SINGITA, Sabi Sand Reserve, South Africa

Most of us dream of the ultimate, romantic safari. But Africa's a fair trek away, and a safari is rarely cheap. So for this once-in-a-lifetime venture, forgo four-by-four traffic jams and mosquito-infested tents for a private tracker and the kind of sumptuous accommodations that would have made Hemingway envious. That's what you'll find at Singita, in South Africa's Sabi Sand Reserve. Its 30 rooms have plunge pools and outdoor showers to cool you off after a day in the African sun; individual guides make sure you'll see the Big Five while taking care of your creature comforts (think hot-water bottles on cool morning drives and surprise barbecues in the bush); and the faultless service includes private butlers and spa personnel. Gourmands can expect customized menus and a fabulous wine collection with Stellenbosch reds served at cellar temperatures. Of course, the animals are the main draw. Part of what makes Singita so compelling is the diversity of species scampering about—leopards, lions, elephants, hippos, giraffes—some of which you might spy from your own room. And while there's a price to pay for such luxury, most people only do it once, so we won't quibble.

Singita Private Game Reserve
Tel: 27 21 683 3424
$1,120 per person per night, including meals, alcohol, and daily safari excursions

NEXT: Oui, oui, oui! >