Eco Accommodation
Socially Responsible Travel
Close Encounters has an ethical policy and is committed to responsible tourism. The accommodations and companies we use in Africa share our vision for sustainability and conservation and for the improvement of life for local communities. This page has been created to show you a small selection of the hotels and lodges that go the extra mile to make sure they are helping local communities and conserving the natural environment. If you can't find quite what you're looking for here, get in touch and we're sure to be able to find alternative eco-accommodation that will meet your needs.
What Does Eco Accommodation Mean?
Some eco hotels and lodges have their own projects and others contribute to existing initiatives. All of the companies on the list have been carefully selected and screened by Close Encounters. If you would like to know more about any of these, or if you would like to have a holiday itinerary made for you including these companies, please email or call today on 0870 094 8021.
Victoria Falls, Zambia
Tongabezi Lodge and Sidabezi Island Camp $$$$$
Tongabezi Lodge, the first river lodge on the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls, was established in 1990 by Ben Parker and the late Will Ruck-Keene. There is accommodation for 18 guests and each luxury cottage or house has been designed differently, using natural and local materials. Have a champagne lunch on Livingstone Island. Take a fully catered canoe safari. Or just relax, and have your personal butler bring you a cocktail. 
MAdikwe Reserve, South Africa
Jaci's Safari Lodge $$$$$
Tracking lions in the magnificent malaria free Madikwe Reserve, Jan discovered a site that would a few years later become the foundation for Jaci's Safari Lodge. Visitors can also expect to see Wild Dog, both Black and White Rhino, extensive plains game, including Gemsbok, Springbok and Giraffe, as well as over 340 species of birds. In 2002, Jaci's Tree Lodge opened, offering luxury accommodation in Tree Houses 6m above the ground.
Kruger Park, South Africa
Idube Private Game Reserve $$$$$
Idube Private Game Reserve is a family owned lodge situated in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, in the heart of South Africa’s premier wildlife conservation area of the Greater Kruger Park. Game, including the Big 5, is viewed at really close quarters from open Landrovers, or spotted on guided walks. The Lodge has 10 individually decorated, thatched chalets which are set in indigenous gardens shaded by jackalberry trees.
Lion Sands Private Game Reserve $$$$$
The International Award Winning private game reserve is located in the finest territory of the world famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve. The land has been owned by four generations of the More family and the reserve now offers a choice of two luxury safari lodges, together with two treehouses. Guests are offered a selection of unique safari based activities, which includes astronomy, interpretive bush walks, game drives and hippo tours.
Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve $$$$$
For decades Sabi Sabi's luxurious lodges have enthralled and enchanted the world, creating a wildlife oasis in the heart of the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve. Each of the four lodges - Earth Lodge, Selati Camp, Bush Lodge and Little Bush Lodge - has a different style of architecture and ambience, but all offer world-class standards in luxury accommodation, exceptional close wildlife encounters, personal service and delicious cuisine.
Garden Route, South Africa
Plettenberg Park $$$$$
Set in the most exclusive private nature reserve in the Cape, just outside Plettenberg Bay, Plettenberg Park offers majestic sea and lake views from it's perch on the cliffs. The hotel offers 10 contemporary styled guest bedrooms with stunning views over either the Indian Ocean or the lake. The menus at the hotel focus on dishes that feature local produce - fish, shellfih and locally reared meat - expertly prepared.
Waterberg Mountains , South Africa
Mabula Game Lodge $$$$$
Set against a backdrop of the lush green Waterberg Mountains, Mabula Game Lodge is set in one of South Africa's finest private game reserves. Only two hours North of Johannesburg, this 12000 hectare reserve is home to an abundance of animal and bird life, including the 'Big 5'. Luxurious accommodation is provided in its 47 rooms, including 3 suites, that offer guests every comfort in a spectacular natural setting.
Walker Bay, South Africa
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve $$$$$
When world-renowned British Conservationist David Bellamy says "The best example of the conservation of biodiversity I have ever seen" - Grootbos says it with flowers. Grootbos is rated amongst the most beautiful of conservation reserves and offers five star accommodation to visitors. The lodges are the epitome of luxury and comfort, whilst remaining perfectly in harmony with the nature that thrives on in the reserve.
Sundays River Valley, South Africa
The Elephant House $$$$$
The Elephant House is a rambling nine bed roomed colonial farmhouse set in the sun drenched Sundays River Valley, minutes from the Addo Elephant National Park. The spacious bedrooms open onto courtyards and private verandas. The chef serves lovely light poolside lunches and after “sundowners” a memorable three course candlelit dinner is prepared with flair and personal attention.
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