If you’re planning a celebratory trip or a multi-generational family holiday, look no further than Africa. With the medieval cultural capitals in the north, the wide-open savannahs and islands in the east and the deltas and deserts of the south, Africa has something for everyone. And if you’re travelling in a group, nothing beats booking a lodge, hotel or camp on an exclusive basis. There’s no need to stick to rigid mealtimes or scramble to snag that sun lounger at the crack of dawn on your beach escape and, best of all, many properties come complete with a full team of staff to keep guests of all ages fed, watered and entertained throughout. Read on for a roundup of our favourite private safari lodges in Africa...
1
Zarafa Dhow Suites
Located within the wilderness of the Selinda Reserve in Northern Botswana, the Zarafa Dhow Suite is a super-luxurious two-bedroom retreat complete with friendly staff, a swimming pool and a private 4x4. This property has serious eco-credentials too; solar power, vegetable oil fuel and a UV water filtration system make this one of the greenest camps around.
2
Dar Ahlam Nomad Camp
From one of our favourite hotels in Morocco comes one of our favourite glamping experiences; Dar Ahlam’s Nomad Camp is a luxurious Bedouin tent pitched amid the rolling dunes of the Sahara in winter, and in the beautiful Valley of the Rose during the summer months. Think silence, seclusion, and star-lit skies.
3
Enasoit Game Sanctuary & Private Camp
If you’re packing the kids, cousins and grandparents along with your safari luggage, look no further than Enasoit in the foothills of Mount Kenya. This private safari lodge sleeps 16 in tented cottages and alongside traditional safari offers a ‘Thinking Man’s Safari’, with experts on hand to give talks on subjects ranging from African rock art to conservation.
4
Villa Santorini
Located on mainland Mozambique, overlooking a golden sand beach with the vibrant reefs of the Bazaruto archipelago in easy reach, Villa Santorini is a Grecian-style property with whitewashed walls and blue domed roofs. The Main Villa houses five bedrooms, while the sixth – ‘The Chapel’ – is a romantic escape for two, complete with a private plunge pool which is the perfect spot for a refreshing dip during the heat of the day.
5
Morukuru Owner’s House
Shaded by an ancient morukuru tree on the banks of the Marico River, this two-bedroom private safari lodge is in the Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa – a Big Five reserve. The days are spent bumping across the bush on exciting game drives and walking safaris but mealtimes are as much of an event, with at least one per day enjoyed at a magical spot in the bush.