The 10 Best Sleep-Outs or Star Beds in South Africa in 2025/26

You’re lying beneath a canopy of stars so brilliant they seem close enough to touch, listening to the distant roar of lions calling across the African bush. The Southern Cross glitters overhead while the haunting calls of jackals and the soft rustling of nocturnal creatures create nature’s own symphony around you.

This is the magic of a South African sleep-out – one of the most romantic and transformative experiences you can have on safari. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, marking a special anniversary, or simply seeking that deeper connection with the African wilderness, sleeping under the stars takes your safari from memorable to absolutely unforgettable.

But what exactly is a sleep-out, and which ones offer the perfect blend of adventure and luxury?

What is a Sleep-Out?

Broadly there are two types of sleep-outs in South Africa.

The first option is a separate place that you go to enjoy a sleep-out in the bush. Some safari lodges now offer you an opportunity to sleep out under the stars for the night. The exact format varies but the basic concept is the same. You head off to the sleep-out platform in the late afternoon by foot or by vehicle. You usually enjoy a picnic dinner with your loved one and then bed down for the night. (Sometimes you may have dinner at your lodge and then head out to the sleep-out after dinner.) In the morning you are collected and taken back to camp in time for breakfast.

Important Note: There’s usually a small supplement for the sleep-out, as lodges must keep your main room available — for both safety and flexibility if weather changes or nerves set in. (Some people LOVE the idea when booking their trip. But then when they get there, they decide they’re not up for it.)

At most sleep-outs it is just one couple, either alone or with a game scout nearby. At other camps, it is offered to more people. So that it is quite a festive atmosphere, though naturally less romantic.

The second, less “out-there” option is when your suite has some sort of an outdoor ‘sala’ (sleeping area). Here you can sleep under the stars but still within the confines of your accommodation. There is no extra charge for this, naturally. And it means that you can start your night outside. But decide to move back to your indoor bed, whenever you feel like it.

Is it for you?

A sleep-out isn’t for everyone, and that’s perfectly fine. It’s about knowing what appeals to you and what kind of adventure you’re after.

The good news? You’re completely safe. These aren’t wilderness survival experiences – they’re carefully designed with your comfort and security in mind. Most feature proper bathroom facilities, comfortable bedding, and discreet security measures. Your lodge team knows exactly where you are, and you’ll have communication options if needed.

What makes sleep-outs so special is precisely what some find challenging: the authentic sounds of the African night. Lions roaring to gather their pride, the whooping calls of hyenas, and the rustle of animals moving through the darkness aren’t just background noise – they’re right there with you. For many of our clients, this is the most thrilling part of their entire safari.

The level of luxury varies considerably between properties. Some offer four-poster beds and en-suite bathrooms, while others embrace a more authentic bush experience. We’ll help you choose one that matches your comfort preferences perfectly.

Our advice? If the idea excites you more than it worries you, go for it. The memories will last a lifetime.

Classic Sleep-outs in South Africa

1) Lion sands, Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Lion Sands were pioneers in offering rather beautiful sleep-outs in a platform set high up in a tree. There are now three on offer. It’s very romantic because, lets face it, aside from the adrenalin rush of being outside in the middle of a Big Five Reserve at night, you are not really roughing it with proper four poster beds and a decent bathroom all on one level. You are taken to the sleepout at sunset where drinks and a delicious picnic dinner await you. Once you are dropped off, with mosquito repellent, torches, lantern and a two-way radio to communicate with the Field Guide, you are on your own until dawn.

The original Chalkley Sleepout has been so popular that they now have three sleep-outs, one of which can accommodate children.

The stylish wood and glass Kingston Tree House is close to Lion Sands Ivory Lodge. It offers the perfect marriage of secluded safari getaway and modern luxury. A champagne and tapas dinner as the sun sets is the norm. It comes with a four-poster bed for truly luxurious African sleepouts under the stars.

Finally the Tinyeleti Treehouse is located on the banks of the Sabie River. It can accommodate four people, including children with an adventurous spirit. The open-air tree house comes to life at night with the sounds of animals drinking at the river below.

2) Tswalu Malori sleepout, Northern Cape

Another rather luxurious option is the Malori Sleepout at Tswalu Game Reserve. It offers a large deck, stunning panoramic views over the vast game reserve and shower facilities.

Imagine sleeping in a luxury king-size bed on a raised deck, surrounded by the calls of nocturnal animals. There’s nothing between you and the brilliant stars of the Kalahari night sky. From the vivid red sand of the dunes to the brilliant blue of the sky, the Malori reveals Tswalu’s secrets and the mystique of the Kalahari.

It’s go a shaded overhand for protection against rain, and weather-proof blinds which can be rolled down according to preference. They can also provide children’s camp beds. So that the whole family can enjoy this exhilarating Kalahari sleepout under the stars.

“There’s nothing quite like hearing lions roar across the plains as you lie beneath a canopy of stars.”

3) Ngala Tented Camp, southern Timbavati

Experience the romance of Africa under a blanket of stars in the luxurious Ngala Treehouse. This remote, yet safe, retreat is about 5km from the camp, far from Wi-Fi and artificial light. The treehouse features two sleep levels including a covered and weatherproof space with a king-size bed, hot running shower and flushing toilets. An elevated sleep-out platform allows you to slumber al fresco under a retractable screen. Enjoy sundowner drinks and snacks on the upper deck, a picnic dinner and midnight & breakfast treats.

4) Naledi TreeHouse at Jacis Tree Lodge AND Star bed Suites at Jacis Safari Lodge, Madikwe

Naledi Treehouse offers Jaci’s Tree Lodge guests the ultimate safari sleep-out under the stars. Their sleepout platform overlooks the river so that you can enjoy watching the animals come to drink through the evening. Naledi – meaning Star in Tswana – is kitted out with a canopied King-size bed, private KolKol wood-fired hot tub, Enviroloo, outdoor shower and boasts exceptional watering hole views.

Alternatively the two Starbed Suites offer a sleeo-out option as part of your Suite. They epitomise exclusive, romantic safari accommodation with an emphasis on privacy and modern bushveld luxury.

Jaci’s Starbed Suites are set over two levels, these sublime suites are ideal for honeymooners, special occasions and romantic getaways. With a choice of sleeping indoors, or under a blanket of African stars, each suite boasts two king-size beds, outdoor showers and indoor bathrooms. As well as lounge areas, a safari bar and private viewing deck. Striking decor touches, custom furniture pieces and bespoke finishes reflect a superior level of style, comfort and sophistication, all with the customary Jaci’s colourful twist.

5) Thabametsi Treehouse, Marataba Safari Lodge, Marakele (Waterberg)

Solar-powered and spanning two levels, the Thabametsi Treehouse has an enclosed shower room, bedroom, lounge and viewing decks. It offers you 360-degree views of the Waterberg and Marakele plains. You’ll arrive at sunset for sundowners and a gourmet picnic dinner before drifting off to sleep. Your field guide is always a radio call away and your room remains available for returning to at any point.

6) Samara Karoo Lodge Sleep-out, Eastern Cape

If you ever doubted the magic of the Karoo night sky, Samara will convert you. In the vast stillness of the Great Karoo, Samara Karoo Lodge offers one of South Africa’s most evocative sleep-outs — a raised star bed on a remote koppie, miles from any light pollution.

After a leisurely dinner back at the lodge, you’re driven to the platform, lanterns glowing softly as the sky ignites with constellations. Settle into a king-size bed draped in crisp linen and listen to the rustle of the plains below — perhaps a cheetah padding silently through the grass or a nightjar’s call echoing across the valley.

At dawn, the world turns gold and quiet again. It’s not only a night’s sleep, but a memory stitched permanently into the fabric of your safari.

This is a sleep-out that feels primal and poetic — the kind of night that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

7) Kambaku Overnight Hide, Timbavati

Set on the banks of Nduna (“Old wise man”) Dam where abundant game come to drink, this raised three-tiered sleep-out deck is beyond your wildest expectations. Dam on one side, and bushveld on the other, you are truly in the middle of nowhere.

With three levels, you are more than safe from any nocturnal visitors and have space to enjoy the vast African night sky, undisrupted by any city lights. Arriving after dinner, you’ll relax and enjoy a drink under the stars, listening to the call of hyenas.

The en-suite bathroom boasts luxurious gowns, slippers, a glorious shower and flush toilet. Settle down to the sounds of the bush, in an enormous super-sized bed, to sleep under the stars. Start the new day with a delicious cup of coffee whilst watching the sunrise.

8) Garonga, Makalali in Greater Kruger

Garonga have always offered something different. So it comes as no surprise that they were one of the first to offer a night out under the stars on their safari Sleep Out Deck, complete with four-poster bed and dining table for two.

While your luxury tent remains your home for the duration of your stay, the sleep out deck is a one-night experience for the adventurous.

Now MCH, their newest tented camp also has an bush sleep out deck experience. A lantern-lit dinner table for two and a four-poster bed draped in a canopy of netting sets the scene for a night of romance and indulgence. Because the sleep out deck is elevated, you are perfectly safe while you experience the Makalali from a different perspective.

9) Rhino Post Plains Camp, Kruger National Park

Rhino Post Plains Camp is a private concession with the Kruger Park and specializes in walking safaris. A one night sleep-out is on offer (if booked) for everyone staying at the camp . So it is not a romantic ‘couply’ thing. You all walk to the sleep-out which has a deck with a fire fit to braai the evening meal and relax around the campfire. And then you retire to your own sleep-out deck. There are rudimentary bathroom facilities but on one level down.

Easier Sleep-outs in South Africa

Prefer something a little less intrepid? These easier sleep-outs let you drift off under the stars — with the reassuring comfort of a nearby suite.

The fundamental difference between these options and earlier ones is that there is no major commitment on your part. You have not inconvenienced anyone if you decide to bale. You can start the evening under the stars, but can later retreat back to the security of your closed in suite. No need to repack anything. And lets’s face it, your bathroom is right there.

BUT you still get some of the frisson of sleeping outside in the bush with the stars above and the sounds of the bush all around.

10) Singita Sweni or Lebombo Lodge, Kruger National Park

Singita Sweni offers some of the best game-viewing, guiding and accommodation in the Kruger. Seven suites are hidden among a canopy of trees, each featuring open-plan interiors. A generously stocked minibar, two bathrooms and an outdoor shower overlooking the river all adds to the feeling of being enveloped by an ancient forest.

What’s more is that you can choose to sleep-out on your river deck to enjoy the sights and sounds of the bush. But with the ease of being able to retreat inside whenever you wish to….

Bonus – Non-safari Option – Cederberg Ridge Wilderness Lodge, Cederberg Mountains

Although not in a game reserve, Cederberg Ridge lies in the Cederberg Mountains. This is one of the best places for star-gazing in South Africa with endless clear nights and virtually no light pollution. Several of their suite offer an elevated sleeping tsala with beautiful views over the mountains. You can use the sleep-out bed for daytime siestas and star-gazing for a short while after dinner. Or you can go the whole hog and ask for the bed to to be made up for night-time as well. You remain within easy reach of the comfort of your suite, yet can also enjoy a sense of sleeping out.

Please contact us if you are interested in booking any of these magnificent once in a lifetime experiences. (Please note that we need to book the whole stay at the safari lodge including the sleep-out.)

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Cedarberg Africa brings over 30 years of safari design expertise, with first-hand experience of every destination we recommend.

The Best sleep-outs in South Africa – was written by Kate of Cedarberg Africa

Kate co-founded Cedarberg Africa in 1995 and has spent more than 30 years exploring the wild corners of Africa — from sleeping under desert skies in Namibia to testing the romantic sleep-outs at Lion Sands (Someone has to do it! Her first-hand experience makes her an expert in curating safaris that blend romance, adventure, and authenticity. When not designing trips, she’s usually hiking in the Cederberg, playing family games or e-biking. (Yes I know – Cop out!)

Cedarberg Africa is a specialist tour operator for Southern and East Africa. We focus on upmarket tailormade safaris for discerning and busy people. Contact us if you’d like a tailormade safari quote.