Figured I would update this thread - Thanks everyone for the advice.

I ended up booking two nights at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge and will book 2 nights at the Conrad Pezula in Knysna for the drive out. Before that we're spending 10 nights at the Hilton Cape Town, and six nights in London on the way down (but that's a different conversation). It's really going to be the trip of a lifetime, and I appreciate everyone's insight along the way.

The one thing I can share for other people interested in Kwandwe is that it appears Kwandwe used DCC when they charged my card for the 25% deposit, despite warnings on their website that all bookings are charged in ZAR. That ended up costing me about 1-1.5%. Not really a big deal, and not worth bringing to their attention really - but for those of you that care, you might want to reach out to them in advance to make sure they don't do the same for you. I might mention it when they bill the balance, as it will make more of a difference there than it would on the deposit.

If anyone has any additional info to pass along - It certainly is helpful. This community has been a tremendous asset. Thanks!