Top 20 Resorts in West and Central Africa: Readers’ Choice Awards 2022

20 Best Resorts in Africa 2022 Readers Choice Awards

Condé Nast Traveler readers rate their top resorts and safari camps in Africa, outside of East Africa and South Africa . View all of the  2022 Reader’s Choice Awards winners here .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Virunga Lodge

Virunga Lodge Rwanda

Kyambura Gorge Lodge

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Habitas Namibia

Habitas Namibia

Mount Gahinga Lodge

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Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort

Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort

Xigera Safari Lodge

Xigera Safari Lodge

The Bushcamp Company (Kuyenda, Chamilandu, Chindeni, Bilimungwe, Kapamba, Zungulila and Mfuwe Lodge)

Chamilandu Bushcamp

Nyamatusi Camp

Wilderness safaris hoanib skeleton coast camp.

Hoanib Skeleton Coast

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest

OneOnly Gorillas Nest Rwanda

Tongabezi & Sindabezi

Tongabezi  Sindabezi

Matetsi Victoria Falls

Matetsi Victoria Falls

Linyanti Bush Camp

Thorntree river lodge.

Thorntree River Lodge

andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge

andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge Namibia

Somalisa Camp

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Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge

Bisate Lodge

Wilderness Mombo Camp and Little Mombo

Mombo Camp and Little Mombo

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Top 10 Best Luxury African Safari Resorts & Lodges

Top 10 Best Luxury African Safari Resorts & Lodges

Heather Richardson is an award-winning travel writer, based in South Africa. She is interested in conservation stories, emerging destinations and adventure travel.

From classic Big Five safari camps to sumptuous riverside retreats, the range of five-star African safari lodges and resorts is nothing short of extraordinary. In no particular order, these are 10 of the continent’s best.

1. Singita Ebony – Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

Singita Ebony Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa

The original Singita safari lodge is in the private Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park . Overlooking the Sand River, the lodge’s design is a comfortable take on traditional safari style. Ebony has 12 beautiful suites with glass walls, and plunge pools overlooking the river.

  • When to go: May to September, the Dry season, is best for wildlife.

2. Time + Tide Chinzombo – South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Chinzombo, South Luangwa National Park in Zambia

Located along the banks of the Luangwa River, Time + Tide Chinzombo consists of six luxury safari tents, each with its own plunge pool – ideal for those seeking privacy. It is also a great option for families, as one of the villas is designed for up to five guests.

  • When to go: The Dry season months of July to November are best for wildlife.

Chinzombo Tours

3. Londolozi – Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

Londolozi, Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa

One of the first best African safari lodges and still one of the best, Londolozi is made up of five separate lodges in its private reserve. The three Granite Suites are the most opulent options, with plunge pools and outdoor bathtubs in which you can soak whilst watching the world – or maybe just a herd of elephants – go by.

  • When to go: The best time to see wildlife is May to September.

4. Matetsi River Lodge – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Matetsi River Lodge, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe

One of the reasons Matetsi is amongst the best African safari resorts is because it presents an opportunity to spot elephants, lions, hippos and buffalo just an hour outside the famous Victoria Falls. The suites and villas overlook the Zambezi 40km/25mi upstream of the falls, and lie in a large private pristine reserve that incorporates 15km/9mi of river frontage.

  • When to go: The best time to spot animals is August to October, when it’s driest. Less spray means the falls are visible and attractions such as Devil’s Pool are accessible.

Matetsi River Lodge Tours

5. Sasaab – Samburu National Park, Kenya

Sasaab, Samburu National Park in Kenya

In remote northern Kenya, Sasaab is a lavishly appointed tented camp in the Samburu NP. Each of the Moroccan-influenced tents has its own alfresco bathroom with private plunge pool overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro River.

  • When to go: Wildlife viewing is best in the Dry months, June to September and January and February.

Sasaab Tours

6. Sabi Sabi – Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa

Sabi Sabi has four camps: Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp, Selati Camp and Earth Lodge. The latter is the most high-end, with a contemporary design that aims to blend in with the environment. Earth Lodge’s Amber Suite, with its grand tree-trunk headboard, is a honeymooner favorite.

  • When to go: The best time to see wildlife is in the Dry season, May to September.

Sabi Sabi Lodges Tours

7. Chief’s Camp – Okavango Delta, Botswana

Sanctuary Chief’s Camp, Okavango Delta in Botswana

The Chief’s Camp is in one of the most wildlife-rich areas in the Delta – and in Africa. Exploration in game vehicles, on foot and in mokoros (traditional dugout canoes) are on offer. Spacious rooms have private plunge pools and floor-to-ceiling windows, and the camp is in keeping with its bush setting.

  • When to go: The dry months, July to October, are best for wildlife.

Chief’s Camp Tours

8. Angama Mara – Masai Mara Game Reserve, Kenya

Angama Mara Lodge, Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya

In one of the most popular safari areas in Africa, Angama Mara won a host of style awards when it opened. On the site of the famous ‘Out of Africa’ picnic scene, the lodge has sensational views from its escarpment perch. The two camps of 15 tents each have floor-to-ceiling windows and bright fabrics inspired by Masaai dress.

  • When to go: June to October for wildlife; September and October for great migration river crossings.

Angama Mara Tours

9. Singita Faru Faru – Grumeti Reserve, Tanzania

Singita Faru Faru Lodge, Grumeti Reserve Tanzania

In northern Tanzania, Singita Faru Faru is one of the best African safari hotels, especially for experiencing the great migration. Faru Faru has seven suites, a family unit and a two-bedroom villa, with infinity pools overlooking the waterhole and surrounding plains.

  • When to go: June to September for general wildlife. Wildebeest river crossings are best in June and July at the Grumeti River and September and October at the Mara River.

10. Jabali Ridge – Ruaha National Park, Tanzania

Jabali Ridge, Ruaha National Park in Tanzania

In this seldom-visited park in southern Tanzania, Jabali Ridge has eight suites and a stunning infinity pool that all look out over the baobab-spotted landscape. Jabali Ridge is one of the top-end lodges in Ruaha, which is home to one-tenth of the world’s lion population, alongside wild dogs, cheetahs and sable and roan antelopes.

  • When to go: June to October is best for wildlife.

Jabali Ridge Tours

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best african safari resort

9-Day Customized Uganda Holiday and Tour to See Gorillas

$3,061 pp (USD)

Uganda & Rwanda: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Kigali (Start) , Kisoro (Town) , Bwindi NP (Gorillas) , Queen Elizabeth NP, Kibale NP (Chimps) , Murchison Falls NP, Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch, Entebbe (End)

Home To Africa Tours and Travel

4.9 /5  –  278 Reviews

best african safari resort

4-Day Touch of Wilderness - Mid-Range

$1,690 to $2,130 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Unlimited Expeditions: The Soul of Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  433 Reviews

best african safari resort

8-Day Great Migration Safari

$3,135 pp (USD)

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Central Serengeti, Northern Serengeti NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro, Arusha (End)

Safari Soles

5.0 /5  –  237 Reviews

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  • Africa's Top 15 Luxury Safari Lodges
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From the dusty tents of explorers to exquisite eco-conscious lodges, African safari has come a long way in the past hundred years without losing any of its romance and adventure. Today, many tented camps mirror the grandeur and opulence of days gone by, while others have completely reinvigorated the safari lodge, offering a brand new take on African aesthetics, authenticity and luxury.

You can also see, do and even taste much more – think top-of-the-range off-road vehicles, hot-air ballooning,  glamping (glamorous camping), fly-in safaris and contemporary gourmet dining. The entire experience is enriched by cultural, historical and environmental orientation as well as knowing that as a guest you are integral to a sustainable and holistic conservation model. So – adventure, wildlife, cultural enrichment, highly intuitive and personalised service – what’s not to love about a luxury African safari?

15 Best Luxury African Safari Lodges:

South africa, 1. londolozi private granite suites, kruger.

best african safari resort

Londolozi Private Granite Suites deliver complete luxury and exclusivity in the Sabi Sands, one of Kruger’s finest private concessions. Just three separate suites overlook the granite rocks of the Sabi River. These beautiful views are reflected in a contemporary assemblage of stone walls, polished concrete and a bold colour scheme of charcoal, silver and elephant-grey.

2. Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa | Go2Africa

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge is a luxurious safari lodge situated in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Emphasis is on high-quality, personalised service including private game drives in the reserve, famed for its leopard sightings. The lodge offers a sophisticated look-and-feel and features exciting sleep-outs in the bush in one of the superb treehouses.

3. Singita Boulders Lodge, Kruger

best african safari resort

This Afro-chic lodge is set along the boulder-strewn banks of the Sand River in the sensational Sabi Sands Game Reserve, a private slice of wilderness neighbouring the Kruger. Its glass-walled and open-air spaces allow you to appreciate your magnificent surroundings in the midst of the African bush. The dining experience is second-to-none and elevated by an extensive wine cellar showcasing some of Africa's most sought-after private wine reserves.

More About South Africa:

12 best south african safari tours, 20 best luxury hotels, lodges & camps in south africa, the best luxury lodges in kruger: our top 10 picks, 4. angama mara, masai mara.

best african safari resort

Perched on what seems like the very edge of the Great Rift Valley, views from Angama Mara are simply spell-binding. The well conceptualised inside-outside living areas are separated by 11m / 33ft floor-to-ceiling windows, and are adorned with exquisite handcrafted and designer furniture pieces that capture a minimal and contemporary Maasai-inspired space.

5. Sasaab Samburu, Samburu National Reserve

best african safari resort

Sasaab is a spectacular luxury tented camp offering the ultimate safari in Samburu. Situated just outside Samburu National Reserve in Kenya’s Northern Frontier District, the landscape is dotted with mountains, wildlife and a rich cultural heritage. It is a place of abundant natural diversity with an astounding number of animals, from elephants to cheetah and wild dogs to the ‘Samburu Special Five’ (five species unique to the area): the Beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra, Gerenuk antelope and Somali ostrich.

More About Kenya:

10 best kenya safari tours: our top picks, 22 best luxury safari accommodations in kenya, 10 best masai mara safari tours, 6. puku ridge, south luangwa.

best african safari resort

The South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is one of Africa’s hidden secrets, boasting untouched natural beauty, great walking safaris and crowd-free big game viewing. Set in this unexplored reserve lies the sophisticated and elegant Puku Ridge, with just eight luxury safari tents on an elevated ridge overlooking plain and woodlands.

7. Thorntree River Lodge, Vic Falls

best african safari resort

Considered one of Zambia's most indulgent and contemporary safari lodges, Thorntree enjoys a tranquil setting on the banks of the Zambezi River, just upstream from the legendary Victoria Falls. Beautifully built from local timber, stone and reclaimed railway sleepers, this eco-conscious lodge strikes the perfect balance between nature and modern-day design. The large riverside suites feature indoor and outdoor lounges, en suite bathrooms with spacious tubs, and private decks with plunge pools.

More About Zambia:

Zambia - tours.

Top reasons to visit:

  • Wildlife and safari
  • Private concessions and conservancies
  • Walking safaris
  • Cultural interactions
  • Bird watching

You'll experience some of Southern Africa's wildest and most remote destinations but you'll be far from roughing it: a Zambia…  Read more

6 Best Things to Do in Zambia

Zambia vs zimbabwe vs botswana: which is best for safari, 8. singita sasakwa lodge, serengeti.

best african safari resort

Singita Sasakwa Lodge is a turn-of-the-century-style manor house that is stepped in the grandeur of a bygone golden era of safari travel. It sits on top of a hill, offering spectacular views over the celebrated Serengeti plains. Located in the private Grumeti Reserve, it is a luxury safari sojourn with extraordinary wildlife encounters.

9. Jabali Ridge, Ruaha National Park

Jabali Ridge, Ruaha National Park, Tanzania | Go2Africa

Jabali Ridge is a stylish safari camp in the wildlife-rich Ruaha National Park, set on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Mwagusi River and Ikuka escarpment. This landscape is made of up sun-bleached plains, mighty baobabs and hardy shrubs. Ruaha is home to an impressive diversity of species including lion, elephant, buffalo and even the endangered African wild dog.

More About Tanzania:

Kenya or tanzania: which is best for safari, 12 best tanzania safari tours, 10 best luxury lodges in tanzania, 10. jao camp, okavango delta.

best african safari resort

Situated on a private island in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Jao Camp is only accessible by air and delivers an unbeatable luxury African safari experience within one of Mother Nature's true masterpieces. Spacious suites are beautifully decorated with local carvings and artwork, and the spa here is considered one of the best in Botswana.

11. Xigera Safari Lodge, Okavango Delta

Xigera Safari Lodge, Okavango Delta | Go2Africa

The Moremi Game Reserve is one of Africa's most beautiful conservation areas: a stunning montage of lily-covered wetlands, sparkling floodplains, open grassland and dappled forests. It's home to some of Botswana's best predator sightings and the celebrated Xigera Safari Lodge. Boasting some of the most luxurious suites in the area, Xigera Safari Lodge delivers boatloads of safari chic, personalised service and a very exclusive Delta experience.

More About Botswana:

10 best botswana safari tours: our top picks, botswana vs kruger: which is best for safari, 10 best botswana safari lodges & camps, 12. singita kwitonda lodge, volcanoes national park.

best african safari resort

Set right on the edge of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, where more than a third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas find refuge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge’s unrivalled position puts lifechanging gorilla trekking experiences within easy reach. Each of the eight luxurious suites features a private heated plunge pool, wellness treatment area, in- and outdoor fireplaces and large timber-framed windows that welcome breathtaking scenery and volcano views inside.

More About Rwanda:

Rwanda - tours.

  • Gorilla trekking

Africa's easiest and most accessible gorilla trekking is the main draw card of a Rwandan safari. After arriving at the capital…  Read more

Where to See Gorillas in Africa: Rwanda vs Uganda vs Congo

Rwanda - when to go, 13. little kulala, sossusvlei.

best african safari resort

With an impressive array of guest activities like nature walks and drives, hot-air balloon safaris and eco-sensitive quad biking (ATV) excursions around the dunes of our planet's oldest desert, Little Kulala offers a unique experience in one of Africa's secret corners. Situated in a private reserve with exclusive access to Sossusvlei via a private gate, this luxury African safari lodge is perfect for that special occasion holiday in Namibia.

More About Namibia:

10 best destinations in namibia you need to visit, 10 best luxury safari lodges and camps in namibia, 10 best namibia safari tours: our top picks, 14. singita pamushana lodge, malilangwe.

best african safari resort

Situated in Zimbabwe's far-flung southeast, the exclusive Pamushana Lodge is perched on a cliff in the 130 000-acre private Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve that borders the spectacular Gonarezhou National Park. Flamboyant suites are nestled under a canopy of trees and boast breath-taking views over a striking landscape.

15. Nyamatusi Camp, Mana Pools

best african safari resort

The extravagant Nyamatusi is situated in one of the wildest parts of Southern Africa, on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. This camp comprises luxury canvas suites and offers an authentic immersion into an old and untouched Africa. Air conditioning in every suite, private plunge pools and a carefully curated wine cellar offer a rare luxury African safari experience in this part of Zimbabwe.

More About Zimbabwe:

6 best safari camps in zimbabwe’s hwange national park, zimbabwe - tours.

Few African destinations can compete with Victoria Falls for sheer visual drama. At its full, roaring peak, the ‘Smoke that Thunders' is…  Read more

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  • World's Best

Travel + Leisure Readers’ 10 Favorite Safari Lodges in Africa of 2023

Majestic wildlife, impeccable service, and lasting memories are all but assured at these remote havens in our annual “World’s Best Awards” survey for 2023.

best african safari resort

How Voting Works

  • What Readers Loved
  • The Full List

This year’s top 10 safari lodges are spread across Southern and East Africa and represent a range of wildlife experiences, from classic Big Five safaris in South Africa to gorilla trekking in Uganda. A variety of elements factored into readers' votes, including scenery and food, but in the end Travel + Leisure travelers put special importance on wildlife experiences and deft customer service.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below:

  • Rooms/facilities

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

Courtesy of Mount Gahinga Lodge

What Readers Loved 

At the top of the list, The Bushcamp Company’s Mfuwe Lodge won T+L readers’ hearts thanks to the wildlife for which the property is known — in particular, the elephants that walk right through the reception area to access a large wild mango tree that drops its fruit between late October and mid-December.

Two gorilla-trekking lodges made the top ten, further suggesting that once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters can make a place unforgettable for T+L readers. Rwanda’s Virunga Lodge (No. 2), about an hour’s drive from  Volcanoes National Park, is a base for visiting endangered mountain gorillas, an experience described as “incredible” by one guest. One said it was one of the best places they’d ever visited.

At Gibb’s Farm (No. 8), located amid the  foothills of the Ngorongoro Crater in northern Tanzania, multiple voters wrote in that they wished they could have stayed longer, noting the “exceptional” and “outstanding” service from “friendly and very attentive staff.” The dining showcased excellent quality, according to one guest, while another said the culinary offerings “far exceed[ed] expectations.”

Many properties on the list appeared to have the full package. One reader wrote about Elewana Serengeti Migration Camp (No. 3), also in Tanzania: “An outstanding camp with amazing views, service, and location. The staff was attentive and the food was spectacular.” What more could you want?

The Bushcamp Company’s Mfuwe Lodge: South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Guests visiting The Bushcamp Company’s Mfuwe Lodge from late October to December may witness the same sight as one lucky T+L reader: “A visit is not complete without the elephants walking through the lodge. Young and old, they trooped through, and I stood mesmerized by their presence.” One guest warned you “may have to wait before venturing out of your room to breakfast as the wildlife have the right of passage.” A clear favorite for the wild experiences, other readers also mentioned the excellent food, “the personal touch upon arrival and at almost every contact,” and guides that “know the park — from the Big Five to the smallest flora ­­­— better than I know my own home.”

A visit to Mfuwe Lodge is not complete without the elephants walking through the lodge. Young and old, they trooped through, and I stood mesmerized by their presence.

The Full List 

1. The Bushcamp Company’s Mfuwe Lodge : South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

Reader Score: 98.93

2. Virunga Lodge : Burera District, Rwanda

Reader Score: 98.48

3. Elewana Serengeti Migration Camp : Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Reader Score: 98.40

4. Royal Malewane : Thornybush Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Reader Score: 98.13

5. Mount Gahinga Lodge : Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

Reader Score: 97.87

6. andBeyond Bateleur Camp : Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Reader Score: 97.75

7. Thornybush Game Lodge : Thornybush Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Reader Score: 97.60

8. Gibb's Farm : Karatu, Tanzania

Reader Score: 96.57

9. andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge : Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

Reader Score: 96.00

10. Angama Mara : Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Reader Score: 95.24

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best african safari resort

The Top 17 Luxury Safari Lodges in the World (2023/2024)

Susan Swanepoel

Author: Susan Swanepoel - 30 January 2024

Last Update: 7 July 2022

Part of the African Safari Collection

Table of contents

  • Singita Pamushana Lodge
  • Nyamatusi Camp
  • Royal Malewane
  • Londolozi Private Granite Suites
  • Singita Boulders Lodge
  • Little Saseka
  • Wilderness Little Kulala
  • Zannier Hotels Sonop
  • Sanctuary Chief’s Camp
  • Wilderness Jao Camp
  • Angama Mara
  • Segera Retreat
  • Thorntree River Lodge
  • Wilderness Bisate Lodge
  • Singita Sasakwa Lodge
  • Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

The concept of an ‘African safari’ has long been imbued with a sense of excitement, romance, and far-flung adventure. But safari accommodation has progressed a very long way from the basic, dusty old tent used by the old explorers!

Nowadays, safari accommodation is offered in a wide range of options from opulent tented camps to luxury safari lodges offering the last word in comfort and style.

The activities on offer have also expanded vastly to offer visitors a memorable and unique experience. Game drives in comfortable state-of-the-art off-road vehicles are led by expert guides who are steeped in local culture, lore, and history and have an encyclopedic knowledge of wildlife and the environment.

Superb service is the norm, while the gourmet cuisine on offer rivals international standards.

Here are 17 of the very best!

Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Zimbabwe

Singita pamushana lodge, malilangwe.

Situated high on a lofty sandstone ridge in the 130,000-acre Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, Singita Pamushana Lodge overlooks the sparkling Malilangwe Dam. It offers guests eight stylish suites, each with its own private plunge pool.

Pool with beautiful background

The emphasis at Pamushana is all on allowing visitors to be soothed and rejuvenated by the Lodge’s superb wilderness surroundings. Guests enjoy twice-daily game drives, sundowner boat cruises, bush walks, and excursions to local rock art sites during their safari in Zimbabwe .

Nyamatusi Camp, Mana Pools

Located on the banks of the mighty Zambezi, opulent Nyamatusi tented camp lies in one of the remotest and wildest parts of Southern Africa. The camp offers guests six luxury suites and guarantees guests a glimpse into an old and untouched Africa.

Safari bush camp with views

Each guest tent has air-conditioning, charging points for electronic devices, indoor and outdoor showers, a private viewing deck, and a private plunge pool. Guests have the added luxury of a meticulously curated wine cellar during their holiday in Zimbabwe.

Best Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

Royal malewane, thornybush.

Royal Malewane offers an unrivaled safari experience in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park that exudes the romance and beauty of a bygone age while offering every modern comfort.

Pool area in african bush

The most qualified guiding team in Africa delivers a thrilling wildlife experience providing fascinating insights into the complex ecosystems of the South African bushveld.

Londolozi Private Granite Suites, Sabi Sands, Kruger Park

Meditative luxury, elegance, elephants, and exclusivity are the watchwords of Londolozi Private Granite Suites in one of Kruger National Parks most outstanding private concessions.

The Lodge’s enchanting river setting seamlessly blends the inside with the outside. Large windows and doors open directly onto the granite rocks alongside the Sand River where breeding herds of elephants wander alongside the river below.

Bar with stunning african bush surroundings

Only three superlative suites are on offer. Each suite has an amazing outdoor bath as well as a heated private swimming pool. The lodge’s colour scheme of silver, charcoal and elephant-grey harmonises with its serene atmosphere and surroundings.

Singita Boulders Lodge, Kruger National Park

African-inspired, eco-concious and tranquil Singita Boulders Lodge aptly sits on the boulder-strewn banks of the Sand River. Located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve , it offers marvellous wrap-around views of this game-rich paradise.

Private plunge pool in african bush

The spacious glass-fronted suites are all air-conditioned, with indoor and outdoor showers, private wooden decks and heated plunge pools. Singita offers guests healthy, seasonal food, an extensive wine cellar, a traditional boma, and a library, massage and fitness area. Simplifying the essence of comfort, for complete restoration.

Little Saseka, Thornybush Game Reserve

Little Saseka is the ultimate in intimacy. If you’re looking for the seclusion of staying in your own private lodge while staying at the Thornybush Saseka Tented Camp , here is the place for you to do so.

Photo credits: Thornybush

Enjoy the privacy of this all-inclusive accommodation for your entire family or small group. The main villa has a tented suite, a sunken outdoor lounge area with a fire pit, and an indoor lounge area. With room for up to six people in adjacent tented suites, you can enjoy the luxury of the bush in a prime location.

Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Namibia

Little kulala, sossusvlei.

Kulala lies in the 27,000-hectare private Kulula Wilderness Reserve in the Namib, the oldest desert on our planet. It offers access to the Sossusvlei salt-and-clay pan and the Namib-Naukluft National Park via a private gate. Guest activities include nature drives and walks, eco-sensitive quad-biking and dune excursions, as well as hot air ballooning.

Luxury Lodge with dune surroundings

Little Kulala has 11 air-conditioned and beautifully appointed thatched units or guest suites, each with its own deck, private plunge pool and romantic ‘skybed’ under the stars. Excellent cuisine, unparalleled service, a library, a wine cellar and a craft boutique further ensure your world-class experience.

Zannier Hotels Sonop, Namib Desert

Zannier Hotels Sonop transports guests back to the age of the great explorers with designs reminiscent of safari camps from the 1920’s. The stark landscapes of the Namib Desert contrast with the richly layered décor of this luxurious tented camp, giving this lodge a truly opulent atmosphere.

Safari Lodges with surrounding mountains

Zannier Hotels Sonop, which is located on a 5 600-hectare private reserve, is the ideal starting point from which to explore this surprisingly diverse region. On the daily dawn game drives, guests might spot roaming desert animals including oryxes, brown hyenas, rabbits or foxes. At night, the majestic starlight is a real wonder. The e-bikes and horses allow a perfect exploration of the boundless surroundings before deciding to explore further the magnificent dunes of Sossusvlei. This surreal lodge out-of-the-time aims to please, whether you have never been in Namibia before or are a seasoned traveler.

Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Botswana

Sanctuary chief’s camp, okavango delta.

Iconic Chief’s Camp is a magical luxury safari camp situated on Chief’s Island in the Moremi Game Reserve , one of Africa’s loveliest conservation areas. Its diverse habitats include verdant forests, rolling grasslands, waterlily-grown wetlands and glittering floodplains.

Pool area on a deck

Visitors are accommodated in spacious bush pavilions with en-suite indoor and outdoor showers. They have their own private viewing decks complete with hammocks. The luxury spa has a resident therapist. Professional safari guides conduct game drives in canopied 4x4s for unrivalled game viewing experiences. Gourmet cuisine, premier wines and world-class personalised service create a memorable Okavango Delta Safari experience .

Jao Camp, Okavango Delta

Completely refurbished in 2019, Jao Camp is one of the Delta’s most opulent luxury camps. Situated on a private island concession, with breathtaking scenery, Jao is only accessible by air.

Jao camp in moremi river

Its five spacious tented suites and two villas offer complete luxury and are adorned with stunning local artwork and carvings. There are also two plunge pools, a small library, a curio shop, a gym and spa, and a boma for outdoor dining at night. Both villas come with their own private vehicle, experienced guide, butler and chef. A raised hide 20 minutes from camp offers undisturbed wildlife viewing and can even be used for sleep-outs!

Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Kenya

Angama mara, maasai mara.

Set on the lip of the Great Rift Valley, you may well think Angama Mara is suspended somewhere between heaven and earth! The views from Angama Mara are breathtaking and the floor-to-ceiling windows of the spacious suites exploit this wonderfully.

Angama Mara Lodge with beautiful sunset views in Kenya

The comfortable interiors are uncluttered, and decorated with handcrafted items that evoke the Maasai culture. Game drives, walking safaris, hot air ballooning or visits to the local Maasai village are on offer, or you can just relax in the peaceful ambience. A family of committed camp managers, safari guides, butlers, chefs and housekeepers find real joy in service to their guests.

Segera Retreat, Laikipia

Segera wants your experience to be unique, wonderfully comfortable and personal, so superlative, tailored service is the watchword of this oasis of opulence set in 50,000 rolling acres of Kenya’s savannahs.

Segera Retreat House

All the spacious suites have private decks equipped with Jacuzzis, sun loungers and swing beds. Segera’s famous kitchen makes dining at the resort a memorable experience. Activities include sundowners, picnics, al fresco dining or pampering in a wellness centre. Why not try a helicopter excursion over the Great Rift Valley?

Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Zambia

Thorntree river lodge, vic falls.

Blending a serene riverside location upstream from the fabled Victoria Falls with a strong eco-preserving ethos, Thorntree Lodge is one of Zambia’s most famous lodges. It makes a perfect and tranquil base for exploring the area. Built from stone, local timber and reclaimed railway sleepers it blends superbly with its surroundings.

Lodge with a swimming pool and river view

The imaginative design of the lodge maximises its stunning location on the Zambezi. The blissfully comfortable lounge seamlessly merges with a stylish dining room. A library also provides Wi-Fi connectivity. A communal deck sits right on the river and boasts an infinity pool and sunken boma. Guests also have access to a gym and spa. The spacious riverside suites have both indoor and outdoor lounges, private decks and plunge pools.

Chinzombo, South Luangwa

Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park is one of Africa’s hidden gems, ensuring unspoilt nature, uncrowded game viewing and exceptional walking safaris . Nestled into this pristine paradise is the luxury tented camp of Chinzombo .

Indoor bathroom with a sunset view of african bush

Its six roomy, award-winning luxury safari tents each have a private verandah, pool and soaking tub coupled with sweeping views over the Luangwa River with its teeming bird- and wildlife.

You can have in-room spa treatments, browse the library, or indulge in a drink at the bar. Enjoy a delicious dinner prepared with home-grown produce under the brightest stars you’ve ever seen. Afterwards, you can relax around a fire pit. Game drives, safari walks, and seasonal boat cruises are also on offer to enjoy during a holiday in Zambia .

Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Rwanda

Wilderness bisate lodge, volcanoes national park.

Bisate espouses responsible ecotourism and the conservation of Rwanda’s breathtaking natural heritage, as borne out by their commitment to reforestation and partnering with the community. Bisate is dramatically situated within the amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone. From the top of Bisate property on a clear day, you are able to see a total of 6 volcanoes.

Rwandan building in the mountains

Bisate was the first lodge in Rwanda to merge world-class luxury with a unique gorilla trekking experience . Deluxe accommodation is provided in six thatched villas that evoke the charming traditional shape of Rwandan architecture. Spacious verandas maximise the marvellous views. Each splendid villa consists of a bedroom, living room with central fireplace, and divine bathroom. World-class cuisine and a well-stocked wine cellar will make your stay at Bisate even more memorable.

Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Tanzania

Singita sasakwa lodge, serengeti.

Sasakwa Lodge is the perfect choice for families or a group of friends who want to combine an authentic Tanzania Safari with flawless service, simple luxury and conservation. An Edwardian manor house with an airy atmosphere, enjoy panoramic views of the Serengeti plains and a sense of immense stillness.

Standard suite

The lodge sits atop Sasakwa Hill in the private 350,000-acre Singita Grumeti reserve in the teeming-with-wildlife-Serengeti. Sweeping verandas ensure limitless views. Hillside Suite is the new villa-for-two, double-volume suite with private entrance and kitchen. The decor combines elegant chandeliers, local artifacts, and antiques with contemporary charm, impeccable service, wholesome, food and fine wine.

Activities include game drives, tennis, bush walks, or visits to the RISE research center or the canine anti-poaching team.

Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Ngorongoro

The Ngorongoro Crater Lodge combines romance, ageless elegance and utterly breathtaking views from the rim of the planet’s largest caldera. The famous 600-metre deep Ngorongoro Crater harbours a superlatively beautiful wildlife haven. Spectacular year-round game viewing includes antelope, angulates, elephant, buffalo, black rhino, and eland, as well as the world’s highest lion population.

Lodge with scenic views

Accommodation is provided in round clay structures that charmingly call the traditional Maasai wattle-and-daub manyattas , or homesteads, to mind. Inside sheer opulence abounds! Chandeliers, brocaded sofas, and copious mirrors evoke a French château fit for royalty. Impeccable butler service and world-class cuisine confirm the resort’s international reputation for outstanding excellence.

Not sure where to go? Want to visit more than one? Our destination experts are on hand to assist you with planning the luxury African safari of your dreams. Get in touch !

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  • The Safari Hotels of South Africa

South Africa’s parks and private game reserves are not only filled with the country’s “Big Five” wild animals, they also boast some of the world’s most respected and remarkable safari hotels.

Hotels Travel Africa Safari

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The hotels below are part of the MICHELIN Guide hotel selection . Each of the 5,000+ hotels in the selection has been chosen by our experts for its extraordinary style, service, and personality — and each can be booked on the MICHELIN Guide website and app.

The safari as we know it today was developed in Africa throughout the 1900s. But it was only toward the end of the century, on the land in and around South Africa’s famed Kruger National Park, that the modern luxury safari began to take shape. That area, along with other game reserves in the country, are a haven for Africa’s Big Five — elephant, lion, rhino, leopard, buffalo — and a breeding ground for the types of hotels we like to see protected and cherished nearly as much as those amazing animals: unique, purpose-built, slightly indulgent accommodations that exist best in the place they were born. On a safari, you get up close and personal with exotic wildlife. How much you’d like to maintain that intimacy back at your safari hotel is entirely up to you. Intrepid travelers might relish being roused in the middle of the night by a rustling of leaves and scraping of canvas as an unknown creature saunters by. Others might opt for taking a few steps back from all that realness, preferring to slumber a little higher off the ground. You know what we’re going to say next: the MICHELIN Guide has options to meet either taste.

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Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge

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Shamwari Sindile

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Shamwari Bayethe

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Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

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Lion Sands River Lodge

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Honeyguide Tented Safari Camps

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Makalali River Lodge

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Royal Malewane

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Kruger Shalati - the Train on the Bridge

Top image: Kwandwe Ecca Lodge — Grahamstown, South Africa

best african safari resort

Exceptional Afternoon Tea Spots in Paris and Versailles

Whether in luxury hotels or a petit-palais, sit back with a hot drink accompanied by a delicious pastry or savoury bite in a plush setting, and enjoy attentive service. Here, our favourite places for a memorable afternoon treat.

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The Best Brunches in Paris

On Sundays in Paris, it's common to linger a little longer in bed, maybe even rest up after a late night. When you do emerge from beneath the covers, there's nothing like a gourmet brunch in a cosy setting to kick-start the day. Here are our top brunch picks.

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The Peninsula Paris’ Perfect Pair: Chef David Bizet & Sommelier Florent Martin

Meet the duo from L'Oiseau Blanc, who have mastered the art of pairing food and wine like few else have managed

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Ten Hotels in Thailand With Top-Shelf Design

Remember the first time you'd heard of Koh Samui? What about Koh Kood or Krabi or Chiang Mai or Khao Yai? Surely you've heard of some of them by now, and it's likely thanks to these hotels, some culinary diplomacy, and a certain film from 2000.

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The best cocktail bars in Paris

Once lagging behind in matters of mixology, the French capital is now a leading destination for cocktail drinkers. Here are The MICHELIN Guide's favourite spots, ranging from historic locals to new bars at the cutting edge of creativity.

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Boris Campanella and Matthieu Carlin, a Perfect Pairing

One is executive chef, the other head pastry chef at L’Écrin, the jewel in the Hôtel de Crillon’s crown. This exclusive fine dining restaurant with nine tables promises a unique gourmet experience in a refined setting. Taking as a starting point the wines selected by head sommelier Xavier Thuizat, chef Boris Campanella and pastry chef Matthieu Carlin then, in tandem, compose and improvise a single set menu.

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This Week’s New Hotels

MICHELIN Guide hotel experts share their most exciting discoveries for the week of February 19.

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Mory Sacko, a Samurai in the Kitchen

The infectiously enthusiastic chef tells us about his Michelin-Starred restaurant and his favourite spots in Paris

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The Best Spas in Paris

Scaling the hills of Montmartre, shopping till you drop in the Grands Magasins, and taking in exhibitions, museums and monuments – a stay in the City of Light can be exhausting. What better way to unwind than with a visit to a spa or hammam? Don't miss these wellness destinations, picked from the MICHELIN Guide selection.

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Arnaud Donckele’s Favourite Spots in Paris

In its 'One Chef, One City' series, The MICHELIN Guide shows major French cities through the eyes of the country’s greatest chefs. Chefs with close ties to the city where they were born, or with a passion for their adopted city, share original tips on the best restaurants, producers and suppliers – and give us a sneak peek into their address books!

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Molitor Paris, a swimming pool turned luxury hotel

The Molitor pool attracts Parisians keen to swim, while the Molitor hotel, recommended by the MICHELIN Guide’s experts, caters to happy travellers from all over the world. This quintessentially smart and fabulously hip venue in the French capital will leave you with unforgettable memories.

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Where to Stay and Eat in Paris by Neighbourhood

Hotel and restaurant recommendations from The MICHELIN Guide to ensure you have a successful stay in Paris

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The MICHELIN Guide’s Best Spots Near Paris Landmarks

Who could even think of coming to Paris without going out for a meal, whether it be in a fancy Starred restaurant, a trendsetting brasserie or a friendly neighbourhood bolthole? Here is our pick of restaurants on the doorstep of some of the capital’s most well-known landmarks.

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World of Wanderlust

The 20 Best Safari Lodges in Africa

After living in Africa for almost a year now, I’ve had my fair share of safari lodges and experiences. But given safari is such a magical experience, whenever I can I keep going back for more. Over the years I have stayed at too many beautiful lodges to count, but like anything, I have my favourites! So these are the best safari lodges in Africa, tried and tested by yours truly.

Post updated May 2023

San Camp Botswana | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

1. San Camp, Botswana

I’ll start with my favourite camp in all of Africa – San Camp in Botswana. While it is far from your ordinary safari camp, I personally think that is what makes it so special. While you won’t find the big five here in the Kalahari desert, this camp hones in on the smaller creatures found in the desert. But more than that, it is about truly disconnecting from your regular life and tuning in to your present. There’s no wifi or electricity in the tents, but there are plenty of opportunities to connect with nature.

Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

2. Sandibe, Botswana

My second favourite lodge in Botswana goes by the name of Sandibe . This is the crowning jewel of AndBeyond’s Botswana portfolio, where they have a number of camps in the Okavango Delta and beyond. Sandibe is the most expensive camp from AndBeyond’s portfolio in Botswana, but it is also the most magical. If you’re looking for a unique honeymoon location, this is your best bet.

And Beyond Sossusvlei | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

3. Sossusvlei Lodge, Namibia

Last year I finally had the chance to visit Namibia. Being based in South Africa next door has given me many more excuses to get out there and experience more of Africa. When we ventured North to Namibia, we checked in to Sossusvlei Desert Lodge . This lodge has recently been refurbished from top to bottom and the results are simply breathtaking. Waking up in the desert is a luxury I will certainly not forget in this lifetime.

Read more: The 12 most isolated lodges in Africa

Singita Boulders Lodge | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

4. Boulders Lodge, South Africa

Boulders Lodge in South Africa was not my first lodge experience in this country, but it certainly was my favourite! I will never forget sitting out on my deck as I noticed a young elephant drinking from my pool and popping over to say hello! I have since learned this is a regular occurrence at the lodge, so if you are looking for close animal encounters, this is a great lodge to stay for your safari.

Cottars Safari Camp Kenya | World of Wanderlust

5. Cottars Safari Camp, Kenya

When I checked in to Cottars Safari Camp in Kenya, I felt as if I had stepped back in time. The 1920’s safari camp is one of the oldest on offer and it is idyllically located on the fringe of the Maasai Mara. Because the park itself is inundated with safari goers, this is a great alternative to experience more serenity but still remain in close proximity to the park.

Mnemba Island Zanzibar | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

6. Mnemba Island, Zanzibar

Okay, I’m saying it: Mnemba Island is my favourite lodge in all of Africa. While it isn’t a traditional safari lodge, it still deserves a place on this list. With just twelve rooms located on a private island off the coast of Zanzibar, Mnemba Island is the ultimate in barefoot luxury.

Angama Mara Kenya

7. Angama Mara, Kenya

Angama Mara is commonly considered the best safari lodge in Kenya’s Maasai Mara. This newly opened lodge came to the safari scene with much praise, particularly in celebration of the unique location this lodge occupies overlooking the Mara. If you’re looking for a honeymoon location with views for days, this is your best bet in East Africa.

best african safari resort

8. Bush Villa, Kenya

Although the Bush Villa falls under the umbrella of Cottar’s Safari Camp, I think it is worthy of a mention of its own. This gloriously oversized villa is the perfect choice for large families or big groups to enjoy their own private oasis. The villa is sprawled out above Cottar’s Safari Camp, overlooking the Maasai Mara below. Even Angelina Jolie has been a guest of the Bush Villa!

best african safari resort

9. Serengeti House, Tanzania

Serengeti House in Tanzania is the top property in Singita’s safari portfolio. This private villa boasts four bedrooms, an infinity swimming pool and a private gym. The villa also comes with a private chef, so you can really kick back and enjoy some alone time with your group.

best african safari resort

10. Royal Malewane, South Africa

When I checked in to Royal Malewane a few years ago I had already visited a handful of nearby camps. But Royal Malewane has its own appeal, with a unique interior design that makes you feel as if you have stepped back in time. Be sure to visit the day spa where you will find this beautiful lap pool reminiscent of a Moroccan riad.

Bateleur Camp Kenya | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

11. And Beyond Bateleur Camp

During my time in East Africa, I think it is safe to say Bateleur Camp was my favourite safari lodge. This newly refurbished lodge is the perfect mix of old meets new, with all the classic touches but all the mod cons to go with it. The service here was unparalleled to any other camp I stayed at in Kenya.

Staying at the Skybeds Botswana

12. Botswana Sky Beds

For an unforgettable night in the bush, check yourself into Botswana Skybeds . The sky beds are located a short drive from nearby Sable Alley, making it the perfect addition to really immerse yourself in the bush. The sky beds are located up a three story tree house, meaning you are as close as possible to the animal activity throughout the night! This is not only one of the best safari lodges in Africa but also one of the most adventurous.

best african safari resort

13. Singita Sweni, South Africa

Singita Sweni was one of the first safari lodges I ever stayed at, but that doesn’t mean I have forgotten about it! My experience at this lodge was so memorable, it is forever engrained in my mind. Singita really go above and beyond for their guests, providing gastronomic meals and unbeatable service. They have a few lodges in the area, but Singita Sweni is my personal favourite.

Sable alley Botswana | WORLD OF WANDERLUST

14. Sable Alley, Botswana

Sable Alley is one of the popular choices of safari camps in Botswana. While Botswana is one of the most expensive countries to visit for a safari adventure, this camp is more on the affordable end of the scale. If you are looking for a special escape without the hefty price tag, this camp is moderately priced.

Read more: The Best Animal Encounters in Africa

best african safari resort

15. Bisate Lodge, Rwanda

Rwanda has become the most sought after country to visit in Africa. Over recent years it has sky rocketed in popularity, mostly thanks to the population of mountain gorillas which have drawn thousands of tourists to the landlocked country. Bisate Lodge is one of the most iconic lodges in the country, with their creative beehive like design.

Thorntree Zambia

16. Thorntree River Lodge, Zambia

Zambia and Zimbabwe are both considered the gateway to Victoria Falls, but if you are looking for something extra special then take a look at Thorntree River Lodge. This peaceful and serene lodge is the epitome of romance, set on the calm banks of the Zambezi river. There is no denying this is one of the best safari lodges in Africa, as it is certainly our top choice for the most romantic.

ngorongoro and beyond

17. Ngorongoro Lodge, Tanzania

East Africa is where you should visit if you are looking for the iconic “Out of Africa” experience. Ngorongoro would have to be one of the most picturesque lodges to choose from, set overlooking the crater itself.

best african safari resort

18. Jao Camp, Botswana

I know I know, another Botswana recommendation!? Believe me when I say no safari is as magical as one that takes place in the Okavango Delta. Jao Camp is another great option for honeymoon couples looking for something extra special. The carefully curated design makes it one of the most distinguishable camps.

best african safari resort

19. Singita Kataza, Rwanda

Also in Rwanda, you will find two Singita properties to choose from when looking for the best safari lodges in Africa. Singita Kataza is an extra special lodge set in the mystical mountains of Rwanda, just a short trip from the famous mountain gorillas.

best african safari resort

20. Chinzombo, Zambia

Last but not least, Chinzombo camp in Zambia is idyllically located on the banks of the Zambezi river. This camp is a popular choice for honeymoon couples who are seeking a serene location by the water. However, if you’re up for some activities, you can opt to canoe on the Zambezi river or partake in a microflight over Victoria Falls. Believe me when I say it is not for the faint hearted!

Safari Style

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Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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A few snapshots from Island life in Koh Samui 🥹🌴 just shared my blog posts from this trip in Thailand and now craving mango sticky rice pudding, the kindness and hospitality of Thai people and those buffet breakfast spreads (the kinda ones that keep you full til dinner). My stay at @fskohsamui was like something out of a story book. Especially that last photo - that night was one to remember 🫶🏼 #kohsamui #thailand #travel #travelblog #thailandtravel

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Plan the ultimate African safari with these 12 bush-to-beach destinations

Caroline Lascom

One of life's greatest travel indulgences, an African safari can take years to organize. Since it requires a hefty budget, a couple of grueling days in transit and meticulous planning, chances are it will be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you enjoy — and one you therefore shouldn't compromise on.

The safari component is generally less than five days for most travelers, leaving plenty of time to combine superb wildlife watching and a classic lodge experience with further exploration or relaxation. For some, this could also involve climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania or visiting Victoria Falls on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border. For others, it may entail wine tasting in South Africa or lazing on a pristine, palm-fringed beach with a cocktail in hand.

When it comes to blissed-out safari extensions, the Indian Ocean offers a few key commodities: undeveloped beaches, spectacular scenery, azure waters rich with marine life — and an abundance of luxurious resorts, including ones you can book with points.

Africa isn't the easiest place to get around, but that doesn't mean it isn't possible to see multiple destinations in one visit. All it will take is a little careful planning. Odds are you'll be required to fly way out of your way to major regional hubs such as Johannesburg 's O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) or Nairobi, Kenya's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO).

While most safari-goers head to the beach to unwind at the end of their trip, there's also something to be said for decompressing from city life and a long-haul flight by adding the beach as a safari preamble. Regardless of which you choose to do first, know that you'll have an incredible vacation full of memorable moments.

Here are TPG's favorite destinations for that ultimate combination of going on safari and visiting the beach.

Bush: The Northern Circuit

Famed for its untouched landscapes and exhilarating wildlife encounters, Tanzania's Northern Circuit is the Africa of dreams. A showcase for the continent's highlights, this well-trodden itinerary features the world-famous Serengeti, snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, elephant-filled Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest intact volcanic caldera.

Arusha is the gateway to the northern Serengeti, as it's a two-hour flight from the capital, Dar es Salaam. Depending on time and budget constraints, you can either fly between the parks, drive the entire circuit or do a combination of both.

Most itineraries begin with the Serengeti, Tanzania's crown jewel. Emblematic grasslands dotted with flat-topped acacia trees are home to more than 2 million animals, including the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and African buffaloes. Indulge the wonder of it all at a luxury lodge within eyeshot of a watering hole, or head to a semi-permanent tented camp that follows the great migration. In the remote Lamai Triangle, Singita Lamai River Tented Camp offers an intimate, off-the-grid safari experience and features just six luxurious tents, each with plunge pools.

A game drive along the valley floor of Ngorongoro Crater — around a three-hour paved drive south of the Serengeti — is one of the richest wildlife experiences on Earth. More than 25,000 mammals thrive here, including the world's largest concentration of predators, plus zebras, gazelles, warthogs, wildebeests, elephants, baboons and vervet monkeys. Within the conservancy, you can trace 2 million years of human evolution at the UNESCO-inscribed Olduvai Gorge, which preserves the earliest evidence of human ancestors.

Around a four-hour drive south of the crater is another must-visit spot: beautiful Tarangire National Park. It attracts fewer visitors and is beloved for its thriving elephant herds, which feature 2,500-plus animals, making them the densest on Earth.

Related: Dreaming of an African safari: How I'll book my bucket-list trip to Tanzania on miles and points

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Beach: Zanzibar

A breathtaking archipelago just 25 miles off Tanzania's Indian Ocean coastline, Zanzibar is everything its name suggests. Traditional dhows (one- or two-mast ships) set sail from bone-white beaches, vibrant coral reefs support diverse marine life and timeless Swahili villages are fringed by lush forests, coconut groves and spice plantations.

Zanzibar is one of the most accessible beach destinations on this list, with frequent direct services from Arusha via Air Tanzania. If you are traveling independently, the one-hour flight from the mainland costs around $180 round trip.

Relaxing on its beaches is certainly Zanzibar's main draw, but it's worth allowing at least a day to explore UNESCO World Heritage-listed Stone Town, one of East Africa's cultural highlights. A flourishing trading post for centuries, the old city's maze of streets is dotted with crumbling limestone and coral buildings, as well as historical churches, mosques and temples.

Just a 15-minute speedboat ride off Zanzibar's northeast coast, Mnemba Island is an unpretentious paradise. The tiny island, blessed with powder-soft sand and luminescent waters, is the setting for andBeyond's conservation-focused hideaway . Getting off the grid doesn't get much better than this. Days are spent snorkeling around the island (about a mile in circumference), swimming with dolphins, practicing yoga, paddleboarding, watching dik-diks scurry around the deck of your Balinese-style banda and enjoying some of the finest and most inventive food you'll find anywhere in Tanzania.

best african safari resort

Bush: Masai Mara

The definitive safari destination, Kenya offers a blend of savannah, mountain, wildlife, beach and culture that never fails to inspire awe in those who visit.

The spectacular Masai Mara ecosystem forms the northern extension of Tanzania's Serengeti. A cinematic wilderness of tawny, acacia-dotted plains, the food chain plays out frequently and furiously right before your eyes. Home to a vast inventory of 450-plus animal species (including the Big Five) and glorious scenery, Kenya's popularity has been bolstered by post-pandemic travelers keen to limit border crossings.

For a less crowded safari experience, choose a lodge located on a private conservancy that offers opportunities to venture off roads (sometimes at night) in the company of expert naturalists without worrying about waiting behind multiple vehicles to view a pride of lions. Cottar's Camp has been in operation for over a century and combines a classic aura with luxe amenities and some of Kenya's finest (largely Masai) guides. Wherever you roam, you can expect to see prolific troupes of wildebeests, zebras, impalas, topis and gazelles — and their formidable predators.

While all safari lodges are not created equal, it's the daily rituals of life on the Masai Mara that are unforgettable. You can enjoy an early morning game drive, watch elephants congregate around a watering hole from your deck, treat yourself to a sundowner as sunsets blaze over the seemingly infinite horizon and gather around a campfire under star-studded skies.

Try to time your trip for the great migration, when more than 2 million wildebeests migrate across the Serengeti and the Masai Mara in what is undoubtedly the world's most spectacular wildlife event. Keep an eye on rainfall patterns to determine when is the best time to visit.

Related: Everything you need to know about going on safari in Africa with renowned expert Marlon du Toit

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Beach: Lamu Island

Often likened to Zanzibar 20 years ago, UNESCO-protected Lamu Island is a picture-perfect paradise of rolling sand dunes, mangrove-fringed beaches and dazzling coral reefs. As East Africa's oldest trading center, it's a world apart from the rest of Kenya and offers a more peaceful retreat than the more developed beaches of Mombasa's north coast.

In the south, Lamu Town has preserved its medina-style architecture and retains a laid-back vibe. Donkeys and dhows are still the main forms of transportation, and the town's car-free streets, which are dotted with churches, mosques and temples, showcase the island's rich cultural heritage composed of African, Omani, Yemeni, Indian and Portuguese influences.

Over the last decade, Lamu has become something of a magnet for Europe 's celebrity set. Intricately carved coral merchant homes now house contemporary boutique hotels and galleries, hip rooftop bars mix stylish sundowners and a busy event schedule speaks to the island's growing wellness movement — notably yoga and meditation retreats.

Just outside Lamu Town, The Red Pepper House has five eclectic rooms decorated with Swahili furnishings, a lush forested setting, warm service and activities tailored to each guest.

Active travelers will also find plenty here to tempt them from the beach. Check out Kiwayu Island for windsurfing, kayaking, fishing and world-class diving and snorkeling.

If you are traveling independently, Lamu can be reached by air from Nairobi via Hahn Air Lines. Flights, which cost $190 round trip, land just across the channel from Lamu on Manda Island.

best african safari resort

South Africa and Mozambique

Bush: kruger national park.

Impressive in scale and diversity, Kruger's 16 macro ecozones harbor an astonishing predator count — more than 1,500 lions, 1,000 leopards and 12,000 elephants — as well as wild dogs, zebras, white and black rhinos, giraffes, wildebeests, antelopes and an estimated 470 bird species.

The great appeal of Kruger — especially for first-timers — is its reliable wildlife spotting (even during the green season), unbridled comfort and never-ending "wow" factor that exhilarates even the most world-weary traveler.

When money is no object, the Sabi Sands Game Reserve is the pinnacle of the luxury safari experience. Home to the highest mammal concentration of any private reserve in southern Africa, you won't need to venture far to spot Africa's most charismatic denizens. In fact, it's not unheard of to spot all of the Big Five at Kruger in the space of a day. With only three vehicles permitted at a wildlife sighting at any given time, you'll avoid the feeling that you are riding a safari conveyor belt.

Acclaimed lodges such as Singita Lebombo, Chitwa Chitwa and Londolozi channel eclectic styles — from plush colonial suites to rustic Afro-chic abodes — and are constantly raising the bar with impeccable service, resort-style amenities and unrivaled access to some of Earth's best wildlife viewing. Lavish meals, sundowners, afternoon teas, poolside relaxation and bush walks punctuate the hours between early morning and late afternoon game drives. Many of Kruger's lodges also offer excellent children's programming.

Related: Safaris, cities and lots of elephants: How I returned to South Africa this year using points, miles and cash

best african safari resort

Beach: Bazaruto Archipelago

Blessed with unspoiled natural beauty and impressive biodiversity, Mozambique's Bazaruto Archipelago offers the private island kind of experience that appeals to travelers with deep pockets who are looking to truly disconnect. For most visitors, the logistics are taken care of as part of a tailor-made, fly-in excursion arranged by a safari company.

Bazaruto and its even more far-flung sister archipelago, the Quirimbas Islands, are renowned for their serpentine, palm-fringed beaches where the diving and snorkeling, right offshore, are out of this world. An array of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, leatherback turtles, humpback whales and the very rare dugong (sea cow), has been documented here.

With activities and excursions tailored to couples and families, andBeyond's Benguerra Island Lodge is a destination unto itself. It offers luxurious beachfront casinhas (cottages) and cabanas surrounded by palm trees. Guests can take advantage of a swimming pool and an on-site dive center that organizes excursions to world-class dive sites like Two Mile Reef, plus other unforgettable activities, such as dhow cruises, horseback riding in the water and sportfishing excursions.

Frequent daily direct flights with South Africa-based Airlink are available from Johannesburg's airport to Mozambique's Vilankulo Airport (VNX), which sits about a 45-minute scenic boat ride away from the Bazaruto islands. The relatively painless, half-day journey will set you back around $580 round trip.

best african safari resort

Bush: Majete Wildlife Reserve

Going by the moniker "The Warm Heart of Africa," tiny Malawi punches way above its weight when it comes to biodiversity.

Roughly the same size as Ohio, it's home to some of the continent's most spectacular landscapes, which span serrated peaks, mystical forests and bucolic grasslands. The Great Rift Valley bisects the country lengthwise, with the colossal Lake Malawi draped across the country's eastern border.

Malawi's lack of celebrity status helps facilitate a more authentic safari experience. It's also one of the most affordable and safest destinations in Africa — a great fit for independent travelers looking to go beyond the "Out of Africa" cliches.

Before a major legislative shake up in 2017, Malawi had earned the notorious distinction of being southern Africa's biggest wildlife trafficking center, mostly due to lax enforcement. Today, its conservation credentials are among the strongest in Africa.

Majete Wildlife Reserve, the nation's oldest park, is a symbol of Malawi's great restoration. Through a steady re-introduction program and community engagement, more than 5,000 animals now thrive within the reserve, including black rhinos, impalas, jackals, elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, sable antelopes and buffaloes. Enjoying Big Five reserve status, tourism at Majete is growing, but it remains a magical off-the-beaten-path wilderness ... for now.

The upscale Thawale Camp is ideally located near a watering hole inside the reserve and combines a wilderness safari experience with an authentic ambience, fine food and warm service.

Related: TPG readers' best tips for visiting Africa on points and miles

best african safari resort

Beach: Lake Malawi

Described as the world's most vibrant freshwater body, UNESCO-designated Lake Malawi is a perfect safari postscript for more budget-minded travelers and those making a return trip to the continent. It offers all the attributes of an idyllic island escape with beautiful bays and coves, sandy beaches and rocky islands, plus marshes inhabited by baboons, monkeys, hippos and prolific birdlife, including kingfishers, egrets, fish eagles and cormorants.

Free from the logistical challenges of many bush-to-beach itineraries, it's just a one-hour transfer from Malawi's Kamuzu International Airport (LLW) to the lake's most scenic beaches, including chilled-out Likoma Island, where you'll find barefoot-chic Kaya Mawa , a boutique ecolodge perched on sandy shores with views of Mozambique in the distance.

The water here is as blue as any tropical destination, and even shallow water teems with cichlid fish, which shimmer in hues of silver, gold, orange and blue. The lake's three distinct water layers don't generally mix (it's a type of meromictic lake), providing an intensely fertile environment where plants, land animals and marine life thrive.

An estimated 950 species of fish populate the lake — more than any other place on Earth — according to the beloved British naturalist David Attenborough. This rich aquatic atmosphere makes it a truly unique underwater safari destination. The real crowd-pleaser is the mbuna fish, which will famously take food directly from your hands.

best african safari resort

Zambia and Mauritius

Bush: south luangwa national park.

Victoria Falls, which is lovingly referred to as "the smoke that thunders" by those from the area, is Zambia and Zimbabwe's famous calling card and one of the world's most breathtaking natural wonders. But that's just the start. Far removed from the more commercial safari experiences of its neighbors, the two countries lend themselves to travelers keen to explore beyond their safari vehicles. The region excels at immersive cultural journeys, walking safaris and adrenaline-infused pursuits on the churning rapids of the Zambezi River.

Know, though, that Zambia and Zimbabwe are not for everyone. Their poor infrastructure and limited accommodations can be a challenge or an adventure, depending on your perspective.

Zambia's South Luangwa National Park is the place where the walking safari originated. Diverse habitats encompass plains, woodlands, rivers and marshes and support a predator and prey inventory that rivals that of any African safari destination. The pinnacle of wildlife viewing in Zambia, Luangwa is known for its leopard population, as well as rare creatures such as hartebeests, sables and roans. Buffaloes, impalas, pukus, waterbucks and giraffes are omnipresent, and herds of elephants (up to 70 is not unheard of) and wading hippos can be seen congregating along the Luangwa River.

One of the more luxurious camps in the reserve, Chinzombo, offers comfortable accommodations, expert guides and a prime river location.

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Beach: Mauritius

One of the most alluring Indian Ocean destinations, Mauritius is much more than just a dreamy island paradise. Gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear lagoons and forested preserves provide the backdrop for thrilling adventures, ecotourism and wellness pursuits. For a culture fix, the museums and mansions of Port Louis are filled with fascinating artifact maps and curios that trace the island's storied history.

Belle Mare beach, on the east coast, has retained its unspoiled charm. Its warm, azure waters beckon snorkelers and divers, as Mauritius is ringed by the world's longest unbroken coral reef. With its string of luxe resorts, hip bars and gourmet restaurants, the developed resort of Grand Baie, on the northwest coast, channels a more cosmopolitan vibe.

Active types will find plenty of ways to interact with the rugged, mountainous landscape. Hikers can take on the 4.5-mile steep, uneven trail to the top of the UNESCO-inscribed Le Morne Brabant mountain. Meanwhile, the coastal forests of Île aux Aigrettes provide sanctuary to an array of endemic and endangered wildlife species.

You will likely spend a day in transit to reach Mauritius from Zambia, and you may even require an overnight layover. There are regular nonstop flights from Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (LUN) in Lusaka, Zambia's capital, to Johannesburg, from where its a four-hour flight — operated daily by South African Airways — to Mahé, Mauritius' main island.

Mauritius caters well to travelers looking to splurge and you''ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to exclusive resorts and private island experiences: The Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita, Shangri-La Le Touessrok and One&Only Le Saint Géran, to name a few.

Related: Why Mauritius should be at the top of your travel to-do list right now

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Namibia and the Seychelles

Bush: etosha national park.

An accessible and less visited safari destination, Namibia captures the imagination of families and adventure seekers with its enigmatic desert landscapes, wild and rugged coastline, colossal sand dunes and rare desert-adapted mammals, insects and reptiles.

Known as the "Place of Mirages," Etosha National Park combines Namibia's best wildlife watching with an austerely beautiful landscape of golden plains, dazzling salt pans and dense thickets. What really sets Etosha apart, though, is just how easy it is to spot its wildlife species.

Across stark, vast plains, watering holes draw elephants, gazelles, giraffes, jackals and black and white rhinos, as well as marauding lions, cheetahs and more elusive leopards. The floodlit Okaukuejo watering hole ranks among Africa's bucket list experiences thanks, in part, to its nightly game-watching vigils.

Antelope species here are loaded with superlatives: You'll find the continent's smallest (African antelope), rarest (blackface impala), biggest (eland) and bounciest (springbok) all inhabiting this eye-catching landscape.

Located on Etosha's southern fringes, in the privately owned Ongava Game Reserve, Ongava Lodge comprises 14 rustic chalets and a large pool and dining area overlooking a nearby watering hole. Little Ongava — also within the private reserve — offers a more exclusive experience with just three luxurious suites with outdoor showers and private plunge pools.

Beyond Etosha, thrill-seekers can track wildlife on foot, sandboard down massive dunes in Swakopmund and soar over the Namib Desert in a hot air balloon.

Namibia is celebrated for its bold conservation initiatives and well-developed tourist infrastructure. While it's one of the most straightforward destinations in Africa for renting a car and exploring independently, guided tours here are considered the gold standard. Most travelers from Europe and the U.S travel to Namibia through Johannesburg or Cape Town . Air Namibia flies direct from Frankfurt to Windhoek, and Qatar Airways ' direct flights to Doha, Qatar, offer frequent stopover routes to the U.S. and Europe.

Related: How to have a royal-inspired honeymoon in Namibia with points and miles

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Beach: Seychelles

Famed as a luxury hideaway popular with royalty and celebrities, the Seychelles archipelago has an otherworldly beauty. Ribbons of sugar-white sand gently slope to waters in every shade of blue, and tropical habitats filled with rare indigenous palms give way to vanilla and spice plantations and orchid fields.

The most visited islands, Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, draw gilded honeymooners to their ultra glamorous resorts — including a luxurious Four Seasons outpost and the boutique Mango House Seychelles — but there's also a fine selection of family-oriented properties (including points hotels ) within striking distance of breathtaking beaches.

Anse Lazio frequently ranks as one of the world's best beaches; its turquoise, reef-sheltered waters teem with marine life. Lushly forested granite cliffs frame the sheltered bay of Anse Louis, one of Mahé's more remote beaches, and it was on heavenly Anse Source d'Argent that Hollywood movies "Cast Away" and "Crusoe" were filmed.

Uninhabited until the late 18th century, the Seychelles archipelago is hailed as the "Galápagos of the Indian Ocean." UNESCO-inscribed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin is a lost world of rare endemic species, including the famous coco de mer, a massive palm tree thought to have grown in the ocean. On the remote Aldabra atoll, thousands of giant tortoises weighing up to 500 pounds thrive, having evolved in isolation.

From Namibia's capital, Windhoek, you'll need to connect through Johannesburg. Air Seychelles is the only airline that flies the five-hour, nonstop route to Mahé several times a week.

Related: From the Serengeti to the Seychelles: Honeymooning at 2 stunning Four Seasons resorts

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Protect Your Trip »

12 Top African Safari Tours

Cross this must-do activity off your bucket list.

Top African Safari elephant

Courtesy of Micato Safaris

Spot the big five on your safari adventure.

Safari tours in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself, though these types of trips typically require a large sum of money. Whether you want to spend a few days gorilla trekking in Uganda or a couple weeks spotting the "big five" – lions, leopards, African elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalos – in South Africa, you'll find an array of tours to best suit your needs. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News compiled a list of 12 can't-miss African safari tours. Read on to find your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Note: Some of the African countries in this article may require travelers to get an entry visa and certain vaccinations in order to visit. Jump to the list of visa and vaccination requirements by country at the bottom of this page for more information.

&Beyond

African Safari vacation

Courtesy of &Beyond

Visitors who don't want to sacrifice creature comforts while on safari will appreciate &Beyond's offerings. During the tour operator's 10-day Kings of the Jungle safari – which starts at $11,340 per person – travelers will see breathtaking natural wonders like the Ngorongoro Crater and the Maasai Mara savanna. But the highlight of this journey is its four-night stay at Tanzania's Serengeti National Park . After watching animals like wildebeest and zebras partake in the great migration while also spotting lions, giraffes and more, vacationers retreat to high-end tents and lodges with private bathrooms.

[See more of Serengeti National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Wilderness Safaris

African Safari camp vacation

Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris

For some of Africa's most jaw-dropping scenery, opt for the seven-night Namibian Adventure Safari tour offered by Wilderness Safaris. This weeklong trip features visits to the Namib Desert's dune-filled Sossusvlei region (which you may recognize from the film "Mad Max: Fury Road") and the mountainous Palmwag Concession – a protected area with springboks, giraffes, black rhinos and more. The package's per person fee starts at $6,725, which covers most meals, park entrance fees, and transfers from Namibia's capital Windhoek and between the safari destinations. It also covers your stay at properties like the fully solar-powered Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp and the five-star Little Kulala lodge amid the stunning desert.

Wild Rwanda Safaris

African Safari gorilla in Rwanda

Courtesy of Wild Rwanda Safaris)

Adventurous travelers sticking to a more conservative budget should consider Wild Rwanda Safaris' Bwindi Gorilla Safari. The three-day package features a full day in southwestern Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a haven for silverback gorillas) and an adjacent Batwa Pygmy community. Wild Rwanda Safaris allows guests to choose between midrange, luxury and super luxury accommodation, which can help keep costs down if necessary. The company's packages include the $700 permit required to visit the gorilla park. The round-trip journey by safari vehicle to and from Kigali, Rwanda, and English-speaking guide services are also covered in all rates. The tour can begin from Kampala, Uganda, as well, although you'll spend longer on the road to the park.

Nomad Tanzania

African Safari in Tanzania

Courtesy of nomad-tanzania.com

Sign up for Nomad Tanzania's Southern Tanzania safari and you're bound to get an up-close look at Tanzania's diverse wildlife. Offering eight days of activities, including game drives and boat trips in Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, this safari gives you prime opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards and elephants, among other species. What's more, lodging at the company's campsites, select meals, and flights to and from Dar es Salaam are factored into the package's prices. Expect to pay a minimum of $5,700 per person; prices vary depending on the time of year, and the tour isn't offered in April and May.

Micato Safaris

(Courtesy of Micato Safaris)

If you want to explore multiple destinations while on safari with plenty of comfort (but a price tag to match), book the 15-day Micato Grand Safari. This outing by Micato Safaris starts with a two-day visit to Nairobi, Kenya, before continuing to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the Amboseli and Serengeti national parks for wildlife-viewing excursions. During your trip, you'll see Mount Kilimanjaro as zebras, gazelles and more roam in the foreground. The package costs at least $22,450 per person (based on double occupancy rates) and includes a hot air balloon ride, a camel tour led by members of the Samburu tribe, and lodging at upscale properties like Serengeti's Four Seasons outpost. The company also offers various extensions allowing you to explore other parts of Africa, from the island paradise of Zanzibar to the deserts of Namibia.

Rothschild Safaris

African safari vacation

Courtesy of Rothschild Safaris

If your ideal safari vacation consists of customizing your trip from start to finish, consider an outing with Rothschild Safaris. The company offers itineraries in locales like Zambia and Madagascar , but if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the big five animals, the Essence of Tanzania safari is a good bet. This nine-day experience, which embarks from Arusha and returns there by plane, includes game-viewing drives in Tarangire National Park and accommodations like canvas tents and farmhouse lodges. Elephants, zebras and lions are just some of the animals you may spot during your journey. You'll also have the opportunity to go on a nighttime safari to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Lion World Travel

African safari vacation

Courtesy of Lion World Travel

As the trip name implies, Lion World Travel's 10-day Best of Cape Town & Botswana vacation package combines sightseeing in Cape Town, South Africa , with a classic safari in Botswana. During the latter half of the itinerary, visitors will explore Botswana's Okavango Delta (home to cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos and more) and Chobe National Park, which is believed to have Africa's largest elephant population. Prices start at $4,299 per person and cover game drives; many of your meals; and stays at luxury hotels, camps and lodges. You'll need to pay an extra charge for the flights within the tour (Cape Town to Botswana as well as Botswana to Johannesburg ).

[See more of Cape Town: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Bearded Heron Safaris

African safari vacation

Neil Heron | Courtesy of Bearded Heron Safaris

Travelers keen on seeing South Africa's Kruger National Park through the eyes of a local naturalist will appreciate the 15-day safari with Bearded Heron Safaris. Led by Neil Heron, a nature guide and wildlife photographer and writer, Bearded Heron Safaris' longest option features small game drives that may include lion, rhino, zebra and leopard sightings throughout all corners of Kruger. Rates are inclusive of in-park cottage accommodations and all breakfasts, dinners, snacks and drinks. Flights and park fees are not included. For a 15-day safari, expect to pay 76,900 South African rand (about $4,500) per person.

[See more of Kruger National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Discover Africa

Black rhinoceros in the african savannah

Getty Images

For an inside-out trip through the natural wonders of Botswana, Discover Africa's nine-day Epic Botswana Adventure is a formidable option. You'll start out at a riverside lodge on the Chobe River – a great location for elephant spotting – before moving onto the marshy Okavango Delta, a wildlife-rich area where you can spot a huge range of animals from leopards to rhinos. The safari ends at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a good place to admire wildlife like zebras and buffalo on the savanna as well as salt pans from a former lake. You'll stay in upscale lodges and campsites within close reach of the wilderness. All meals and transport along the tour are included in the price tag (which starts at $4,800 per person), but international flights are excluded.

Wild Wings Safaris

best african safari resort

If you're looking to have a broader experience that mixes in some history and beach time, consider Wild Wings Safaris' eight-day Battlefields, Bush and Beach Safari. You'll start off visiting some of South Africa's historic sites from the Boer wars, before moving on to the Phinda Private Game Reserve, which doesn't allow day visitors, so you should be able to look out for the big five without too many crowds. The tour wraps up at Thonga Beach Lodge, where you can snorkel or scuba dive near coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. As far as safaris go, this one is an affordable option, starting at about $2,795 per person with all meals included as well as a rental car; for the cheapest price, you will need to drive yourself between the destinations, but it's possible to pay an additional fee for a driver to guide you instead.

Cuckoo Safaris

Aerial few of the world famous Victoria Falls with a large rainbow over the falls. This is right at the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Southern Africa. The mighty Victoria Falls at Zambezi river are one of the most visited touristic places in Africa.

This tour company kicks off its tours from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, with a host of safaris that range from two days to nine, across Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana, including some family-friendly choices. For an affordable option, there's the four-day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe and Hwange Park safari, which will take you on two full-day tours to Chobe National Park (across the border in Botswana) and to Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest national park, where you should keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants and more. This safari also includes a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The price starts at $900 per person, which includes the tours plus breakfast, lunch and lodging in Victoria Falls; travelers will need to pay for entrance fees to the parks and dinner.

Compass Odyssey

best african safari resort

Courtesy of Compass Odyssey

Explore the savanna and deserts of southwest Africa with Compass Odyssey's eight-day Namibia Wildlife Safari. You'll visit a community-based conservation area in Damaraland – known for its desert-adapted elephants, oryx, giraffes and other wildlife – while staying in the rustic-chic Doro Nawas Camp. You'll also spend two days in Etosha National Park, seeking wildlife at the park's bustling waterholes by day and embarking on an evening game drive as well. Starting at $3,750 per person, the tour includes most meals and all park entry fees, but not flights; the company does allow the tour to be customized on request.

Vaccination and visa requirements for African countries

Some popular safari destinations may require you to have received certain vaccinations in order to enter the country as a tourist. Inoculation requirements can include vaccination against COVID-19 and yellow fever, and you'll need to get these vaccines before departing on your trip. Be sure to bring proof of vaccinations with you. If you are transiting through another country en route to your safari tour, you must check that you also meet immunization requirements for the stopover location.

Note that, outside of what's required, there are a number of other vaccinations that are recommended, so ensure you're up to date and fully protected before you travel. In addition, many safari locations are prone to malaria; you should consult with your doctor to see if you need to bring anti-malaria medication on your trip.

Safari countries have varying visa requirements for travelers from the U.S. – these are detailed below. Depending on your itinerary, you may need a single- or multiple-entry visa, and some visas require you to apply in advance of traveling and/or have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Regardless of your destination, your passport should be valid for at least six months before you leave for your trip.

Here are the vaccine and visa requirements for major safari destinations as of November 2022:

Botswana: If you have recently visited a country where yellow fever is common, you will need to be vaccinated against this illness. This does not include the U.S. but does include a number of countries in Africa, Central and South America. Consult the World Health Organization's website for a list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, including Kenya and Uganda.

U.S. citizens and nationals can stay in Botswana for 90 days without a visa.

Kenya: Travelers to Kenya must have been vaccinated against COVID-19 with the last shot administered more than 14 days before arrival in the country. Unvaccinated visitors can enter with a negative PCR test, conducted no more than 72 hours before departure. Proof of COVID-19 tests or vaccines must be uploaded to an online system called Panabios. Kenya is a country where you'll be at risk of yellow fever transmission; it also requires those traveling from other places with yellow fever or cholera outbreaks to be vaccinated against these illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you protect yourself against yellow fever before your trip here.

Americans need an e-visa to enter Kenya. You should apply online at the eVisa government website no more than eight weeks before your trip, as visas are not available upon arrival in Kenya. See more on the U.S. Department of State's website .

Namibia: Those traveling from a country where yellow fever is common need to be vaccinated against it. No visa is required as long as you're staying for 90 days or less.

Rwanda: If you're coming from a country where yellow fever is endemic, a yellow fever vaccination is required before departure.

U.S. citizens and nationals can be issued a 30-day visitor visa on arrival in Rwanda or through the Rwandan Embassy in Washington, D.C. A single-entry visa costs $50, and it's recommended you bring sufficient cash in U.S. dollars to pay for this (although credit card payment may be accepted at Kigali International Airport). Consult the State Department website for more information.

South Africa: A yellow fever vaccination is required if you're traveling from a country with a risk of transmission. No visa is required for stays of 90 days or less.

Tanzania: Travelers must be able to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination with a QR code to enter Tanzania. Unvaccinated travelers must take a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure, and the test results should be accessible by QR code. Yellow fever vaccines are mandatory if you're traveling from a location where yellow fever is present – including if you spend more than 12 hours in transit in such a country.

Visas are required for tourism in Tanzania. You can apply for a single-entry, 90-day visa online for $50 – and be sure to print a copy of the approval to bring with you. The processing period takes up to 10 days. You can also obtain a visa on arrival for a $100 fee; it's recommended you bring cash to cover this. Find more Tanzanian visa information on the State Department website .

Uganda: To enter Uganda, you must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or present a negative test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Like Kenya, Uganda is a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. All visitors must show proof of vaccination against yellow fever to enter Uganda, regardless of where you're traveling from.

American visitors to Uganda must apply online for an electronic visa before departure; arriving in Uganda without completing this process could result in your detainment. Visit the State Department website to learn more.

Zambia: Visitors who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must show proof of vaccination but do not need a test to enter Zambia; unvaccinated travelers must undergo a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure. Yellow fever vaccines are only required if you're coming from an area considered at risk.

Visas are required to visit Zambia, but these can be obtained online before your departure or at a port of entry. Check the State Department website for more details.

Zimbabwe: To enter Zimbabwe, travelers must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or must take a negative PCR test no more than 48 hours before your departure. As with other countries on this list, visitors from countries with yellow fever outbreaks also require a vaccine against this illness.

U.S. visitors can obtain a 30-day, single-entry visa upon arrival in Zimbabwe for $30. If you're taking a tour that requires you to leave and reenter Zimbabwe, be sure to get a double-entry visa for $45. You can learn more from the State Department website .

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World's Best Places To Visit

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All-inclusive Luxury African Safari Lodges, Resorts, Camps, Hotels (Where to Stay)

All-inclusive Luxury African Safari Lodges, Resorts, Camps, Hotels and Where to stay, Videos, Reviews for families, couple, seniors, couples.

The most Exclusive African Safari Lodges range from classic Big Five safari camps to sumptuous riverside retreats, the range of five-star African safari lodges, resorts, and Camps is nothing short of extraordinary. In no particular order, these are 100 of the continent’s best.

Our Trusted Luxury African Safari Lodges, Resorts & Camps

Some of the best chances in the world to see wildlife are in Africa. On a safari, the “ Big Five “—the lion, elephant, rhino, Cape buffalo, and the elusive leopard—take center stage, but it may also be fascinating and interesting to view the smaller, less famous species, such as impalas, zebras, and hyenas. Nothing compares to a safari that includes watching the Great Migration in Kenya’s Masai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti. The Okavango Delta in Botswana and Kruger National Park in South Africa are two additional fantastic safari locations . It seems sense that the 100 most opulent safari lodges in Africa are all found in these regions.

African Safari Lodges, Resorts, Camps & Hotels

The majority of them are run by the three most prestigious safari firms on the continent: &Beyond , Wilderness Safaris , Sanctuary Retreats, Asilia, African Bush Camps, Desert & Delta, Governors’ Camp Collection, Wild Horizons, The Bushcamp Company, The Zanzibar Collection, The Safari Collection, Saruni Lodges, Porini Camps, Alex Walker’s Serian Camps, Angama Mara, Azura Retreats, Babylonstoren, Chem Chem Safari, Chiawa Collection, Constance Hotels, MORE Family Collection, Natural Selection Camps, Cape Grace, Newmark Hotels, Simbavati Lodge Collection, Time + Tide, Thornybush Collection, and Singita .

Linyanti Ebony

South African Safari Lodges, Hotels & Camps

Top Luxury Lodges & Camps

Even the pickiest tourists can get everything they need in South Africa. The Rainbow Nation has it all, whether you want to spend your days relaxing on the beach, enjoying exquisite wine in picturesque vineyards, discovering culture-rich urban cities, or going on a traditional Big 5 African safari. Beginning your ideal vacation in the perennially popular Kruger National Park, travel to Cape Town, one of the most stunning cities in the world.

Explore Lodges in South Africa

Saseka Tented Camp

Botswana Safari Lodges, Camps, Hotels 

Best Luxury Lodges & Camps

The Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park are two of the most well-liked safari locations in Africa, and both are located in Botswana. The Kalahari and Linyanti are two undiscovered jewels. Botswana is a safari enthusiast’s dream since it is teeming with a variety of species and has a varied terrain that varies from lush riverine forests to dramatic salt flats.

Explore Lodges in Botswana

luxury lodges in Mozambique

Mozambique Beach Lodges & Hotels

Top Luxury lodges & Hotels

In and around Mozambique, a wide variety of lodging alternatives are available. These range from basic backpackers to wild camping, but the lodges we’ve chosen offer an opulent and unique experience. The beauty of Mozambique is that there aren’t many big resorts, so you can truly escape the city’s flashing lights. The majority of our guests choose to stay in opulent beach cottages in remote seaside locations rather than hotels.

Explore Lodges in Mozambique

Shipwreck Lodge

Namibia Safari Lodges, Hotels, and Camps

Luxury lodges in Namibia

Luxury safari lodges and camps in Namibia are few and far between – the arid Namib Desert makes it one of the least densely populated places on Earth – but because we’ve been exploring this destination since 1998, we’re able to curate a definitive list.

Explore Lodges in Namibia

Shumba Camp

Zambia Safari Lodges and Camps

Top luxury lodges & camps

Both experienced and inexperienced safari travelers like Zambia. A Zambia safari has plenty to offer every kind of traveler thanks to wonders like South Luangwa National Park, which is famed for walking safaris across its wildlife-rich plains, and the legendary Victoria Falls.

Explore Lodges in Zambia

Singita Pamushana Lodge.

Zimbabwe Safari Lodges & Camps

Top luxury lodges and camps

With each region offering its own unique wonders, exploring the country’s top spots is highly recommended. To help you plan and find the best Zimbabwe accommodation, we’ve found the 19 best places to stay in Zimbabwe.

Explore Lodges in Zimbabwe

Elsa's Kopje

Kenya Safari Lodges, Hotels, and Camps

Top luxury lodges, and camps

Choosing a place to stay when embarking on a luxury safari in Kenya is almost as important as the national park or game reserve. To make things a little easier, we’ve rounded up the best spots for luxury accommodation in Kenya:

Explore Lodges in Kenya

Mboko Camp

Congo Safari Lodges and Camps

A unique safari lodges and camps

Stay in the most beautiful rainforest and bai sites in one of the many one-of-a-kind Congo safari lodges that are perfectly at home with the surrounding forest on a safari in the Congo that is centered on Odzala-Kokoua National Park. The best places to stay, eat, and wash your boots in between treks are listed here.

Explore Lodges in Congo

Magashi in Akagera National Park

Rwanda Safari Lodges, Camps

Top safari lodges, camps, and hotels

Rwanda’s rainforests and savannahs, two of the country’s most spectacular regions, offer a wide variety of conservation tourism opportunities. Bisate, a town that has won numerous awards, is located on the edge of Volcanoes National Park in an eroded volcanic cone. And the sophisticated Magashi in Akagera National Park, where you can take in breathtaking views of Lake Rwanyakazinga and a wide variety of the famous animals that make Africa what it is.

Explore Lodges in Rwanda

Alphonse Island Lodge

Seychelles Safari Lodges, Hotels

Discover safari lodges and hotels

Welcome to blue safari Seychelles, We are blazing a trail for a new kind of unique lodging and experiential travel in the heart of the Indian Ocean’s last untamed frontier while also actively safeguarding this precious area.

Explore Lodges in Seychelles

Kaya Mawa Lodge

Malawi Safari Lodges, Camps, Hotels

An unrivaled safari lodges, camps and hotels

Affectionate and laid-back Anyone interested in a safari and beach vacation should consider visiting Malawi. Malawi has a wide variety of places to stay, from little guesthouses on the shores of Lake Malawi to sprawling luxury hotels on its rocky islands and even in safari hotspots like Liwonde National Park and the Nyika Plateau.

Explore Lodges in Malawi

Shangri-La Le Touessrok

Mauritius Safari Lodges, Resorts, Camps and Hotels

Experience safari lodges, camps and hotels

In the middle of the Indian Ocean, surrounded by coral reefs and white sand beaches, is the island paradise of Mauritius. Along the island’s shoreline are luxurious resorts with ginormous pools, an abundance of water sports, and shady sun loungers just steps from the water. The beauty of a vacation in Mauritius is that it is simple and stress-free because everything you could possibly need is in close proximity to one another. The service at these resorts is good, the amenities are excellent, and all tastes are catered for.

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Jabali Ridge

Tanzania Safari Lodges, Camps, Resorts, hotels

Top safari lodges, hotels and resorts

Tanzania is home to a wide variety of ecosystems, from sun-drenched savannas and lush forests to pristine beaches and exotic islands. The variety of available lodgings, from rustic safari camps to modern eco-lodges and romantic getaways, is a reflection of the region’s rich cultural heritage. There are safaris that are suitable for families, others that are ideal for lone travelers, and still others that are tailored to larger groups or private excursions.

Explore Lodges in Tanzania

Mihingo Lodge

Uganda Safari Lodges, Camps, Hotels, and Resorts

Luxury Safari lodges, resorts, and camps

Forests, mountains, and river valleys are where you’ll find the most impressive resorts on your Uganda safari. Check out some of our top picks for the best safari lodges in Africa to decide where you want to stay.

Explore Lodges in Uganda

Hyatt Regency Addis Ababa

Ethiopia Safari Lodges, Hotels, Camps & Resorts

Luxury safari lodges, hotels and camps

There was a dearth of high-end lodging options in Ethiopia until very recently, and this is still true to some extent. Camps and safari lodges of varying degrees of complexity, some of which remain both basic and simply practical, make up the bulk of the country’s offering. There used to be a dearth of high-quality lodging options in Ethiopia, but that’s changing, especially in popular destinations like Lalibela and Addis Ababa.

Explore Lodges in Ethiopia

Diar Abou Habibi

Tunisa Safari Lodges, Camps, and Hotels

Luxury lodges, camps and hotels

Tunisia, a country in North Africa on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, is a great vacation spot for people from all over the world. This tiny country is jam-packed with historical sites and breathtaking landscapes, making it a must-see for any adventurer. The country’s diversified geography is typified by the sandy Mediterranean coast and its beaches, the wide expanse of the Sahara Desert, forested coasts, dazzling salt flats, and busy cobblestone alleyways scented with jasmine and sea wind.

Explore Lodges in Tunisia

Angama Mara

Egypt Safari Lodges, Hotels, Camps

Lovely Safari Lodges, hotels and camps

Some of the world’s most famous hotels may be found in Egypt. These hotels, many of which date back to the colonial era, were frequented by famous figures like Howard Carter, Winston Churchill, and Agatha Christie.

Explore Lodges in Egypt

Zaina Lodge

Ghana Safari Lodges, Resorts, Camps & Hotels

Exclusive safari lodges, resorts, and camps

Although many visitors and would-be visitors associate Africa with safaris, the promise of gazing at gorgeous wild game is not true in the vast majority of Africa’s varied ecosystems. West Africa is an enclave of cultural tourism, where the people rather than the wildlife are the main appeal. This is in contrast to the eastern and southern extremities of Africa, which are characterized by various safari offerings in mystical natural surroundings.

Explore Lodges in Ghana

Dar Hnini

Morocco Safari Lodges, Resort, camps, spa and hotels

Luxury safari lodges, spa, hotels and camps

There are numerous sides to Morocco, each reflecting the country’s extensive history and diverse cultural traditions. This primarily Muslim nation is well-known for its mouthwatering cuisine, stunning buildings, exotic souks, and vibrant Berber culture. Morocco’s varied landscape includes towering mountains, lush oasis towns, historic walled seaports, and stunning deserts. It is one of just three countries in the world to have both an Atlantic and Mediterranean coastline.

Explore Lodges in Morocco

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  • Dude Ranches & Safaris

9 Best African Safari Lodges for Families

Giraffe Manor; Courtesy of Giraffe Manor

Jul 2, 2010

See recent posts by Andrea M. Rotondo

Can you imagine waking up to a brilliant sunrise over the savannah before heading out on a real African safari? Africa is a beautiful and diverse continent, and choices abound when it comes to game-viewing destinations for families.

If planning a trip there, you’ll want to select a location with easy access (close to an airport) and facilities designed with children in mind. You’ll want to stay in a Malaria-free region, too, so that your family doesn’t need to take preventative medication. You’ll want to confirm any age requirements before booking your safari accommodations, as well, since many lodges set an age limit on game drives. Still, many offer kids’ programs with age-appropriate activities so your little ones can get the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Photo Courtesy of Madikwe Safari Lodge

1. Madikwe Safari Lodge

Located in the Malaria-free Madikwe Reserve in the North West Province of South Africa,  Madikwe Safari Lodge  gets top ratings from families for the accommodations and age-appropriate introductions to the African bush. The lodge also welcomes children as young as 2 years old.

Book one of two spacious family suites in the Lelapa Lodge that can accommodate up to two children under the ages of 10. The suites even have private pools that are covered with a safety net when you’re not using them.

Many of the lodge employees have children themselves so they know what kids like. But, the lodge will also take your kids’ food preferences into account. Just let them know what works best for your family and the staff will do their best to accommodate.

“Adult” safaris in open vehicles are available for those ages 6 and older, while “Family” safari drives—also in open vehicles—can accommodate children between the ages of 2 and 6. There are also a ton of fun activities for kids, like Bug CSI with a field ranger; painting and coloring; making pizzas in the lodge’s new pizza oven at the boma; impromptu soccer games; and viewing the night sky. Best of all, Madikwe Safari Lodge doesn’t charge for children 6 years or younger.

Photo Courtesy of Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

2. Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

Family safari vacations are an expensive proposition and the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti is a no budget option. However, it’s a fabulous destination in Tanzania that is ideal for families with deep pockets. The lodge and its 77 guest rooms are tucked into the plains of the Central Serengeti.

East Africa is home to places your kids have read about in school—Mount Kilimanjaro, the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Victoria. The Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti is located in the homelands of the Maasai people. Known originally as warriors, the indigenous population now survives as craftsman, farmers and ranchers. They wear distinctive brightly colored traditional clothing.

Most impressively, this lodge is smack dab in the middle of the path of the annual Great Migration of millions of animals, including wildebeests, antelopes and zebras; it takes place between July and September. You’ll also have no trouble viewing the Big Five here.

In addition to the Four Seasons’ top-notch service, families can take advantage of the Discovery Centre. It’s the gathering place where guests learn about the Maasai people and Africa’s history, and take part in programs that support local schools and wildlife conservation.

Finally, the Kijana Club is open to kids ages 8 to 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Here, children can work on arts and crafts projects, take part in environmental programs, learn about the animals of the Serengeti, or simple enjoy some downtime playing videogames or watching a movie. This is a nice option in case your kids get tired and don’t want to go on every single game drive during their stay.

Photo Courtesy of Camp Jabulani

3. Camp Jabulani

Magic happens every day at Camp Jabulani , located nearKruger National Park in South Africa’s Kapama Game Reserve. Here, your family will meet a herd of very special elephants that live on the property.

In 1997, a 4-month-old elephant was found abandoned. He was taken to the nearby Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, where he was hand-reared and named Jabulani. Later, in 2002, HESC launched a rescue mission for a dozen Zimbabwean elephants whose lives swung in the balance when they were tagged for meat after the war. When the elephants arrived in South Africa, it was clear that Jabulani would become part of their family. Camp Jabulani was created as both a home for the elephants and a place were visitors could come to spend time with them. Fifteen elephants now reside on the property.

This is a high-end Relais & Chateaux property, and staying at this all-inclusive lodge doesn’t come cheap. But the elephant-back safaris and time spent interacting with the herd is priceless. Kids must be 12 years or older to stay at the main lodge.

A few days at Camp Jabulani’s Zindoga Presidential Villa is a must for families who can afford it. This is a camp-within-a-camp, and includes two spacious suites connected by a living and dining area. There’s also a private heated plunge pool and roomy wooden deck for game viewing. You’ll have your own safari team, including a ranger (and private 4×4 vehicle), and a chef and butler. Children of any age are welcome at Zindoga.

Young guests are also invited to take part in the camp’s excellent children’s program, Team Tusker. Activities include storytelling, dress-up parties, arts and crafts projects, tracking tutorials, bird watching and bug catching, as well as survival basics.

Photo Courtesy of Giraffe Manor

4. Giraffe Manor

While not exactly a game lodge, Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya, is an incredibly child-friendly small hotel that is home to a herd of very playful Rothschild giraffe. You can even hand feed them at the kitchen table or at the front door of the hotel, which was originally built to resemble a Scottish hunting camp.

There are 10 bedrooms here, along with two suites with direct access to the courtyard, ideal for families. Rates are all-inclusive and even include transportation to and from the airport, along with admission to the AFEW (African Fund for Endangered Wildlife) Giraffe Centre on property. Children of all ages are welcome.

The hotel is just outside Nairobi and is surrounded by forest with views of Mt. Kilimanjaro in the south. The resort’s giraffe population shares its home with many different types of birds, warthogs and even the rare bushbuck.

Photo Courtesy of a TripAdvisor Traveler/SueTrue22

5. King’s Camp

King’s Camp is one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to affordable luxury while on safari in South Africa. Located in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, this is one of the only places in the world where you can see rare white lions in the wild. The “Big Five” (elephant, lion, leopard, Cape buffalo and black rhinoceros) and many other species are spotted here, pretty much on a daily basis.

This camp, which accepts children 6 years and older, harkens back to Colonial days and strikes the right balance of elegance and comfort. You can book one of 11 standalone thatched-roof bungalows, or Waterbuck Private Camp, a four-bedroom villa that comes with its own safari vehicle, ranger, butler and chef. The camp is roomy enough for a family of eight and is situated on a dry riverbank that offers fantastic game viewing. In-room decor includes beautiful and functional mosquito nets, claw-footed tubs, indoor and outdoor showers and a private patio decked out with a hammock. The rangers, trackers, camp managers, chef and staff create a family-like environment, and guests feel welcome the moment they arrive.

An on-property watering hole draws the attention of animals all day long, and guests either relax by the camp’s pool or in the shade of the thatched viewing deck to watch the elephants and impala stop for a drink or dip.

Image courtesy of Luangwa Safari House

6. Luangwa Safari House

Here’s an option for reticent safari-goers: a private house in  Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park that offers the comforts of home. Luangwa Safari House , one of the accommodations offered by Robin Pope Safaris, can comfortably house up to eight people in four bedrooms and a spacious dining/living area. A chef, house manager and private guide (and vehicle) are all at your disposal. Meals and activities are carefully matched to your family’s interests, too.

There’s also a solid children’s program that extends from game drives to guided nature walks to trips to the Kawaza Village School and Chimpembele Wildlife Education Center. Back at the camp, kids can help collect eggs from the hen house and bake cookies in the kitchen with the chef. Children age 7 and up are welcome at Luangwa Safari House.

Photo Courtesy of Richard's Camp

7. Richard’s Camp

In southwestern Kenya, look no further than family-owned and operated Richard’s Camp, where you’ll find traditional tented accommodations near the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Forest Camp sits on the edge of a riverine forest with grass plains stretching away from it. This means game drives easily sight elephants, big cats and herbivores like zebra and impala that graze the plains each day.

Six tented suites are available with either twin or double beds, and extra beds can be brought in for families sharing accommodations. The tents operate via solar power and offer 24-hour light, heated showers and flushing toilets. Meals are enjoyed outdoors or in the camp’s sitting area in front of a roaring fire. There is also a private camp on the property that can accommodate up to 10 individuals; this is ideal for families who want complete privacy. There are also additional lodgings at River Camp located about a half-hour away.

Game drives and escorted bush walks are the core of the experience here, but you can also go on a day trip to nearby Lake Victoria, visit a Maasai village, go on a hot air balloon safari, or flight-see over the gorgeous Masai Mara. The camp’s owners are raising their own child right on the property and can expertly answer questions about age-appropriate safari activities.

Photo Courtesy of &Beyond

8. &Beyond’s WILDchild Program & Family Suites

&Beyond is an African safari specialist offering accommodations throughout southern and East Africa. The company recently devised its WILDchild program that’s available at all lodges. Rangers trained in working with children keep kids engaged throughout their vacation with special programs about wildlife, conservation, and African culture.

The company also installed new family suites at select lodges in South Africa and Tanzania. &Beyond recommends many lodges for families, including Kirkman’s Kamp, Phinda Zuka Lodge, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, and others.

&Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp is a favorite with families due to its location in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve next to Kruger National Park. It’s an easy 90-minute charter flight from Johannesburg and yet the animal viewing is exquisite. That’s because there are no boundary fences between the Reserve and National Park. Animals—and game drive participants—roam across that invisible line. It’s not unusual to see leopard, lion, elephant, buffalo, and rhino here. This area also allows off-road driving so your guide will get you as close to the wildlife as possible.

Photo Courtesy of Shamwari Riverdene Lodge

9. Shamwari Riverdene Lodge

The Riverdene Lodge in the Shamwari Game Reserve in South Africa’s Eastern Cape is an ideal spot for your family’s first safari adventure. Located in Port Elizabeth, in a Malaria-free area, the lodges here—Riverdene in particular—happily welcome families with children as young as 4 (although kids must be older in order to go on a game drive).

There is so much to do here beyond normal game drives, including visits to the Born Free Foundation Big Cat Rescue Center that houses lions and leopard that have been saved from circuses and zoos, and the Shamwari Wildlife Hospital that nurses wounded wild animals back to health before releasing them back into the wild.

Riverdene Lodge features nine interconnecting, air-conditioned rooms, satellite television, a lounge area, private balconies leading to the garden and BBQ area, and a swimming pool. An onsite children’s coordinator is on hand to suggest activities custom-tailored for your family’s unique interests.

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View from andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Tanzania African Safari

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The Most Luxurious Safari Getaways in Africa

Witnessing baby elephants play by a water hole, a pride of lions snooze beneath a marula tree, and a pack of hyenas corner a warthog—all before lunchtime? There's nothing like an African safari. While the best luxury safari lodges in Africa are pricey to be sure, we guarantee it's worth the splurge. From the best views and most stylish rooms to over-the-top service and unparalleled wildlife, these 8 getaways top the rest.

Senior Editor, Jetsetter | @lindseytravels | lindseytravels.com

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Gorilla in Africa

Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge, Rwanda

On a typical African safari, it's all about seeing the Big Five, but by far the continent’s most exclusive animal sighting hides up in the misty mountains that straddle Rwanda and Uganda. The cost of a single-day permit to enter Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, one of the last homes of the endangered mountain gorilla, now tops out at $1,500 per person per day—but it's undeniably a once-in-a-lifetime experience. One of the most luxurious safari lodges to get you there: Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge , whose 12 Rwandan-style conical thatched villas sit on 67 acres of reforested land and whose conservation program works with local farm owners to protect the surrounding ecosystem.

Miavana, Madagascar

Miavana, Madagascar

On the untouched island of Nosy Ankao, reachable only by helicopter, this 14-villa lodge grants guests unprecedented access to everything the tropical-island side of Madagascar has to offer, from whale-watching to snorkeling, diving, deep-sea fishing, and lemur trekking. Like its sister camp, Norman Carr Safari’s Chinzombo in Zambia, Miavana is a low-impact take on the high-end luxury safari, with solar-powered bungalows built from recycled materials. After a jam-packed day in the jungle or more leisurely one on the beach, spend your evenings browsing the main lodge's “cabinet of curiosities” (which houses dinosaur bones, among other artifacts), strolling the French garden, indulging in a spa treatment, or just relaxing in your 5,000-square-foot beachfront villa with its own plunge pool.

RELATED: World's Most Epic Animal Adventures

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Madagascar hotels

Angama Mara, Kenya Luxury African Safari

Angama Mara, Kenya

It doesn’t get more Out of Africa than Angama Mara , one of the best luxury safari lodges in Africa whose property—a hilly section of the Ngong Hills on the western outskirts of Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve—appears in the legendary film. Owners Steve and Nicky Fitzgerald picked up some know-how during their time at andBeyond before debuting this new lodge in 2015, setting a new standard for safari lodges everywhere. The two separate camps, with 15 tents each, are as impressive as their views of the Great Rift Valley: think Nairobi-made canvas and Maasai-inspired brickwork, writing desks, floor-to-ceiling windows, and terraces that hang over the Oloololo Escarpment, where giraffe and wildebeest roam.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Kenya hotels

andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Tanzania African Safari Elephant

andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Tanzania

The rim of Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater isn’t the easiest to reach, but safari company andBeyond accepted the challenge, building this luxury lodge right on the caldera’s lip. The result: a gorgeous baroque-style sleep whose every space, from the 30 suites kitted out with Victorian furniture and Persian rugs to the domed dining room, looks out over vast grasslands that stretch all the way to the horizon. Grab your binoculars for a chance to spot zebras and rhinos from the comfort of your own room—just don’t be late for dinner, where white-gloved staff deliver pan-African dishes (duck with kumquat and chili marmalade, perhaps) on silver platters.

RELATED: Are These the Most Scenic Restaurants in the World?

Sunset at African Safari

Singita Boulders Lodge, South Africa

The Singita Sabi Sands Game Reserve possesses one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in all of Kruger National Park. If that’s not enough of a draw, its two lodges are also some of the most luxurious in all of South Africa, if not the continent. Singita Boulders Lodge stands out for its slick contemporary design, 12 free-form pool suites, a spa menu of sumptuous treatments like body polishes and deep-tissue massages, a full gym, and international sommeliers who look after one of South Africa’s premier wine cellars.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all South Africa hotels

Singita Serengeti House, Tanzania

Singita Serengeti House, Tanzania

Think of the Serengeti House as the crown jewel of Singita Grumeti Reserves—a collection of two lodges, two tented camps, and, in the case of Serengeti House, an exclusive-use retreat in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. The satellite lodges earn awards year after year for their levels of luxury and solitude, but Serengeti House takes it a step further for those seeking a true home away from home in the African wild. The four bedrooms sleep eight guests, who have the run of the property’s tennis court, infinity pool, and private horseback safaris led by expert guides. A private vehicle is also on hand for daily excursions. And when you return? A chef, host, and personal staff are there to take care of you through dinner service.

andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lounge, Botswana

andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lounge, Botswana

Luxury safari outfitter andBeyond threw a hefty sum of money into reimagining Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge , and the results are stunning. Elevated, curvaceous wood exteriors (modeled after the body armor of pangolins) blend in seamlessly with the surrounding grasslands, while each of the 12 suites bring the outside indoors with their hide rugs and vanities made from felled tree trunks. Located in a private concession in the heart of the Kalahari Desert, the Okavango Delta is home to a range of animals including lions, elephants, wild dogs, and baboons. Cap off your twice-daily safaris with an in-room massage or, for some alone time, a dip in your private plunge pool.

RELATED: The World's Most Luxurious All-Inclusive Resorts

Tongabezi, Zambia Africa Safari

Tongabezi, Zambia

If you’re looking for luxury in the heart of Zambia, it’s doesn’t get more iconic (or more beautiful) than staying on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. The six houses (including an open-front treehouse) and five rondavel-like cottages of Tongabezi Lodge hug a bend in the river and make great use of the surrounding riverine forest. Private decks extend right over the water, while canopied king beds are built around massive tree trucks. In case this sounds a bit wild, you’re far from roughing it: outdoor claw-foot soaking tubs up the romance, while every room is assigned a local guide who can arrange whatever adventure you so desire, be it a visit to Victoria Falls at night or a candlelit dinner on a san pan boat, where each course is delivered by canoe.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Zambia hotels

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14 Top-Rated Luxury Safari Lodges in South Africa

Written by Becca Blond and Karen Hastings Updated Jan 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Imagine sitting in an open-topped Land Cruiser on a morning safari drive, watching the sun rise beyond a line of elephants clomping their way through the bush. Or falling asleep to the not-so-distant roar of a lion from a mosquito net-draped bed in the most luxurious canvas tent you've ever slept in. Both are experiences you'll likely encounter while staying at one of South Africa's most exclusive luxury safari lodges. These are some of the very best resorts in Africa.

Photographing a lion on safari in South Africa

South Africa has safari lodges in national parks and private reserves scattered across much of the country. But many of the most luxurious lodges are in the private game reserves bordering Kruger National Park , such as Sabi Sands, with abundant wildlife and few other tourists. Expert guides and trackers take you right to the action in open-air safari vehicles, with regular sightings of the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos), as well as an astounding diversity of other wildlife.

Luxury safari lodges are also found in other parts of South Africa including the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve at the edge of the Kalahari Desert in South Africa's northwest on the border with Botswana. The Northern Cape and KwaZulu Natal provinces are also home to fantastic lodges.

Remote and intimate, these exclusive and eco-conscious lodges offer a true small-group luxury wilderness experience, with exceptional service. It's a good idea to split your time between two or more lodges in different areas to maximize the diversity of game viewing. Families will be pleased to learn that many of these camps welcome children.

Note that all of these safari lodges are all-inclusive . Rates include your meals and game drives.

1. Singita Sabi Sand

2. royal malewane, 3. ulusaba rock lodge and safari lodge, 4. singita sweni and lebombo, 5. londolozi, 6. lion sands, 7. jaci's lodges, 8. sabi sabi, 9. &beyond ngala safari lodge, 10. tswalu kalahari reserve, 11. cheetah plains, 12. jamala madikwe, madikwe game reserve, 13. &beyond phinda vlei lodge, 14. shamwari private game reserve.

Photo Source: Singita Boulders Lodge

Bordering Kruger, in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, the oldest of South Africa's private reserves, Singita Sabi Sand oozes safari chic. You can choose from three different luxury lodges here: Boulders, Ebony, and Castleton.

Singita Boulders Lodge , on the banks of the Sand River, is one of the world's best lodges. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows encase each luxurious suite, with decor inspired by the tones and textures of nature. Think rustic elegance, with tribal motifs, stone accents, sculptural tree trunk supports, and open-air rooms that bring the outdoors in.

Equally elegant, Singita Ebony Lodge has a tented camp feel with exposed thatch roofs and beige canvas accents. Each of the 12 suites here come with their own private plunge pool, and the two-bedroom suites are perfect for families.

Overlooking a water hole, Singita Castleton recalls a country farmhouse with communal living areas, albeit one with a swimming pool, tennis courts, and spa treatment rooms. Guests here sleep in separate cottages sprinkled around the grounds, and children of all ages are welcome.

The property covers 45,000 acres of wilderness with a high concentration of game, including the Big Five, and frequent close-up leopard sightings.

As well as the twice daily game drives, the lodge offers mountain biking safaris, walking safaris, visits to local villages, and archery for those so inclined. A fitness center with beautiful bush views is also on-site.

Photo Source: Royal Malewane

In Thornybush Game Reserve, bordering Kruger National Park, Royal Malewane is not only one of South Africa's best safari lodges, it's one of the top all-inclusive resorts in the world .

A classic old-world feel sets the scene here for a safari that could come right out of Hemingway's journal. Animals roam freely around camp, and this particular reserve, north of Sabi Sand, is known for its spectacular game viewing and abundance of lions.

Decorated in an eclectic colonial style, the eight air-conditioned suites (including two separate two-bedroom Royal Suites ) exude a seemingly effortless elegance. Jewel-toned oriental rugs cloak the floors, thatch peeks out between ceiling beams, private plunge pools beckon on expansive decks with views over the bush (and sometimes visiting elephants), and you can wash off the African dust in private open-air showers.

Africa House, a six-bedroom, exclusive-use villa with a private chef, is also available for families and groups.

Expert teams of trackers and guides scour the bush to bring you Big Five action. When you're not watching animals, you can enjoy a pampering treatment at the award-winning bush spa , or work out at the fully equipped gym.

Many guests like to combine a stay here with one of the lodges farther south, such as Singita Boulders Lodge, but book as early as possible, as Royal Malewane often fills up a year in advance.

Children aged 10 years and older are welcome in the luxury suites, and children of all ages are welcome in the Royal Suites and Africa House.

Accommodation: Royal Malewane

Photo Source: Ulusaba Rock Lodge

Owned by Sir Richard Branson, Ulusaba Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge lie in spectacular locations at the Western end of Sabi Sand. Game viewing is excellent, with all the Big Five in abundance, as well as wild dog, baboons, impala, cheetah, and many species of birds.

Ulusaba offers unique accommodations in two dramatic settings: Ulusaba Rock Lodge sits high atop a koppie (rocky peak), with breathtaking views over the sweeping wilderness below. Its conical, thatched roofs jutting up from the peak of the koppie evoke a whimsical African-style palace.

Each of the eight rooms is uniquely decorated with textural tribal elements and natural materials, and some are split between multiple levels and come with their own private infinity pools. Rock Lodge also includes deluxe Cliff Lodge suites , which are ideal for families. Book them both, and you score your own private chef, safari vehicle, spa, and gym.

Ulusaba Safari Lodge nestles in a canopy of trees on a dry riverbank, where a parade of animals wanders past to drink at a nearby waterhole. At Safari Lodge, some of the rooms are built like treehouses, perched high on stilts among the leaves. Rope swing bridges connect some of the rooms to the common areas, creating a sense of adventure as soon as you step out the door.

Spa treatments, tennis, workouts at the gym, and pool time fills the post-safari hours. Guided walking safaris are also available, and guests with a social conscience also have the option of volunteering at local schools and villages.

Children aged 12 years and older are welcome at Safari Lodge, and kids of all ages are welcome at Rock Lodge.

Photo Source: Singita Lebombo Lodge

Near the border with Mozambique, Singita Sweni Lodge and Singita Lebombo Lodge are, like their sister lodges in Sabi Sand, eco-sensitive and extraordinarily beautiful.

The lodges occupy a 33,000-acre exclusive concession on the southeastern side of Kruger National Park, meaning the density of guests here is extremely low. The area spans four different ecological zones, creating fantastic opportunities for diverse game viewing. All the Big Five are in abundance, as well as four big prides of lion.

The two lodges here occupy spectacular locations. Suspended in the canopy along the Sweni River, Singita Sweni Lodge is a series of light-filled luxury treehouses wrapped in glass for prime viewing of the animals along the river below. The interior tones and textures blend seamlessly with the environment, and expansive decks jut out into the wilderness. The main lodge includes an inviting pool, spa, gym, and the Singita Boutique & Gallery.

Perched on a mountain above the N'Wanetsi River, and inspired by the eagles' nests found up high here, Singita Lebombo Lodge overlooks the magnificent wilderness below. It has a contemporary yet textural and earthy feel and offers 13 open-plan suites and a fully-staffed villa on the riverbank. Perfect for groups, the villa comes with two interlinked two-bedroom suites that share a pool and kitchen.

Other highlights at Lebombo include a panoramic roof terrace with a library, an espresso bar, help-yourself deli, inviting pool, and expansive indoor/outdoor decks.

As with all of Singita's lodges, conservation is paramount, and the company strives to leave the lightest possible footprint on the Earth. Children 10 years and older are welcome.

Photo Source: Londolozi Private Granite Suites

Set along the Sand River in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, family-run Londolozi has welcomed guests for almost a century and is one of the most famous safari lodges in South Africa. It lies within the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park, a wilderness area of six million acres that also incorporates Kruger National Park.

White rhino and lion live here in some of the highest concentrations found anywhere in Africa, but Londolozi is best known for its leopards, one of Africa's most elusive predators. Londolozi is a Zulu word meaning, "protector of all living things," so it's not surprising that conservation is a focus here, with features like open-air, electric safari vehicles.

You can choose between five different camps, all of which boast prestigious Relais & Châteaux status. The adults-only Londolozi Private Granite Suites is the most luxurious, while Londolozi Tree Camp and the nostalgic and romantic Londolozi Pioneer Camp are not far behind. Stylish decor, abundant glass, large living rooms, spa-like baths, and private heated plunge pools, are typical features.

Londolozi Founders Camp , along the banks of the Sand River, and the venerable Londolozi Varty Camp are larger and more family-orientated with features like thatched roof bungalows, interlinked "skywalk" rooms, and private outdoor pools.

Besides game drives, other activities available here include walking safaris, yoga classes, massage therapies, and workouts at the fitness center.

Both of these camps, as well as Pioneer Camp, welcome children six years and older.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Londolozi

Photo Source: Lion Sands Ivory Lodge

The only lodge with access to the perennial Sabie River, Lion Sands, in the Sabi Sand game reserve, offers a collection of sumptuous safari lodges, each with its own inspiration and style.

Game viewing is excellent in this game-rich area, and the lodge boasts one of only four master trackers in the world to help you find the best sightings.

A unique feature at Lion Sands is the opportunity for guests at the lodges to combine their visit with a romantic overnight stay, sleeping under the stars in one of their luxurious treehouses . Guests snuggle up in plush four-poster canopied beds on towers raised high above the wilderness.

Each of the luxurious Lion Sands lodges has a unique personality, from organic chic to mid-century modern, so you can choose a lodge that matches your style.

Lion Sands River Lodge is the largest, with 20 thatched rooms dressed in soothing textures and tones of creme and white.

Overlooking the Sabie River, the villas of Ivory Lodge are grounded in an eco-minded, mid-century-modern aesthetic, incorporating tribal touches and natural materials such as thatch, steel, wood, and sand. Light streams in through the walls of glass, and the two-bedroom Fish Eagle suite comes with its own private Land Rover, pool, spa, and gym.

Tinga Lodge on the Sabie River has a "contemporary colonial" theme, and Narina Lodge has a treehouse feel, with nine villas suspended high in the canopy and linked by raised walkways.

Typical features at all the lodges include personal butlers; luxury bathrooms, some with outdoor showers; sitting areas with fireplaces; and private pools.

Post-game-drive activities include pampering treatments at the Africology Spa, helicopter rides over the Blyde River Canyon, and trips to Hippo Pools.

Children aged 10 years and older are welcome here, but only select lodges offer babysitting services.

A Safari Lodge at Jaci's Lodges

Jaci's Lodges in the spectacular Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa's North-West Province are a collection of family-owned boutique properties that offer guests an intimate, highly personalized safari experience. Madikwe, which sits on the border with Botswana and the edge of the Kalahari in a malaria-free area, is known for its thriving wild dog population.

The second most endangered carnivore in Africa after Ethiopian wolves, seeing a wild dog on safari is a rare experience anywhere else in South Africa. But in Madikwe there are three hunting packs roaming the park, and it's not uncommon to see these enigmatic pups here.

A bathtub at Jaci's Lodges

If you don't have a DSLR camera with a wildlife photography-sized lens, don't worry. You can still capture the wild dogs and all the other animals (the park also has healthy lion and rhino populations) you see in crisp, close-ups by renting a Nikon from Jaci's for the duration of your trip (highly recommended).

Jaci's is comprised of two adjacent camps, each offering a slightly different sleeping experience .

At Jaci's Safari Lodge , there are six tented suites, including two that are suitable for a family or a small group of friends. The tents have thatched roofs, hardwood floors, and canvas side panels that can be completely rolled up. The interior design features bright African colors and patterns as well as bathrooms with soaking tubs and indoor and outdoor showers.

Starbed Suite at Jaci's Lodges

There are also two Starbed Suites at this camp. The lodge's newest builds, these have a more contemporary look and are a good choice for people who want to sleep within walls instead of the more exposed canvas tents. The suites are two-level affairs with the second level being an open-air rooftop deck where you can sleep in a proper king-sized bed under the stars.

Rooftop bed with the Starbed Suite

Downstairs you'll find a second king bed in case you prefer sleeping indoors (or it rains). The Starbed Suites are especially popular with honeymooners and couples on romantic getaways .

Jaci's Tree Lodge is the adjacent property. Here you'll find eight treehouse suites built on stilts and connected by elevated walkways that offer fabulous views of the surrounding forest and glimpses of the Marico River. Guests here also have access to a hide for photographing animals without their knowledge and a public treehouse space with a hot tub facing an active waterhole.

Photo Source: Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

As the name suggests, Sabi Sabi is also in the Sabi Sand game reserve, abutting the southwestern border of Kruger National Park. This area is famous for its diversity and density of wildlife, including the Big Five and up to 350 species of birds.

Each of the four separate lodges here exudes its own personality. Steeped in colonial charm, Sabi Sabi Selati Camp is the most romantic, with a style inspired by the movie, Out of Africa .

Family-friendly Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge and Little Bush Camp are more contemporary in feel. Bush Lodge has a children's center and spa, and at the intimate Little Bush Camp , each room comes with a private terrace and hot tub.

True to its name, the more minimalistic Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge has won accolades for its environmentally-sensitive design. It blends effortlessly with the surrounding landscapes, with plenty of neutral tones and sleek lines. All the lodges come with swimming pools, but Earth Lodge suites come with private plunge pools, and the lodge has its own library, art gallery, meditation garden, and spa.

Day and night safaris are available here, as well as walking safaris with experienced guides and trackers.

Children are welcome, though only those older than six years are allowed on game drives unless a private vehicle is reserved.

Photo Source: &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge

On a private game reserve inside Kruger National Park , &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge offers superb Big 5 game-viewing and warm and welcoming staff members who treat guests like family.

Nostalgic safari elegance sets the tone in the 20 thatched-roof cottages. Bush views bleed into the interiors through floor-to-ceiling windows, and private verandahs offer popular spots to watch the passing parade of animals. Still can't tear yourself away from the wilderness views? Every room comes with an alfresco shower.

Families are welcome and are comfortably accommodated in three spacious cottages with interconnecting rooms, as well as in a family suite with a private swimming pool. Interactive kid-focused activities and childcare also provide parents with some alone time.

Besides twice-daily game drives and walking safaris, guests here can relax with a spa treatment; paddle in the pool; or sign up for a conservation experience, working directly with some of the wildlife.

Honeymooners should opt for a romantic evening in the magical Ngala Treehouse .

Eco-conscious guests will be pleased to know that &Beyond works collaboratively with local groups and communities on conservation initiatives and sustainable business practices.

Accommodation: &Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge

Photo Source: The Motse

Covering 1,000 square kilometers in the less-visited Kalahari region, family-friendly Tswalu is the largest private game reserve in South Africa. Conservation is key here, and the owners' mission is to restore newly acquired lands back to their natural existence and fund multiple conservation and community-minded projects.

Hauntingly beautiful landscapes of red sand, golden grass, and wind-sculpted acacia trees characterize this region, and the wildlife is uniquely adapted to the harsh environment. Among the many animals here are the magnificent black-maned Kalahari lion, endangered desert black rhino, meerkats, sable and roan antelopes, wild dogs, porcupines, aardvarks, aardwolves, honey badgers, and cheetah.

Safaris are tailored to each individual party, with no set schedule. Best of all, this lodge lies in a year-round malaria-free zone .

Adorned with natural earthy materials and an abundance of textural elements, the freestanding thatched villas blend beautifully with their surrounding environment. You can choose from two locations: The Motse , a "village" of nine air-conditioned luxury suites overlooking a waterhole at the foot of the Korannaberg Mountains, and Tarkuni , the owners' family home, with five impeccably furnished suites, a pool, personal host, and a private five-star chef.

At Motse , the cottages mix modern comforts with an African feel. Thatched roofs and walls of stone, red clay, and desert sand echo the surrounding environment. Other features include spacious bedrooms with open fireplaces, indoor/outdoor showers, and large decks with sweeping vistas of the vast desert. Three two-bedrooms cottages, are perfect for families, with large living rooms and two bathrooms.

At the communal area here, you can take a dip in the infinity pool, curl up with a book from the library, or enjoy a relaxing spa treatment. Other things to do include hikes to nearby attractions such as ancient rock art; horseback safaris; and sleeping under the stars at The Malori, a raised platform with weather-proof blinds.

Tswalu hosts children of all ages, and offers a nanny service and Junior Ranger program to keep the little ones engaged.

Staying at Tswalu, with its contrasting landscapes and unique species of wildlife found only in this region, is a great complement to visiting the lodges near Kruger National Park.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Tswalu Kalahari Reserve

Photo Source: Cheetah Plains

In Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Cheetah Plains offers a sustainable, ultra-luxe safari experience catering to multi-gen families or groups of friends . This is the lodge to book if you want a very private and personalized holiday. There are just eight elegant sleek villas, each of which can accommodate up to eight people in four bedrooms and must be rented exclusively regardless of your group size .

These villas have a modern look with lots of glass window walls that are far removed from the canvas-tented camp vibe found at many lodges. All are luxuriously appointed with curated art collections, a chef's kitchen, indoor and outdoor living and dining spaces, and a private swimming pool on a large deck.

You'll be assigned a personal hospitality team upon check-in. This includes a personal chef, spa therapist, and expert guide and tracker that will be dedicated to your villa for the length of your stay, allowing for an extremely personalized experience.

Cheetah Plains also prides itself on being carbon-negative. Your twice daily game drives take place in electric Land Cruisers for a completely silent ride.

Photo Source: Jamala Madikwe

Set around a game-rich waterhole in South Africa's North West Province, Jamala Madikwe is known for its superb wildlife viewing, luxurious lodgings, and friendly staff.

It lies in the Madikwe Game Reserve , a malaria-free area along the Botswana border that once consisted mainly of cattle farms before it was transformed into a wildlife reserve in the early 90s.

Today, the reserve supports an incredible diversity of species due to the fact that it lies in an ecological transition zone, between the Kalahari and lowveld wilderness. Game drives regularly bring sightings of the Big Five, as well as brown hyena, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, oryx, African wild dogs, and even the rare aardwolf.

Best of all, the lodge's orientation around the waterhole means you can enjoy a "Sofa Safari" here and watch all the action from the villas and common areas, without even leaving the camp.

Accommodation is in five air-conditioned, freestanding villas that blend a colonial feel with African artifacts. Typical features include four-poster netted beds, crisp linens, outdoor showers, spa-like indoor bathrooms, living rooms with fireplaces, dining areas, and expansive decks with rim-flow plunge pools.

When you're not out on game drives, you can enjoy a luxury treatment at the Royal Spa, look for wildlife from the watchtower perched above the waterhole, or relax at the main lodge with a book from the library.

Accommodation: Jamala Madikwe

Photo Source: &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge

In South Africa's diverse northeastern province of Kwazulu Natal, family-friendly &Beyond Phinda offers a winning combination of private and spacious villas, superb service, and fantastic Big Five game viewing. Cheetah and antelopes such as nyala are also plentiful here. This is one of several &Beyond lodges in Phinda Reserve, an area of rehabilitated farmland now brimming with wildlife.

Tucked amid trees on the edge of a vlei (wetland), the six freestanding thatched villas at &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge could easily be at home in Bali if it weren't for the parade of African animals wandering past.

Louvered windows and large glass doors slide open to create seamless indoor/outdoor living areas, and each villa has a sitting room with a fireplace and a rambling deck with a private plunge pool. Elephants sometimes come to drink from the pools, and antelope graze on the lush grass.

Walking safaris and river cruises are other fun ways to explore the wilderness.

One of the bonuses about choosing a safari at this lodge is that you can complement your bush experience with several day trip adventures, such as a scuba safari at Sodwana Bay, about an hour's drive away; swimming with whale sharks; a Zulu village tour; black rhino tracking; and visits to an endangered wild cats project.

Kids are welcome, and the lodge offers a fun children's program and special family safaris tailored to the ages of each child.

Accommodation: &Beyond Phinda Vlei Lodge

Photo Source: Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Considered one of South Africa's most successful private conservation initiatives, Shamwari Private Game Reserve is a favorite with celebrities and has hosted everyone from Brad Pitt to John Travolta and Tiger Woods.

Away from the main safari areas, it is located off the N2 in a malaria-free area of the Eastern Cape between the cities of Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown. It can be reached easily by private vehicle with just 7 kilometers of driving on a gravel road. If you prefer to arrive by plane, there is also a private airstrip.

One of South Africa's largest private game reserves, it is home to the Big Five as well as cheetah. The reserve hosts six luxury lodges , each of which offers a different style. Long Lee Manor is a newly redesigned lodge with elegant Edwardian-styled suites and a beautiful rim-flow swimming pool.

Sindile is Shamwari's newest luxury tented camp in a secluded locale. It has nine very posh, free-standing tents elevated above the surrounding bush that offer stunning views and dark night skies for stargazing. These tents are designed to leave as minimal of an environmental footprint as possible.

For something even more adventurous book Explorer Camp. Open only during the summer season (between October and May), the wilderness bush camp is located on a granite and basalt plateau and has lodging in tents that truly make you feel you are staying in the bush – expect to hear lots of animal sounds at night (the camp is, however, discreetly fenced for safety). Guests staying here do guided walking safaris that allow you to get up close and personal with wildlife.

Whichever accommodation you choose, expect twice-daily game drives led by guide and tracker teams that will get you very close to the animals. There are also spa treatments (extra fee) available at many of the lodges.

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Top 10 most luxurious safari lodges in South Africa

Monday newsletters  always feature  top 10 travel lists  to inspire.

Today: Top 10 most luxurious safari lodges in South Africa

Whether you are a safari virgin hoping to catch your first glimpse of the Big Five or a safari aficionado with a specific sighting in mind, South Africa will rarely disappoint. Although the country is a year-round destination, the extended Southern African winter (April to October) is the best time for a safari, because the shrinking vegetation and wildlife converging on waterholes make for better sightings.  Kruger Park is South Africa’s most famous safari destination and even allows visitors to hop around in their own car, although spotting the Big Five on a self-drive safari involves a lot of luck. South Africa’s private game reserves – such as Sabi Sand – offer a far more superior safari experience though since there are no restrictions on access or driving times, only specialized safari vehicles with guides are permitted (and they can go off-road in search of the wildlife) and a maximum of two vehicles at a time are permitted on a single sighting, allowing fantastic photographic opportunities. On top of that, the private fame reserves offer exeptional accommodation that matches the exceptional wildlife experience. Here’s my selection of the 10 best ultra-luxury safari-lodges in South Africa.

There is more information (with reviews & Youtube videos) below the slide show. Think I missed one? Share your favorite South African safari lodge in the comments section .

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10. KRUGER SHALATI – THE TRAIN ON THE BRIDGE, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

Permanently stationed on the historically-rich Selati Bridge above the Sabie River in Kruger National Park, Kruger Shalati offers the most unique luxury accommodation in a re-envisioned train which pays homage to the guests who explored the park nearly 100 years ago. The train celebrates where the first visits to the iconic park were allowed in the early 1920s: the train would park overnight in the exact spot where Kruger Shalati is positioned. The hotel offers 31 rooms, consisting of 24 carriage rooms and 7 Bridge House rooms, all of which provide a deeply visceral experience, tailored for immersive comfort. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure, an enthralling break or to simply immerse yourself in earth’s finest creations, Kruger Shalati welcomes you on a journey of discovery with nature in the most extraordinary way imaginable.

  • Hotel website : Kruger Shalati – The Train on the Bridge
  • Review : read my review of Kruger Shalati here .

9. ULUSABA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, SABI SAND

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, member of Virgin Limited Edition’s award-winning collection of retreats, is Sir Richard Branson’s safari lodge located in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. Ulusaba means “place of little fear”, so named because the koppie, or hill, on which Rock Lodge sits provided the ancient Shangaan tribal warriors with the perfect lookout point. Ulusaba has 20 rooms and suites spread over two lodges: Rock Lodge, including the beautiful Cliff Lodge, and Safari Lodge. Rock Lodge has the best view in the Sabi Sand: perched high on the summit of a koppie, with panoramic views over miles of bush, you should grab a pair of binoculars to see what you can spot. Ulusaba’s other resort, Safari Lodge, is built along the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed and some of the rooms are built treehouse-style and you really get the feeling of being in the heart of life in the bush. Safari Lodge’s rooms provide fascinating views of the animals as they stroll past on their way to the nearby watering hole.

  • Hotel website: Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
  • Travel tip : get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD gift shop or spa credit).

ULUSABA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, MPUMALANGA

  8. THANDA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, KWAZULU NATAL

With a name that means “love” in isiZulu, Thanda Safari offers an authentically South African wildlife experience matched with sincere commitment to the Zulu culture and passionate conservation of the environment. Located in northern Zululand in KwaZulu Natal, Thanda is home to abundant wildlife, including Africa’s magnificent Big Five. Visitors spend their days on game drives or bush walks and are encouraged to engage in a selection of conservation and cultural programs. Evenings are reserved for fine dining, enjoying wines from the well-stocked cellar, relaxing around the bonfire and star gazing. The luxurious accommodations range from Thanda’s flagship product, Thanda Safari Lodge, which encompasses 9 bush suites, to the exclusive-use Villa iZulu and the ruggedly elegant and utterly romantic Thanda Tented Camp, comprising 15 luxury tents.

  • Hotel website : Thanda Private Game Reserve

THANDA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, KWAZULU NATAL

7. KAPAMA KARULA, KAPAMA GAME RESERVE

Set on the banks of the perennial Klaserie River, Kapama Karula is the flagship five-star lodge of Kapama Game Reserve. Meaning ‘place of peace’, this ultra-luxurious and prestigious lodge exudes calmness and depicts the pinnacle of elegant safari accommodation, with wraparound views of the African bush enhancing the overall sense of tranquillity. Modern whitewashed wood and vast sections of glass, complemented by a neutral colour palette, give Kapama Karula a contemporary African feel. The open-plan lounge and bar are spacious yet cosy, with skylights drawing in natural daylight and moonshine. Kapama Karula has twelve suites, each exquisitely decorated and with generous private space. Each suite has its own outside deck area, full-sized heated swimming pool and sun loungers for relaxation.

  • Hotel website :  Kapama Karula
  • Review : read my review of Kapama Karula here .

6. TSWALU KALAHARI, NORTHERN CAPE

Tswalu Kalahari is South Africa’s largest and most remotely loctaed private game reserve, now protecting over 110,000 hectares of spectacular grasslands and mountains. The owners, the Oppenheimer family, take conservation as their absolute priority and have a vision to “restore the Kalahari to itself.” No more than 30 guests at a time can discover the beauty of this arid savannah, its diverse wildlife and the serenity of what may well be South Africa’s last great wilderness. You can choose to stay at either Tswalu Kalahari’s main property, designated “The Motse”; the nearby personal home of the Oppenheimer family, so-called “Tarkuni”; or one of Loapi’s six ultra-luxury tented homes. At all three camps, a private safari vehicle, guide and tracker is guaranteed with each booking. The total number of beds across the three camps represents the lowest ratio of guests to space in a privately protected area in South Africa.

  • Hotel website :  Tswalu Kalahari

TSWALU KALAHARI

5. ROYAL MALEWANE, THORNYBUSH PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Royal Malewane is a luxury safari lodge with only seven one- to six-bedroom villas, located in Thornybush private game reserve on the western border of the Kruger National Park. The lodge, which has Bill Gates, Bono and Elton John among its repeat guests, exudes the romance and beauty of a bygone age while offering every modern comfort and convenience. Besides exhiliriating Big Five safaris, guests can also indulge in relaxing treatments at the tranquil waters of Royal Malewane’s bush spa and enjoy nightly feasts under the African stars. Royal Malewane also operates two other luxury lodges within the same private game reserve – Farmstead and Waterside, each one embodying an exquisite vision of contemporary design and ultimate hospitality.

  • Hotel website :  Royal Malewane
  • Travel tip : get complimentary VIP perks when booking via Virtuoso (e.g. room upgrade, daily breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, and $100 USD gift from Royal Malewane).
  • Review : read my review of Royal Malewane here .

4. LONDOLOZI GAME RESERVE, SABI SAND

Londolozi Game Reserve, Member of Relais & Châteaux, is one of the original safari camps in South Africa. Four generations of family-run hospitality and 40 years of experience hosting ecotourism have culminated in an entirely unique and transcendent bushveld experience for the discerning guest. Guests can choose from one of four small camps or stay in one of just three exclusive Private Granite Suites, each built with nature in mind and designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding habitat. Londolozi offers some of the most spectacular game viewing in an ideal setting, with the some of the highest densities of wild leopards in the world. The Londolozi Healing House experience also offers guests to combine the core safari excursions with artful resting, curated bodywork and yoga in the surrounds of the expansive wilderness presence of Londolozi.

  • Hotel website : Private Granite Suites

LONDOLOZI GAME RESERVE, SABI SAND

3. SINGITA LEBOMBO LODGE, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

Singita Lebombo Lodge is a celebration of cutting-edge design in an African context where everything defers to nature. This dramatic lodge comprises 13 suites and one villa that give guests a front row seat to the Kruger National Park with bold, contemporary open plan suites suspended above the N’Wanetsi River. The exclusive concession is a richly diverse habitat, teeming with game, beneath endless African skies. Other highlights of the lodge include a roof terrace and wine studio (a multi-level retreat which boasts a library, multi-media room, wine studio and rooftop viewing area), an interactive kitchen, and a lovely lap pool. All communal areas of the lodge have been pushed out to ensure that the outside bursts in, offering elegant, calm and meditative spaces immersed in a dramatic landscape of giant euphorbia trees.

  • Hotel website :  Singita Lebombo Lodge

SINGITA LEBOMBO LODGE, KRUGER NP

2. IVORY LODGE LION SANDS, SABI SAND

Set along the banks of the Sabie River and attracting abundant “big five” wildlife from Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park, Lion Sands has four luxurious lodges: River Lodge, Ivory Lodge, Tinga Lodge, and Narina Lodge. Ivory Lodge, which was complety renovated in 2017, is the understated jewel in the Lion Sands crown and the most exclusive safari lodge of South Africa. The ultra-luxe lodge is all about elegance, with an aura of sophistication yet simplicity, boldness yet balance, ebony and ivory, perfect harmony, exclusivity, sensitivity and complete privacy. The 8 one-bedroom Villas and 1 two-bedroom Fish Eagle Villa have their own private rim flow plunge pools with magnificent views over the Sabie River, allowing guests to cool down from the hot African sun while watching animals as they quench their thirst a mere stone’s throw away.

  • Hotel website :  Ivory Lodge Lion Sands
  • Other accolades : Ivory Lodge Lion Sands also features in my top 10 lists of the  world’s most amazing outdoor hotel rooms , the world’s best honeymoon resorts , the  best hotels in South Africa , and Africa’s most insanely beautiful safari lodges .
  • Review : read my review of Lion Sands Ivory Lodge here .

1. &BEYOND TENGILE RIVER LODGE, SABI SAND

Situated in a perfect position on the banks of the Sand River – in the heart of the world-famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve – lies &Beyond Tengile River Lodge. The magnificent lodge features nine enormous, air-conditioned, secluded suites, dotted in the dappled shade of the bushveld, each with panoramic river views. In addition to a master bedroom, bathroom and outdoor shower, there is a lounge, dining area, fully-stocked bar, coffee station, and an outdoor deck with private lap pool. For families, two of the lodge’s suites are joined by a covered walkway to create a family suite. The lodge’s guest area offers a mixed selection of open, interactive and private places.  Bespoke furniture, lights and unique décor pieces have been created from skilled local artists and striking fabrics have been masterfully hand-painted.

  • Hotel website : &Beyond Tengile River Lodge
  • Review : read my review of &Beyond Tengile River Lodge here .

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Ulusaba where we’re going is listed in top 10

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Oh wow, these places look incredible. I’ve actually visited the Leopard Hills lodge before with my partner a few years ago. This made us to want to book another safari for our 11th anniversary. Last week, we booked a trip to the Mateya Safari Lodge via a luxury travel company called Berkeley Travel. This is where we are staying: http://www.berkeleytravel.co.uk/resorts/mateya-safari-lodge/ – Has anyone booked with them before? I’ve heard really good things so I hope it lives up to its expectations. Thank you everyone. – Evie

I’ve been to them all but the best is Tintswalo Safari Lodge http://tintswalo.com/safari/

I’ve never been to a safari before but these places sound like a dream 😌

Can’t believe Singita Boulders didn’t make the list. We loved Lebombo for the rugged safari experience but believe Boulders had the edge for the lodge product.

Thanda is definitelty the best Safari Lodge in South Africa!

This is definitely the best list. Check out Monwana Game Lodge in Thornybush. I believe it is also one of the best in South Africa.

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The best luxury travel destinations you can visit in 2024, according to experts

  • Luxury travel options are in abundance, but travel experts recommend just a handful. 
  • Experts Julia Carter and Jan Luescher shared their top six destinations for 2024.
  • They suggested staying in a safari lodge in South Africa or taking a cruise to Norway.

Insider Today

When it comes to luxury travel, there are an unlimited number of possibilities — but that might just be the problem.

In the era of panoramic train journeys, "air cruises" — and actual cruises — there are many unique options that can be difficult to narrow down.

Business Insider spoke to travel experts Julia Carter and Jan Luescher, who shared their top six luxury travel destinations you should be looking at in 2024.

Carter is the founder of Craft Travel , a travel company that focuses on "luxury adventures worldwide," according to its website. Luescher is the chief executive officer of the luxury travel-focused social network  A Small World.

Try a wellness safari lodge in South Africa.

best african safari resort

South Africa is a sought-after location because of a recent influx of private safari lodges, according to Carter.

Carter recommends Kateka Lodge, a wellness safari resort in Kruger National Park that opened in September 2023. The resort offers spa treatments, yoga, and a plunge pool. The rate for an overnight stay for one person begins at 28,800 South African Rand, or around $1,511, according to its website.

Tswalu's Loapi Tented Camp is another great option, Carter said. The luxury safari camp offers horse riding, bird watching, and there's also a fine-dining restaurant led by Michelin star chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. The rate for an overnight stay begins at 46,700 South African Rand, or around $2,451 per person, the website states.

If nature isn't your thing, visit Cape Town for its luxury hotels and food scene.

best african safari resort

If you want to experience South Africa but are more of a city person, Carter suggests visiting Cape Town, the country's capital, known for its five-star hotels and fine-dining restaurants.

She recommends the Cape Grace, a five-star hotel adjacent to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront for accommodation. The hotel was praised for its "historic naval character" and flamboyant decor in The Telegraph's roundup of Cape Town's best waterfront hotels in 2017.

When it comes to food, Carter recommends fine-dining restaurant chain La Colombe and FYN, which is known for its Asian and French-inspired menu. Both were named in the World's Best 100 Restaurants in 2023.

Take a private tour of the breathtaking scenery in Argentina.

best african safari resort

Carter said Argentina is "easily one of the best" luxury travel destinations for 2024 because of its 5-star accommodation and outdoor attractions.

She recommends staying in Awasi Iguazu, a collection of 14 private villas surrounded by the Atlantic Rainforest. Each villa has a private terrace, a plunge pool, and access to a private guide for trips to the nearby Iguazu Falls, the largest broken waterfall in the world.

"The powerful chain of waterfalls is incredible to see, comprising 275 cascades that spread across a three-mile-long gulf and surrounded by a flourishing subtropical rainforest home to over 2,000 species of vascular plants, vibrant bird species such as parrots, toucans, and mammals like tapirs and howler monkeys," Carter said.

Prices for an overnight stay begin at $2,300 per villa, and there is a three-night minimum stay, according to Awasi Iguazu's website.

French Polynesia is an uncrowded alternative to Hawaii.

best african safari resort

Luescher said French Polynesia is one of the best luxury destinations for 2024 because it's underrated and uncrowded.

Luescher describes the region, which consists of five archipelagos and 118 islands, as a "completely unspoiled" alternative to Hawaii due to its dazzling coastline and luxury accommodation options.

Luescher recommends staying in an overwater bungalow. Although he didn't specify a specific resort, the island has many options, including the overwater villas at Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts and the Four Seasons , which offers overwater and beachfront villas.

Luescher said Norwegian cruises will be popular in 2024.

best african safari resort

Luescher said cruise-lovers should consider taking their next voyage around Norway .

The Scandinavian country is known for its UNESCO-protected fjords, frozen glaciers, and beautiful forests — and you can see it all from the comfort of a luxury vessel.

Norway has become a popular destination for cruise itineraries in recent years, with some voyages dedicated entirely to the country. British cruise line P&O and luxury cruise operators Cunard and Silversea offer voyages to Norway in 2024.

Madagascar is another under-the-radar destination for wildlife spotting.

best african safari resort

Luesche said Madagascar is fantastic for wildlife spotting, making it an under-the-radar alternative to Costa Rica.

"In fact, it is home to a wealth of animals that you will not find anywhere else on Earth, including lemur species, chameleons, Tenrecs, fossas, and giant chameleons," Luescher said.

"In terms of accommodation, there is a wealth of ultra-luxury lodges and hotels," Luescher added.

best african safari resort

  • Main content
  • Eastern Africa
  • Northern Africa
  • Southern Africa
  • Western Africa

See Africa Today

12 Best African Resorts For Family Vacation

best african safari resorts for families

Nothing beats the experience of the best African safari resorts for families. For the lucky ones to visit Africa as a family, all they have is a beautiful tale of the continent.

It is this charm that brought some of the best footballers in Europe here for vacation during their summer break. Among those who vacationed in various African destinations include Sergio Busquets , the former Captain of FC Barcelona who vacationed in Kenya. Others include PSG Star Mauro Icardi flanked by his wife Wanda Nara. Last but not least is PSG midfielder Ander Herrera who flew to Tanzania for a holiday accompanied by his wife Isabel Collado.

Essentially, Africa gives you extraordinary destinations fused with luxury and unlimited greatness to wilderness experience and much more. With a harmonious blend of relaxation, excitement, and natural wonder, the best African safari resorts for families will always give you unforgettable memories.

Table of Contents

Where Is The Best Place To Go For A Family Safari In Africa?

Every corner of Africa has an enchanting resort for your family. However, some African countries have better family-oriented resorts than others; therefore they have a higher reputation. They include the following.

Singita Sasakwa Lodge, Tanzania

best african safari resorts for families

Singita Sasakwa Lodge in Serengeti National Park. Photo/Robb Report

Located in the heart of the Serengeti, this lodge offers luxurious accommodations and a dedicated family villa. Families can enjoy game drives and walks in the Serengeti plains, as well as educational programs for kids.

Londolozi Game Reserve, South Africa

Known for its exceptional leopard sightings, Londolozi provides family-friendly accommodations and tailor-made activities. The Cubs Den program engages children in wildlife experiences, making it a great choice for families.

Lewa Wilderness, Kenya

Situated within the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Lewa Wilderness tops among the best African safari resorts for families. This resort offers family cottages and a wide range of activities such as horseback riding, camel treks, and visits to a local school, providing an immersive experience for all ages.

Chobe Game Lodge, Botswana

best resorts in Africa

Chobe Game Lodge. Photo/TripAdvisor

Set on the Chobe River, this lodge presents diverse wildlife experiences, including boat safaris and game drives. The family-friendly atmosphere includes spacious accommodations and child-focused activities.

MalaMala Game Reserve, South Africa

Renowned for its wildlife density, MalaMala offers a family-friendly camp with interconnected rooms. Experienced guides ensure both children and adults have an enriching safari experience.

Saruni Samburu, Kenya

With its “Warrior for a Week” program, Saruni Samburu invites families to bond with the Samburu tribe and engage in conservation efforts. The lodge’s family villas offer comfort and captivating views.

Madikwe Safari Lodge, South Africa

Catering to families, this lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve provides family suites and tailored activities like bush orientation and bug CSI. Kids are entertained by the Eco House program.

&Beyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge, Botswana

Nestled in the Okavango Delta, this lodge offers family-friendly suites and a WILDChild program, focusing on interactive and educational activities for young explorers.

Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, South Africa

Family-friendly suites and the EleFun Centre await at this lodge. Children engage in bushveld activities and wildlife-themed crafts, while parents enjoy luxury and relaxation.

Ol Pejeta Bush Camp, Kenya

Situated within Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia , this camp offers a unique experience with activities such as lion tracking and visits to a chimpanzee sanctuary . Family tents provide comfort in the midst of nature which characterizes the geographical setting of Laikipia County.

Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Tanzania

best luxury safari lodges in Serengeti

Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti. Photo/Micato Safaris

This is a luxurious lodge located in the Serengeti National Park. It offers stunning views of the savannah, as well as a variety of family-friendly activities, such as game drives, hot air balloon rides, and bush walks.

Madikwe Safari Lodge in South Africa

It is a luxurious lodge set in a 75,000-hectare game reserve in South Africa. Madikwe offers spacious suites with private plunge pools, as well as a variety of family-friendly activities, such as game drives, bush walks, and swimming.

Where Is The Best Place To Go On A Safari With Kids?

Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, South Africa, Ghana, Senegal, The Gambia , Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Morocco, and Egypt have the best African safari resorts for families. These resorts are kids-friendly and they feature some of the best holiday programs for children when on holiday. They understand and execute the ‘family holiday concept’ to detail which is why you should not have any qualms in planning your vacation to Africa.

Can You Take Kids To Safari In Africa?

Africa is safe to take your kids on holiday throughout the year. In fact, it is on the premise of safety that the best African safari resorts for families exist. A lot of young children from every corner of the country visit Africa for vacation every year. Most national parks in Africa allow children of below the age of six years free entry.

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Teresa is a journalist with years of experience in creating web content. She is a wanderlust at heart, loves travelling and telling stories about tour and travel in Africa by every angle.

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Animals Around the Globe

Animals Around the Globe

10 Best African Countries for Safari

Posted: December 19, 2023 | Last updated: December 19, 2023

best african safari resort

#1 Botswana

Recommended Tours:

Thus, poachers are seen as enemies of the people. As a result, Botswana has come into view as Africa's most sought-after ecotourism destination. Starting from the Chobe National Park to the Moremi Nature Reserve, you'll be able to witness numerous gems all around the country.

Back in 2014, Botswana widely banned the hunting of wild animals and implemented strict laws which are still in practice. The country resumes its zero-tolerance for poaching and their very own environmental minister, Tshekedi Khama, has even launched a shoot-to-kill policy for poachers.

Botswana, with its wildlife conservation and natural parks, is a haven for nature lovers. It is currently in the top 5, as its approach to the protection and conservation of wildlife is worth the praise. As a country, it is very forward-thinking, some may even call it aggressively forward-thinking when it comes to its preservation and anti-poaching laws.

<p><strong>Recommended Tours:</strong></p> <p>Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 <a class="wpil_keyword_link" href="https://www.animalsaroundtheglobe.com/mammals/" title="mammal">mammal</a> species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.</p> <p>Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.</p>

Its fertile land provides a safe and comforting home to around 200 mammal species. This includes elephants, hippos, monkeys and so much more. Along with 650 bird species and 5,500 plants. Even though the country is still underdeveloped and most of the population live in rural households, its national parks, and sight-seeing destinations are on the top 10 of our lists.

Even though many would face some difficulties in locating Malawi on a map, given how tiny it is, the country is home to the world-renowned Lake Malawi National Park. This is practically one-third of the country and is the most biodiverse lake in the world.

best african safari resort

Most of the land in Namibia is occupied by the Kalahari and Namib Deserts. Along with that, the country also has 12 national parks and many other areas which are protected. So, if you go there for a safari, you'll have many rich areas to see and explore.

When it comes to countries with the least amount of population, Namibia is one of them. Which proves to be a good thing for nature. This is because most of the land in Namibia is still unspoiled by human filth or any sort of development, giving nature a chance to breathe.

best african safari resort

In the country's Volcanoes National Park, you'll find 10 habituated gorilla families. Groups of 8 trekkers can visit them for one hour per day. But that's enough to get the best African safari experience. And as a nature lover, you'll enjoy the experience to the max.

If you've been around for some time, you'll be familiar with Rwanda's mountain gorillas. They were famously broadcasted and their fight for survival was shown on  National Geographic . This was all thanks to the late  Dian Fossey  back in the 1970s who advocated for the rights of these mountain gorillas throughout her life.

Considering the tragic history surrounding the mass genocide of the people of Rwanda back in 1994, it's truly a blessing what the country has achieved in the past 25 years. There have been countless investments in infrastructure. This has resulted in the country being a very fast-growing destination for ecotourism.

best african safari resort

#6 South Africa

But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it. Chances are that you'll find yourself in the middle of dozens of unruly visitors who are not too keen on obeying the rules. This occurs mostly during the peak seasons.

Annually, the country has one million visitors. Its biggest attraction is the Kruger National Park with its enrichment in biodiversity. Visitors there also have the liberty to self-drive, thus, getting a first-person private but superb experience. 

For some time now, South Africa has been climbing the charts to become one of the most popular destinations for African safaris. Given its location, South Africa is a very convenient and cheap destination for people from the United States. Besides that, the country also boasts a well-developed infrastructure which makes it perfect for luxury travelers as well.

best african safari resort

#7 Tanzania

One of the most popular locations would be the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The country is also a haven for 1100 different bird species. It's no wonder that Tanzania gets this much rep. Especially when the country boasts so many wonders.

We talked about Kenya being the top destination for Safari. Now Tanzania here takes second place in being the continent's most popular safari destination. And why shouldn't it? The country has 16 national parks and an extraordinary amount of wealth and wildlife wonders for the people to witness.

best african safari resort

Some of its natural attractions include housing the highest mountain range in Africa. It also has the world's largest free-standing volcano and the second-largest freshwater lake. With its 30 national parks and other wildlife reserves, Uganda boasts many more sanctuaries which are worth the visit. Especially if you're a lover of nature and wildlife.

Often called "The Pearl of Africa", Uganda is certainly a great pick for an African safari. Its reputation as being one of the best ecotourism destinations comes from the country's natural attractions and wildlife.

<p><strong>Recommended Tours:</strong></p> <p>Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.</p> <p>Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.</p>

Out of its 20 national parks, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to many wildlife animals such as African elephants, Angolan giraffes, Cape buffalo, etc. Other than that, there are many private ownerships of National parks, notably the Kasanka National Park which is near the basin of Lake Bangweulu. It's a safe place where visitors can see 400 different avian species.

Zambia may be a bit far down the list of popular destinations for your African safari, but many consider it to be a destination for diversified and immersive safari experiences, and making a notable feature on our 10 Best African Countries for Safari guide. The country is steadily focusing on conservation as their president has shown a keen interest and is working on building the nation's economy as well as the infrastructure.

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THE 5 BEST Moscow Safaris

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Home » Europe » Moscow

5 AMAZING Neighborhoods and Areas in Moscow (2024)

Russia’s capital Moscow is known for a number of things; history, culture, nightlife, and crazy architecture.

But with over 100 distinct neighborhoods spread amongst 12 main districts, figuring out where to stay in Moscow can be a bit tricky. While Moscow does have an extensive public transport system, it’s best to stay in an area of Moscow that suits your interests.

This guide will break down the five best neighbourhoods to stay in Moscow, as well as the top things to do in each. That way, you’ll be able to find somewhere that suits your travel style and budget.

Top 3 Recommendations for Where to Stay in Moscow

Moscow neighborhood guide – places to stay in moscow, 5 best neighborhoods to stay in moscow, faq about finding a place to stay in moscow, what to pack for moscow, don’t forget travel insurance for moscow, final thoughts on where to stay in moscow.

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Moscow.

For more information on hostels, check out our post:  best hostels in Moscow .

The Moscow Metro, Moscow

Loft 3 Vokzala | Best Airbnb in Moscow

Loft 3 Vokzala

This stunning Airbnb in Moscow is ideal for groups or families. The apartment has been recently renovated and is bright contemporary. Guests can enjoy a full kitchen and internet access, and free parking and a gym are available on-site. The bedroom is a bit cosy, but you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay.

Loft Hotel H11 | Best Hotel in Moscow

Loft Hotel H11

Loft Hotel H11 is the coolest hotel in Moscow. Conveniently located on the borders of Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod, this hotel is a short walk Moscow’s major attractions as well as several metro stations.

Godzillas Hostel | Best Hostel in Moscow

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas is Moscow’s largest and most famous hostel. In the heart of Tverskoy, this three-story hostel is a short walk from the city’s major sights and attractions. With comfortable beds and modern amenities, you won’t find a better hostel in the city.

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Kitay-Gorod, Moscow

Kitay-Gorod

Kitay-Gorod is the neighbourhood at the heart of Moscow. Home to the city’s most famous attractions, Kitay-Gorod is the place to stay on your first visit to Moscow.

Presnensky, Moscow

Travelling on a budget is difficult, but not impossible in Moscow. The best place to stay to get the most value for your money in the Presnensky neighbourhood.

Tverskoy, Moscow

North of Kitay-Gorod is the hip, trendy and lively neighbourhood of Trverskoy. This centrally located neighbourhood is not only home to a number of amazing attractions, but it is within walking distance to the city’s main landmarks.

Arbat Khamovniki,Moscow

Arbat/Khamovniki

The neighbouring districts of Arbat and Khamovniki are one of the best places to stay in Moscow for trendiness. Home to luxury shops, unique boutiques, and outstanding museums, Arbat/Khamovniki are where bohemian flare and modern creativity meet.

Basmanny, Moscow

If you’re travelling with children, Basmanny is the best place to stay in Moscow. A calm oasis in the heart of the city, Basmanny is a neighbourhood known for its relaxed atmosphere, clean streets, and lush surrounding scenery.

Moscow is an impressive city, to say the least. Covering more than 2,500 square kilometres, Moscow is the home to nearly 12 million people.

Thanks to its rich and complex history, thousands of travellers flock to Moscow each year. From iconic sights and unique Russian fare to its vivid nightlife or cultural attractions, there’s so much to see and do in Russia’s capital.

The oldest section outside of the Kremlin, Kitay-Gorod is located at the heart of the city. Red Square and St. Basil’s Cathedral are located within walking distance of this neighborhood. It’s one of the best places to stay for getting to know the area, making it our top pick for first-time visitors.

If you’re traveling on a budget , Presnensky is an affordable and convenient location to stay in. Close to Moscow Zoo and within walking distance to other attractions, accommodation here is generally cheaper than other areas.

Tverskoy is home to Moscow’s best nightlife scene. It’s a luxurious and trendy neighborhood, home to clubs, bars, and world-class restaurants.

Arbat is a very hip district, and one of the coolest places to stay in Moscow. The area attracts many young professionals, and is full of trendy cafes and rustic restaurants.

Basmanny sits in the east of the city. With its laidback atmosphere, Basmanny is a great place to experience the slower side of Moscow life. It’s our top pick for families visiting Moscow, as it’s a peaceful base from which to explore the city.

Still not sure where to stay in Moscow? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Read on for a more detailed breakdown of each area.

Each of Moscow’s neighborhoods offers something special to visitors. Whether you’re looking for an all-night party or to immerse yourself in the city’s dynamic history, there’s a neighborhood that will cater to you.

1. Kitay-Gorod – Where to Stay in Moscow for your First Time

Kitay-Gorod lies at the heart of Moscow. Home to the city’s most famous attractions, staying here is the best way to discover the city. It’s walking distance from many major attractions, including Red Square, the Kremlin and St. Basil’s Church.

The area is also home to impressive architectural masterpieces, an exotic restaurant scene, and fascinating museums. Whether you’re interested in the arts, architecture, or seeing the sights, there’s something for everyone in Kitay-Gorod.

Kitay-Gorod, Moscow

Entire Flat in Kitay-Gorod | Best Airbnb in Kitay-Gorod

Entire Flat in Kitay-Gorod

This modern flat in a central location is ideal for couples visiting Moscow for the first time. Guests can enjoy the full kitchen, laundry facilities and free Wifi. The location is ideal, as the Airbnb is within walking distance of shops, cafes, and cultural attractions.

Kremlin Lights | Best Hostel in Kitay-Gorod

Kremlin Lights

Despite sitting in the heart of Moscow, dorm rooms in this hostel are pretty affordable. The hostel comes with a fully equipped kitchen, and is within walking distance of shops and restaurants. The location is also hard to beat, as the Kremlin is less than 200 metres away.

Hotel Maroseyka 2/15 | Best Hotel in Kitay-Gorod

Hotel Maroseyka 2/15

This three-star hotel is one of the best places to stay in Moscow for the first time, thanks to its central location and affordable rates. While it’s not as cheap as a hostel, the hotel offers an airport shuttle, laundry facilities, Wifi, ensuite bathrooms and a TV. The Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral are within walking distance, and shops and restaurants are right next door.

Top Things to do in Kitay-Gorod:

  • Walk through the iconic, impressive and imposing Red Square.
  • Explore Moscow’s Kremlin, the epicentre of Russia’s political power and fortified complex in the centre of the city.
  • Marvel at a myriad of Russian treasures, imperial arms, jewellery and more at the Armoury.
  • See the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral, with its colourful spires and patterned façade.
  • Line up at the western corner of Red Square to enter Lenin’s Mausoleum, where you can see the embalmed body of Soviet Russia’s infamous leader.
  • Visit Grand Kremlin Palace, the official residence of the Russian president.
  • Climb 137-steps to the top of the Ivan the Great Bell Tower, and take in one of a kind views of Moscow.
  • Visit the Moscow GUM Department Store, a lively shopping mall with hundreds of shops and restaurants.

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2. Presnensky – Where to Stay in Moscow on a Budget

Budget travel can be difficult, but definitely isn’t impossible in Moscow. Located on the north side of Boulevard Ring, Presnensky (or Presnya) is home to numerous attractions, restaurants and top literary sites.

With affordable hotels, hip nightlife and impressive architecture, Presnensky has a lot to do for even the tightest of budgets.

moscow itinerary

Bright and Cosy Studio | Best Airbnb in Presnensky

Bright and Cosy Studio

This modern studio sleeps two guests, and is perfect for couples or solo travelers visiting Moscow on a budget. You’ll have all the comforts of home including a full kitchen and Wifi. The studio is steps away from the famous 1905 Street, and there are numerous bars and restaurants in the area. If you want to travel further afield, the metro is within easy walking distance.

Boutique Hotel on Mukomolniy | Best Hotel in Presnensky

Boutique Hotel on Mukomolniy

Rooms in this boutique hotel can sleep up to three guests and come with free Wifi. The hotel also provides a very affordable breakfast each morning, so you can eat well without breaking the budget. Public transport is a short-walk away, so you can make the most of the city at a fraction of the price of other hotels.

High Level Moscow | Best Hostel in Presnensky

High Level Moscow

High Level is the first hostel in Moscow to be set in a skyscraper! Sitting 171m above ground level, you’ll be sure to get incredible views of the city from every window. The building is set in the commercial district, so you’ll have plenty of shops nearby. It’s also close to public transport, so the best things in Moscow are within easy reach.

High Level Moscow is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Top Things to do in Presnensky:

  • Enjoy a traditional Russian meal of blinchiki, caviar, and vodka at the iconic Café Pushkin.
  • Spend an afternoon learning about space, the stars and beyond at the Moscow Planetarium, one of the city’s most popular museums.
  • Sit back and relax in Patriarch’s Pond, a favourite haunt of Moscovites of all-ages.
  • See the stunning works of Russia’s impressionist artists at the city’s newest museum, the Museum of Russian impressionism, located in a former Bolshevik chocolate factory sugar silo.
  • Explore the remarkable Gorky’s House (Ryabushinsky Mansion, the art nouveau mansion of famed writer Maxim Gorky.
  • Marvel at the immense Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the largest Catholic Church in Russia.

3. Tverskoy – Where to Stay in Moscow for Nightlife

North of Kitay-Gorod is the hip, trendy and lively neighborhood of Trverskoy. This centrally located neighborhood is not only home to a number of amazing attractions, but it is also within walking distance to the city’s main landmarks.

Home to luxury boutique and upscale restaurants, Tverskoy is a neighborhood where history and elegance mesh seamlessly with modern amenities and opulence. If hitting the town is a key aspect of your Moscow itinerary, then Tverskoy is the place to be.

Tverskoy, Moscow

Studio Apartment Mayakovskaya | Best Airbnb in Tverskoy

Studio Apartment Mayakovskaya

This apartment can accommodate up to four guests, and sits close to shops and restaurants. The Airbnb comes with a full kitchen and all the comforts of home including Wifi, a TV, and laundry facilities. It’s right by the metro, so all of Moscow’s best bars and nightlife are within easy reach.

ARIUM Hotel | Best Hotel in Tverskoy

ARIUM Hotel

ARIUM Hotel is a great choice for travellers interested in culture and fun. The hotel is central to Moscow’s nightlife scene, located just minutes away from all of the city’s hottest clubs.

Godzillas Hostel | Best Hostel in Tverskoy

Godzillas is the largest and best hostel in Moscow , and for good reason. Situated in the heart of Tverskoy, this three-story hostel is a short walk from the city’s major sights and attractions. With comfortable beds and modern amenities, you’ll have everything you need for an awesome stay.

Top Things to do Tverskoy:

  • Enjoy cheap beer, table games, and Russian techno tunes at Gogol, one of Moscow’s oldest and most popular clubs.
  • Night Flight is a world renowned venue. It’s expensive af, however if you can afford to head on over then it’s absolutely worth it.
  • Spend an evening enjoying the ballet or an opera at the Bolshoi Theatre : the heart and soul of Moscow’s arts and culture scene.
  • Enjoy art, festivals, food and fun at Hermitage Park, a charming garden and one of the most popular and trendiest places in the city.
  • Visit VDNKh, a Stalinesque theme park featuring gilded statues, grandiose pavilions, and thrilling rides.
  • See an impressive collection of 20th-century paintings, sculptures and other works of art by famous Russian and foreign artists at the Moscow Museum of Modern Art.
  • Enjoy luxury boutiques and upscale restaurants as you walk along the lively and grand Tverskaya Street.

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4. Arbat- The Coolest Place to Stay in Moscow

Home to luxury shops, unique boutiques, and outstanding museums, Arbat is where bohemian flare and modern creativity meet.

Moscow’s former warehouse and factory district, Arbat now attracts numerous Moscow elites. From advertising to tech execs, young professionals flock to Arbat to enjoy its world-class restaurants, stylish bars and irresistible cafes.

Arbat Khamovniki,Moscow

Perfect City View Apartment | Best Airbnb in Arbat

Perfect City View Apartment

Stylish, spacious, modern and conveniently located, there’s no better Airbnb in Arbat. Close to a myriad of restaurants and the Moscow metro, you’ll feel at home in this apartment in the heart of Arbat.

Hotel Grafskiy | Best Hotel in Arbat/Khamovniki

Hotel Grafskiy

Modern amenities and an unbeatable location make Hotel Grafskiy the best hotel in Arbat. A 10-minute walk to the city centre, Hotel Grafskiy is close to restaurants, bars and attractions. You’re guaranteed a comfortable and relaxing stay at Hotel Grafskiy.

Jedi Hostel | Best Hostel in Arbat/Khamovniki

Jedi Hostel best hostels in Moscow

With incredible views and an amazing location, Jedi Hostel is the best place to stay in Arbat. Enjoy comfortable and private capsule-like rooms at this clean and safe hostel. The hotel is less than 20-minutes away from the city centre, and is close to metro stations and grocery stores.

Jedi Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Top Things to do in Arbat:

  • See priceless works of art at the Pushkin Museum of Fine Art, Moscow’s premier foreign-art museum.
  • Enjoy some of the best seafood in the city at Rico one of Arbat’s best-kept secrets.
  • Be amazed by the magnitude and magnificence of the historic and ostentatious Cathedral of Christ the Saviour .
  • Immerse yourself in history at Park Pobedy, a green space filled with fountains, monuments and statues commemorating the sacrifices and triumphs of war.
  • Sample retro Russian fare at Varenichnaya No 1, an old-school style restaurant with delicious food and amazing prices.
  • Climb to the top of the Sparrow Hills lookout and enjoy amazing views of the surrounding city and scenery.
  • Take a stroll down Arbat Street, a 1-kilometre long pedestrian boulevard and enjoy all the sights, sounds and smells of this lively neighborhood.

5. Basmanny – Where to Stay in Moscow for Families

If you’re travelling with children, Basmanny is the best place to stay in Moscow. A calm oasis in the heart of the city, Basmanny is known for its relaxed atmosphere, clean streets, and lush surrounding scenery.

Well situated to the east of the city-centre, Basmanny is a short walk or subway ride to Moscow’s main attractions. Within this charming neighborhood, there’s plenty of activities for travelers of any age.

Basmanny, Moscow

Loft Hotel H11 | Best Hotel in Basmanny

Conveniently located just over a mile from the city center, this hotel is a short walk Moscow’s major attractions and several metro stations. Enjoy a continental breakfast each morning, before heading out to enjoy all awesome things that Moscow has to offer.

Good News Hostel | Best Hostel in Basmanny

Good News Hostel

Comfortable beds, free wifi and a decent location, this hostel has it all! Good News Hostel is close to a myriad of cafes, bars, and noteworthy attractions. It even offers bike hire if you’d prefer to skip the metro and explore the city on two wheels.

Good News Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Top Things to do in Basmanny:

  • Rent paddleboats in the summer or ice skates in the winter and enjoy Chistye Prudy, a clean, quiet and quaint pond in that runs along the Boulevard Ring.
  • Step back in time and see Lubyanka, headquarters of the infamous Russian KGB.
  • Hop on a bike and enjoy the crisscrossing paths through Sokolniki park, home to a manicured rose garden, cool places to eat, and an open-air swimming pool.
  • Enjoy Russia’s biggest toy store, Central Children’s Store, located just west of the Basmanny neighborhood.
  • Head 60m underground and explore Bunker-42 Cold War Museum, a 700 square meter museum housed in a defunct Cold War communications centre.
  • Slow down and smell the roses and ornamental flowers at Aptekarsky Ogorod, Moscow’s pleasant and pretty botanical garden.

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Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Moscow and where to stay.

What is the best neighborhood to stay in Moscow?

Kitay-Gorod is our pick for the best neighborhood in Moscow – especially if it is your first time here. It is centrally located and full of quirky hostels like Kremlin Lights .

Which places to stay in Moscow are good for families?

Basmanny is known as an oasis within the bustling Moscow city. This makes it great for families! There are family-friendly hotels too like, Loft Hotel H11 .

Where should I stay in Moscow for nightlife?

Tverskoy is where you want to be to party! It’s full of lively bars and clubs, as well as cool hostels full of other adventurers to meet.

What are some good airbnbs in Moscow?

There are lots of cool airbnbs to stay in Moscow, but two of our favourites are this modern loft and this cosy apartment .

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Earplugs

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

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Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

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Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

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Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl GeoPress Water Filter and Purifier Bottle

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

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Moscow is full to the brim with awesome neighborhoods and places to visit. It’s simple to travel across the city, but staying in a neighborhood that suits your travel style is the best way to make the most out of your trip.

If you’re still undecided, we recommend Godzillas Hostel for their top location and modern amenities. If you’re after a private room, check out  Loft Hotel H11 . Located centrally, you’re sure to have a comfortable stay.

  • Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Moscow .
  • Planning out an itinerary for Moscow is a great way to maximise your time.
  • Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
  • Our in-depth Eastern Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.

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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Alya and Campbell

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    Nyamatusi Camp Royal Malewane Londolozi Private Granite Suites Singita Boulders Lodge Little Saseka Wilderness Little Kulala Zannier Hotels Sonop Sanctuary Chief's Camp Wilderness Jao Camp Angama Mara Segera Retreat Thorntree River Lodge Chinzombo Wilderness Bisate Lodge Singita Sasakwa Lodge Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

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    Type: River Lodge. Activities: Game Drives, River Safari, Sunset Cruise, Fishing, Birding, Victoria Falls, School Visit, Devil's Pool, Canoe, Sanpan Dinner, River Beach Day. Avg. Price: $1600 - $2000 Per Night (Double Occupancy) There is absolulty no denying this is one of the best safari lodges in Africa.

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    Esiweni Luxury Safari Lodge Ladysmith, South Africa The safari experience has changed in many ways since Hemingway's day. For one thing, you're here to photograph the wildlife, not bring it home. Perhaps most important, from the perspective of a lover of high-end hospitality, is that safari lodges are only getting more and more luxurious.

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    Bisate Lodge is one of the most iconic lodges in the country, with their creative beehive like design. 16. Thorntree River Lodge, Zambia. Zambia and Zimbabwe are both considered the gateway to Victoria Falls, but if you are looking for something extra special then take a look at Thorntree River Lodge.

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    Bush: Masai Mara. The definitive safari destination, Kenya offers a blend of savannah, mountain, wildlife, beach and culture that never fails to inspire awe in those who visit. The spectacular Masai Mara ecosystem forms the northern extension of Tanzania's Serengeti.

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    Other great safari destinations are the Okavango Delta in Botswana and Kruger National Park in South Africa. No wonder that Africa's 10 most luxurious safari lodges are all located within these areas. The majority of them is operated by the continent's three most exclusive safari companies: &Beyond , Wilderness Safaris and Singita.

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    The Okavango Delta in Botswana and Kruger National Park in South Africa are two additional fantastic safari locations. It seems sense that the 100 most opulent safari lodges in Africa are all found in these regions. CHAT WITH US START PLANNING NOW The 20 Most Luxurious Safari Lodges In Africa... The Most Luxurious Safari Lodges In Africa…

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    1. Madikwe Safari Lodge Located in the Malaria-free Madikwe Reserve in the North West Province of South Africa, Madikwe Safari Lodge gets top ratings from families for the accommodations and age-appropriate introductions to the African bush. The lodge also welcomes children as young as 2 years old.

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    Kruger Park is South Africa's most famous safari destination and even allows visitors to hop around in their own car, although spotting the Big Five on a self-drive safari involves a lot of luck.

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    Recommended Tours: But given all the advantages, it's safe to conclude that South Africa also suffers from over-tourism. I mean, if you have so many great attractions, people will flock towards it.

  22. THE 5 BEST Moscow Safaris (Updated 2024)

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    Modern amenities and an unbeatable location make Hotel Grafskiy the best hotel in Arbat. A 10-minute walk to the city centre, Hotel Grafskiy is close to restaurants, bars and attractions. ... a Russian/South African dynamic duo that met while living the budget backpacker life. Since that fateful day in 2014, the pair have been travelling and ...

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