Local weekend getaway safari destinations

When it comes to taking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, there's nothing better than taking a trip to the bushveld. We're looking at some of the top luxury safari spots in South Africa that are the perfect weekend getaway destinations.

Gauteng

Gauteng may not have a beach nearby, but the province is blessed with a plethora of luxury safari destinations that are close enough for a weekend getaway. Set in the pristine 75 000 hectare malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, the 5-star Jamala Madikwe Lodge is the ideal place for an unforgettable game lodge experience where you can catch the Big 5 in action on a guided game drive - or even spot them from your bedroom. Lush Private Lodge is a high-end safari destination situated in the popular Pilanesberg National Park which is only 2,5 hours away from Johannesburg and offers guests the opportunity to stay in truly opulent suites complete with private pools. Only a 1 hour drive from OR Tambo International Airport, Ngala Lodge in Dinokeng, Hammanskraal gives you the same unique safari experience without the long travel time.

Cape Town

Although Cape Town is known for its mountains, beaches and wine farms, people may be surprised to find that there are actually a few game lodges that are not too far from the city centre and that allow for that authentic African safari experience. Sabona Wildlife Reserve, which is situated less than 3 hours from Cape Town, has various accommodation offerings- including the secluded Dwyka Tented lodges which are fully equipped with all the necessary luxuries. Also a short drive from Cape Town, the exclusive Melozhori Private Game Reserve enables guests to choose between a fully-serviced or self-catering experience depending on their safari plan. Described as a 'wilderness retreat', Bushmans Kloof in the Cederberg is a holistic nature and game experience that offers activities like canoeing and fly-fishing over and above game viewings and hikes.

Garden Route

Get that authentic African bushveld experience in the Klein Karoo area of the Garden Route at these game reserves. Buffelsdrift Game Lodge is situated in Oudtshoorn (an hour's drive inland from George) and has a variety of game including hippo, giraffe, eland, zebra, buffalo and springbok. You can also book an 'Elephant Experience' with the three elephants at the lodge that were orphaned as calves. Nearby you will also find Wildenhondekloof, a game lodge nestled in the heart of the Swartberg Mountain Range that has an exclusive Presidential Suite with an inside fireplace and private veranda overlooking the mountains and river. Botlierskop Private Game Reserve can be found between Mossel Bay and George in the Klein-Brakrivier area. The scenic reserve in the Garden Route offers guests a selection of luxury accommodation, from secluded tented stays to self-catering bush villas and even a child-friendly village that accommodates families.

Whether you're looking for a relaxed bushveld weekend away or an all-inclusive safari stay- these lodges near Gauteng, Cape Town and the Garden Route will satisfy all your outdoor cravings.

Read our previous article here: https://www.hamiltons.co.za/news/area-profile-bryanston/

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