Romantic getaways in Limpopo

Big skies, red earth and some of the best game viewing in Africa: Limpopo is where many couples come for their dream safari. It offers two very different experiences.

To the west, the Waterberg is malaria-free, mountainous and about three hours from Johannesburg. Its reserves, including Welgevonden, have the Big Five and lodges with views across valleys and gorges. It is ideal for a long weekend.

To the east, the Greater Kruger has the private reserves that share unfenced boundaries with Kruger National Park, including the Timbavati, Klaserie and the reserves around Hoedspruit. Game viewing here is world class and the lodges range from simple and rustic to some of the finest in Africa. Most people fly into Hoedspruit or drive from Johannesburg in around five to six hours.

Across Limpopo, look for the touches that make a safari romantic: a private plunge pool, an outdoor shower, a star bed or a candlelit dinner in the bush.