The 10 Most Luxurious Safari Lodges in Africa

A Sustainability Ranking in partnership with ETIC Hotels

You’re planning a trip to Africa for a Safari? niood lists you the 13 most luxurious Safari Lodges in Africa:

1. Singita Boulders Lodge, South Africa

Singita Boulders Lodge is an ultra-luxurious safari lodge located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, one of South Africa’s most prestigious private reserves. The lodge offers breathtaking views of the wilderness and the Sand River, with a fusion of modern and African design elements. It is a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts who seek an exclusive and authentic safari experience in Africa. Guests can choose from twelve luxurious suites, each featuring a private swimming pool, fireplace, and outdoor shower. The lodge’s main area features a dining room, bar, library, and an infinity pool overlooking the river. The lodge’s award-winning cuisine is a blend of African and Western influences, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The Singita Boulders Lodge experience offers twice-daily game drives, guided bush walks, and stargazing to witness the African sky’s beauty. The lodge’s commitment to conservation and community development makes it an environmentally conscious and socially responsible destination.

The Singita Boulders Lodge experience offers a unique opportunity to witness Africa’s untamed beauty and its incredible wildlife. The Sabi Sand Game Reserve is home to the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and an abundance of other wildlife species. The reserve offers a private and exclusive safari experience, with only a few lodges in the area, making the game viewing experience more intimate and personalized.

The lodge’s guided walks and game drives offer an opportunity to learn from expert guides about the local flora and fauna, as well as the conservation challenges facing the African wilderness. Whether enjoying the spectacular scenery from the private deck of a suite, lounging by the pool, or embarking on a thrilling game drive, Singita Boulders Lodge offers an unforgettable and life-changing experience that blends luxury, adventure, and conservation.

Singita Boulders Lodge, South Africa: https://singita.com/lodge/singita-boulders-lodge/

2. Abu Camp, Botswana

Abu Camp is a luxurious safari camp located in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, offering guests an immersive and authentic African wilderness experience. The camp features six spacious and beautifully appointed tents, each with a private deck overlooking the lagoon, en-suite bathroom, and outdoor shower. The camp’s main area is elegantly decorated, featuring a dining room, lounge, library, and a well-stocked bar. Abu Camp’s activities are centered around elephant encounters, with the opportunity to interact and walk with a herd of rescued and rehabilitated elephants, providing a unique and unforgettable experience. Guests can also enjoy game drives, mokoro rides, and birdwatching, all led by expert guides.

Abu Camp’s elephant encounters are the highlight of any visit, offering a rare and intimate interaction with these magnificent creatures. The camp’s elephant herd includes both adults and calves, providing a unique opportunity to witness their social behavior, feeding habits, and communication. Guests can accompany the elephants on their daily walks and even ride on their backs, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The camp’s team of elephant experts provides insight into the elephants’ personalities, histories, and the challenges facing elephant conservation in Africa.

Abu Camp’s location in the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most pristine and biodiverse wilderness areas in Africa, home to a vast array of wildlife species. The delta’s network of waterways, lagoons, and islands offers a unique ecosystem, with abundant birdlife, aquatic animals, and large mammals. Abu Camp’s activities offer guests the opportunity to explore this remarkable wilderness, from mokoro rides through the reeds to game drives in search of big cats, elephants, and wild dogs. The camp’s commitment to sustainability and community development also ensures that guests can enjoy the African wilderness in a socially responsible and environmentally conscious way.

Abu Camp, Botswana: https://greatplainsconservation.com/abu-camp/

3. Royal Malewane, South Africa

Royal Malewane is a luxurious safari lodge located in the heart of South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park, offering guests an unparalleled wildlife experience in a private and exclusive setting. The lodge features eight luxurious suites and a private villa, each designed with the utmost attention to detail, featuring private pools, outdoor showers, and expansive decks overlooking the wilderness. The lodge’s main area features a dining room, lounge, bar, library, and a well-stocked wine cellar, all decorated with a blend of African and colonial influences. Royal Malewane’s award-winning cuisine is a fusion of African and European flavors, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The lodge’s experienced guides provide twice-daily game drives, guided walks, and birdwatching, offering a unique opportunity to witness the Big Five and other wildlife species in their natural habitat.

Royal Malewane’s commitment to conservation and sustainability is evident in its operations, from its renewable energy sources to its conservation initiatives. The lodge’s experienced guides are passionate about wildlife conservation and provide guests with insights into the challenges facing wildlife in Africa. Guests can also participate in the lodge’s community development projects, supporting local schools and conservation initiatives. The lodge’s spa offers a range of treatments, including massages and beauty treatments, using organic and locally sourced ingredients.

Royal Malewane’s location in the Greater Kruger National Park offers an authentic and exclusive safari experience, with access to some of the most pristine wilderness areas in Africa. The park is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, from lions and leopards to elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. The lodge’s experienced guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the wilderness and offer personalized and exclusive safari experiences, tailored to the guest’s interests and preferences. Whether enjoying a sundowner overlooking the wilderness or embarking on a thrilling game drive, Royal Malewane offers an unforgettable and life-changing African wilderness experience.

Royal Malewane, South Africa: https://www.theroyalportfolio.com/royal-malewane/

4. Ivory Lodge Lion Sands, South Africa

Ivory Lodge Lion Sands is a luxurious safari lodge located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, one of South Africa’s most prestigious private reserves. The lodge offers guests a secluded and intimate experience, with only six exclusive suites, each featuring a private pool, fireplace, and outdoor shower. The lodge’s main area features a dining room, lounge, bar, and library, all decorated with a blend of contemporary and African design elements. The lodge’s cuisine is a fusion of African and international flavors, using locally sourced ingredients. The lodge’s experienced guides provide twice-daily game drives, guided bush walks, and birdwatching, offering a unique opportunity to witness the Big Five and other wildlife species in their natural habitat.

Ivory Lodge Lion Sands’ commitment to conservation and sustainability is evident in its operations, from its renewable energy sources to its community development initiatives. The lodge is committed to reducing its environmental impact and promoting responsible tourism. Guests can also participate in the lodge’s community development projects, supporting local schools and conservation initiatives. The lodge’s spa offers a range of treatments, including massages and beauty treatments, using organic and locally sourced ingredients.

Ivory Lodge Lion Sands’ location in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve offers an exclusive and authentic safari experience, with access to some of the most pristine wilderness areas in Africa. The reserve is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, from lions and leopards to elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. The lodge’s experienced guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge of the wilderness and offer personalized and exclusive safari experiences, tailored to the guest’s interests and preferences. Whether enjoying a private dinner under the African sky or embarking on a thrilling game drive, Ivory Lodge Lion Sands offers an unforgettable and luxurious African wilderness experience.

Ivory Lodge Lion Sands, South Africa: https://www.lionsands.com/lodges-ivory-lodge/

5. Time + Tide Chinzombo, Zambia

Time + Tide Chinzombo is a luxurious safari lodge located in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia, offering guests an exclusive and immersive wilderness experience. The lodge features six spacious villas, each with a private pool, outdoor shower, and deck overlooking the Luangwa River. The lodge’s main area features a dining room, lounge, bar, library, and a spa, all decorated with a blend of contemporary and African design elements. The lodge’s cuisine is a fusion of African and international flavors, using locally sourced ingredients. The lodge’s experienced guides provide twice-daily game drives, guided bush walks, and birdwatching, offering a unique opportunity to witness the park’s incredible wildlife, including leopards, lions, and wild dogs.

Time + Tide Chinzombo’s commitment to conservation and community development is evident in its operations, from its sustainable practices to its community development initiatives. The lodge works closely with local communities to promote sustainable tourism and support conservation efforts. Guests can also participate in the lodge’s community development projects, supporting local schools and conservation initiatives. The lodge’s spa offers a range of treatments, including massages and beauty treatments, using organic and locally sourced ingredients.

South Luangwa National Park is one of Zambia’s most pristine and biodiverse wilderness areas, home to an incredible diversity of wildlife and birdlife. The park’s network of rivers, lagoons, and floodplains offer a unique ecosystem, with abundant game viewing opportunities. Time + Tide Chinzombo’s experienced guides provide personalized and exclusive safari experiences, tailored to the guest’s interests and preferences. Whether enjoying a private dinner under the stars or embarking on a thrilling game drive, Time + Tide Chinzombo offers an unforgettable and luxurious African wilderness experience.

Time + Tide Chinzombo, Zambia: https://timeandtideafrica.com/chinzombo/

6. Singita Lebombo Lodge, South Africa

Singita Lebombo Lodge is a luxurious safari lodge located in the heart of South Africa’s Kruger National Park, offering guests an exclusive and immersive wilderness experience. The lodge features fifteen suites, each with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, offering uninterrupted views of the wilderness. The suites feature private decks, indoor and outdoor showers, and a private pool. The lodge’s main area features a dining room, lounge, bar, wine studio, and an expansive deck overlooking the N’wanetsi River. The lodge’s cuisine is a fusion of African and international flavors, using locally sourced ingredients. The lodge’s experienced guides provide twice-daily game drives, guided bush walks, and birdwatching, offering a unique opportunity to witness the park’s incredible wildlife, including the Big Five.

Singita Lebombo Lodge’s commitment to conservation and community development is evident in its operations, from its sustainable practices to its community development initiatives. The lodge works closely with local communities to promote sustainable tourism and support conservation efforts. Guests can also participate in the lodge’s community development projects, supporting local schools and conservation initiatives. The lodge’s spa offers a range of treatments, including massages and beauty treatments, using organic and locally sourced ingredients.

Kruger National Park is one of South Africa’s most famous and biodiverse wilderness areas, home to an incredible diversity of wildlife and birdlife. The park’s network of rivers, savannas, and bushvelds offer a unique ecosystem, with abundant game viewing opportunities. Singita Lebombo Lodge’s experienced guides provide personalized and exclusive safari experiences, tailored to the guest’s interests and preferences. Whether enjoying a private dinner under the stars or embarking on a thrilling game drive, Singita Lebombo Lodge offers an unforgettable and luxurious African wilderness experience.

Singita Lebombo Lodge, South Africa: https://singita.com/lodge/singita-lebombo-lodge/

7. Little KulalaLittle Kulala, Namibia

Little Kulala is an exclusive and luxurious safari lodge located in the heart of Namibia’s Sossusvlei region, offering guests an unparalleled desert experience. The lodge features eleven spacious villas, each with a private pool, en-suite bathroom, indoor and outdoor showers, and a rooftop star bed for stargazing. The lodge’s main area features a dining room, lounge, bar, and library, all decorated with a blend of contemporary and African design elements. Little Kulala’s cuisine is a fusion of African and international flavors, using locally sourced ingredients. The lodge’s experienced guides provide a range of activities, including guided walks, game drives, hot air balloon rides, and stargazing, offering a unique opportunity to witness the desert’s incredible wildlife, landscapes, and starry skies.

Little Kulala’s commitment to conservation and sustainability is evident in its operations, from its sustainable practices to its community development initiatives. The lodge works closely with local communities to promote sustainable tourism and support conservation efforts. Guests can also participate in the lodge’s community development projects, supporting local schools and conservation initiatives. The lodge’s spa offers a range of treatments, including massages and beauty treatments, using organic and locally sourced ingredients.

Sossusvlei is one of Namibia’s most breathtaking and unique wilderness areas, home to towering sand dunes, desert-adapted wildlife, and surreal landscapes. Little Kulala’s location in the heart of this region offers an exclusive and authentic desert experience, with access to some of the most pristine wilderness areas in Africa. The lodge’s experienced guides provide personalized and exclusive safari experiences, tailored to the guest’s interests and preferences. Whether enjoying a private dinner under the starry sky or embarking on a thrilling hot air balloon ride over the dunes, Little Kulala offers an unforgettable and luxurious desert experience.

Little Kulala, Namibia: https://www.wilderness-safaris.com/our-camps/camps/little-kulala

8. &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Tanzania

&Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is a luxurious safari lodge located on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, offering guests an exclusive and immersive wilderness experience. The lodge features three distinct camps, each with twelve beautiful suites, each with a private butler, en-suite bathroom, and a spacious lounge with a fireplace. The lodge’s main area features a dining room, lounge, bar, and library, all decorated with a blend of African and colonial design elements. The lodge’s cuisine is a fusion of African and international flavors, using locally sourced ingredients. The lodge’s experienced guides provide twice-daily game drives, guided walks, and birdwatching, offering a unique opportunity to witness the crater’s incredible wildlife, including lions, elephants, and black rhinos.

&Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s commitment to conservation and community development is evident in its operations, from its sustainable practices to its community development initiatives. The lodge works closely with local communities to promote sustainable tourism and support conservation efforts. Guests can also participate in the lodge’s community development projects, supporting local schools and conservation initiatives. The lodge’s spa offers a range of treatments, including massages and beauty treatments, using organic and locally sourced ingredients.

Ngorongoro Crater is one of Tanzania’s most spectacular and unique wilderness areas, home to an incredible diversity of wildlife and birdlife. The crater’s rich ecosystem offers a unique opportunity to witness the Big Five and other wildlife species in their natural habitat. &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s experienced guides provide personalized and exclusive safari experiences, tailored to the guest’s interests and preferences. Whether enjoying a private dinner in the bush or embarking on a thrilling game drive, &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge offers an unforgettable and luxurious African wilderness experience.

&Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Tanzania: https://www.andbeyond.com/our-lodges/africa/tanzania/ngorongoro-conservation-area/andbeyond-ngorongoro-crater-lodge/

9. Singita Faru Faru Lodge, Tanzania

Singita Faru Faru Lodge is a luxurious safari lodge located in the heart of Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, offering guests an exclusive and immersive wilderness experience. The lodge features nine spacious suites, each with a private plunge pool, en-suite bathroom, and outdoor shower. The lodge’s main area features a dining room, lounge, bar, and a well-stocked wine cellar, all decorated with a blend of contemporary and African design elements. Singita Faru Faru Lodge’s cuisine is a fusion of African and international flavors, using locally sourced ingredients. The lodge’s experienced guides provide twice-daily game drives, guided bush walks, and birdwatching, offering a unique opportunity to witness the park’s incredible wildlife, including the Big Five.

Singita Faru Faru Lodge’s commitment to conservation and sustainability is evident in its operations, from its sustainable practices to its community development initiatives. The lodge works closely with local communities to promote sustainable tourism and support conservation efforts. Guests can also participate in the lodge’s community development projects, supporting local schools and conservation initiatives. The lodge’s spa offers a range of treatments, including massages and beauty treatments, using organic and locally sourced ingredients.

Serengeti National Park is one of Tanzania’s most iconic and biodiverse wilderness areas, home to an incredible diversity of wildlife and birdlife. The park’s network of savannas, grasslands, and woodlands offer a unique ecosystem, with abundant game viewing opportunities. Singita Faru Faru Lodge’s experienced guides provide personalized and exclusive safari experiences, tailored to the guest’s interests and preferences. Whether enjoying a private dinner under the African sky or embarking on a thrilling game drive, Singita Faru Faru Lodge offers an unforgettable and luxurious African wilderness experience.

Singita Faru Faru Lodge, Tanzania: https://singita.com/lodge/singita-faru-faru-lodge/

10. Mombo and Little Mombo Camp, Botswana

Mombo and Little Mombo Camp are two exclusive and luxurious safari lodges located in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, offering guests an unparalleled wilderness experience. Mombo Camp features nine spacious tents, each with a private deck, en-suite bathroom, and outdoor shower, while Little Mombo Camp features three luxurious suites with a private plunge pool, en-suite bathroom, and outdoor shower. The lodges’ main areas feature a dining room, lounge, bar, and library, all decorated with a blend of contemporary and African design elements. The lodges’ cuisine is a fusion of African and international flavors, using locally sourced ingredients. The lodges’ experienced guides provide twice-daily game drives, guided bush walks, and birdwatching, offering a unique opportunity to witness the delta’s incredible wildlife, including the Big Five.

Mombo and Little Mombo Camp’s commitment to conservation and sustainability is evident in their operations, from their sustainable practices to their community development initiatives. The lodges work closely with local communities to promote sustainable tourism and support conservation efforts. Guests can also participate in the lodges’ community development projects, supporting local schools and conservation initiatives. The lodges’ spas offer a range of treatments, including massages and beauty treatments, using organic and locally sourced ingredients.

The Okavango Delta is one of Botswana’s most breathtaking and biodiverse wilderness areas, home to an incredible diversity of wildlife and birdlife. The delta’s network of rivers, lagoons, and floodplains offer a unique ecosystem, with abundant game viewing opportunities. Mombo and Little Mombo Camp’s experienced guides provide personalized and exclusive safari experiences, tailored to the guest’s interests and preferences. Whether enjoying a private dinner under the African sky or embarking on a thrilling game drive, Mombo and Little Mombo Camp offer an unforgettable and luxurious African wilderness experience.