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Team Mahlatini are big fans of safari lodges that offer prime 'deck chair' safari experiences. This concept epitomises the essence of relaxation entwined with the thrilling possibility of encountering wildlife in their natural habitat without leaving the comfort of your lodge. Whether it's while you lounge in your deck chair, take a dip in the pool, or relax in your room, there is always the possibility of an animal strolling by at any given moment.
Our selection of the best safari lodges in Africa where animals roam freely provides a luxurious selection of safari accommodations. With an authentic African ambiance and a strong emphasis on conservation, these lodges capture the essence of the wild while ensuring your utmost comfort.
Royal Malewane, South Africa
An ultra-luxe lodge, Royal Malewane offers a comfortable base from which to explore the wildlife-rich Greater Kruger. From your room, you can enjoy a casual game viewing as animals pass by. Elephants have even been known to take a drink from the room's private plunge pools!
Insider tip: "Take a careful look at your menus and spot your name! Each is personalised to your individual likes and requirements."
Chiawa Camp, Zambia
In the heart of Zambia's Lower Zambezi National Park, all of Chiawa Camp's tents have timber floors and verandas looking out on either the dry riverbed or facing the Zambezi directly. This offers the chance to view wildlife as they roam. Chiawa is renowned for its excellent cuisine, the camp's specialty is Afro-Euro fusion food. Dining is usually al-fresco, sometimes in the bush or even on a boat in the middle of the Zambezi!
Insider tip: "The luxurious Safari Suite, perfect for honeymooners or families, has the most commanding view in the Lower Zambezi as well as its own 16-square-metre plunge pool."
Mahali Mzuri, Kenya
Mahali Mzuri is owned by Sir Richard Branson and is expertly positioned to take in the seasonal Great Migration. You will enjoy naturally smooth, reliable service and the facilities are modern and polished. Mahali Mzuri's very exclusive 12-tented suites provide spectacular views that are perfect for a spot of 'deck chair' game viewing.
Insider tip: "The best time to view the Wildebeest Migration will depend on the climatic conditions that year, but in the Olare Motorogi Conservancy, you can expect to see the herds arrive anytime from July to September."
Mfuwe Lodge, Zambia
Mfuwe Lodge, located in South Luangwa National Park, has gained fame for being a must-visit destination between late October and mid-December. The lodge's popularity stems from the remarkable phenomenon of local elephants casually strolling through the lobby, enticed by the wild mango trees found on the lodge grounds. For several years, at least three generations of a particular elephant family have made an annual return, treating visitors to the sheer delight of observing their unique dining habits.
Insider tip: "In November the local elephants famously wander right through the lobby/reception, lured by a nearby wild mango tree."
Chitwa Chitwa, South Africa
Chitwa Chitwa Private Game Lodge is situated on the banks of one of the largest lakes of the exclusive Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. The ideal location and design of the camp means it is a true 'deck chair' safari dream. Guests can be assured of superb game viewing from the main lounge and dining area while remaining inconspicuous to the groups of wild animals gathering at the water's edge.
Insider tip: "Chitwa Chitwa offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience on your safari stop. Normally your sundowner stops only comprise of drinks and small snacks, here it's pizzas made in the Pizza Truck's oven."
Ongava Tented Camp, Namibia
Ongava Tented Camp is situated in the private Ongava Reserve and overlooks a waterhole that plays host to a wide variety of wildlife that frequent the oasis to quench their thirst. The small camp consists of only 8 luxury tents, some of which possess views over the waterhole. Tent interiors possess an authentically rustic ambiance with canvas walls and an open shower in the en suite bathroom, juxtaposed by comfortable furnishings.
Insider tip: "Nature walks through the reserve take in the abundant array of life, from unusual plants to arid-adapted animals, with a chance of approaching white rhino."
Phinda Vlei Lodge, South Africa
Phinda is home to 6 magnificent lodges situated along the edge of the rare sand forest, integrating into the surrounding bush. Each of the suites features a luxurious ensuite bathroom, private plunge pool and game viewing deck which overlooks a grassy meadow where one can observe herds of grazing antelope and zebra. Thirsty elephants have even been known to take a trunk full of water from the private plunge pools.
Insider tip: "Keep your camera ready for unexpected encounters with thirsty elephants visiting your plunge pool."
Governors' Camp, Kenya
Governors' Camp has become synonymous with a fantastic safari experience. During the evening hippos and elephants will likely be seen in the grounds of the camp which is why you will be escorted by the Maasai askari (warden). Governors' has been awarded a Silver Eco-Rating from Eco-Tourism Kenya due to its sustainable tourism practices in place in the camp.
Insider tip: "The camp’s position along the banks of the Mara River makes it a great spot for viewing the Great Migration between July and October."
Marataba Safari Lodge, South Africa
Marataba Safari Lodge is a fabulous tented safari camp located in a privately managed section of the Marakele National Park, in South Africa's Waterberg region. From your private balcony, you can gaze across at the Waterberg Mountains, rising nearby. All rooms include viewing decks, outdoor and indoor showers and a romantic stand-alone bath.
Insider tip: "Book a night at the Thabametsi Treehouse, a night under the stars in your own treehouse, a far-out wilderness experience just for you."
Kanga Camp, Zimbabwe
Quietly secluded, Kanga Camp offers the luxury of a true wilderness experience in the beautiful Mana Pools National Park. A perfect 'deck chair' safari where the waterhole that the camp is built around is always very popular with the local wildlife. Kanga Camp offers an authentic under-canvas experience with six spacious Meru-style tents, all of which are comfortable and feature large twin or double beds, en-suite bathrooms, with flush toilets and outdoor bucket showers.
Insider tip: "Kanga Camp works well in collaboration with Zambezi Expeditions where you can enjoy the excitement of canoeing as well as catch and release fishing on the Zambezi River."
Ready to book your stay? Contact our Travel Experts and they will create a tailormade trip personalised to include any of these luxury African safari lodges where you can experience once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters.
