High above the savannah plains, amidst the leaves of an indigenous forest, and surrounded by native bird calls – there’s no doubt that staying in a treehouse is one of the best ways to absorb the raw beauty of South Africa. Here are 5 strategically placed treehouses for enjoying glorious African sunsets and views of the roaming wildlife below.
Pezulu Tree House Game Lodge is situated in Thornybush Game Reserve in Hoedspruit, just 45 minutes from the world renowned Kruger National Park. Guests can enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives to see Big 5, plains game, and over 200 species of birds.
The lodge has a selection of luxury treehouses towering high above the African bush, built into Marula, Jackalberry, and Huilboerboon trees. The treehouses are linked via raised wooden walkways and have a Jacuzzi, sunken bath, or outdoor shower, and a private balcony for game viewing.
Tsala Treetop Lodge in Plettenberg Bay is tucked away amongst the leaves of a centuries-old indigenous forest where bird calls will be your only alarm clock. The impressive stone masonry entrance is flanked by grand water features on either side. There is a glass-walled lounge, restaurant, wine cellar, library, and open decks with views over the treetop canopy.
The lodge has 10 Tsala Suites sleeping 2 people and 6 Tsala Villas sleeping 4, both of which have fireplaces, outdoor showers, and private decks with infinity pools. Gourmet baskets can be arranged for a secluded picnic in the forest.
Lion Sands has three treehouses where you’ll have the game of the Sabi Sands pretty much all to yourself. Big 5 game drives, bush walks, bird watching, star gazing, bush breakfasts, river walks, and hippo tours are just a few things you can look forward to.
The treehouses sleep 2 – 4 people on raised wooden platforms above the bush. With no electricity or Wi-Fi, they offer a purely back-to-basics getaway. Enjoy picnic dinners, starlight massages, and falling asleep to the sound of a lion roar or hippo grunting from the nearby Sabie River.
Vindoux in Tulbagh is home to the only treehouses in the Western Cape. Enjoy the tangible peace and quiet of the Tulbagh valley with views over the watering hole, orchards, and Saronsberg Mountain.
The treehouses are designed with couples in mind and have large bathrooms with spa baths and front and rear balconies. Look forward to little luxuries like breakfast in bed, 3-course dinners on your balcony, and a turn down service of Moniki Chocolates, rose petals, and champagne. The spa has a couples’ treatment room, massage chair for manicures and pedicures, and its own range of fynbos therapy products. Bicycle rentals are great for wine tasting responsibly.
Jaci’s Tree Lodge in the 75,000 hectare Madikwe Game Reserve is on the border of Botswana, close to the Kalahari Desert. The reserve is home to over 60 mammals including the Big 5, African wild dog, and over 300 bird species.
The lodge has 8 treehouses, each encompassing a giant Tamboti or Leadwood Tree and connected by raised wooden walkways. Built on stilts, they have magnificent views over the thorny scrubs and savannah with a private balcony, enormous stone bath, and an outdoor jungle shower. The lodge has a breakaway lounge, bar, 4-sided fireplace, and a pool for lazy sunny days.
Which treehouse would you like to stay in?
Marcel Van de Ghinste is a Director at TravelGround.
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