Wishlist
The Best Luxury African Safaris, Exclusive lodges, and more
Escape to Africa for a safari that will fill your wildest imagination; more than just check off a bucket list trip. Do not just see Africa but experience the untamed landscapes, magnificent people and the incredible wildlife.
As the African sun sets behind acacia trees with the silhouettes of giraffe and elephants all the while indulging in a glass of wine and world-class meals. Expect exceptional service in worlds removed from everyday life. Uncover the most alluring destinations as Born Free helps create your perfect trip, one meant for adventure on an African safari catering to the highest style and creature comforts.
Top Luxury Destinations in Africa
The most popular safari destinations offer unrivaled natural beauty, exceptional hospitality, and over-the-top experiences. From the over-the-top modern ambience to opulent tranquility to the simplest surrounding yet highest service, these destinations cater to travelers seeking exclusive and sought-after experiences. Whether you're yearning for a romantic honeymoon, taking your family on a very special trip, or simply want to fulfill one of your bucket list destinations, these safari areas promise unforgettable journeys.
Kenya - Maasai Mara
The Maasai Mara is part of a vast ecosystem shared with the Serengeti, offering an unparalleled luxury safari experience.
Home to the Big Five and boasting one of the highest predator densities in Africa, it's a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The reserve is famous for hosting part of the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and antelopes traverse the famous plains.
Luxury accommodations range from rustic camps to modern tents, often strategically placed for optimal wildlife viewing. Unique experiences include hot air balloon safaris and cultural visits to Maasai villages. Conservation efforts are prominent, with initiatives like the Hyena Research Center. The rich biodiversity, coupled with the luxury amenities, make it an ideal choice for a comfortable, exciting, and deluxe safari experience.
Best time for game viewing in the Maasi Mara Game Reserve: July to September
Tanzania - Serengeti
The Serengeti is said to mean "endless plains" in Maasai, and spans over 11,583 square miles of diverse ecosystems including grasslands, woodlands, and riverine forests. This iconic park is crucial to the Great Migration and home to the Big Five, in addition to cheetahs, and numerous other species.
Luxury safaris in the Serengeti offer high-end lodges and exclusive tented camps, often situated in prime wildlife-viewing locations. You can experience hot air balloon safaris for a unique perspective of the landscape and wildlife. The nearby Olduvai Gorge is a significant paleoanthropological site, adding historical intrigue to your safari experience.
The Serengeti's vast, open landscapes, combined with its extraordinary biodiversity and luxury accommodations, provide an unmatched setting if you are seeking a premium African safari adventure.
Best time for game viewing in the Serengeti National Park: October-March to June-mid July
Botswana - Okavango Delta Region
The Okavango Delta in Botswana is renowned as one of the top safari destinations in Africa. All of the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, African buffalo, and elephant) can be seen. It is remote Africa, with safaris away from the crowds. Its crystal channels and striking landscape offer a unique experience for luxury safaris.
You can glide along tranquil waterways in a private dugout canoe and then retire to a tented suite perched along the lush water's edge, sleep out under the stars in treetop lofts and stay in luxury lodges. Rated highly for its beauty, wildlife richness along with open safari vehicles, boating safaris and safari nature walks.
Each year, the waters from the Okavango River flood the lowlands to create an intricate ecosystem of lagoons, island and grasslands. Neighboring the Okavango itself are private concessions as well as national reserves. Each area has its special features and a safari should be carefully planned to give you a cross-section of experiences. From Luxury Lodge to Mobile Camps, Botswana has a wide appeal for those who want to get away from the more crowded vehicle safaris.
Best time for safari in Botswana: mid-May to early October
South Africa - Sabi Sands Game Reserve
The Sabi Sands Game Reserve in South Africa is extremely popular due to its easy access from Cape Town, high comfort, and almost guaranteed Big Five sightings. Sabi Sands borders world-famous Kruger National Park. No fences allows high concentrations of wildlife, including the Big Five.
You can indulge in 5-star stays at lavish bush lodges, experience sublime spa treatments, and partake in exclusive game drives led by an Africa safari expert and skilled rangers. Sabi Sands Game Reserve is a top choice for travelers seeking a shorter experience but in the most-deluxe safari style possible.
Best time for a safari in the Sabi Sands and Greater Kruger area: April to September
Zambia - South Luangwa National Park
South Luangwa National Park in Zambia is truly the Africa of yesteryear—remote and uncrowded. It is all about experiencing Africa and not just seeing the wildlife. For active travelers, South Luangwa offers unique safari opportunities that are not found elsewhere in Africa.
More active participation features walking safaris from one to multiple days, open vehicle game drives, sleep outs under the stars, as well as high comfort lodges. The 5,623-square-mile sanctuary along the Luangwa River encompasses Africa's most intact major river system. There are huge herds of elephants, giraffe, leopard, lions and species that are hard to find in other areas of Africa such as wild dog.
Best time to visit South Luangwa Park: June to late September
Zimbabwe - Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe will not disappoint you. The park's vast expanse and varied landscapes provide unparalleled opportunities for up-close encounters with a wide array of animal species, including large herds of elephants and other iconic African wildlife.
With its luxurious lodges, expert-guided game drives, and unique cultural opportunities, Hwange National Park is a short flight or drive from Victoria Falls which makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a truly distinctive African safari adventure.
Best time to visit Hwange National Park: late May to late September
Zambia - Lower Zambezi & Zimbabwe - Mana Pools
This area is magical Africa with a feel like no other area on the African continents. Set on the beautiful Zambezi River, the scenery is breath-taking and the wildlife magnificent. As the Serengeti and Mara, these areas share the same ecosystem. Wildlife that can be found include, crocodiles, hippos, leopard, lion, elephant. They travel freely traverses between the two countries. Both parks are far from any human settlement, offering you a sense of extreme wilderness and is great if you are seeking an immersive African safari experience.
Safaris are in open vehicles, walks and canoeing along the Zambezi River. Exploring the Lower Zambezi and Mana Pools works well in conjunction with a visit to Victoria Falls, South Luangwa Park or Hwange National Park.
Best time to visit Lower Zambezi and Mana Pools: May to late-September
12 of the Best Luxury Safari Lodges in Africa
1. Kenya
Cottars Camp
Step back in time to the golden age of safari at Cottars Camp. This authentic 1920s luxury camp transports you with its vintage safari tents, antique furnishings, and classic ambiance. Located in a private conservancy bordering the Maasai Mara, you'll experience exclusive game viewing away from crowds. As a family-owned property, personalized service creates a warm, homely atmosphere. Indulge in unique bush experiences like champagne breakfasts and starlit dinners. Cottars' commitment to sustainable tourism supports local communities and preserves the stunning environment for the wildlife, as well as visitors eager to witness the animals in their natural habitat.
Giraffe Manor
A stunningly renovated 1930s manor house, Giraffe Manor offers a truly unique experience - feeding the resident Rothschild's giraffes from your bedroom window or at the breakfast table. With just 12 elegant rooms amid lush gardens in a tranquil Nairobi suburb, you'll enjoy intimate boutique service. Part of your stay supports vital conservation efforts for these endangered giraffes adding to the oasis of nature near the city and the opportunity for a truly unique experience while in Kenya.
2. Tanzania
Taasa Lodge
Located in the northern edge of the Serengeti in Tanzania, Taasa Lodge offers an extravagant safari experience with its luxurious amenities and exclusive wildlife encounters. The lodge provides opulent accommodations, including suites with private pools, allowing guests to indulge in comfort while observing the surrounding wildlife. You can witness a diverse range of wildlife, such as zebras, wildebeests, and elephants, as they roam freely in the nearby wildlife reserves. The lodge's exceptional game drives and walking safaris provide an intimate experience with the region's wildlife, including the renowned Big Five.
Lemala and Elewana Camps
For an eco-friendly luxury safari, the mobile tented camps of Lemala and Elewana move seasonally to follow the Great Migration across the Serengeti. With just 12 tents per intimate camp, you're ensured exclusivity and privacy among the stunning scenery. Indulge in unique experiences like hot air ballooning and walking safaris led by exceptional guides providing personalized service. Sustainable practices ensure minimal environmental impact. These mobile camps offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural rhythm of the migration while leaving a light footprint.
3. Botswana
Khwai Leadwood
Khwai Lediba, Botswana Khwai Lediba is a luxury-tented safari camp located along the banks of the Khwai River in the Khwai Concession of Botswana. The camp provides an intimate setting with just six tented rooms and a family suite, emphasizing an atmosphere of exclusivity and comfort.
The camp also offers unparalleled wildlife encounters, allowing you to witness the incredible wildlife of Moremi National Park, the oldest protected section of the Okavango Delta. The camp's array of thrilling activities, such as morning, afternoon, and night game drives, as well as walking and mokoro safaris can give you the chance to get uniquely close with the region's extraordinary wildlife.
Savute Safari Lodge
Immerse yourself in the remote wilderness of Chobe National Park at Savute Safari Lodge. Located in the famed Savute region, known for its large elephant populations, the unique marsh environment attracts an incredible diversity of wildlife, including predators. Thrill at game drives and guided nature walks in this wild area. Luxurious tented accommodations feature private decks and plunge pools overlooking the channel. Sustainable practices and community involvement through the Wilderness Trust elevate your stay.
4. South Africa
Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
Drawing design inspiration from natural termite mounds, Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge provides a truly innovative and immersive safari experience. The luxurious suites are built directly into the earth, seamlessly integrating you with nature, featuring private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and viewing decks. Situated in the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve, exceptional game viewing in the Greater Kruger lets you travel away from the crowds, venture off road, and follow the herds through the wilderness. The lodge's commitment to sustainable eco-tourism ensures a guilt-free indulgence.
Leopard Hills
With just 8 ultra-luxurious glass-fronted suites overlooking the Sand River, Leopard Hills ensures an exclusive safari experience. Its prime location in the leopard-rich western Sabi Sand Game Reserve provides thrilling game viewing. Enjoy night drives, guided bush walks, and unique experiences like sleep-outs under the stars or romantic candlelit bush dinners. Attentive butlers cater to your every need, epitomizing personalized service. The elevated luxury and privacy allows you to truly disconnect from the world and lose yourself in nature's untamed splendor.
5. Zambia
Chisa Busanga Camp
Chisa Busanga Camp is located in the heart of the Busanga Plains in Zambia, and is revered as one of the most exclusive luxury safari destinations in Africa.
This opulent camp offers a range of bespoke experiences, including expert-guided game drives and walking safaris, providing guests with the opportunity to encounter the reserve's abundant wildlife, such as elephants, lions, and a diverse array of bird species, in their natural habitat. The innovative game-viewing vehicles are completely powered by solar electricity, offering almost silent and eco-friendly game drives that minimize disturbance to the wildlife.
The guest rooms are designed as raised pods resembling weaverbird nests, offering an intimate and immersive experience in the wild surroundings. Each nest provides modern luxuries, including spacious rooms with comfortable beds, en-suite washrooms, and outdoor showers.
Tafika
For an authentic walking safari, head to the remote and secluded Tafika in South Luangwa National Park. Explore the wilderness on foot led by expert guides, gaining a unique perspective. The intimate 6-chalet eco-camp provides exclusivity and personalized service. Sleep out under the stars or visit local villages for immersive cultural experiences. Tafika prioritizes sustainable tourism benefiting local communities. This off-the-beaten-path gem offers a truly transformative experience connecting you with Africa's raw beauty.
6. Zimbabwe
Chiawa Camp
Escape to an unspoiled corner of the Lower Zambezi National Park at Chiawa Camp. This remote luxury tented camp overlooks the Zambezi River, offering exceptional game viewing right from your private deck. Unique experiences await, like canoeing safaris and catch-and-release fishing on the river. Chiawa's commitment to sustainable tourism uplifts local communities through employment and conservation initiatives. Exceptional guides provide personalized service. The seclusion and natural wonders converge to create an unmatched paradise for adventure and rejuvenation.
Sausage Tree Camp
With just 7 luxurious tented suites, Sausage Tree Camp ensures an intimate and exclusive safari in the heart of the Lower Zambezi. Incredible game drives, walking safaris, and canoeing expeditions along the Zambezi immerse you in the region's diverse wildlife and stunning scenery. Relax in your private suite featuring plunge pools and outdoor showers. The camp partners with communities through sustainable tourism practices focused on conservation and development. Savor the simplicity of being present in one of Africa's most untouched corners.
Best Times for a Luxury Safari
Top Insider Tips for a Luxury African Safari
Luxury Safari Experiences & Activities
The allure of a luxury safari experience is multifaceted, offering a combination of unparalleled wildlife encounters, opulent accommodations, and the opportunity to support conservation and local communities. Many of the luxury lodges are located on private game reserves or concessions. This enables these specialty properties to include a large selection of activities that are not found in the standard lodges.
Concession properties in East Africa will feature walks, open vehicle safaris, night drives and off-road game viewing that cannot be done while even staying in the most luxurious lodges. The key is staying on the concessions or private game reserves that are not restricted by government rules.
A luxury safari provides an exceptional and unforgettable adventure, offering you the highest level in comfort, service, and exclusive experiences that are truly worth the value. Whether it's the opportunity to capture exceptional photographs, experience secluded luxuries, or continuously learn about the wildlife and landscape, a luxury African safari promises you a journey beyond anything you’ve dreamed of.
What types of luxury tours and safaris are available in Africa?
Private game drives allow you to venture out on thrilling wildlife expeditions across breathtaking landscapes in an exclusive private vehicle with your own professional guide and tracker team solely dedicated to your party. Or immerse yourself into fascinating local culture during a village visit before relaxing in a private plunge pool as the sun sets. Luxury safaris stand out by providing personalized, exclusive experiences from start to finish.
Luxury African safari excursions can include, Game drives, hot air balloon safaris, walking safaris, river cruises, Mokoro excursions, birdwatching, Gorilla trekking, fly-in safaris, bush walks, bush picnics, photography tours, and more.
Most Frequently Asked Questions about Luxury Safaris
What makes an African safari a luxurious experience?
An African safari becomes a truly luxurious experience when every detail feels tailored and considered specifically for you. From the moment you deplane and receive a warm welcome at the airport, a luxury safari outfitter handles all logistics smoothly so you simply relax into the adventure ahead.
Qualities like personalized service, indulgent accommodations that maximize privacy and the view, haute cuisine showcasing regional ingredients, and exclusive wildlife access turn an already bucket-list trip into sheer five-star indulgence.
How can I ensure a comfortable and luxurious safari experience?
Work with safari travel specialists.
For nearly 50 years, Born Free Safaris has designed exceptional luxury African itineraries and cultivated enduring partnerships with the continent's top camps and lodges in order to provide an unforgettable luxury trip centered around you. Our expertise in travel logistics and long relationships with premier safari destinations allow us to arrange truly exclusive encounters with people, wildlife, and culture along with pampering amenities.
From private plunge pools to volunteer excursions with a conservationist researcher or guided walks through an esteemed safari outfitter’s homeland, expect indulgent touches and moving, customized moments that make a luxury safari with Born Free Safaris a distinctive experience celebrating Africa’s enduring spirit and majesty.
Choose the Best African Safari Vacation for You
Planning a Luxury African Safari can feel overwhelming, the experience can be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
With so many details to arrange, proper planning ensures your luxury African safari goes off without a hitch. We walk you through important logistics from choosing a safari company to visa requirements. Don't be the person left behind while your friends share magical photos from their adventures in the bush.
Contact Born Free Safaris to start planning your adventure. Our safari experts have decades of experience crafting personalized itineraries to maximize your wildlife sightings during an unparalleled wilderness safari. Space is limited for the best time of year to visit, but you can start planning your safari wishlist or learn more about what you can expect on safari.
