Royal Malewane, a safari lodge located on the Thornybush private game reserve in the Greater Kruger area just north of Sabi Sand, is absolutely one of the best luxury lodges in South Africa. The decor is comfortable yet elegant, the food is superb, the staff is like an extended family, and the game-viewing experience is top-notch. The camp owners, a South African family that runs the Royal Portfolio of hotels, pay special attention to every detail, and the reward is a flawless safari option. Other properties in the collection are La Residence in Franschhoek, Birkenhead House in Hermanus, and The One Above in Cape Town.
Royal Malewane is a true paradise and a destination all on its own. The camp is big in style but has a light impact on the land. The wildlife roam freely through the camp; we ran into two beautiful Nyala on the boardwalk to my room! The rooms are cozy and comfortable, decorated in the signature Royal Portfolio style, which ensures a flair of personality, a punch of color, the best bath products, and a large soaking tub! Most rooms also boast a private plunge pool. The 2-bedroom villas are large and private, with private safari vehicles and separate game drive access. These villas include a butler, a private chef, a fully stocked bar, and ample outdoor dining/living space with a pool. It is a perfect option for two couples traveling together or a small family looking for lots of space.
Africa House at Royal Malewane is a 6-bedroom Villa featuring a convenient layout with two master bedrooms and four rooms that interconnect. A bonus room is perfect for a nanny, pilot, or other personal staff member. The living space includes a full kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining rooms, and a large sitting room with a fireplace. An internal courtyard can be used for personal boma-style dinners or as a play yard for kids. This option is great if you travel as a multi-generational family or need extreme privacy and exclusivity.
If you are a fan of spa experiences, then this lodge is a must-see! The Spa at Royal Malewane is a true oasis built into the bush with a large swimming pool, fully-equipped gym, relaxation cabanas, a smoothie bar, and several open-air treatment rooms surrounded by a Koi pond. It is the best safari spa in Africa!
This family-operated safari lodge is genuinely all about family. Some of the staff have been with Royal Malewane or the Royal Portfolio from the beginning, and you can see their pride and joy in everything they do! The guides that will take you out on game drives are some of the best in the industry, and they are full of knowledge and storytelling skills to help you understand the many species you will be looking at. Some of my best game drives have been here. We didn’t always see exciting animals but enjoyed listening to the guide’s stories. When it comes to dining, service is superb, heartfelt, and genuine. Dining here is a gourmet experience; this lodge would please any foodie. The wine list is quite impressive, as well!
If you are looking for the best luxury safari experience that South Africa has to offer, then look no further than Royal Malewane! Fill out a Travel Request Form if you are interested in learning more.
