Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge featured in Paris Match: malaria-free luxury safari in South Africa
In its 8 to 14 October 2026 issue, Paris Match, one of France's leading magazines, dedicates its "Le style de Match, Voyage" section to new ways of experiencing safari in Southern Africa. Among the selected addresses, Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge, the only Relais & Châteaux in KwaZulu-Natal, takes pride of place.
A cliff-edge luxury lodge in a malaria-free Big Five reserve
The magazine describes our five suites set on the edge of a cliff, at around 1,000 metres above sea level, in the heart of the private Nambiti Game Reserve, a malaria-free Big Five reserve in KwaZulu-Natal. While most lodges sit on the plains, Esiweni overlooks the bush with spectacular 360-degree views. Our guests speak of a feeling of elevation that stays with them from the pool deck to the terrace of their suite.
Lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino: the Big Five are explored on two game drives a day, led by our rangers with the utmost respect for the animals. A perfect choice for a family or couples safari, with no need for anti-malaria medication.
French excellence in the heart of the South African bush
Paris Match tells our story: a lodge transformed by its French owners, Sophie Vaillant and Ludovic Caron, into an exceptional address, a member of Relais & Châteaux since 2017 and awarded 2 MICHELIN Guide Keys. A kitchen ranked among the Top 100 Restaurants in South Africa, a fully inclusive stay and tailor-made experiences: the article highlights the refinement of the setting and the attention paid to every detail.
Guests share their favourite memories, from a swim in the river followed by a riverside barbecue to breakfast on the cliff edge and our surprise lunches in the bush. Esiweni is also the only reserve in South Africa offering hot air balloon flights, and the lodge lies in the heart of the KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields, which we share with history lovers.
A responsible safari, committed to its land
The feature also highlights our commitment: taking part in the reintroduction of white and black rhinos to the reserve, and supporting improvements at the neighbouring school. Esiweni runs on 100% solar power, and the local Zulu community is a shareholder in the company that owns the reserve. An approach that meets the expectations of today's travellers, who are looking for a safari that is more respectful of nature and more personal.
Among the best safaris in South Africa
This Paris Match feature joins the distinctions that place Esiweni among the best safari lodges in South Africa: ranked number 1 by Yonder as the Best Safari Lodge in Africa, 2 MICHELIN Guide Keys in 2025 and again in 2026, and a member of Relais & Châteaux. With only five suites, Esiweni offers the intimacy of a private safari and exceptional value for a fully inclusive luxury stay.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge?
In the private Nambiti Big Five Game Reserve, in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Is the Nambiti Game Reserve malaria-free?
Yes, the reserve is in a malaria-free area, making it ideal for families and travellers who prefer not to take medication.
How many suites does the lodge have?
Esiweni has only five suites, all on the cliff edge with views over the bush.
What is included in a fully inclusive stay at Esiweni?
Luxury suite accommodation, all meals, two game drives a day, a selection of house wines and spirits, soft drinks, laundry, Wi-Fi and reserve transfers.
Thank you to Paris Match for this wonderful feature. Read the full article on Paris Match, and discover our other distinctions: Esiweni, ranked number 1 by Yonder and our 2 MICHELIN Guide Keys.
Dreaming of a malaria-free luxury safari in South Africa? [Contact us] to plan your stay at Esiweni.