OUR LODGE RATING SYSTEM
Our rating system for lodges is completely subjective and is based on criteria we feel are important to the whole safari experience. That’s why certain conventional “five star” hotels may rank lower with us, and more earthy bush camps could be higher. The criteria below were developed by our team to help our clients distinguish what elements are crucial on safari. Of course, in many instances, the ratings aren’t everything and we always try to match our client’s needs and requirements to the lodges to ensure an exceptional safari experience.
Location
Guiding
Accommodation
A good location is critical. Lodges that are located in core game-viewing areas sometimes literally have action right outside the door. Sometimes, this also comes with high traffic situations. Lodges outside these areas typically have to raid into the core areas, which can involve relatively long journeys to and fro. On the plus side, they’re located in quite backwaters far from the traffic. In this, we also take into consideration the setting. Some lodges have magical locations, up on bluffs, on the banks of a river, while others have lackluster settings.
The quality of guiding is possible the most important factor for us. The bestcamps tend to attract the most skillful guides, who are not only great at spotting wildlife, but also have a knowledge and passion for the ecosystem that they pass onto their guests. Photographers should also take keen note – good guides understand your requirements and do their best to help get that perfect shot.
We need comfortable accommodation. Certain backwaters may lend themselves to more luxurious accommodations when you’re at camp for long periods, but for the most part we love being out on safari the whole day and comfortable tents with bucket showers tend to fit the bill perfectly.
Camp Size
Smaller camps have a more intimate feel, and much more attention is given to guests. We’ve found the family-style dining setups at many small camps is a great way to meet other guests and share stories, but some may find that they need more personal space.
Food
Out on a safari, there are no restaurant options – therefore, the lodges need to have a good chef and food selection that can cater to various dietary requirements. Many lodges are accommodating, but some tend to fall short. Lodges with an organic house garden also get plus points from us!
Service
The service aspect of our criteria encompasses a whole range of things. For instance, the flexibility of the schedule – we don’t much enjoy rigid timings on holiday. Another issue is how well the staff and management can accommodate requests, both simple and slightly more complicated. With shared vehicles, they should be able to work around disputes, and more importantly, pair vehicle-mates well - some guests are avid birders, some are safari veterans and others may be first-timers. The lodge should know how to accommodate all these various needs.
Activities
Based on their location, we take into account the activities on offer at a lodge. By and large, the main activity is a daytime vehicle safari, so we consider how well the lodge organizes this activity, such as timings and how many guests per vehicle. Lodges outside the parks typically are able to offer more varied activities from walking safaris to night game drives and community visits. In this instance, we look at the quality of the offerings.
Value
We consider what is included and excluded in the standard rate for the lodge – conservation fees, drinks, activities? Some lodges seem more expensive from the outset, but they may also be fully inclusive. Many lodges also contribute a portion of the room rate back to the communities and towards conservation efforts. In the end, is the lodge good value for money?
Sustainability
Lodges should be sustainable. Low impact and carbon neutral camps are much better for the environment and don’t destroy the natural settings. We’re not big fans of highly visible lodges, but we also consider green technologies used, such as solar power and wastewater recycling.
Community
Many lodges are actively involved in the communities around them, and they work to provide services and local employment in these communities. Communities that benefit from tourism activities have a vested interest in protecting the wildlife around them. Some lodges also work on various conservation projects, and are sometimes home to research centers.