From the editors of Condé Nast Traveler:

Londolozi owner and big-time conservationist Dave Varty has, after a long stint at CC Africa, returned to this game reserve—famous for its leopards—with his family to run it full-time. Joining the four existing lodges (which have all undergone glamorous makeovers without diluting their original identity) are the brand-new Granite Suites: three spacious sanctuaries that look out on a stretch of smooth granite extrusions along the Sand River, where breeding herds of elephants come to bathe. The suites are understated and contemporary, done in bold textures and sophisticated silver, charcoal, and gray. Luxury comes in the form of space, light, and extreme privacy—in each suite, the living room, bedroom, and enormous bathroom extend outdoors onto a veranda with a pool overlooking the iconic rocks. But it's not about the size of the bathrooms or the champagne served under the stars—features that anyone can duplicate. Londolozi's magic is a combination of the exciting twice-daily game drives, the delightful Shangaan staff (it's hard not to adore someone called Cry with a mile-wide smile and a knack for remembering exactly how you take your coffee), and the Vartys' philosophy of a deep engagement with nature. When you've had your fill of the big five, the wellness center offers a soul safari of massage therapies and open-air yoga classes.

When to go: Winter months (May–August) are drier, with a low malaria risk.

Which room to book: Suite No. 2 has the biggest deck and shady trees.