13 of the Best Luxury African Safari Lodges

Over the last century, African safari has evolved from humble beginnings of dusty tents to resorts. Our list of the best luxury African Safari Lodges has something for everyone. From romantics who want to escape for an intimate safari retreat to families and friends wanting to explore new sights and sounds of Africa, these lodges offer it all. With such an exotic safari in Africa, you will have top-notch off-road vehicles, hot air ballooning, luxury camping, and delicious gourmet dining. All of this decorates and make you appreciate the African culture.

How Much Does a High-End African Safari Cost?

An African safari costs between $125 and $1,500 per person per night. An average budget safari goes for $150 per night, whereas mid-range is $350 and luxury is $750. The extreme top safaris can go up to $1,500 per night or more.

Which are the Best Luxury African Safari Lodges?

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kruger National Park, South Africa and Etosha National Park, Namibia, are some of the best places to go for a safari. You find yourself spoiled with incredible scenery, activities like hiking, game drives and bird watching, 5-star service and amenities, and gourmet food. Whether your goal is a relaxing vacation or an exciting exploration journey into wildlife havens, let us show you some of the best luxury African destinations  that make Africa stand out in unique hospitality experiences in the following places:

1. Londolozi Private Granite Suites, Kruger

Nestled in the stunning Sabi Sands, Londolozi Private Granite Suites deliver unparalleled luxury and privacy. Three separate suites offer picturesque views of the granite rocks that line the riverbanks. The suites are built with modern interiors characterized by stone walls, polished concrete and a bold colour palette of charcoal silver, and elephant grey. A truly unforgettable stay awaits those who venture to this special place.

2.Royal Malewane, Thornybush

At Royal Malewane, they provide incomparable service tailored to your individual needs. The private game drives in Thornybush Nature Reserve bring you close to the action of the Greater Kruger National Park. The butler service at the lodge gives a seamless experience throughout your stay. Expect exquisite culinary experiences for guests who appreciate fine dining with an African twist. As if that weren’t enough, at Royal Malewane, there is one of the best safari spas around.

3. Singita Boulders Lodge, Kruger

Situated along the awe-inspiring boulder-strewn banks of the Sand River adjacent to Kruger National Park lies this chic African lodge. Its glass walls and open-air spaces make it easy to enjoy the magnificent surroundings and nature’s beauty. Additionally, the dining experience at the lodge is outstanding with an extensive wine cellar featuring some of Africa’s most sought-after private reserves – making the best luxury African Safari memories.

4. Angama Mara, Masai Mara

Angama Mara is an exotic getaway, perched on the edge of the magnificent Great Rift Valley. With 11m / 33ft floor-to-ceiling windows that divide your well-thought-out indoor and outdoor living areas, you will be captivated by many spellbinding sights. They designed the space with exquisite, handcrafted furniture pieces and contemporary Maasai-inspired decor to make it truly unforgettable.

5. Segera Retreat, Laikipia

Segera is one of the best luxury African Safari Lodges. This beauty invites you to an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experience that revolves around tailored service and flexibility. The suites boast private decks with sun loungers, swing beds and sunken Jacuzzis. While dining at Segera’s renowned kitchen is a treat in itself. And there are also plenty of unique activities on offer. These include helicopter excursions over the Great Rift Valley. You can also take this rare opportunity to admire the conservationist owner Jochen Zeitz’s personal art collection.

6. Chinzombo, South Luangwa

Tucked away on the banks of the Luangwa River lies a hidden secret in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia – Chinzombo. Escape the busy life in the city and spend quality time with your family or friends surrounded by nature. This sophisticated and elegant destination boasts six gorgeous villas nestled amongst untouched natural beauty. The lodge gives its guests unforgettable walking safaris and crowd-free big game viewing experiences.

7. Thorntree River Lodge, Vic Falls

Thorntree is one of the best luxury African safari lodges in Zambia. The lodge is nestled away on the banks of the Zambezi River upstream from Victoria Falls. Constructed using local timber, stone and recycled railway sleepers, Thorntree effortlessly combines modern-day design with its natural surroundings. Stay in an extravagant riverside suite, boasting indoor and outdoor lounge areas, en suite bathrooms, and private decks with plunge pools.

8. Sasakwa Lodge, Serengeti

Sasakwa Lodge is the perfect destination for families and groups who crave the beauty of nature yet aren’t willing to compromise on luxuriousness. Step into a world full of antiques, sparkling chandeliers, and sofas that make you never want to leave – all set against breathtaking views of Serengeti plains. Impeccable service awaits at this grand manor house hidden in Grumeti Reserve, making it an unforgettable getaway for your special occasion.

9. Jao Camp, Okavango Delta

This luxurious African safari lodge has been designed to blend into its natural surroundings of the Okavango Delta. Every detail is perfected at Jao Camp, from the bespoke furniture pieces to its watery rooms with direct access to a private pool. Dine under the stars or enjoy a spa treatment at Jao’s open-air sala – no request is too much.

Located on a secluded island in the Okavango Delta, Jao Camp is only accessible via air and delivers an unparalleled luxury safari experience surrounded by one of nature’s finest creations. The suites here boast stunningly carved decor pieces and artwork crafted with local materials, while its spa is renowned for being among Botswana’s best. Don’t miss out on your chance to indulge in this exquisite journey.

10. Bisate Lodge, Volcanoes

Nestled in the heart of a breathtaking volcanic crater, Bisate is Rwanda’s premier luxury lodge that offers an unparalleled gorilla trekking experience. The property comprises luxurious, thatched-roof suites, and earthen mounds surrounded by natural gardens and lush vegetation with breathtaking views of the Rwandan landscape. Here, you’ll enjoy world-class service, exquisite cuisine and high-end amenities that make for an unforgettable wildlife safari.

The unique design concept at the lodge combines traditional local huts along with luxurious interiors featuring cosy fireplaces and a fully stocked wine cellar for your ultimate African safari getaway.

11. Little Kulala, Sossusvlei

Little Kulala invites you to explore the breathtaking and captivating Namibian Desert. With its architecture blending perfectly into the desert landscape, it offers a modern twist on traditional African elegance. The vibrant colours of the sunset over the dunes create an atmosphere you won’t soon forget. In the heart of this incredible wilderness, enjoy a wide variety of wildlife, from ostriches and springboks to the rare and endangered desert-adapted elephant.

From sundowners on private terraces to stargazing in your private plunge pool, Little Kulala is the perfect place to experience an unforgettable African safari. With access to Sossusvlei through a private gate, and an array of exciting guest activities such as nature walks, hot air balloon safaris, and eco-sensitive ATV rides around the dunes – this luxury African safari lodge is ideal for your special occasion holiday in Africa. Discover one of our planet’s oldest deserts like never before.

12. Singita Pamushana Lodge, Malilangwe

Pamushana Lodge, located within the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve in Zimbabwe, offers an oasis of luxury amidst some of Africa’s most beautiful wildlife habitats. Explore the vast savannahs and wetlands with five-star service and cuisine. Pamushana Lodge is the perfect place for a luxurious African safari experience complete with unparalleled game viewing and bird-watching opportunities. Luxury has never felt quite so wild.

13. Nyamatusi Camp, Mana Pools

Be enraptured by the wildness of Nyamatusi, an exclusive oasis situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River in Southern Africa. This luxurious camp offers canvas suites with air conditioning and private plunge pools to ensure a one-of-a-kind African safari experience. Enjoy game drives and boat cruises to experience the natural wonders of Mana Pools National Park like never before. Best Luxury African Safari Lodges provide a perfect mix of traditional safari charm and modern luxury. It is sure to be an unforgettable stay.