rooms Free parking
4. Botlierskop Private Game Reserve, Reebok (from USD 197)
This Western Cape safari lodge is a treat for those looking for an authentic South African experience, with a hint of luxury. Like other game reserves, it is situated in a great location from where you can see wildlife like zebra, giraffe, and hippo. It offers colonial-style tents and country-style suites and rooms, with uninterrupted views of the river or the mountains. Out of all the room types, the tented suites are undoubtedly the most impressive. They are kitted out with an outdoor shower and a private wooden deck from where you can spot the animals. In addition, an outdoor pool, a spa, a sun terrace, game drives, safaris, and bush walks are also on offer.
Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
Address: GONNAKRAAL ROAD, LITTLE BRAK RIVER
Accommodates: 2
Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar Tennis court Sauna Terrace Non-smoking rooms
5. Thali Thali Game Lodge, Langebaan (from USD 61)
Ever seen an oryx, eland, zebra, or a springbok? If you haven’t, it is time to go to Western Cape and visit Thali Thali Game Lodge. Apart from the freely roaming wild animals, the reserve boasts rich flora as well. The lodge is great for families with kids as it offers fun activities like archery lessons at an additional cost. The property also has an outdoor pool to relax in, and a restaurant serving local and international fare. A one-hour drive will take you to Cape Town, which is filled with man-made and natural attractions.
Thali Thali Game Lodge
Address: 2 km off the R27
Accommodates: 6
Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Business centre
6. Ko Ka Tsara Bush Camp, Beaufort West (from USD 51)
This beautiful camp in Beaufort West offers nine gorgeous A-frame chalets and two spacious luxury chalets. The luxury chalets have an open plan space with a fully equipped modern kitchen, plus a private patio. The A-frame chalets, on the other hand, are so spacious that they can accommodate four beds in one unit. The camp offers the best of both worlds as it puts you right at Nuweveld Mountains of the Great Karoo, and offers modern conveniences such as free wifi and parking as well.
Ko Ka Tsara Bush Camp
Address: R381 Loxton Road
Accommodates: 4
Parking Pets allowed Bar Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Laundry Family rooms
7. African Game Lodge, Montagu (from USD 98)
The spectacular view of Langeberg Mountains alone is enough to convince anyone to visit African Game Lodge. But the property’s homey chalets and luxury tents give you more reason to stay. Each chalet has a fireplace and a braai area, perfect for grilling on a nice African night. The luxury tents, on the other hand, put you close to the wildlife while allowing you to enjoy comfortable amenities. These tents have a queen-size bed with luxury linens, a bathroom, and a kitchen that is great for preparing small meals.
African Game Lodge
Address: Driekuilshoogte Pad
Accommodates: 4
Meeting/banquet facilities Bar Terrace Non-smoking rooms Games room Internet services Express check-in/check-out Billiards
8. Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve, Lochlynne (from USD 126)
Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve may be one of the most unique places to stay in. The property has open-air suites that make the picturesque sky the ceiling. The cave suites are rooms with man-made walls carved like rock formations, blending well with the natural formations outside. Without cell reception, these accommodations offer maximum relaxation, away from all the stress of modern living. But if you really need wifi connectivity, simply visit the reserve’s restaurant, bar, or reception area.
Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve
Address: R303, Koue Bokkeveld,
Accommodates: 2
Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms
9. Rooiberg Lodge, Van Wyksdorp (from USD 56)
Enjoy a private getaway at this beautiful accommodation tucked away from the crowd. If you’re coming with a big family or group, the best option is to stay at the Manor House with several luxurious rooms. It has access to a pool, a large kitchen area, and an entertainment area. If you’re traveling with one to three people, staying at the chalet that provides gorgeous mountain views is your best bet. But if you’re the adventurous type, tent pitching is also an option at the lodge’s campsite. Rooiberg Lodge also has a restaurant and a bar offering a menu inspired by Klein Karoo flavors.
Rooiberg Lodge
Address: Portion 1 Plot 261
Accommodates: 8
Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Fishing
10. L'Ermitage Quagga Lodge, Velddrif (from USD 94)
If you want an accommodation close to the Berg River, L'Ermitage Quagga Lodge is the right choice for you. If you’re a zebra lover, all the more reason to stay here. The lodge is home to 40 quaggas or South African zebras, said to have been rebred out of extinction. The property also has spacious chalets designed with large windows that offers beautiful view of the Berg River. Each chalets has a modern kitchen, perfect for preparing a great meal after a day filled with an exciting safari adventure.
L'Ermitage Quagga Lodge - De Chatillion Collection
Address: L'Ermitage Quagga Lodge Off R399 Road
Accommodates: 4
Parking Golf course (within 3 km) Terrace Non-smoking rooms Fishing Family rooms Free parking Internet services
Explore the wildlife-roamed hinterlands of South Africa
Western Cape has truly been blessed with natural beauty and going to this place even once in a lifetime is something no one should miss. One of the unique experiences you can have here is seeing exotic animals and staying at the best safari lodges in Western Cape, South Africa.
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