Each stay includes five nights in a private, climate-controlled luxury tent designed to keep guests comfortable while remaining closely connected to the landscape. The lodges shape the shared rhythm of the experience, while the tents offer privacy and space to rest between outings. Tents vary by size, layout, and outdoor features, allowing guests to choose the style of stay that best fits how they travel.
Perched above the lake, Mountainview Lodge offers a quieter atmosphere with broader views, a wellness center, and a curio shop where guests can find locally sourced keepsakes to take home. Lakeside Lodge feels more social and connected to the water, where wildlife activity often becomes part of daily life on the property. Across every stay, the experience is designed to feel clear, comfortable, and easy to settle into.
Your stay at Hippo Lakes is shaped by two distinct lodge environments, each with its own atmosphere and perspective of the landscape.
Mountainview Lodge sits slightly higher on the reserve but directly on the lake, with broader views across the bush and a quieter overall atmosphere. It is a natural fit for guests who want a calmer environment between safari outings, with spaces that feel especially suited to rest and reflection.
Lakeside Lodge sits close to the water, where wildlife activity often becomes part of the setting throughout the day. The atmosphere is more social and relaxed, making it a strong fit for guests who enjoy a more connected lodge experience.
The tented suites at Hippo Lakes are designed to disappear into their surroundings. Canvas and wood, open views, and the sounds of the reserve just beyond the deck.
Our family had a wonderful experience visiting. Hippo Lakes has luxury accommodations including beautiful tents and rooms over looking a lake with hippos & crocs in it. Our tent had a hot tub and a private pool on the deck. Delicious gourmet cuisine and exceptional service. The resort was so safe and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel like family.
Every suite at Hippo Lakes is designed to feel like a place you settle into rather than simply sleep in. These are the questions guests ask most often before they arrive. If something isn’t covered here, our team is happy to help you prepare for your stay.
Five nights. That’s the standard stay at Hippo Lakes.
Mountainview Lodge sits higher on the reserve with broader views and a quieter feel, but is still directly on the lake. Lakeside Lodge is closer to the water, more social, with wildlife activity visible throughout the day. Both offer the same core experience. The difference is atmosphere.
Four one-bedroom suites and two two-bedroom suites. Each is named after a local species: Buffalo, Rhino, Eland, and Kudu are one-bedroom. Hippo and Elephant have two bedrooms. Specific details for each are on the their respective tented suite page.
Yes. Each tent has a full heating and cooling unit. Hair dryers are in the desk drawer or closet. There are no electrical outlets in the bathrooms, which is standard in South Africa.
No. All purchases and gratuities at the lodge are by credit or debit card. The exception is third-party experiences like the Sky Safari or Elephant Interaction, where tips are cash only.
Age requirements vary by lodge and tent. Reach out to the concierge team directly if you’re traveling with children under 15.