Mel du Toit went on a mission into the heart of South Africa’s wilderness—Sleeping in dreamy beds, sampling gourmet safari snacks, and chasing golden-hour sundowners—all in the name of research. As one of our top safari experts in Southern and East Africa, Mel’s first-hand insights help us design unforgettable, tailor-made safaris for our clients.
Her’s was full. She visited seven lodges in four reserves, all in the Greater Kruger Park—Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Klaserie Private Nature Reserve and Kapama Private Game Reserve—and returned with a reaffirmed love for Africa’s bush.
“I realised—again—why people really want to stay in Sabi Sand: I saw in five minutes what it could take a week elsewhere,” she says. “I didn’t even drive out of the lodge at Leopard Hills and there were already six wild dogs just chilling and playing.”
But her sightings at all the reserves were incredible, Mel says. They are all game-rich and each has their own special essence.
And the best bits of her trip?
“The guides, the trackers, the staff, the food, the rooms, the everything, everywhere.”
Discover the Best Reserves in Greater Kruger Park
Famous for its Big Five sightings, especially leopards, Sabi Sand offers an elite safari experience with exceptional guides, intimate lodges, and sustainable tourism practices. It shares a 50km unfenced border with Kruger National Park, so wildlife roams freely. This 65,000-hectare reserve is often called the best place on Earth to see leopards. You can also enjoy night drives, which are only permitted in private reserves.
There are no fences around Leopard Hills in Sabi Sand, which means wildlife can, and does, roam around the lodge. Leopards have even been seen drinking from guests’ plunge pools.
It has eight exquisite glass-fronted, air-conditioned suites, each with a spacious lounge and private plunge pool, and outdoor showers. Room with a view, pool with a view, shower with a view.
Many of the guides are expert photographers and happy to share tips.
Mel’s take? “The rooms are magical, the views are great, the animal sightings are great, the staff are great.”
Dulini Leadwood Lodge
It’s in a forest at the confluence of the Sand and Mabrak rivers in Sabi Sand. Dulini Leadwood is named after the giant leadwood tree. It’s designed to take deep root in the hearts of its guests.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants privacy and exclusivity—we’re thinking you, honeymooners and small groups. It has only four expansive suites (ultra-lux, says Mel) with floor-to-ceiling picture windows, making it one of the smallest and most intimate accommodations in Sabi Sand.
Each suite has a large wooden deck with a private heated lap pool. And reflexology stones for your feet. Perfect after a bush walk.
Dining at Dulini Leadwood is described as an unforgettable culinary adventure. The focus is on fresh, seasonal, and contemporary flavours of Africa.
The fleece ponchos on the safari vehicles are a welcome touch.
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
Home of the rare white lion, Timbavati is a conservation-focused reserve with uncrowded safaris and deep-rooted heritage. With no fences between it and Kruger, wildlife sightings are exceptional.
Mel loved the respectful guiding style:
“You can tell they care about the animals.”
Simbavati Hilltop Lodge
As its name suggests, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge is perched on a hillside, offering sweeping views of the bush and distant Drakensberg mountains, and overlooking the Mbali Dam and Nhlaralumi River. And as you know, where there is water, there is wildlife.
It blends luxury with sustainability in its eight spacious tented suites, each with private plunge pool and deck. It’s ideal for couples and honeymooners seeking privacy and romance. And no under 12s.
Thatched suites with private decks and plunge pools are great for families, couples, and solo travellers. Throw in a Kid’s Club and junior ranger’s programme, and it’s even more family-friendly.
We recommend a walking trail to see details often missed from a vehicle; children under 16 are generally not permitted on guided walks for safety reasons.
And don’t skip a night drive, hot water bottles and blankets included.
Wherever you lay your head, there is always more magic to be found in Africa; and at SAFARI.COM, we’re here to help you find it.
Let our expert team craft something extraordinary. We’ll guide you with heart, insight, and insider knowledge every step of the way—before, during, and long after your journey.
Ready to explore? Email us at helpmeplan@safari.com, hit the WhatsApp button above, or call us toll-free on 1-888-SAFARIS (US & Canada).
