That bitter winter chill is probably just beyond the cosy confines of your office, lounge or kitchen as you read this. Desperate for a dose of Vitamin D? Channel your inner swallow and head south with these exceptional sunshine destinations to conquer your brrrr blues.

Team GILTEDGE has done the legwork for you and identified the destinations that will ensure you squeeze every bit of joy out of the Southern Hemisphere sunshine.

Siviti Luxury Safari Lodge

Where? The Southern section of Thornybush Private Nature Reserve, Limpopo, South Africa.

Best time to visit? Thornybush is a year-round destination, but game viewing is at its best during the dry winter months, from May to September, when the foliage is less dense, and animals tend to congregate at the remaining water sources.

Accommodation: There are six private suites at Siviti Luxury Safari Lodge, including the superb two-suite Timbavati Villa, and the recently added Timbavati Homestead – a fantastic option for small groups and families, accommodating up to eight guests. The suites come with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, an extra-length king-size bed, an indoor lounge and a decked terrace exclusive to the property. The Homestead has four spacious ensuite bedrooms, an outdoor safari bath, kitchen, upstairs and downstairs lounge area and a bar.

A memorable highlight: Enjoying the view of the Timbavati river and the reserve’s wildlife from your private plunge pool.

Lolebezi Safari Lodge

Where? The Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia.

Best time to visit? Zambia’s dry season runs from July to October, which is usually the best time for game viewing. A visit between November and April can also be blissful. This is when the foliage is fresh and green, hence the nickname “The Emerald Season”, and it’s a fantastic time for birdwatching, thanks to many migrants arriving to make the most of the warmer weather.

Accommodation: This lodge is ideal for both couples and families, with four superior suites and two double family units.  Each unit and suite comes with air conditioning, a private plunge pool and a thatched sala on the river.

A memorable highlight: Cruising down the winding Zambezi River while spotting animals along the banks.

Dulini Moya

Where? Along the Mabrak River in the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, South Africa.

Best time to visit? Anyone looking forward to scoping out wildlife, or concerned about malaria, should plan to book their visit for any time between May and September. Birders, on the other hand, should book a stay for between October and April.

Accommodation: There are six thatched suites on the banks of the riverbed, each promising a mesmerising, private view of the water through floor-to-ceiling windows. The suites come with their own spacious lounge, bedroom and bathroom, offering a shower and a freestanding bath. There’s also a broad private deck with a heated plunge pool and outdoor shower.

A memorable highlight: Heading off on captivating game drives twice a day, all led by experienced guides and trackers.

Okavango Delta Safari Camp

Where? The southwest area of the private Selinda Reserve, Botswana.

Best time to visit? A visit to the Okavango Delta during Botswana’s dry period, from May to August, is ideal. This is when the rain has stopped but the water has flowed into the Delta, much to the delight of its many thirsty visitors, many of which are seeking replenishment after journeying from the desert. The November to March “green season” is also a treat, with the surrounds of the Delta brimming with new life, including plenty of adorable baby antelope.

Accommodation: Inspired by old-school safari culture of the 1920s, this camp has six elegant tents capable of accommodating two guests each. Every tent is equipped with an indoor shower, a fan, mosquito nets and yoga mats.

A memorable highlight: Helicopter flights, giving you a bird’s eye view of the beautiful Delta below.

Waterside Lodge at Royal Malewane

Where? The Western Border of The Greater Kruger National Park, Limpopo, South Africa.

Best time to visit? May to October is the best time to book your safari if you have your heart set on seeing as much wildlife as possible. Birders and photographers should book their visit between November and February, when the foliage is lush and green, and the Kruger Park is humming with new life.

Accommodation: There are many options from which to choose when staying at Waterside Lodge. The Luxury Suites are exactly that: luxurious. There’s also the Baobab Suite and the Aloe Rooms. All of these suites and rooms have air conditioning, a private deck, heated pool and outdoor showers. Waterside’s Private Bush Villa is the premium offering and ideal for small groups and families, accommodating up to eight guests. It has four bedrooms and all the trimmings of a sophisticated safari escape.

A memorable highlight: Photographic safaris with a trained, knowledgeable guide by your side.  

These are certainly African adventures that dreams are made of. Let our team help you turn one into a reality, tailoring every aspect of your vacation to suit your needs, preferences and budget.

Contact us today for more information, or explore our current African safari deals for further inspiration.