Safari Camps in South Africa

Tucked into the heart of South Africa’s untamed Wild Coast, GweGwe Beach Lodge offers a rare blend of rugged natural beauty and refined comfort. Set within the breathtaking Mkambati Nature Reserve, this remote destination has long drawn nature lovers seeking solitude, biodiversity, and wide-open spaces. Once home to rustic rondavels, the site has been thoughtfully transformed into a luxury beach lodge, opening its doors in March 2024.

A New Standard of Wilderness Hospitality:

Designed to harmonize with the untouched landscape, the lodge features nine spacious en-suite rooms: seven twin deluxe suites and two family suites. Each suite comes with:

• A double vanity, freestanding bathtub, indoor and outdoor showers

• A cozy fireplace, lounge area, and private garden

• A sea-facing deck with a 6-meter private pool offering panoramic ocean views

The interiors are inspired by local culture and craft, showcasing the lodge’s deep connection to the land and people of Pondoland. This balance of eco-conscious design and understated luxury has already earned recognition: GweGwe Beach Lodge is a Condé Nast Traveler 2025 Hot List winner.

A Haven for Biodiversity:

Mkambati is a biodiversity hotspot, sitting at the heart of the Maputaland-Pondoland region—one of only 34 global biodiversity hotspots. The reserve’s unique sandstone soils and warm climate nurture 2,200 plant species, nearly 200 of which are endemic, including the rare Mkambati palm. Across the sweeping grasslands, you’ll spot zebra, eland, kudu, red hartebeest, and more, while keen birders can look out for Cape vultures, grey crowned cranes, southern ground-hornbills, and swamp nightjars—one of the world’s southernmost populations. The nearby cliffs of the Msikaba River shelter one of the last remaining colonies of Cape vultures in the Eastern Cape, a globally significant breeding site.

From Land to Sea: Marine Life & Conservation:

Beyond the shoreline lies the Pondoland Marine Protected Area, a vital sanctuary teeming with marine life. Declared a no-take zone, this stretch of coast safeguards fish stocks, coral reefs, and marine mammals.

Visitors in June, July, or October may witness the humpback whale migration, while massive shoals and playful dolphins populate the warm waters year-round. The area is also at the epicenter of the annual sardine run, one of the largest marine migrations on the planet.

A Conservation Cornerstone:

Mkambati Nature Reserve is more than a scenic destination—it’s a cornerstone of conservation on the Wild Coast. With rivers that begin within the reserve, the water is pure and unpolluted, feeding into waterfalls, crystal rock pools, and verdant valleys. The Mkambati palm, endemic to the region and namesake of the reserve, symbolizes the ecological significance of this protected area. Alongside the adjacent Pondoland Marine Protected Area, it forms one of only two formally protected regions in this globally important ecological zone.

Ngala Tented Camp offers an intimate, off-the-grid safari experience nestled between riverine forest and the dry Timbavati riverbed on the edge of Kruger National Park. With only nine elevated tented suites, the camp is designed for quiet reflection, organic discovery, and deep connection with nature.

Unfenced and woven into the landscape of the Ngala Private Game Reserve, the camp emphasizes slow safaris guided by instinct and presence rather than schedule. Guests enjoy open-air luxury, including private decks and outdoor bathtubs, all inspired by local Shangaan design.

Elephants may wander by as you unwind. Morning birdsong greets the day; lanterns softly light the night. This is a place where wilderness isn’t observed - it’s felt.

Set high on a hill with commanding views of the bushveld below, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge is one of the most scenically situated lodges in the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, a pristine and unfenced section of the world-renowned Greater Kruger National Park. This exclusive lodge offers a luxurious yet sustainable safari experience, with the untouched wilderness of the Timbavati unfolding in every direction — and the majestic Drakensberg Mountains painting a dramatic backdrop in the distance.

Directly below the lodge lies the expansive Mbali Dam and the Nhlaralumi River, a vital water source that draws an ever-changing cast of wildlife, from herds of elephant to elusive predators. Guests often enjoy unforgettable wildlife sightings right from the comfort of the lodge — no game drive required.

Thoughtfully designed to sit lightly upon the land, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge blends contemporary design with an eco-conscious ethos. The lodge comprises eight luxurious tented suites, each a private sanctuary elevated above the bush. These elegant suites are spacious, serene, and flooded with natural light. French doors open onto a generous viewing deck, where guests can take a dip in their private plunge pool, lounge in the shade of a sala pavilion, or simply soak in the sweeping views with nothing but birdsong for company.

Inside, the suites are appointed with a choice of king or twin beds, quality linens, and a soft, neutral palette that complements the surrounding landscape. A passage connects the bedroom tent to an en-suite bathroom tent, complete with a double vanity, indoor shower, and a spectacular outdoor ‘rain’ shower overlooking the dam — a sublime experience under the African sky.

The lodge’s design celebrates its elevated setting, offering uninterrupted views from nearly every space — whether enjoying a drink at the bar, lounging beside the central swimming pool, dining beneath canvas, or relaxing in the open-plan sitting area. The style is modern and playful, with a gentle nod to traditional safari aesthetics, but without the rustic austerity often associated with tented camps. Instead, Hilltop is light-filled, private, and quietly indulgent — a place where luxury feels natural, and nature is the true star of the show.

Guests at Simbavati Hilltop Lodge are treated to twice-daily game drives led by expert rangers and trackers, exploring the wildlife-rich landscapes of the Timbavati. As part of the Greater Kruger ecosystem, the reserve is home to the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — and also offers exceptional sightings of wild dog, cheetah, and a wide array of birdlife. The area is especially renowned for its leopard sightings and habituated wildlife, offering thrilling and intimate encounters.

Whether celebrating a honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply seeking a soulful retreat in nature, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge offers a safari experience that is as luxurious as it is unforgettable. With its effortless elegance, breathtaking setting, and exceptional wildlife viewing, it is a destination that speaks to both the heart and the senses.

Tucked along the banks of the Nhlaralumi River in the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, adjacent to South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park, Simbavati River Lodge offers an enchanting escape into nature — where luxury, wildlife, and warm hospitality converge.

This riverine setting is a magnet for wildlife, drawing elephants, antelope, and even predators to its banks, especially near the permanent waterhole located just below the lodge’s expansive main deck. From this exceptional vantage point, guests can witness unforgettable animal encounters without ever leaving the comfort of the lodge. It’s not uncommon for elephants to stroll up to the deck, offering an awe-inspiring spectacle mere metres away.

Simbavati River Lodge artfully combines the classic charm of a traditional safari with fresh, contemporary design. Whether guests choose a luxury tented suite or a spacious chalet, each accommodation is thoughtfully appointed to enhance the sense of place and provide maximum comfort. Several suites and chalets feature private plunge pools, ideal for cooling off between game drives or simply unwinding as the bush hums quietly around you.

The lodge caters to a wide range of travelers — from honeymooning couples and romantic adventurers to families seeking a memorable, multi-generational experience. Couples will appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, indulgent safari spa, and fully equipped fitness centre, while families will love the two-bedroom family chalets and the Cubs Club kids centre, designed to entertain and inspire younger explorers.

Each of the three family chalets features a main bedroom with a king-size bed, a second bedroom with twin beds, and a shared bathroom with a bath and double indoor rain-shower (accessible via the main bedroom). These chalets open onto private game-viewing decks with stunning riverfront views, offering the perfect setting for a family to reconnect in nature.

At Simbavati River Lodge, the wildlife experience is both immersive and flexible. Twice-daily game drives with expert guides reveal the wonders of the Timbavati ecosystem, known for its Big Five sightings and rich biodiversity. But the magic doesn’t end there. Many guests find themselves equally captivated by simply relaxing on the main deck or in the open-air lounge, drink in hand, as wildlife passes by in a steady and often surprising procession.

For younger guests, the Cubs Club is a haven of fun and creativity. Open throughout the day, it offers a relaxed and engaging space with games, beanbags, arts and crafts, and wildlife-themed activities. On request, dedicated staff can entertain children after breakfast with cupcake decorating, treasure hunts, bug spotting, animal face mask making, and more. Older children might even try their hand at archery, or join a short walk with a guide to learn about animal tracks and signs near the lodge.

This thoughtful approach to family-friendly luxury allows parents time to unwind — whether with a book, a peaceful riverfront moment, or a rejuvenating treatment at the spa — knowing their children are enjoying meaningful adventures of their own.

With its breathtaking setting, versatile accommodation, and deeply personal service, Simbavati River Lodge is a sanctuary where guests of all ages can reconnect with the rhythms of the wild — whether that’s out on the savanna or from the comfort of a deck chair, listening to elephants drink at the river below.

Set within a private concession in the world-renowned Kruger National Park, Ngala Safari Lodge captures the timeless romance of an African safari. 

Nestled beneath a canopy of mopane and tamboti trees, the lodge offers intimate access to 14,700 hectares (36,000+ acres) of pristine wilderness teeming with wildlife - including the Big Five and rare species like African wild dog.Thanks to exclusive traversing rights and expert &Beyond-trained ranger and tracker teams, guests enjoy exceptional game viewing with minimal vehicle presence. Sensitive off-roading practices ensure close-up wildlife encounters that are both respectful and unforgettable.

The lodge itself blends elegance with authenticity. Twenty thatched cottages, including three interleading Family Cottages and one private Family Villa, are thoughtfully spaced for privacy. Each features romantic safari-inspired décor, spacious en suite bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that welcome in the natural light and views. Private verandas provide a perfect setting for quiet moments or intimate dinners. The Family Villa accommodates up to six guests and includes a private pool and dedicated safari vehicle - ideal for multi-generational families or small groups.

Ngala’s inviting guest areas include a tranquil rim-flow pool overlooking the riverine woodland, perfect for birdwatching or unwinding between game drives. Guests can also enjoy a soothing massage in the open-air sala or make use of the gym facilities. Dining is a highlight at Ngala Safari Lodge, with candlelit meals in the courtyard or traditional African feasts served in the open-air boma under the stars. Every meal is thoughtfully prepared, reflecting local flavours and seasonal ingredients.

Guests can choose from a range of immersive experiences, including twice-daily game drives, interpretive bush walks, and conservation-focused activities like rhino notching (seasonal and subject to availability). For something truly unforgettable, the Ngala Treehouse Experience offers a magical night under the stars - a luxurious, open-air sleepout in the heart of the wild.

Whether you're seeking classic safari romance, meaningful wildlife encounters, or memorable family time in nature, &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge offers an experience where the magic of Africa comes alive.Let me know if you'd like a shorter version or adapted content for a specific audience (e.g. families, honeymooners, conservation travelers).

Tucked away on the edge of a rare sand forest in the north of South Africa’s &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, Phinda Homestead is an exclusive-use villa where luxury, freedom, and wilderness converge.

Designed for families and small groups seeking absolute privacy, the Homestead offers an effortless blend of modern elegance and the warmth of a private home. With a full team—including your dedicated ranger, tracker, chef, butler, and host—every moment is curated around your preferences and pace.

Wake up to sweeping views from one of four ensuite bedrooms. Spend your days exploring 29,866 hectares (73,800 acres) of pristine wilderness, home to the Big Five, endangered black rhino, and Africa’s most successful cheetah populations. With private traversing rights across seven unique habitats, your safari unfolds without crowds or compromise.

Between game drives, unwind with a swim in your private pool, a session in the gym, or a personalized spa treatment. Share stories over meals crafted in the interactive kitchen—or dine under the stars in complete seclusion.

At Phinda Homestead, you set the rhythm. Track wildlife on foot, take part in pioneering conservation work, engage with nearby communities, or venture to the Indian Ocean for a day at the coast.

This isn’t just a safari. It’s your home in the wild.

At Londolozi, each individual - like the concentric rings of a tree - has left a mark. From the original founders to every guest, guide, and staff member who followed, a legacy has taken root and spread far beyond these lands. Founders Camp stands as a tribute to those early dreamers and doers whose spirit helped shape what Londolozi is today.

This signature camp honours the wild, raw beginnings of Londolozi while embodying the essence of modern safari style - where classic meets contemporary, and simplicity meets soul. Designed to feel like a stylish African home, Founders Camp is both elegant and grounded, offering an inviting, restful atmosphere with a privileged view of river life along the Sand River.

Built in harmony with nature, the camp's earthy, elemental design echoes the ancient art of ‘wattle and daub’ construction, celebrating the materials of rock, fire, wood, and earth. The interiors are a fusion of clean lines, layered textures, and muted tones, creating a space that is soothing to the senses and calming to the nervous system.

• Ten bespoke superior chalets rest beneath ancient Ebony and Matumi trees

• Each offers a sanctuary of peace, privacy, and comfort

• The layout and design foster both deep rest and vivid connection to the wild

Founders Camp is understated yet deeply sophisticated - a place where simplicity is not lack, but refined presence. Within, it is muted and calming. Without, it is vibrant and alive - an ever-present connection to the rhythm of the bush.

Tengile River Lodge lives up to its name, meaning “tranquil” in the local Tsonga language. Offering one of the most exclusive safari experiences in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, the lodge combines bold contemporary design with absolute privacy and breathtaking views from every angle.

Tengile shares 10,500 hectares (26,000 acres) of rich wilderness with the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which borders the world-famous Kruger National Park along an unfenced 50 km boundary. This remarkable region is home to the Big Five and is internationally celebrated for its extraordinary leopard sightings. With strict vehicle limits at sightings and highly trained guides and trackers, every game drive is intimate, respectful, and deeply rewarding.

Each of Tengile’s nine expansive, air-conditioned suites is tucked beneath the shady canopy of the riverine bush, designed to blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings while offering full panoramic views of the Sand River. Every suite features a spacious master bedroom, elegant bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, lounge and dining areas, a fully stocked bar, coffee station, and an expansive private deck. Here, a sunken outdoor lounge and private lap pool invite you to relax and soak in the wild beauty of the landscape. Two suites are connected by a covered walkway, ideal for families traveling together.

The guest areas are thoughtfully designed to offer both interactive and quiet spaces from a viewing deck with sweeping river vistas to a cozy library filled with curated objects and fascinating reads. Throughout the lodge, bespoke furniture, hand-painted textiles, and art by local artisans create a sense of refined authenticity. A wellness space with massage and gym facilities offers the perfect balance of relaxation and renewal, while the Safari Shop features handcrafted items and stylish safari essentials.

Guests can choose from a variety of experiences including twice-daily game drives (day and night), interpretive bush walks, birdwatching, stargazing, private and photographic safaris, and photography lessons tailored to all skill levels. At Tengile River Lodge, modern luxury and timeless wilderness combine to create a truly exceptional safari - peaceful, immersive, and unforgettable.

At Londolozi, we strive not only to preserve the wilderness - but to elevate the journey into it. Nowhere is this vision more vividly experienced than at Tree Camp, the most stylish family-run safari camp in Africa.

Perched high in the Leadwood tree canopy, Tree Camp is a sanctuary of refined elegance and understated simplicity. 

For over four decades, this camp has stood as a tribute to the deep bonds and quiet kinship we've shared with the wild, free-roaming leopards that pass through Londolozi - often right beneath the deck. Here, time slows. Guests spend peaceful afternoons lounging on the expansive deck, champagne in hand, watching elephants meander along the river below. As night falls, the camp transforms - aglow with lantern light, and alive with laughter and intimate conversation.

Every detail - whether it’s the Ralph Lauren-inspired décor, plaited leather beds, plush sofas, or richly textured fabrics—speaks to a sophisticated interpretation of African luxury. From the private salas to the serene swimming pools, Tree Camp offers a matchless showcase of excellence in both design and experience.

Please note: Tree Camp does not accommodate children under the age of 16, unless the camp is booked exclusively.

Set along the banks of the Sand River, Londolozi’s Private Granite Suites offer an extraordinary blend of elegance and wilderness - an exclusive retreat designed for those who appreciate the finest details in life.

Flanked by dramatic granite rock formations, the lodge draws inspiration from its surroundings. The interior palette of silver, charcoal, and elephant grey mirrors the textures and tones of the natural landscape, creating a bold yet refined atmosphere. These suites evoke Africa’s raw beauty, elevated by a contemporary, sophisticated aesthetic.

The experience here is immersive. Floor-to-ceiling doors and windows dissolve the boundary between inside and out, inviting the wild in. Breeding herds of elephants often meander along the river below, observed from the privacy of your sunken cocktail lounge or the sunset river bar, suspended above the water.

Each suite features:

• A private, heated swimming pool

• A luxurious outdoor stone bath

• Expansive views and complete seclusion

The Private Granite Suites can be booked individually or as a private-use camp for up to six guests—making them ideal for honeymooners, romantic getaways, or intimate celebrations.

Please note: This exclusive camp does not accommodate children under the age of 16.

Kirkman’s Kamp offers a safari experience steeped in history and luxury, set within the world-famous Sabi Sand Nature Reserve. Sharing an unfenced boundary with South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park, the reserve boasts incredible biodiversity and is especially renowned for its exceptional leopard sightings - considered among the best in the world.

Guests at Kirkman’s Kamp enjoy exclusive access to 10,500 hectares (26,000 acres) of pristine wilderness, home to the Big Five as well as rare and iconic species. Safaris are led by expert ranger and tracker teams trained by &Beyond, who prioritize sensitive off-road driving and vehicle limits at sightings to provide an intimate, up-close wildlife experience without disturbing the natural environment.

The lodge itself is a charming blend of old-world elegance and modern comfort, designed to evoke the classical ambiance of an original 1920s homestead. Its 12 beautifully appointed guest cottages—including a spacious family cottage composed of two interconnected suites—offer spectacular, uninterrupted views of the Sand River. Antique-style furnishings blend seamlessly with contemporary amenities, while private verandas invite guests to relax amid the tranquil bushscape.

Facilities at Kirkman’s Kamp include a serene library filled with captivating reads, a cozy sitting room perfect for pre-dinner drinks, and a rim-flow swimming pool overlooking the river. Guests can enjoy tea on the rolling lawns, breakfast and lunch on the shaded verandas, and memorable dinners featuring mouth-watering Pan-African cuisine served in various atmospheric settings such as the boma, lawns, or a candlelit bush dining area.

The range of activities caters to all interests, with twice-daily game drives, interpretive bush and nature walks, private safaris, birding, photographic tours, and even croquet or tennis accompanied by Pimms and strawberries. Families are especially welcomed with the WILDchild programme, designed to engage young explorers through fun, educational, and interactive activities.

At &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp, guests experience the perfect balance of timeless charm, luxurious comfort, and unparalleled wildlife encounters in one of Africa’s most celebrated safari destinations.

For nearly a century, the campfire at Varty Camp has burned without pause - marking this place as the symbolic heart of Londolozi.

This is the original camp, where the spirit of Londolozi was born. A tapestry of brick paths, dolerite rock walls, cascading waterfalls, and tangled vines weaves through serene spaces, all set against uninterrupted river views. Every element reflects a deep, generational love for this land - a legacy of family, heritage, and harmony with nature.

Varty Camp warmly welcomes children over the age of six, making it the perfect haven for families. Several inter-leading chalets offer comfort and connection, while each room boasts its own private swimming pool, outdoor shower, and dining sala set on timber decks suspended beneath the canopy of an ancient riverine forest.

Beyond the chalets, guests can enjoy a variety of immersive experiences:

• The Guest Gym, for those wanting to stay active in the bush

• The Photographic Studio, to capture and refine safari memories

• The Living Boutique, a curated collection of treasures

• And the serene Healing House, offering rest and rejuvenation

At the heart of Varty Camp lies a piece of living history - the original Sparta Camp - a nostalgic tribute to a time before Londolozi, echoing the stories and spirit of generations past.

Set beneath the dappled canopy of 500-year-old ebony trees, Londolozi’s Pioneer Camp is the elegant culmination of over five decades of safari design and family heritage.

With just three exclusive suites and a spacious private bush homestead, Pioneer Camp is Londolozi’s most secluded and flexible offering. It’s the ideal escape for honeymooners, intimate retreats, or multi-generational families seeking connection and privacy in nature. Two suites can be inter-connected, making the camp easily adaptable for private use by groups of 6 to 12 guests.

The camp’s refreshed design draws on the timeless sophistication of Ralph Lauren style, layered seamlessly into the soul of an authentic African homestead. The result is a harmonious blend of classic elegance, natural textures, and iconic safari elements - where crystal meets canvas, and refined simplicity defines every detail.

Key features:

• Sweeping views of the Sand River from every suite

• Clean lines and classic styling, grounded in earthy tones

• Reimagined materials that honour Londolozi’s heritage through reuse and restoration

• A curated collection of safari memorabilia and historic photographs

• A bespoke, hand-designed wallpaper lining the camp’s bar - telling the stories of pioneers from nearly a century ago

Pioneer Camp is more than a safari destination; it’s a living archive of the safari lifestyle, a place where past and present converge in quiet luxury, unrivaled seclusion, and unforgettable design.

Perched on the edge of the raw and rugged beauty of the Cederberg Mountains, Cederberg Ridge offers guests an exceptional blend of wilderness adventure and understated luxury. Just a 2½-hour scenic drive from Cape Town or the Winelands, this exclusive lodge provides the perfect escape from city life — a place where modern comforts meet the timeless rhythms of nature.

Set on a 3,000-hectare farm bordering the Cederberg Wilderness Reserve, Cederberg Ridge combines the authentic charm of a contemporary African farmhouse with stylish interiors, panoramic views, and a deep connection to the surrounding landscape. Designed with an emphasis on space, serenity, and sensory experience, the lodge features vaulted ceilings, exposed wooden beams, and natural textures that create a light, airy ambience throughout.

The lodge offers 11 spacious rooms and suites, each carefully positioned to capture the sweeping mountain vistas and the ever-changing light of the Cederberg. Warm and inviting, the interiors blend elegance with earthy simplicity — think cosy window seats for reading or reflection, wood-burning fireplaces for winter evenings, and air-conditioning for balmy summer nights. Luxurious touches like freestanding bathtubs with mountain views, indoor-outdoor showers, and private stone terraces elevate the experience further.

Cederberg Ridge is more than just a beautiful place to stay — it's an immersive journey into the natural and cultural heritage of the Cederberg region. Guests can choose from a variety of curated experiences tailored to both the active and the leisurely traveler. Options include guided walks, mountain biking, ancient San rock art excursions, rooibos farm tours, and sunset boat cruises. The lodge also offers full-day guided explorations into the surrounding wilderness or even down to the dramatic West Coast.

At the heart of Cederberg Ridge is its deep respect for nature and local culture — something that is reflected most clearly in its culinary philosophy. The onsite restaurant serves a daily-changing menu inspired by seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms and producers. Known as their ‘Berg to Plate’ approach, meals are a celebration of the region’s rich bounty. Guests can enjoy freshly baked breads, croissants, Danish pastries, artisanal sausages, hand-crafted gelato, and other homemade treats, all lovingly prepared by the in-house chef and kitchen team.

With its tranquil setting, warm hospitality, and attention to detail, Cederberg Ridge offers a rare kind of luxury — one that allows guests to slow down, reconnect with nature, and savour the simple pleasures of good food, fresh air, and wide-open spaces.

Whether one is seeking adventure or relaxation, solitude or connection, Cederberg Ridge is a place to be inspired, restored, and deeply moved by the untamed beauty of South Africa’s wilderness.

Tucked away on a private concession in the heart of De Hoop Nature Reserve, just a scenic three-hour drive from Cape Town, Lekkerwater Lodge is a luxurious yet laid-back retreat offering unrivalled ocean views, rare wildlife encounters, and immersive nature-based experiences.

Nature Immersed, Ocean Inspired

Overlooking a six-kilometre stretch of pristine white-sand beach, Lekkerwater Lodge invites you to reconnect with nature. Whether you're walking the low-tide reefs with marine experts, traversing the fynbos-covered dunes, or simply soaking in the view from your private deck, the setting is both restorative and invigorating. From July to November, the De Hoop coastline becomes one of the world’s best land-based whale watching destinations, with southern right whales migrating here to calve in the warm, protected waters. Dolphins, seals, and abundant seabirds often join the spectacle.

A Birding & Botanical Paradise

With over 260 bird species recorded, including endangered Cape vultures, flamingos, African fish eagles, and the striking black oystercatcher, De Hoop is a hotspot for both amateur and avid birders. The rich mosaic of wetlands, fynbos, dunes, and coastline provides habitats for a diverse array of species.

The Cape Floral Kingdom, the smallest yet richest floral kingdom on Earth, dominates the landscape with its dazzling diversity of endemic plants. Nature walks reveal the intricate relationships between flora, geology, and climate in this UNESCO World Heritage-listed biome.

Where Luxury Meets Simplicity

Built on the site of what was once South Africa’s presidential retreat – sometimes referred to as the country’s ‘Camp David’ – the reimagined lodge is understated and elegant. Just seven ocean-facing suites line the shoreline, each with open-plan interiors, a soft coastal aesthetic, and expansive decks that frame the ever-changing seascape. Wooden boardwalks connect suites to the central lodge, where guests gather on sea-view terraces, around a communal dining table, or beside a plunge pool or wood-fired hot tub on the beach. Dining is interactive and seasonal, with chefs preparing fresh, local fare in an open kitchen. Meals are shared in a casual, convivial atmosphere – or privately, if preferred.

An Active Escape – Or a Peaceful One

While there is no traditional “big five” safari at De Hoop, the reserve is home to over 86 mammal species, including bontebok, Cape mountain zebra, eland, and caracal. Hiking the coastal paths and intertidal zones is central to the experience, and many of the most rewarding ecosystems are best accessed on foot. Guests should be reasonably fit and agile, as some steep paths and beach access steps are part of the daily rhythm. That said, the lodge also offers plenty of serene spaces for those who prefer to relax and simply take in the view.