Tswalu Kalahari, South Africa
Covering 100,000 hectares of Kalahari wilderness, Tswalu Kalahari is the largest private game reserve in South Africa, but sleeps just 30 guests in two smart lodges. Horseback safaris allow guests to get even closer to the black-maned lions and sable antelope that roam here. From £2,335pp for four nights (full board and includes internal flights, game drives and horse riding). carrier.co.uk
Etambura Camp, Namibia
The ultimate desert escape, Etambura is as remote as it gets. Just five en-suite tents are carved out of a marble outcrop high above the rugged plains of Kunene. Run by Conservancy Safaris, an independent outfit with impeccable environmental credentials, the lodge is owned entirely by the local Himba people. From £2,120 pp for a six-night Kunene safari. kamilisafaris.com
Ecca Lodge, Madikwe, South Africa
More luxury hotel than safari camp, family-friendly Ecca Lodge brings modern style to the bushveld with mosaic bathrooms, polished concrete floors and bold fabrics. Wraparound decks with solar-heated plunge pools overlook a valley teeming with wildlife, from herds of kudu to elusive, endangered cheetahs. From £330 a night. africatravel.co.uk
Solio Lodge, Kenya
You'll see more leopards, zebras and giraffes than tourists at Solio, a breeding ground for the endangered black rhino in the shadow of Mount Kenya. Tanya and Mikey Carr-Hartley, who own three other fabulous lodges in Kenya, have created six thatched cottages with their signature ethnic-chic décor. From £385 a night. thesafaricollection.com
Singita Sweni, Kruger, South Africa
For an epicurean adventure, join chef Bruce Robertson's new Gourmet Safaris. Watch the flamboyant Robertson's culinary fireworks at Singita's community cooking school, followed by unforgettable bush dinners. Set in Kruger National Park and built on stilts, Singita Sweni has an infinity pool with stunning river views. From £6,675pp (full board and includes BA flights from Heathrow and all transfers). itcclassics.co.uk
