Kruger National Park, South Africa
Lukimbi Safari Lodge
Stilted riverine safari lodge
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Opened
2002
Price
$$$$
Rated for
Luxe Resort LocalOutside the door
Stilted riverine safari lodge
The lodge runs as a private bush outpost, raised on stilts above the riverbank so wildlife can wander undisturbed below.
What it’s good at
Notable
Sixteen elevated riverfront thatched suites featuring deep-soaking bathtubs and private viewing decks.
Listed
Guided open-vehicle game tracking across a private fifteen-thousand-hectare southern Kruger wilderness concession.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Guests can expect to see lions, rhinos, leopards… and more on this boutique hotel’s guided safaris.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Southern Kruger National Park stretches in all directions, encompassing fifteen thousand hectares of private bush along the river.
1 of 4
The rooms
Each thatched suite has an outdoor shower and deep bathtub, opening onto a private deck facing the riverbed.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The main swimming pool curves into the timber viewing deck, complete with a rock waterfall facing the riverbed.
The spa and gym
The spa uses organic South African skincare products, and the air-conditioned gym looks straight out across the bush.
At the table
Candlelit tables line the open timber decks overlooking the river, and private tastings take place in the wine cellar.
How it began
The Marais family built the lodge in 2002 across a conservation concession originally blessed by traditional sangomas.
Kruger National Park
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.