5 Top African Luxury Lodges

Got some cash to splash?? Here’s my Top 5 African Safari Lodges to do just that whilst viewing the most amazing concentrations of wildlife on the planet – the BIG 5 and more. The tribal decor in these places is amazing – and the wildlife isn’t too shabby either !!!

1. MOMBO CAMP, BOTSWANA

Re-built in 2018, Mombo has 8 spacious and glamorous tents all with en-suits. Raised from the ground, they boast beautiful long verandas to soak up the sweeping views, a stunning sitting room with sumptuous decor and bathrooms decked out with brass and copper – it even has a gold bathtub !! Decadence at its best !! Mombo Camp’s main living, bar and dining areas are under thatch, while the boma adds a traditional flavour to a delicious dinner under the stars. There are two plunge pools in which to soak and a gym to work off the excellent food.

2. IVORY LODGE LION SANDS, SOUTH AFRICA

Ivory Lodge is set along the banks of the Sabie River, each of the 6 suites have breath-taking views which are designed and styled with African contemporary luxury in mind. It is for those in search of utter exclusivity. Stunning brass lanterns lead the way from each lodge to common areas which make for a beautiful night time ambiance. Whilst sipping some amazing South African wine in your exquisitely appointed bedroom, private deck or plunge pool, this is one of the best places to look in on Africa – uninterrupted. For the more adventurous, a once in a lifetime experience and the ultimate African bush experience, you may want to stay at one of the amazing treehouses operated by the same management of Ivory Lodge in the same wildlife reserve.

3. SINGITA BOULDERS LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA

Singita Boulders Lodge is set along the banks of the Sand River in Singita’s privately owned reserve within the Sabi Sand Reserve, near Kruger National Park . It is renowned for high concentrations of big game and frequent leopard sightings. The lodge has 12 glass fronted suites all with private pools, and is built around the organic shaped boulders and rocks dotted throughout the bushland. Expansive decks and walkways around the property invite continuous engagements with the surrounding wilderness.  The tribal decor in side each suite is offset with the raw African beauty outside.  Fireplaces, private decks, outdoor showers and heated pools are standard fare. The handmade furnishings. textured cushions and throws combined with the tribal carvings will make you want to stay a lifetime.

4. TIME + TIDE CHINZOMBO, ZAMBIA

Situated on a sweeping curve of the Luangwa River and designed by award-winning architects, the Time + Tide Chinzombo is Zambia’s most exclusive hotel. Six beautiful and wildly luxurious villas are all decked out in natural materials such as leather, reeds and canvas. The private plunge pools boasts views of the tranquil river and the abundant wildlife that frequents its banks. This particular area is renowned for its world-class predator action, with especially strong sightings of the elusive leopard. Pamper yourself with an in-villa spa treatment during your midday break between safari activities. 

While the cost is steep, sleep easy knowing that a portion of the daily rates goes towards funding the relocation of black rhino to North Luangwa National Park, where a rhino breeding project is underway.

5. & BEYOND NGORONGORO CRATER LODGE, TANZANIA

Ngorongoro Crater Lodge has been called the game lodge at the top of the world. It is located right on the rim of the ancient volcanic Ngorongoro caldera, offering some amazing views, some of the best safaris and some rather eclectic lodgings too. The crater below is home to black rhino, giant tusked elephants, big bearded lions and flamingo crowding around the lakes.

The room interiors are reminiscent of a quirky, yet elegant baroque château. Victorian furnishings and whimsical African touches creates a sumptuous atmosphere that is as elegant and unique as the Crater itself. There are brocade sofas, gilt mirrors, beaded chandeliers, 4 poster beds, thatched ceilings, panelled walls and loads of red velvet. 

The fantasy world doesn’t stop there – the ensuite bathrooms feature huge showers and chandelier-lit bathtubs while floor-to-ceiling windows ensure breath-taking views from all around of the incredible game-rich Crater. 

Each lodge even has its own private butler who will do anything from bring you tea in bed, stoke your fire and draw your bath. Watch the sunset with the chant of the Massai below as the mist swirls over the huge wildlife cauldron. You could honestly be forgiven for losing track of which era, or even continent, you are on.

Create that African Safari Look and Feel