South Africa Family Safari Explorer

Overview

Morukuru Family offers three exquisite ‘villas’ in Madikwe: the River House, the Owner’s House and the Farmhouse. Each villa provides an exclusive retreat in the heart of the South African wilderness, ensuring an unforgettable experience. You have complete control in each villa, with a team to cater to your preferences. Without set schedules, you can choose precisely what you want to do and when, whether tracking wildlife on a tailored big game drive or lounging by the pool with a cocktail.

The River House, the largest property, accommodates up to six adults and four children, offering a spacious and exquisitely appointed setting.  A wooden walkway links the River House to the Owner’s House, creating an expansive exclusive-use safari escape.

The Owner’s House caters to smaller parties of two to four guests. This intimate accommodation features a heated infinity pool, a well-stocked wine cellar and a library. The minimalist design, featuring natural wood and stone, invites seamless inside-outside living.

The Farmhouse, located a ten minute walk from the other two properties, accommodates groups of four to ten guests and is ideal for multi-generational travel or milestone celebrations. The Farmhouse features a warm, neutral palette and bespoke Afro-chic accents, making it a popular choice for a South African family safari. All five uniquely decorated bedrooms are connected to the main area by a covered walkway. 

All Morukuru Family houses come with a close-knit team including a personal chef, butler, housekeepers, a host, and a safari guide and wildlife tracker. 

Overview

Not only does the Madikwe Reserve enjoy the Big Five but the Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge delivers all the panache of a Five Star safari experience.

Its ten elegant suites all have their own private sun decks, plunge pools and glass-fronts for unbroken views of the surrounding savannah and are the ultimate in Afro-chic safari elegance. Thick linens and rich cotton bedding are surrounded by the native bushveld style of stone, earthy tones, aged wood, fireplaces, underfloor heating and all with the lavish feel of polished luxury. Also if you are after an even more private and personalised stay there’s the separate Private Little Madikwe Hills 2-bedroom suite that comes with a large private swimming pool, personal butler, chef, Landrover and game ranger.

The staff here at Madikwe Hills are very accommodating and the gourmet food is equally impressive: eat and swap stories in the light of a late-night Boma, indulge in a late afternoon massage after a game drive and don’t forget to take the opportunity to dine out in the bush one evening.

Overview

Molori’s five vast suites are distanced for more privacy and designed to the starry heights of infinite, open-sided African chic.

At the hand of celebrated South African interiors master Stephen Falcke, the lodge’s perfectly attuned style is not too overboard to disconnect you from the surroundings. A well-balanced blend of international fittings and furnishings sit well next to more regional equivalents and art, a good example being the glass chandeliers that dangle from the steep thatch-roof ceilings.

Each of the suites enjoys a pleasing amount of seclusion being well-spaced apart and with their own private decking, infinity plunge pools not to mention magnificent views of the Dwarsberg mountains and surrounding bush of the Madikwe. The two 600sqm presidential suites (Metsi and Molelo) are decorated to the zenith of luxury with Phillippe Starck bathtubs, Fendi loungers and Swahili tables – but again, the glitz is played down to make way for the breath-taking surrounds.

The main lodge features a fantastic, world-class Spa to help you relax and really unwind in this wild setting, plus Molori usually places a celebrated chef in residence for some of the country’s best fine dining on safari.

Overview

Lelapa translates as ‘family’, and this sprawling private villa could hardly be better named.

First there is the size. 12 suites accommodate up to 24 people, including a handful of connecting children’s’ rooms, making Lelapa perfect for family and friends groups.

Then there’s the building itself, with numerous communal spaces – plunge pools, cosy lounge areas and fire places – for quality time with those most important to you after a day of exquisite Madikwe safari.

But perhaps the name ‘Lelapa’ is most apt when talking about your warm host team, including private safari guides, chefs and babysitters, all there to make the whole experience unforgettable.

Overview

Successive levels of stone and wood rise out of the treeline bordering the Marico River to form Morukuru’s outstanding River House.

As the houses are booked on an exclusive use basis, this property is an ideal option for larger groups travelling together. The River House caters for up to six adults and four children with three spacious double en-suite rooms, featuring all the luxury modern amenities you could wish for; think super king-size beds, crackling log fires, tree-shaded private decks and much more.

Combining European styling and African influences, The River House has great synergy between indoors and outdoors, with decking and a barbecue area presenting some great opportunities for alfresco dining. This accommodation is close to the Owner’s House, a winning combination for those wishing to book both properties and still enjoy maximum privacy.

Overview

Grootbos Private Reserve’s Garden eco-lodge, appropriately named, is enclosed by some beautifully designed and well-kept gardens all under a canopy of rare Fynbos trees that crowd the inclines of the Druineveld Moutains. Part of what makes Grootbos extra special is the property’s commitment to making a positive impact through various projects.

The concept of the eleven freestanding suites that surround the original Grootbos main lodge is modern. The modern, brand new garden lodge has been designed with sustainability at the forefront to mimic the beautiful natural surroundings. The floor-to-ceiling windows flood the main lodge with natural light and the spectacular views over Walker Bay. Each room is well equipped with its own wooden decks and views over Walker Bay.

Also this lodge, in comparison to Forest, is more family-friendly given its range of room sizes and immediate amenities (entertainment room, small farmyard and stables) well-suited for those travelling with smaller children.

Overview

The private villas at Grootbos Private Reserve channel a minimalist and futuristic design that heavily contrasts, and thereby sets off wonderfully, the decadence of the 180° views over Walker Bay. Another part of what makes Grootbos extra special is the property’s commitment to making a positive impact through various projects on and off-site.

The one villa is an entire property of six suites, two lounges, dining room, home cinema, wine cellar, BBQ area, pool and kitchen. It is to be hired exclusively and carries the ultimate in luxury service (private chef, butler and guide) and is a truly refined stay.

Villa 2 has four suites and similarly enjoys seclusion, private staff and your own game drive vehicle.

Overview

The Grand Dame, heritage property of Cape Town, the Mount Nelson comes with bags of history and is perhaps the most famous hotel in the city. It’s set in large grounds and is made up of a number of different smaller buildings. Most rooms have been refurbished with a contemporary refresh, adding comfort and modern touches to the historic décor. The bar and restaurant have had a similar treatment making them a popular place to visit for Capetonians (a great sign for any hotel restaurant, particularly in the fickle and competitive Cape Town restaurant scene).

From their vermiculture project and on-site beehives, to their use of locally produced organic vegetables, the hotel puts a strong emphasis on having a positive impact on the environment and local community.

Rooms are very comfortable and spacious and are located in several buildings dotted throughout the large property and gardens. This makes it stand apart from other larger hotels in Cape Town as in this most outdoor of cities it’s great to have large, green gardens to take a stroll through and outdoor pools (and for the more active, there are also tennis courts).

Though The Mount Nelson is very much a location in itself, the large grounds sit just a short stroll away from downtown and also the Kloof Street Area, which is famous among locals for excellent new restaurants and boutiques. Afternoon Tea at the Nelson (or Nellie as it is affectionately known) is a Cape Town institution and well worth trying.

Overview

Ellerman House is a class act throughout. It feels very much like your own home but with top class service befitting a five-star hotel. Perched in one of the most spectacular and privileged settings in Cape Town overlooking Bantry Bay, it is the epitome of comfort and class with a relaxed, elegant style. Decoration is colonial, with a nod to the contemporary and recently refurbished to provide thoroughly modern comforts.

Where Ellerman House excels above others is the excellent house staff, who in these grand surrounds create such a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Taking a (complimentary) evening cocktail from the lounge and strolling out onto the peaceful gardens overlooking the sea for sunset is the perfect end to a day in Cape Town as one feels both special and relaxing.

There are just 11 rooms, two suites and two private contemporary villas. Communal areas include a spacious lounge, large garden area (with outdoor pool) and a huge spa. There is an open kitchen you are invited to visit, a pantry that you can raid as well as the complimentary evening cocktails.

A particular feature of the property is its private art collection. This is simply outstanding, one of the best in South Africa with works from African masters inside the main building and then, underneath is a contemporary gallery. For anyone interested in art this will add an extra element to their stay.

Guests are also able to book Sleep Rooms at Ellerman House. A concept created by wellness expert Harry Jameson, each of the 13 rooms at the property can be converted into wellness rooms specially designed to optimise both sleep and recovery.

Overview

Situated in the heart of the V&A Waterfront, the Cape Grace is one of Cape Town’s most famous luxury hotels in a location perfect for enjoying the restaurants, boutiques and entertainment of this upmarket area. The hotel also has a strong focus on contributing to community upliftment and has various measures in place to improve their water and energy consumption.

Reflecting its location, the décor has a nautical theme and is full of local detail, with antiques and maps adorning the hallways. In a playful touch, sumptuous chandeliers are adorned with unusual items (such as crockery and kitchenware in the Restaurant area). The 112 rooms and suites are spacious, comfortable and elegantly decorated, offering views out to Table Mountain, Signal Hill or the Marina.

For dining, savour South African dishes at the Cape Grace’s restaurant Heirloom, where the unhurried spirit and bountiful terroir of South Africa is celebrated. The Bascule bar draws on the city’s contemporary speakeasy culture, offering an immersive journey into the essence of the Cape with whiskey tastings and carefully crafted cocktails.

The hotel also features a heated pool and outdoor deck, along with a spa on the top floor. Immerse yourself in the serene ambience of the stylish treatment rooms, unwind in the sauna and refresh your senses in the salt room. You can walk straight out into the waterfront area here making it a perennial favourite.

Overview

Located in the popular V&A waterfront, the One&Only is the most contemporary of Cape Town’s top hotels. As one might expect from the top luxury resort specialists, the service is excellent.

The very spacious rooms and suites (107) have an elegant style, fabrics and textiles taking an African influence with rich colourful hues. The main hotel area sits around a lagoon in which an island has been created. This is where the outdoor pool, jacuzzis and spa are located, to give more of a ‘resort’ style feel to the hotel. Special Island suites are also available here. Inside the hotel itself there are large communal areas including a vast lobby and bar area as well as restaurants from South African celebrity Chef Reuben Rifell and Nobu.

The resort also has a particularly good kids club, which they can be left in comfortably for the day as the adults go out exploring.

Overview

Whether you live in an Apartment in a city or a 4 bedroom House, More Quarters can give you that ‘home from home’ feel while still being immersed in the cultural centre of Cape Town. Nestled in a residential suburb away from the main tourist bustle, the Kloof Street area is often referred to as the heart of Cape Town by the locals. Enjoy the privacy and homely feel of your own apartment styled in a rare combination of historic exteriors with classic modern bohemian interiors, with all the conveniences and amenities of a hotel experience staffed by a family of professional, passionate people. The Redcliffe House is ideal for large groups or families, it being an immaculate 4 bedroom/bathroom home.

This historical building is actually one of the owner’s personal homes, utilized by the family for three months of the year. The remaining nine months the house is available to accommodate guests. The house is serviced daily by the staff of the Hotel, allowing your stay away from home to include being away from the house work. It also features an exclusive swimming pool, solely for your private use. With the ability to safely walk to local restaurants and boutique shops, you really feel as if you are a Cape local and experience the local cosmopolitan lifestyle. All the other amazing opportunities that the Mother City offers are an easy traffic free drive away.

Overview

This historic hotel in colourful Cape Town has just 19 rooms, offering an intimate escape from the neighbourhood’s buzzy streets. It’s all about local artisans here, with artworks, crafts and striking pieces of furniture that create a bold but beautiful maximalist aesthetic. Expect emerald greens and distinctive printed wallpapers, accented with gold trimmings. 

The property is perfectly placed for exploring the restaurants and bars on popular Kloof Street, or for getting outdoors and atop Table Mountain, where views of the city are truly awe-inspiring. There’s plenty of pleasure to be found inside the hotel, too, though, with two prettily tiled swimming pools and a handful of loungers that invite you to laze around in the sun for at least a few hours. 

Food here is served in Upper Union, where a carefully curated menu offers seasonal produce by way of small plates and larger dishes, and the cocktails are a highlight for locals and visitors alike.