Where to see animals from a lodge in Southern Africa?

I’d like to return to Africa and stay in a lodge where I can see animals—not necessarily the Big Five—without needing any transport once I arrive at the lodge, and at a price under $250 per day for two people with full board. The week-long stay is planned for late June into early July. I’m looking for suggestions. Thanks in advance!

Hi there,

in a lodge where I can see animals—not necessarily the Big Five—without needing transport once I arrive at the lodge, and at a price under $250 per day for two people with full board.

Without going too far or breaking the bank: the African Reserve of Sigean (the Kruger in miniature). https://www.reserveafricainesigean.fr/

Thanks for the idea, but it doesn’t match what I’m looking for

Hi there,

I just got back from my safari experience in Kenya. Specifically at Tsavo East and Amboseli. I have to say, you can observe animals near the parks—sometimes even more outside than inside. However, I’m not sure if this is far enough south for you.

At Tsavo East, the Zomeni Lion Hill Safari Lodge offers a stunning view of the park, and with binoculars, you can easily spot animals. Perched up high, a short walk gives you access to the park’s surroundings.

At Amboseli, the PENETY AMBOSELI RESORT is farther from the park, but you can easily see animals on the road leading to it.

Hope this helps!

Happy travels!

I’d like to return to Africa and stay in a lodge where I can see animals, at a price under $250 per day for two people with full board. The week-long stay is planned for late June into July.

Hi François,

This might be tricky for you.

Let’s break down the challenge: - You need a lodge with a significant watering hole.

- For animals to come to that watering hole, it has to be the peak of the dry season.

- For your budget, it needs to be just outside an official reserve (to avoid entry fees and overnight taxes).

It’s probably possible to find something like this in South Africa (which I don’t know well) or Namibia. I know both countries have quite a few small lodges or hotels with their own private reserves (though no dangerous animals, of course). In Namibia, I stayed at the "Auas Safari Lodge" not far from Windhoek Airport—it seems to fit the bill, but I’m not sure if it’s still open.

Alternatively, in southern Tanzania, just outside the Ruaha Reserve, there’s the "Tandala Tented Camp" with a watering hole that attracts all sorts of animals from the reserve. However, June/July might not be the best time, as it’s right after the rainy season, so animals aren’t desperate for water. October would be much better.

I’m not sure if it fits your budget, though. Check out the photos in my travel journal-in-progress: "Return to Ruaha" in this forum.

That’s just my take...

Happy searching! Best, Puma2A

...

Hi François,

Does the lodge need to be not too far from an airport?

In June, it’ll be cooler in South Africa than further north, but Addo Elephant National Park could fit your budget and it’ll be the dry season.