5 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in South Africa: Updated for 2025
Are you finally planning that trip to South Africa?
We have the best all-inclusives in South Africa, plus a list and a comparison guide for them to help you choose. We’ve done the research to find your dream trip!
I travel to South Africa every chance I get, and I’ve discovered that it has some incredible all-inclusives! All-inclusive resorts here offer a unique and spectacular blend of luxury and adventure, with excellent wildlife sightings.
▶ TLDR? Stop right here!
🏆 Kapama River Lodge is our pick for the #1 BEST ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT IN SOUTH AFRICA
This is because of the exceptional reviews and luxurious accommodations. ⭐Rated 9.6 out of 10!
They include a wide range of amenities and activities, including accommodation, food, drinks, and safari. Plus you’ll find safari activities that include more than the standard game drive, and you get to sleep in the same bed every night.
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. You’ll be able to find an all-inclusive resort in South Africa that matches your expectations.
✔️ My favourite resources for planning a trip:
Where to Stay: I recommend Booking.com
Travel Insurance: I use SafetyWing
Car Rental: Discover Cars has a great selection of local options
Find more here: on our Travel Resources page
Top All-Inclusive Resorts in South Africa
2. aha Makalali Private Game Lodge
⭐️ Rating: 9 out of 10 with 340 reviews
🎊 Chosen for: the plunge pools, outdoor showers, private viewing decks
🏨 Check Price and Availability
Included:
• your night(s) accommodation, 2 game drives/day, and all meals
* No internet access available
Just west of Kruger National Park lies aha Makalali Private Game Lodge, where wild Africa melds with lush comfort. You have 2 options for your stay.
You might opt for the River Lodge on the Makhutswi River, with its 3 private camps with 6 suites per camp. They are complete with their own plunge pools, and suites have fireplaces and viewing decks.
Or you could decide to book one of the 30 rooms in the Main Lodge. They are divided into 3 river-view units. Every room has an unbeatable view of your own piece of Africa and the brilliant curio shop.
The Main Lodge also offers incredible outdoor showers. There’s no experience quite like enjoying a relaxing shower while watching the wildlife of South Africa wander past.
Loved Absolutely everything!!!!! Great food, humble and hospitable staff, facilities were as promised if not better. There really isn’t anything, not too, like. Photos don’t do justice to the main communal areas.
– SERENA (READ MORE REVIEWS)
Whichever home-away-from-home you select, this 5-star resort will not disappoint. You can even take advantage of the bush knowledge course for the kids and the onsite spa therapist.
Included in your stay is what you’re really here for – the game drives! You get one morning drive and one afternoon drive daily.
Every member of the Big 5 can be found here, and nobody can spot them like the expert guides.
Extra options at Makalali include a magical hot-air balloon flight and a visit to a cheetah breeding facility. Even play a round of golf. Makalali staff will assist with your arrangements.
Aha Makalali Private Game Lodge has also achieved a Level 3 Travel Sustainability score. This means that made great strides in reducing their impact on their environments.
3. Baobab Ridge Private Lodge
⭐️ Rating: 9.8 out of 10 with 65 reviews
🎊 Chosen for: luxury cottages, private terraces, pool & deck overlooking a waterhole
🏨 Check Price and Availability
Included:
• your night(s) accommodation, 2 game drives/day, walking safari in place of the morning game drive if possible, all meals and snacks, plus coffee and tea, laundry.
• all spirits except premium brands, Wifi in the main building
• the Klaserie Bed Levy (R350pp/stay)
Baobab Ridge Private Lodge is an all-inclusive resort located inside the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. The reserve stretches along the western border of Kruger National Park.
The exclusive lodge accommodated no more than 16 people at a time, and at times it can seem like you have the entire place to yourself.
If you’re travelling with your family or a few friends, the 2-bedroom family cottage was made for you. It is fitted not only with a terrace but with a lounge as well.
The main lodge is the perfect place to relax, with its own bar and lounge area.
The property was AMAZING! Every part of the place had such an African feel to it and the decor and layout of the rooms was phenomenal.
– Verified Traveller (Read more reviews)
Not only can you experience morning and afternoon game drives each day, but Baobab offers optional night drives as well.
A lot of the action in the African bush happens in the cool hours after the sun sets. Sightings on night drives can be epic.
Between day drives, night drives, and Baobab’s walking safaris, you’re sure to go home with some impressive photos! Be sure to practice taking night shots at home!
Baobab Ridge Private Lodge has a Level 1 Travel Sustainable score. They’re making an effort!
4. Nambiti Plains Private Game Lodge
⭐️ Rating: 9.5 out of 10 with 254 reviews
🎊 Chosen for: the malaria-free area, elephant visitors, amazing hikes
🏨 Check Price and Availability
Included:
• your night(s) accommodation, game drives with snacks and beverages (local beer, house liquor, and wine in the afternoons). Also, all meals plus coffee, tea, hot chocolate, juice, and water are available all day.
• a glass of house wine with dinner, bush breakfasts and dinners in good weather, Wifi throughout.
• emergency medical evacuation insurance, and the 1% tourism levy and 15%VAT
The Nambiti Game Reserve is home to the stunning Nambiti Plains Private Game Lodge. The lodge is surrounded by the wilds of Africa.
It’s proof that luxury can be found in unexpected locations. The floor-to-ceiling windows look out on the Big-5 game reserve and the large stone baths will soak all your cares away.
Relax on your private deck overlooking a popular waterhole. You won’t even need to drive out into the bush to see Africa’s epic wildlife.
The lodge is unfenced to let you to see the animals roaming through the area.
But you will be treated to 2 extraordinary daytime game drives as a part of your stay. As well, there are several additional activities that you can opt for.
It was exceptional. Everything about the place is magical. Myself and children loved it… we had such a fantastic time. The chef and the staff were so professional and helpful I couldn’t fault the place.
-1979travel (Read more reviews)
A favourite activity of mine when in the southern hemisphere is star gazing. And it’s amazing to be led through the stars by a knowledgeable guide.
You’ll also have walking safaris, night game drives, bush picnics, bass fishing, and other additional activities to choose from.
Nambiti Plains Private Game Lodge has attained a Level 3 Travel Sustainability score. Your stay supports its environmental efforts.
In addition, the lodge is a part of the Pack for a Purpose initiative. If you choose to participate, visit the initiative’s website for more info on how you can contribute to a local community.
5. Ukhozi Lodge | Kariega Game Reserve
⭐️ Rating: 9.5 out of 10 with 27 reviews
🎊 Chosen for: the panoramic river view, private suites, river cruises
🏨 Check Price and Availability
Included:
• your suite, game drives and activities
• all meals and selected beverages, tea and coffee facilities.
The gorgeous Ukhozi Lodge is in an ideal location in the Kariega Game Reserve, along the famous Garden Route. This area of South Africa is free of malaria and near the beach!
The exclusive resort has only 10 spacious luxury suites.
As part of your 2 memorable game drives each day, your stay includes several other activities. You’ll be taken down the Kariega River on a river cruise.
Fantastic game drives with plenty of opportunity to see the animals very close… Large, spacious lodges overlooking the bush. Food was of exceptional quality.
-Luke (Read more reviews)
Also part of your experiences are guided bush walks, the use of the lodge’s canoes, and its fishing equipment.
In addition, there are 2 excellent golf courses nearby. And just 15 minutes away are the sun-drenched beaches of Kenton-on-Sea. These excursions are not included in your stay, though.
Ukhozi Lodge is also a part of the Pack for a Purpose initiative. If you’d like to make a difference on your holiday and contribute to the Kariega Game Reserve, go to their website to find out how.
All-Inclusive Resort Comparison Summary
As you can see, there are so many options for you to choose from. From private game reserves to beachfront properties, there’s a great variety.
Many of these resorts offer activities such as game drives, water sports, and spa treatments. All this ensures a memorable experience during your stay.
If you’re looking for a luxurious, worry-free vacation, then South Africa’s all-inclusive resorts are the perfect choice. With world-class facilities and stunning locations, these resorts provide the ultimate escape from the stresses of everyday life.
| Resort Name | Location | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| ✔︎ Kapama River Lodge (Rating: 9.6/10) Included: • your night(s) accommodation, 2 game drives/day. All meals, coffee, tea, baked goods and afternoon tea-time snacks, selected alcoholic beverages. Wifi throughout. • road transfers between the lodge and Eastgate airport | Greater Kruger National Park | $$$$ |
| ✔︎ aha Makalali Private Game Reserve (Rating: 9/10) Included: • your night(s) accommodation, 2 game drives/day. All meals, coffee, tea, baked goods and afternoon tea-time snacks, selected alcoholic beverages. Wifi throughout. • road transfers between the lodge and Eastgate airport | Limpopo | $$$ |
| ✔︎ Baobab Ridge Private Lodge (Rating 9.8/10) Included: • your night(s) accommodation, 2 game drives/day, walking safari in place of the morning game drive if possible, all meals and snacks, plus coffee and tea, laundry. • all spirits except premium brands, Wifi in the main building • the Klaserie Bed Levy (R350pp/stay) | Greater Kruger National Park | $$$$ |
| ✔︎ Nambiti Plains Private Game Lodge (Rating: 9.5/10) Included: • your night(s) accommodation, game drives with snacks and beverages (local beer, house liquor, and wine in the afternoons). Also, all meals plus coffee, tea, hot chocolate, juice, and water are available all day. • a glass of house wine with dinner, bush breakfasts and dinners in good weather, Wifi throughout. • emergency medical evacuation insurance, and the 1% tourism levy and 15%VAT | KwaZulu-Natal | $$$ |
| ✔︎ Ukhozi Lodge (Rating: 9.5) Included: • your night(s) accommodation, game drives and above activities, all meals and selected beverages, tea and coffee facilities. | Eastern Cape | $$$ |
The Location of South Africa
South Africa is a beautiful country located on the southern tip of the African continent. It’s known for its diverse landscapes, iconic wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.
With its stunning coastline, rolling hills, and vast savannahs, South Africa is a popular destination. Travellers here come seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Packing for Your Trip
I highly recommend taking only a single carry-on bag when travelling. It makes life infinitely easier, especially when moving from place to place often.
But, your main stop might be your all-inclusive resort in South Africa. If this is the case, then having larger luggage or more than one bag shouldn’t cause too much trouble.
Keep in mind though that checked luggage always has the potential to go missing. If you do decide to check luggage, plan for that possibility. Take a photo of your bags before they’re checked.
Remember to keep any medication as well as toiletries and clothing for at least a day or two in your carry-on.
Read More Packing and Planning info: Essential Packing Advice & 15 Steps to Planning an Amazing Trip to Africa
What to take with you to Africa
This is discussed in much more detail in What to Pack for Travel to Africa: An Epic Guide, but here are a few important tips:
- for the best experience on a game drive, where earth tones so that you blend in and don’t attract the animals’ attention
- do NOT wear camo clothing. It is generally reserved for military only, and is even illegal in some countries, though not in South Africa. But wearing it could cause you problems.
- mosquitoes are attracted to the colours black, navy, blue, and red; try to avoid wearing them.
- tsetse flies are less of an issue, but they too are attracted to bright and dark colours like black and navy, as well as metallic fabric. It’s a good idea to avoid these in South Africa.
- if you think you might be hiking or going on a bush walk, closed-toed shoes are a good idea. But take flip-flops as well for game drives and wearing around the resort.
- don’t forget sunscreen and mosquito repellant. DEET is best and isn’t always easy to find in Africa.
- to help stay cool in the hot weather, take a narrow scarf or large bandana that you can soak with water. Any temperature.
Squeeze it out and wrap it around your neck. You’ll be amazed at how cool this will make you feel!
The Best Time to Visit an All-Inclusive Resort in South Africa
If you’re going specifically to see the wildlife, June through October generally offer the best opportunities for wildlife sightings.
During this period, the dry season, the vegetation is sparse and the grass is short, providing less cover for the animals. This makes them easier to spot.
Plus, there are fewer watering holes during the dry season, making the animals’ movements more predictable. They’re all going to gather for a drink.
As all wildlife needs to drink, the concentrated water sources ensure excellent sightings at these locations. And if your resort has a terrace overlooking a waterhole, this could mean amazing sightings!
But, a safari can be a fantastic experience at any time of the year. I tend to travel during the off-season or shoulder season to avoid crowds, and it’s always unforgettable.
Keep in mind, too, that the southern hemisphere’s summer, from November to March, may be too hot for some visitors. This is also the rainy season, although it doesn’t rain constantly.
During this time, the trees are fuller, the grass is taller, and there are more watering holes available. This provides more cover for the animals and makes their movements less predictable.
The most important thing is to GO!
Pre-Planning Essentials for Your Trip to Africa
✓ Travel Insurance – Safety Wing Nomad Insurance is a great option. Easy to get and easy to use, their customer service is top-notch.
✓ Vehicle Rental – if you’ll need your own vehicle while you’re in Africa, Discover Cars has you covered, whatever type of vehicle you’re looking for.
✓ Park ‘N Fly – another worry out of the way. Pay for your airport parking, and get shuttled right to departures – all with a 15% discount.
✓ eSIM – cell phone use can be a huge concern when you’re travelling. Blow that anxiety out of the water with Airalo eSIM. Works in 190 countries, entirely online.
✓ Resources Page – browse our resources page for everything you need to cover your travel bases.
Summing It Up: All-Inclusive Resorts in South Africa
South Africa offers a remarkable selection of all-inclusive resorts. They combine luxurious accommodations, breathtaking landscapes, and unparalleled hospitality.
From the stunning Garden Route to the majestic Kruger National Park, South Africa’s all-inclusive resorts provide an unforgettable experience. They offer a seamless blend of comfort, convenience, and authenticity.
Immerse yourself in the rich diversity of this captivating country. Let the best all-inclusive resorts in South Africa create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Happy travels!
Read more about South Africa:
➦ The Three Rondavels: Best Tips and Tricks for 2025
➦ Find the South Africa Luxury Tour of Your Dreams
➦ Soar with the Clouds: Top Hot Air Balloon Rides in South Africa
➦ 30 Photos to Inspire You to Visit South Africa
