The best places to stay in Africa

A curated list

Africa is a continent of breathtaking beauty and endless variety. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of wildlife encounters, the tranquillity of remote wilderness, or the indulgence of world-class comfort, the best places to stay in Africa offer experiences as diverse as the continent itself. From the heart of South Africa’s Kruger National Park to the forests of Uganda and the sweeping plains of the Serengeti, each destination not only promises comfort and adventure but also offers a deep connection to Africa’s remarkable landscapes and cultures.

For discerning travellers and nature enthusiasts alike, Africa is a land of unforgettable experiences. This curated list highlights some of the most exclusive lodges, perfect for those who wish to combine luxury with authentic adventures in nature.

Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge, South Africa

Perched above the Sabie River, Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge is one of the most unique and remarkable places to stay in Africa. It is a lodge unlike any other, set in a restored luxury train that’s permanently stationed on a bridge, suspended over the river. This extraordinary blend of history, nostalgia, and wilderness offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience for travellers who want to combine the romance of Africa’s past with the wonders of its wildlife.

Kruger Shalati's historical connection to the early days of safari tourism is part of its charm, with the restored train carriages evoking the golden age of travel. But this is no ordinary train. The glass-walled suites provide breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding bush, where elephants and hippos can often be spotted below. Each room is designed with elegance and comfort in mind, offering a luxurious sanctuary from which to witness the drama of the African bush.

The sense of adventure is heightened by the train’s location, with guests feeling as though they are floating above the wilderness. A cantilevered pool extends over the river, allowing you to swim while observing the wildlife below. This is not just a lodge—it’s an experience that harks back to the romance of 1920s safaris while offering all the modern luxuries you would expect.

Little Mombo, Botswana

Tucked away in the Okavango Delta, Little Mombo is often described as the “Place of Plenty” and is widely regarded as one of the best places to stay in Africa. Its location within Moremi Game Reserve, one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich areas, makes it a dream for nature lovers and luxury travellers alike. What makes Little Mombo stand out is not just its exclusivity but also the splendid wildlife encounters it offers. Guests regularly experience sightings of lions, leopards, elephants, and more right from their private suites.

Little Mombo’s intimate setting features just four tented suites, ensuring privacy and personalised service. These luxurious suites blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment, with large verandas offering sweeping views of the floodplains where wildlife roams freely. The lodge’s commitment to sustainability is equally impressive. It is fully solar-powered and works closely with local conservation projects to preserve the delicate ecosystem of the Okavango Delta.

Having received the prestigious US Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award, Best Resort in Africa – Rest of Africa Category, Little Mombo offers not only comfort but also an extraordinary connection to nature. With its world-class service, breathtaking scenery, and dedication to wildlife conservation, it’s a must-visit for those seeking the ultimate African escape.



Saruni Mara, Kenya

Set in a private conservancy in the Masai Mara, Saruni Mara offers a tranquil and intimate alternative to the busier safari camps in the area. This boutique lodge is known for its personalised service, and its themed cottages add an element of whimsy and charm. Each villa is uniquely designed, from the cosy "Love Shack" for couples to the literary-inspired "Writer’s Cottage." These thoughtful touches make Saruni Mara stand out from other lodges, offering a more bespoke experience for guests who want a peaceful and private stay.

The lodge’s location in the Mara North Conservancy allows for uncrowded game drives, where guests can witness the incredible wildlife of the Masai Mara without the crowds. Whether watching a lion pride or spotting a cheetah on the hunt, Saruni Mara provides an immersive and exclusive safari experience. The conservancy is home to all the iconic species, but what makes this place special is the sense of serenity and seclusion it offers.

Saruni Mara also prides itself on its deep connection with the Maasai people. Guests can embark on guided walking safaris with Maasai warriors, providing insights into their culture and the land they’ve lived on for centuries. This blend of cultural immersion, personalised luxury, and breathtaking wildlife encounters makes Saruni Mara one of the best places to stay in Africa.

Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Uganda

Nestled in the highlands of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is an exceptional destination for those seeking adventure and luxury. As one of the closest lodges to the starting point for gorilla trekking, Clouds offers guests an exclusive gateway to one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences in Africa—tracking mountain gorillas through their forested home.

What sets Clouds apart is its setting. 

Perched at an altitude of 2,000 metres, the lodge offers sweeping views of the Virunga volcanoes and the surrounding forests. The stone cottages, each with its own private fireplace and butler, provide a warm and welcoming retreat after a day of trekking. The lodge’s design balances rustic charm with elegant touches, creating a comfortable sanctuary high above the clouds.

Gorilla trekking may be the main draw, but Clouds offers other activities such as guided forest walks, birdwatching, and community visits. For those seeking an adventure of a lifetime, this is one of the best places to stay in Africa, where guests can enjoy the rare privilege of encountering gorillas in the wild while staying in an exquisite mountain retreat.

&Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Tanzania

&Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is often described as one of the most surreal and extravagant lodges in Africa. Perched on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater, this lodge offers sweeping views of one of the world’s most iconic landscapes. The lodge’s design is as dramatic as its location, blending Maasai-inspired architecture with European opulence. Think chandeliers, brocade furnishings, and fireplaces in every suite—all within the wild setting of the African bush.

The Ngorongoro Crater itself is often called "Africa’s Eden," home to one of the densest concentrations of wildlife on the continent. Game drives into the crater offer sightings of lions, elephants, and rhinos, along with thousands of zebras and wildebeest. The lodge’s prime location allows guests easy access to this wildlife haven, making it one of the best places to stay in Africa for nature lovers and luxury travellers alike.

&Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is more than just a safari lodge; it’s an experience where every detail is considered and finely tuned. From the lavish interiors to the impeccable service, this lodge offers a level of grandeur that is unmatched in the region. Whether you’re marvelling at the sunrise over the crater or enjoying a candlelit dinner in your private suite, every memory made here will last a lifetime.

Ngorongoro Lodge, Melia Collection, Tanzania

Overlooking the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, Ngorongoro Lodge, Melia Collection offers a refined blend of modern luxury and natural beauty. This lodge is part of the prestigious Melia Collection, known for its world-class hospitality, and it certainly lives up to its reputation. With floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces, the lodge makes the most of its incredible setting, offering panoramic views of the crater from nearly every corner.

What makes Ngorongoro Lodge, Melia Collection stand out is its seamless blend of contemporary design with the rugged beauty of the African landscape. The suites are spacious and luxurious, featuring elegant décor, plush furnishings, and en-suite bathrooms that offer every modern convenience. The lodge also boasts a state-of-the-art wellness centre, where guests can relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploring the crater.

Beyond its luxurious accommodations, the lodge offers immersive experiences, including private game drives and visits to local Maasai villages. These cultural encounters, paired with the extraordinary wildlife of the Ngorongoro Crater, make this lodge one of the best places to stay in Africa for travellers who want to combine luxury with authentic experiences.

Africa is home to some of the world’s most extraordinary lodges, each offering a unique blend of comfort, adventure, and connection to nature. From the historical charm of Kruger Shalati to the breathtaking wilderness of Little Mombo, the best places to stay in Africa combine luxury with an immersive experience in some of the continent’s most iconic landscapes.

Whether you’re exploring the wildlife-rich plains of the Masai Mara, trekking with gorillas in Uganda, or marvelling at the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, these lodges promise a journey of discovery and a level of comfort that is unmatched. For more luxurious options, don’t miss our comprehensive guide to top luxury resorts in Africa.

These beautiful destinations can be expertly woven together into a personalised, bespoke itinerary, ensuring that each of our clients enjoys a soul-enriching journey of discovery. Africa’s finest lodges are waiting—are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime?