Self-catering accommodation options in South Africa’s parks and reserves are usually pretty basic – the more affordable (and not-so luxurious) alternative to five-star lodges. Not so with Walkers River Camp, a stylish self-catering lodge in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve that you book out exclusively when you stay there. It’s like having a luxury five-star lodge to yourself, with thatched ensuite rondavels decorated in a minimalist safari look featuring king-sized beds, sunken bathtubs and big outdoor showers, and then a big bar and a large living and dining space adorned with contemporary African art with comfy leather couches, all spread out on green lawns overlooking a river where animals come to drink. It’s a great choice for a big group of friends or a large family vacation, as the camp sleeps 10 people comfortably.

Walkers River Camp ticks all the boxes for a perfect bush holiday: a large pool for refreshing swims, a boma with canvas chairs and a long table for evening drinks and dinner around the fire, hammock chairs and piles of magazines and books, fully-equipped gleaming kitchen and huge barbecues and your own game drive vehicle and guide, who will take you on drives in the Big Five reserve whenever you like or on guided walks through the bush. While the camp is self-catering, the attentive staff light fires, do washing up, plan afternoon sundowner spots, do evening turn downs and can cook simple meals for you.

You don’t need to bring anything other than food, ice and drinks (towels and linen are provided and the kitchen is well stocked with spices, salt and pepper). You can shop for supplies in Hoedspruit, which is a 30-minute drive away.