The “Best of Both Worlds” 5-Star Safari in South Africa

✨ Stay at Londolozi Varty Camp – The birthplace of South African safaris, offering award-winning hospitality, private plunge pools, and unbeatable Big 5 game drives.

✨ Experience Sabi Sands Private Reserve – Famous for close-up leopard sightings, expert guiding, and exclusive access away from the crowds.

✨ Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge – A one-of-a-kind luxury hotel perched above the Sabi River, blending historic charm with modern indulgence.

✨ Big 5 Safari Adventures – Twice-daily game drives, sundowners in the bush, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

✨ Hassle-Free Travel – Fly directly into Skukuza Airport with transfers (game drives) straight to and from the lodges, on open game drive vehicles. From Skukuza you can easily connect to Johannesburg or Cape Town.

• Arrive at Skukuza Airport and transfer directly to Londolozi via game drive in an open Land Rover.
• Three nights in a luxury chalet at Londolozi Varty Camp.
• Twice-daily Big 5 game drives with some of Africa’s best rangers.
• Optional nature walks accompanied by experienced armed rangers
• Delicious meals, fine South African wines, and plenty of time to relax by your private plunge pool.
• Check out our Londolozi review for more info on this amazing camp.

Day 4 – 5: Kruger Shalati – The Train on the Bridge

• Private road transfer from Skukuza airport to Shalati (just around the corner)
• Twice daily game drives in an open safari vehicle in Kruger park, plus the chance to enjoy the stunning pool overlooking the Sabi River.
• Two nights at the remarkable Shalati Train, with panoramic river views right from your suite.
• Check out our Shalati Train on the Bridge review for more info on this unique lodge.

How do I get to Londolozi and Shalati?
The easiest way is to fly directly into Skukuza Airport, located inside Kruger National Park. From there, you’ll transfer to both Londolozi and Shalati by open safari vehicle — your safari starts the moment you land. No charter flights or long road transfers are required.

Is this a Big 5 safari?
Yes. Both Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve (home to Londolozi) and Kruger National Park are famous Big 5 destinations. You’ll have excellent chances of seeing lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo, alongside countless other species.

Who is this safari best suited for?
The Best of Both Worlds Safari is perfect for couples, honeymooners, and anyone looking for a luxury safari experience with minimal travel hassle. Families with older children who want something truly unique will also love it.

How long is the itinerary?
This is a 5-night safari: three nights at Londolozi Varty Camp in Sabi Sands and two nights at Kruger Shalati – The Train on the Bridge.

What’s included in the price?
From AUD $10,000 per person (twin share), the package includes all accommodation, meals, local beverages, twice-daily game drives, and transfers between Skukuza Airport, Londolozi, and Shalati. Daily conservation fees and flights (international and regional) are not included. Get in touch with us if you want a more detailed quote based on your originating city and any trip add-ons you plan to do.

Can I extend the trip?
Yes. Many travellers add on time in Cape Town, the Cape Winelands, or Victoria Falls before or after their safari. We can help tailor extensions to suit your plans.

Is it safe to stay at lodges in the bush?
Yes. Both Londolozi and Shalati are professionally run lodges with trained staff and any necessary safety measures in place. Both lodges are fenced and the lodges are well-prepared for life in Big 5 territory. The Greater Kruger reserves are also very safe from any general crime due to the intense focus on preventing poaching (and also the need to protect the South African tourism industry). You will feel safer staying in these lodges than you would visiting any big cities around the world.

When is the best time to do this safari?
You can travel year-round, but the dry winter months (May–September) offer the best game viewing as animals gather around waterholes and vegetation is sparse. That being said, summer months bring lush scenery, baby animals, and fantastic birding. No matter what time you go, you will have excellent sightings and an amazing time.

Why book with a specialised African safari agent?
Booking a safari is very different from booking a standard holiday. With so many lodge options, seasonal considerations, and transfer logistics, working with a specialised African safari agent ensures you get the right itinerary for your needs. At Ready Set Safari, we take care of the details, secure the best lodge combinations, and provide insider advice you won’t find on general booking sites. We know the best rooms at each lodge to request, and the special extras to ask for to make sure your stay is truly unforgettable. Plus we only recommend places we have personally stayed, so we are 100% confident in the experience.

Can I combine this itinerary with other safari lodges?
Absolutely. If you’d like to add more nights in Sabi Sands, another private reserve, or even a family-friendly lodge, we’ll design a custom itinerary that balances luxury, adventure, and relaxation. You can also upgrade your experience at Londolozi to some of their more exclusive camps (pending availability) if you want the ultimate in luxury.