After living in Africa for nearly a yr now, I’ve had my fair proportion of safari lodges and experiences. But given safari is such a magical experience, at any time when I can I keep going back for more. Over the years I even have stayed at too many beautiful lodges to count, but like anything, I even have my favourites! So these are the most effective safari lodges in Africa, tried and tested by yours truly.
Post updated May 2023
1. San Camp, Botswana
I’ll start with my favourite camp in all of Africa – San Camp in Botswana. While it’s removed from your unusual safari camp, I personally think that’s what makes it so special. While you won’t find the massive five here within the Kalahari desert, this camp hones in on the smaller creatures present in the desert. But greater than that, it’s about truly disconnecting out of your regular life and tuning in to your present. There’s no wifi or electricity within the tents, but there are many opportunities to attach with nature.
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’ve a variety of camps within the Okavango Delta and beyond. Sandibe is the costliest camp from AndBeyond’s portfolio in Botswana, but additionally it is probably the most magical. If you’re searching for a novel honeymoon location, that is your best bet.
3. Sossusvlei Lodge, Namibia
Last yr I finally had the prospect to go to Namibia. Being based in South Africa round the corner has given me many more excuses to get on the market 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 outcomes are simply breathtaking. Waking up within the desert is a luxury I will definitely not forget on this lifetime.
Read more: The 12 most isolated lodges in Africa
4. Boulders Lodge, South Africa
Boulders Lodge in South Africa was not my first lodge experience on this country, however it actually was my favourite! I’ll always remember sitting out on my deck as I noticed a young elephant drinking from my pool and popping over to say hello! I even have since learned it is a regular occurrence on the lodge, so in the event you are searching for close animal encounters, that is an incredible lodge to remain in your safari.
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 considered one of the oldest on offer and it’s idyllically positioned on the perimeter of the Maasai Mara. Because the park itself is inundated with safari goers, that is an incredible alternative to experience more serenity but still remain in close proximity to the park.
6. Mnemba Island, Zanzibar
Okay, I’m saying it: Mnemba Island is my favourite lodge in all of Africa. While it isn’t a standard safari lodge, it still deserves a spot on this list. With just twelve rooms positioned on a personal island off the coast of Zanzibar, Mnemba Island is the last word in barefoot luxury.
7. Angama Mara, Kenya
Angama Mara is often considered the most effective safari lodge in Kenya’s Maasai Mara. This newly opened lodge got here to the safari scene with much praise, particularly in celebration of the unique location this lodge occupies overlooking the Mara. If you’re searching for a honeymoon location with views for days, that is your best bet in East Africa.
8. Bush Villa, Kenya
Although the Bush Villa falls under the umbrella of Cottar’s Safari Camp, I feel it’s worthy of a mention of its own. This gloriously oversized villa is the right alternative for big families or big groups to enjoy their very 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!
9. Serengeti House, Tanzania
Serengeti House in Tanzania is the highest property in Singita’s safari portfolio. This private villa boasts 4 bedrooms, an infinity swimming pool and a personal gym. The villa also comes with a personal chef, so you may really sit back and luxuriate in some alone time together with your group.
10. Royal Malewane, South Africa
When I checked in to Royal Malewane a couple of years ago I had already visited a handful of nearby camps. But Royal Malewane has its own appeal, with a novel interior design that makes you’re feeling as if you might have stepped back in time. Be sure to go to the day spa where you will see that this beautiful lap pool harking back to a Moroccan riad.
11. And Beyond Bateleur Camp
During my time in East Africa, I feel it’s secure to say Bateleur Camp was my favourite safari lodge. This newly refurbished lodge is the right mixture of old meets recent, with all of the classic touches but all of the mod cons to go together with it. The service here was unparalleled to every other camp I stayed at in Kenya.
12. Botswana Sky Beds
For an unforgettable night within the bush, check yourself into Botswana Skybeds. The sky beds are positioned a brief drive from nearby Sable Alley, making it the right addition to essentially immerse yourself within the bush. The sky beds are positioned up a 3 story tree house, meaning you’re as close as possible to the animal activity throughout the night! This will not be only among the best safari lodges in Africa but additionally one of the crucial adventurous.
13. Singita Sweni, South Africa
Singita Sweni was considered one of the primary safari lodges I ever stayed at, but that doesn’t mean I even have forgotten about it! My experience at this lodge was so memorable, it’s without end engrained in my mind. Singita really go above and beyond for his or her guests, providing gastronomic meals and unbeatable service. They have a couple of lodges in the world, but Singita Sweni is my personal favourite.
14. Sable Alley, Botswana
Sable Alley is considered one of the favored selections of safari camps in Botswana. While Botswana is one of the crucial expensive countries to go to for a safari adventure, this camp is more on the reasonably priced end of the dimensions. If you’re searching for a special escape without the hefty price tag, this camp is moderately priced.
Read more: The Best Animal Encounters in Africa
15. Bisate Lodge, Rwanda
Rwanda has grow to be probably the most wanted country to go to in Africa. Over recent years it has sky rocketed in popularity, mostly because of the population of mountain gorillas which have drawn 1000’s of tourists to the landlocked country. Bisate Lodge is one of the crucial iconic lodges within the country, with their creative beehive like design.
16. Thorntree River Lodge, Zambia
Zambia and Zimbabwe are each considered the gateway to Victoria Falls, but in the event you are searching for something exceptional then take a 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 isn’t any denying that is among the best safari lodges in Africa, because it is actually our top alternative for probably the most romantic.
17. Ngorongoro Lodge, Tanzania
East Africa is where you need to visit in the event you are searching for the enduring “Out of Africa” experience. Ngorongoro would should be one of the crucial picturesque lodges to select from, set overlooking the crater itself.
18. Jao Camp, Botswana
I do know I do know, one other Botswana suggestion!? Believe me after I say no safari is as magical as one which takes place within the Okavango Delta. Jao Camp is one other great option for honeymoon couples searching for something exceptional. The fastidiously curated design makes it one of the crucial distinguishable camps.
19. Singita Kataza, Rwanda
Also in Rwanda, you will see that two Singita properties to select from when searching for the most effective safari lodges in Africa. Singita Kataza is an exceptional lodge set in the magical mountains of Rwanda, just a brief trip from the famous mountain gorillas.
20. Chinzombo, Zambia
Last but not least, Chinzombo camp in Zambia is idyllically positioned on the banks of the Zambezi river. This camp is a well-liked alternative for honeymoon couples who’re in search of a serene location by the water. However, in the event you’re up for some activities, you may opt to canoe on the Zambezi river or partake in a microflight over Victoria Falls. Believe me after I say it will not be for the faint hearted!
