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A beautiful and bright safari lodge with infinity pools, a spa treatment room, and stunning bush views

Africa House at Royal Malewane stands as the pinnacle of luxury safari retreats in South Africa. Set deep within the big-five country of the Thornybush Private Game Reserve – which shares an unfenced, seamless border with the legendary Kruger National Park – this palatial 1,500-square-metre villa balances opulent architectural scale with the absolute privacy demanded by discerning families and private groups of up to 12 guests.

At the front of the villa, an expansive outdoor terrace serves as the villa’s main relaxation zone. Here, a magnificent, multi-level infinity pool framed by teak decking extends out towards the rugged bushland. Poolside loungers and plush outdoor seating offer plenty of space to soak up the sun and spot wildlife wandering by the dry riverbed below.

Accented by comfortable daybeds and a fully equipped al fresco bar, this sun-splashed oasis is the perfect spot for mid-afternoon lounging between game drives. Shaded verandas, plush daybeds, and a 10-seater al fresco dining area provide the ultimate setting for leisurely bush breakfasts, decadent afternoon high teas, or sunset gin and tonics. Moreover, a beautifully designed open-air boma sets the stage for unforgettable dinners under a canopy of stars.

The villa’s indoor living and wellness spaces are built around a beautifully planted courtyard atrium, creating a seamless connection to nature from every room. Curated by renowned designer Liz Biden, the interiors feature vibrant, contemporary, high-end design. Moving away from the usual muted safari tones, the villa instead features a bold colour palette and highly textured soft furnishings. Traditional African elements, fine Persian rugs, gleaming chandeliers, and exquisite antiques converge effortlessly within its vast, light-filled spaces.

The social heart of the villa is its expansive Long Room. Flooded with natural light through massive glass doors, the room is designed for multi-generational relaxation, indoor games, and fireside dining. Guests can also enjoy comprehensive wellness facilities, including a fully equipped gym overlooking the bushveld and a luxurious double spa treatment room.

Six uniquely themed en-suite bedrooms offer guests their own private sanctuary. Vibrant walls and opulent furnishings are paired with four-poster beds draped in fine linens, while expansive glass doors lead to private decks and reveal sweeping wilderness views. Several rooms are interconnected, making them ideal for those travelling with children. In addition to the six guest bedrooms, the villa features a Pilot’s Room ideal for those travelling with a personal member of staff.

Guests enjoy the exclusive use of a private 4×4 safari vehicle accompanied by some of Africa’s most highly qualified field rangers and trackers. Whether quietly tracking a pride of lions at dawn or birdwatching from the private terrace, Africa House offers a completely immersive safari experience.

Highlights

Spa Facilities

Spa Facilities

Games Room

Games Room

Enjoy Private Game Drives

Enjoy Private Game Drives

Services

Included

Available extras

Enhance Your Stay with Personalised Services

After booking, your dedicated concierge will craft the perfect experience — tailored to your preferences. From everyday essentials to exclusive experiences, our curated add-ons elevate every villa stay.

Essential

Essential

Signature

Signature

Prestige

Prestige

Features

Indoor

Outdoor

Bedrooms

This property comfortably accommodates up to 12 guests in its 6 bedrooms.

Bedroom 1 – king-size bed, sitting area, en-suite bathroom with dual vanity, bathtub & separate shower + outdoor shower, private deck, and bush views
Bedroom 2 – king-size bed, sitting area, en-suite bathroom with dual vanity, bathtub & separate shower + outdoor shower, private deck, and bush views
Bedroom 3 – king-size bed, sitting area, en-suite bathroom with dual vanity, bathtub & separate shower + outdoor shower, private deck, and bush views (Nb. Interconnects with Bedroom 5)
Bedroom 4 – king-size bed, sitting area, en-suite bathroom with dual vanity, bathtub & separate shower + outdoor shower, private deck, and bush views (Nb. Interconnects with Bedroom 6)
Bedroom 5 – twin beds (converted to king-size on request), sitting area, en-suite bathroom with dual vanity, bathtub & separate shower + outdoor shower, private deck, and bush views (Nb. Interconnects with Bedroom 3)
Bedroom 6 – twin beds (converted to king-size on request), sitting area, en-suite bathroom with dual vanity, bathtub & separate shower + outdoor shower, private deck, and bush views (Nb. Interconnects with Bedroom 4)

ON REQUEST
Pilot’s room (personal staff) – double bed, en-suite bathroom with shower + outdoor shower, private deck, and bush views

Location

Disclaimer: the location on the map may be approximate due to privacy reasons.

About the area

Africa House at Royal Malewane is set within the 14,000-hectare Thornybush Private Game Reserve of South Africa. The villa sits on the unfenced border of the legendary Kruger National Park, where Africa’s iconic Big Five, along with hundreds of other rare mammal and bird species, roam freely across wild acacia woodlands and open savannas. In the distance, the spectacular Drakensberg Mountains create a dramatic backdrop.

Located just a short drive from the main Malewane Lodge, villa guests enjoy total privacy alongside seamless access to the lodge’s award-winning Royal Waters Bush Spa, as well as its library, bar, and wine cellar.

Within the reserve, guests can enjoy twice-daily game drives with master trackers and private guides, guided bushwalks, photographic safaris, conservation activities, wine tastings, and more.

The villa is a scenic 40-minute drive from Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, which offers seamless connections to Johannesburg. Or, for guests arriving via private charter, the Royal Malewane Airstrip is located just a 15-minute drive away.

Distances

Frequently asked questions

Inclusions vary by property but generally cover accommodation, cleaning services, and basic utilities. Some villas may also include additional services such as concierge, breakfast, or a private chef. Full details can be found on each villa’s page. If a service is not included in the price, our concierge team can arrange it for you, ensuring a fully personalised stay. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll take care of the rest!
Booking is simple! If you have a specific villa in mind, click "Send Enquiry" on its page. If you're considering multiple options, click the heart icon to save your favorites and send one enquiry for all of them. Our team will check availability and send you a detailed offer within 24 hours. Need help choosing? We’re happy to assist!
Yes, a deposit is required at the time of booking, typically 30% of the total amount. The remaining balance is usually due 30 to 90 days before check-in, depending on the property. Some villas may have different payment schedules, which will be specified in the offer we send you.
We accept bank transfers and major credit cards. Payment details will be provided during the booking process.
Yes, we offer a wide range of services, including in-villa options like private chefs, chauffeurs, and spa treatments, as well as activities such as yacht charters, wine tastings, and guided tours. We can also arrange experiences for the rest of your holiday, even beyond your villa stay. After booking, your dedicated concierge will contact you to customise your itinerary.
Yes, most high-end villas require a minimum stay of 7 nights, usually starting from a Saturday. However, many properties offer flexibility during certain times of the year, except for peak seasons like summer and Christmas holidays, which typically have stricter requirements. A smaller number of properties accept shorter stays year-round. If you have specific dates in mind, please contact us for availability.

Have more questions?

Connect with our Villa Experts – we’ll handle the rest.

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From USD 237,500 to USD 299,000 per week

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