Tucked into thousands of acres of South Africa’s ancient Waterberg region, Hippo Lakes is where the rhythm of the bush quietly replaces everything you left behind.
This is not just a safari. It is five nights of being fully, unhurriedly present in one of the most extraordinary places on earth. Rated in top 10% of global destinations by Trip Advisor in 2025.
Your stay at Hippo Lakes is shaped by two distinct lodge environments, each with its own atmosphere and perspective of the landscape, designed to immerse you in the beauty and rhythm of the reserve from the moment you arrive.
Mountainview Lodge sits above the reserve on a quiet elevation, yet remains right on the water’s edge, with the lake directly below and broader views across the bushveld beyond.
Lakeside Lodge sits at the water’s edge, where the reserve and the lake come together in a way that shapes every part of the stay.
Tented suites privately positioned within the landscape, each finished to a standard that lets the reserve do the rest.
Two ways to experience the bush. Classic Safari offers flexibility, with core experiences included and the freedom to add more as your stay unfolds. Signature Safari is fully arranged before you arrive, a more inclusive journey designed for those who prefer every detail in place from the moment they arrive.
A five-night safari package with core experiences included and additional activities available to add during your stay. Classic Safaris are an ideal option for travelers who prefer flexibility or who are visiting Hippo Lakes through partner programs.
Signature Safaris are the more inclusive version of the Hippo Lakes experience. Includes everything offered in the Classic Safari, plus upgraded experiences that are arranged in advance of guest arrival.
Every stay at Hippo Lakes is shaped by the moments you choose to fill it with. Classic experiences are always included as part of any safari package. Signature experiences are curated and arranged before you arrive for a seamless, more immersive stay. À la carte experiences are available to add at any time during your stay. Your concierge team will handle every detail.
The heart of the Hippo Lakes experiences and led by expert rangers who are passionate about wildlife, daily game drives reveal the incredible biodiversity of the Waterberg.
Expand the safari experience by touring a different reserve environment, where the chances of seeing lions and elephants increase.
Guests have the opportunity to meet these gentle giants up close, interact with them, and learn more about their intelligence, personalities, and care.
One of the most memorable experiences at Hippo Lakes. It follows an evening drive and brings guests together outdoors for a South African Traditional Braai.
Sky Safari offers a bird’s-eye perspective of Hippo Lakes and the surrounding reserve, sweeping over plains, waterways, and wildlife-rich areas that feel very different when seen from the air.
Bush walks offer a more intimate connection with nature by slowing the pace and bringing attention to the details that are easy to miss from a vehicle.
A unique Hippo Lakes experience, the Tabletop Mountain Sundowner brings guests to a scenic vantage point for drinks and snacks as the sky turns gold and crimson across the bush.
With five distinct fishing decks, Hippo Lakes offers angling opportunities for all levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply appreciate a well-chosen glass, our guided tastings offer an unhurried way to wind down after a day in the bush.
From restorative massages to targeted body treatments, Hippo Lakes’ spa services are the perfect complement to days spent in the wild.
This trip became so much more than the bucket list dream of seeing animals on a safari in Africa. It truly was a magical glimpse into the beauty of the land, the culture, the people and animals. The views were breathtaking; the food was delicious; the staff was welcoming, friendly and knowledgeable; the game rides were a new experience each time; the wildlife was vast and captivating; and the tents are like nothing I have never seen before (glamping doesn’t even begin to describe it)! This is truly a place that is hard to leave. I felt like I came as a tourist and left as family. From the sounds of hippos on the lake to the views of baby warthogs scurrying past zebras to the picturesque views of giraffes gracefully roaming the open land, there truly is nothing like this magical place!
Extend your safari into an unforgettable journey with curated tours, designed by a team with extensive South African travel expertise.
