This intimate lodge offers an indulgent South African safari experience in the heart of the world famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
Location
Set beside one of the largest lakes in the Sabi Sand Reserve in South Africa, Chitwa Chitwa is more than just a safari lodge - it's a place that feels like a natural extension of its surroundings, where wildlife wanders freely and the line between indoors and out all but disappears.
Rooms
With an exclusive-use luxury villa, six suites ideal for romantic safaris and the Charlsy Suite, a superb solution for families, each accommodation at Chitwa Chitwa is a peaceful sanctuary with expansive lake views, private decks, and elegant interiors layered with African textures and contemporary warmth. Expect bathtubs, plush furnishings, and plenty of quiet corners to simply be. The exclusive Chitwa House offers the ultimate in seclusion, with personalised service and a private safari vehicle for your adventures.
Amenities
What we love is the natural flow between comfort and the wilderness. A pool overlooks the water’s edge, where elephants often gather to drink. The shaded sunset deck is perfect for lazy afternoons with a book and a bird call or two. Wellness is taken seriously here — the small gym keeps your energy flowing, while the resident spa therapist invites you to unwind with massages and treatments that draw on ancient healing traditions.
Activities
Days at Chitwa Chitwa follow the rhythms of the bush. You’ll set out on expertly guided game drives to track lion, leopard, and the rest of the Big Five. Back at the lodge, wildlife often comes to you — the lake draws countless animals and birds, visible right from the deck or dining area.
For young adventurers, Chitwa makes space for curiosity with child-friendly activities designed to gently introduce them to the wonders of the wild.
Sustainability
Chitwa Chitwa has long been committed to conservation and community. From its eco-conscious operations to its support of local development initiatives and nearby schools, it’s a place where luxury and responsibility go hand in hand.
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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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Alistair
