In Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park in KwaZulu Natal region
Luxury accommodation with an infinity pool high on a ridge overlooking the hills and valleys of the oldest game reserve in Africa.
Location
Perched high on a ridge in the heart of the legendary Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge gives you front-row seats to one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes — and one of its most vital rhino conservation areas. You’ll wake to sweeping views over golden savanna and end the day with spectacular sunsets fading behind the hills.
Rooms
The lodge keeps things relaxed and intimate, with a mix of safari rooms, luxury bush villas, and two romantic honeymoon villas. Every suite has a private deck where you can sit with a morning coffee or evening drink, just taking it all in. Guests love the open-plan bathrooms, clean lines, and earthy tones that let the landscape do the talking — and if you’re in one of the honeymoon villas, a private plunge pool is the cherry on top.
Amenities
You’ll find everything you need for a deeply restful stay. There’s a lovely infinity pool that looks out over the reserve — the perfect place to cool off after your game drive. Guests love the spa for a post-safari massage, and the cosy lounge with its fireplace and books is ideal for unwinding with a glass of wine. It’s a space that encourages you to slow down and just be.
Activities
This is Big Five country, and the twice-daily game drives are led by excellent local guides who know the bush inside out. If you're up for something more immersive, we love the guided bush walks — they’re a chance to learn about the smaller details that make the ecosystem tick. You can also visit nearby Zulu communities for a deeper cultural connection.
Sustainability
Rhino Ridge is part of the Isibindi Africa family, which means sustainability is woven into everything they do. The lodge runs on solar power, supports local schools and clinics, and ensures your visit actively benefits both people and planet.
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When to go to South Africa
Find out the best time to visit South Africa with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is the perfect time to visit the Cape — hot, dry and buzzing. Lounge on beaches or explore the Winelands and Garden Route in peak summer sun. Inland, it’s the wet season in Kruger, with bursts of heavy rain and vivid green landscapes. It's also the end of the birthing season, attracting predators and creating dramatic wildlife scenes.
February
The hottest month in Cape Town, February is ideal for alfresco lunches in the Winelands or scenic drives along the Garden Route. There are fewer tourists, perfect weather and excellent vineyard experiences. Safari regions remain hot, humid and wet, so it’s better to stick to the coast and cultural highlights at this time of year.
March
March brings settled, sunny days to Cape Town, the Winelands and Garden Route — ideal for laid-back trips and less crowded experiences. In Kruger, the lush landscape and newborn wildlife create brilliant photographic opportunities, with clear skies and dramatic colours. Rainfall eases across the country, making it a great time to combine regions.
April
April’s mild weather and lower visitor numbers make it one of the best months to explore. Cape Town is perfect for hiking Table Mountain or visiting Kirstenbosch Gardens. The Garden Route and Drakensberg are quiet and cool. In Kruger, rutting season begins — male antelope at their most impressive, sparking fierce, fascinating fights.
May
With summer crowds gone and crisp, dry days setting in, May is a peaceful time to travel. Safari viewing improves as vegetation thins in Kruger, and game becomes easier to spot. The Cape has a mix of sunny and rainy days, and the Winelands feel calm and welcoming after the peak season rush.
June
The start of winter brings cool, dry safari conditions — ideal for spotting wildlife clustered around shrinking water sources. Cape Town gets wetter, though days can still be bright. Whale watching begins along the Western Cape, while the Drakensberg is a dream for hikers enjoying fresh air and peaceful trails. The Comrades Marathon adds sporting buzz to KwaZulu Natal.
July
July is peak whale watching around Hermanus and Plettenberg Bay, with whales close to shore to calve. It’s also the best time for safaris — cool, dry and clear. Kruger’s wildlife gathers at waterholes, and sightings are exceptional. Cape Town remains cool and drizzly, but it’s a quiet, rewarding time for active or cultural trips.
August
Spring starts to show as wildflowers carpet the West Coast and Namaqualand in vibrant colour — a true spectacle. Game viewing is still strong in Kruger, and whales continue to visit the Cape’s coastline. Temperatures begin rising after winter’s chill, and clear skies return, making this a great time to combine coast, culture and safari.
September
September is superb for combining experiences — wildlife viewing is excellent in Kruger and Madikwe, while whales are frequently seen along the southern coast. Spring flowers are still blooming, and warmer temperatures make outdoor exploration more inviting. In the Drakensberg, snow-capped peaks linger as trails begin to warm up for hiking.
October
October is one of the best all-round months to visit. Cape Town and the Winelands are warming up, with long sunny days and few crowds. Safari conditions remain strong in Kruger and KwaZulu Natal, and the beaches are heating up. Whether you want wildlife, wine or coastline, it’s hard to go wrong this month.
November
Cape Town soaks up the early summer sun, with calm days ideal for exploring. It’s the last chance to see southern right whales before they head off. Inland, the rains return to Kruger and KwaZulu Natal, but afternoon storms are spectacular and short-lived. Visitor numbers increase as the festive season nears — book early.
December
December buzzes with summer energy. The first two weeks are a sweet spot — great weather and fewer crowds. Later in the month, it’s peak holiday season across the country. In Kruger, landscapes burst into colour with flame lilies and baby animals. Book early for Christmas trips — this is one of the most popular times to visit.
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