The luxury safari lodge in the Manyeleti Nature Reserve has secured seventh place in the prestigious Readers’ Choice Awards, celebrating more than two decades of exceptional hospitality in the African wilderness
South Africa’s luxury safari landscape continues to attract international acclaim, with Tintswalo Safari once again earning its place among the country’s finest destinations. The exclusive lodge, situated in the Manyeleti Nature Reserve in the Greater Kruger region, has been ranked seventh in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, securing a coveted position among South Africa’s 15 Best Resorts.
This marks the sixth time Tintswalo Safari has received recognition in the prestigious awards, reaffirming its reputation for intimate wildlife encounters, personalised hospitality and understated luxury.
With an impressive score of 97.72, the lodge was celebrated as one of readers’ favourite destinations for wildlife viewing in South Africa.
A Prestigious Recognition for South African Luxury Travel
The 2026 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards attracted more than 798,867 survey responses from readers across the United States. Travellers rated their experiences at hotels, resorts and destinations worldwide, recognising the places they would most eagerly revisit.
Considered among the travel industry’s most respected accolades, the awards reflect the experiences and preferences of international travellers.
For Tintswalo Safari, the latest recognition reinforces its position among South Africa’s leading luxury safari lodges. It also highlights the growing appeal of immersive, nature-focused travel experiences that combine exceptional comfort with authentic encounters in the wilderness.
Where the Tintswalo Story Began
Long before the Tintswalo Collection became synonymous with luxury hospitality, there was Tintswalo Safari.
Established in 2003, the lodge was the first property in what would become a celebrated collection of seven family-owned and managed properties across six distinctive South African locations.
Nestled within the unspoilt wilderness of the Manyeleti Nature Reserve, Tintswalo Safari has remained true to its original philosophy. Here, the excitement of a Big Five safari meets the quiet sophistication of an intimate luxury retreat.
The lodge offers guests an opportunity to disconnect from everyday distractions and reconnect with nature. Personalised service, genuine warmth and a deep appreciation for the surrounding environment remain central to the experience.
More than two decades later, these values continue to define the Tintswalo brand.
A Legacy of Exceptional Safari Hospitality
For Lisa Goosen, CEO of Tintswalo Collection, the recognition carries particular significance.
“Tintswalo Safari will always be very special to us because it is where the Tintswalo story began,” says Goosen.
“To be recognised by Condé Nast Traveler once more is an extraordinary achievement and a wonderful affirmation of the experiences our team continues to create.”
She explains that while the lodge has a remarkable history, its commitment to evolving the guest experience remains unwavering.
“Our teams continue to evolve the guest experience while remaining true to the values on which Tintswalo was founded – genuine hospitality, a deep respect for the wilderness and creating meaningful memories for our guests.”
Goosen adds that the achievement is especially rewarding given the exceptional calibre of South Africa’s luxury safari offering.
“In an awards category where we compete against numerous spectacular lodges and resorts, we are incredibly proud that the original Tintswalo continues to resonate with travellers from around the world.”
The Enduring Appeal of a Luxury Safari in South Africa
As luxury travellers increasingly seek meaningful experiences and a stronger connection to their destinations, Tintswalo Safari continues to offer an experience rooted in authenticity.
Its setting in the Greater Kruger region provides access to one of South Africa’s most celebrated wildlife landscapes, while the lodge’s intimate atmosphere creates a sense of exclusivity without sacrificing the warmth of genuine African hospitality.
The latest Condé Nast Traveler recognition celebrates more than an award-winning safari destination. It acknowledges the enduring legacy of a family-owned hospitality brand that has grown from a single wilderness retreat into a distinctive South African luxury collection.
For those seeking an unforgettable African safari, Tintswalo Safari remains a compelling reminder that true luxury lies as much in the experience as it does in the destination.
Discover more: Visit www.tintswalo.com or contact reservations at reservations@tintswalo.com.
