Royal Malewane

Arguably the most luxurious safari lodge in South Africa, if not the entire continent, Royal Malewane offers visitors the choice of a traditional lodge experience or private villas for larger groups within the 3 separate buildings that make up the property. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Thornybush Game Reserve which has an unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park, the game viewing is incredible and matches the world-class hospitality experience that Royal Malewane provides.

Royal Malewane itself consists of 8 rooms, with guests able to choose between Luxury Suites and Royal Suites for their stay here. Both are wonderfully spacious and stylish, with antique furnishings, bold colour patterns and amazing views out in to the bush. The classical feel of the lodge is accentuated by the freestanding rolltop baths, elegant rugs on the floor and dark wood decks with their own private plunge pools and plenty of space for in-room private dining. The main lodge is a glorious spot to spend your afternoon relaxing with plenty of private spaces in which to relax, even when the lodge is full. Tiered decks, open-sided lounge areas and a cosy bar are very popular with guests and there are plenty of places to enjoy leisurely meals. The cuisine at Royal Malewane is outstanding, with a focus on traditional South African dishes with a modern twist. The quality of the wine list matches that of the food and ensures that meal times are always a wonderful experience. There is a fantastic spa here as well, so guests can be pampered to their hearts content and feel their best for meals and game drives. The wonderfully attentive staff will ensure that every need is taken care of throughout your stay and help to make the whole experience of Royal Malewane truly mind blowing.

For those looking to enjoy an altogether more private experience, Africa House is the traditionally styled private “villa” at Royal Malewane and is fit for even the most discerning of visitors. Hosting a maximum of 12 guests, Africa House can only be booked on an exclusive basis and as such offers the ultimate retreat for families or groups of friends looking to treat themselves. The style is similar to the main lodge, with antique furnishings, unique artworks and bold colour patterns throughout the house. The property is built around a dramatic central courtyard with a fountain in the middle and there is plenty of space throughout the communal areas. A plunge pool is found on the veranda and is a great place to relax, as well as popular with elephant who come to drink from the pool from time to time. With a team of chefs, butlers and guides to look after you, the whole experience here is completely tailored to your needs and helps to make Africa House one of the most desirable private villas anywhere in Africa.

The newest addition to Royal Malewane is The Farmhouse which has three bedrooms as well as a small children’s room and can be taken on a private or room by room basis. The décor is much lighter and more modern than the other lodges, with lots of white furnishings, brightly coloured walls and plenty of open space. En-suite bathrooms have both indoor and outdoor showers, as well as freestanding baths and come with all of the amenities you could wish for. The main area of the property is equally light and airy with a huge decking area complete with rim-flow pool that leads out towards the bush. The food is outstanding as is the wine list, with a dedicated team of staff on hand to ensure that your every need is taken care of in this glorious little lodge.

Game drives are enjoyed every morning and evening with the hugely experienced guides who are consistently rated amongst the finest in South Africa and get you up close and personal with the Thornybush’s hugely varied wildlife. Guided bush walks offer an altogether more sedate experience and allow guests to learn more about the smaller things often missed on game drives.