Singita Boulders Lodge

Boulders sits on the rocky banks of the Sand River, and the building takes its shapes from the weathered granite around it. There are 12 suites: seven along the river, three facing the bush and two family suites. Each has glass walls, a private deck that follows the curve of the river and its own heated plunge pool. Singita's land in the Sabi Sand covers about 45,000 acres, with its own airstrip about ten minutes away.

Days run on two game drives, with guided walks, a gym, yoga, a spa, a wine cellar and a visit to the anti-poaching dog unit in between. The Sabi Sand is one of the best places in Africa for leopard, and the open boundary with Kruger means the full Big Five move through. Boulders works as the main safari stop after Cape Town, reached by light aircraft from Johannesburg or a short hop from Kruger Mpumalanga airport.

Boulders suits couples, honeymooners and anyone who wants the top end of the Sabi Sand. Children 10 and over are welcome, and the family suites help, but bush walks are 16 and over. Rates sit at the very top of the market, and it is in a malaria area, so plan accordingly.