Where do the world's best soccer stars and their WAGS retire for some R'n'R when it's time to hang up their FIFA World Cup boots? Home to the Big Five, South Africa's extraordinary wildlife viewing is matched by some pretty impressive lodges, well equipped to handle the discerning demands and designer style of its high profile guests. Here's our pick of the top ten.
Heaven to Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson is either gazing at the amazing panorama of the Sabi Sand bushveld and Drakensburg Mountains, 800ft (243m) up from the deck of spectacular Rock Lodge or sitting pretty in a luxury tree house while the wild world passes by.
These three very private suites (which can booked individually or exclusively) blend into their riverine forest and rocky riverfront location almost seamlessly thanks to the beautiful timber and stonework
The stunning Ivory lodge was created in 2004 following a flood which wiped out two of Lion Sand's original camps beside the Sabie River which flows between the private game reserve and Kruger National Park.
Imagine sitting in a bathtub with bubbles up to your neck. Then as you reach for the soap (or glass of champers), movement in the corner of your eye shifts your focus outside where two elephants are also splashing about in the nearby river.
Overlooking a much visited waterhole within a sycamore grove on the private Manyeleti reserve concession (adjacent to Kruger) you'll find Tintswalo Safari Lodge.
Within the KwaZulu natal, the Phinda Private Game Reserve is special, not only for its great wildlife viewing, including the Big Five and the rare black rhino, but its diversity of habitats.
