Ezulwini River Lodge

Set on the banks of the Olifants River within a private Greater Kruger concession, Ezulwini River Lodge is nine thatched rooms beneath a canopy of leadwood and knobthorn. Four standard chalets occupy ground-floor and split-level configurations. Four ultra-luxury suites open onto private decks with plunge pools and outdoor showers, each overlooking the river. The honeymoon suite adds a separate lounge and dining area. All rooms include air-conditioning, mosquito nets, mini-fridges, and refillable amenities. The main lodge holds an indoor bar, dining room, and tasting room built in the style of South Africa's voortrekker era. An outdoor lounge and pool sit under thatch. Poolside swings face the water.

An elevated skywalk threads through the riverine vegetation to a viewing deck above the Olifants. A thatched tower offers sight lines across the open plains. Twice-daily game drives depart with a guide and tracker in search of lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo across the reserve. Night drives spotlight nocturnal species on the return route. Walking safaris track animals on foot. You can hear hippos from the deck. An open-air fitness area holds free weights and a training bench. The lodge arranges helicopter flights, hot-air balloon rides over the Blyde River, and boat cruises on the Blyde Canyon. A massage therapist is available for treatments on private decks. The wine tasting room stocks South African reserves. Laundry service and wireless internet are complimentary.