Family friendly with a royal seal of approval dating back to the 1990s. They are perhaps the big headlines associated with Sable Valley Lodge, a fully fenced-in location that predators cannot access, and a place where Queen Elizabeth II of England went on safari in the early 1990s.

Much has changed since then, most notably during a full refurbishment project back in 2022. But the classic safari charm that attracted royalty back in the day remains, with thatched roofs and traditional African-style dark wood furnishings still ruling the roost around here.

Plenty for everyone

The open-sided main area of the lodge provides you with views of the waterhole on the savannah, whether you’re eating in the dining room, relaxing in the shade on one of the many comfy sofas or beanbags, of if you’re gathered around the firepit, or up in the treetop hide.

Mealtimes give you the scope to get creative, as the chef’s team offer you the chance to choose your own toppings for tasty pizzas that you’ll cook in the pizza oven. And you can eat at a shared table, or one just for you.

After, you might want to get close up to the wildlife that visits the area. If so, head for the sunken hide offering views of the waterhole. It’s a recent addition to the set up here, and together with the treetop hide, gives you a different perspective on the comings and goings of various birds and mammals, which may well include herds of elephant during your stay. There are even charging points for cameras and phones in the underground hide, plus a fridge and wi-fi, so you can stay refreshed and ping your photos around the world seconds after you’ve taken them.

When you want a break from all the animal spotting, there’s a circular swimming pool with day beds around it, and a masseuse is literally on hand to soothe those pressure points and take away any stresses or strains you may have.

11 rondavels to choose from

There are 11 chalets here (known as rondavels), each with a round thatched roof and arranged in a circle around the communal pool. Beds are either kingsize, twin, or queen – you can choose your preference when you book. The whitewashed walls are decorated with photos of local wildlife, and there are wicker chairs and carved wooden bedside tables inside. Your bathroom won’t be that big, but it’ll contain all you need – namely a shower, flushable toilet and a sink.

The royal couple stayed in Room 1 which is still known as the Queen’s Room and is the only suite with a bath tub. Another of the chalets has 2 bedrooms and is usually occupied by a family as a result. All chalets have a small seating area with a table and folding director’s-style chairs.