Discover East Africa’s incredible safari destinations and indulge in a luxury adventure that offers a blend of adventure, comfort, and exclusivity. With stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, your experience will encompass luxury accommodation, first-class safari encounters, and the opportunity to get to know local culture and heritage.
Your luxury safari typically features opulent accommodations, such as high-end lodges and tented camps, some offering private plunge pools. Gourmet dining with exceptional food and drink service, is expected and delivered, while lodges and tented camps present you with elegant decor and luxury bedding.
Your luxury safari experiences range from closed or open-vehicle 4×4 game drives on open savannahs in Kenya and Tanzania, to intimate gorilla encounters in Rwanda and Uganda. Hot-air balloon rides over the Serengeti or Masai Mara, private guided early morning bush walks and under-the-stars dining are just some of the luxury safari experiences you can have in the incredible parks and reserves in East Africa.
Luxury Safari Destinations
East Africa is home to four incredible countries brimming with outstanding luxury safari lodges, camps, and experiences. Choosing where to enjoy your luxury safari may depend on what your key safari goals or desires are. Some destinations offer more than wonderful game drives, bush walks, and cultural occurrences, focusing on discoveries such as city breaks and beach escapes. The following destinations offer outstanding luxury safari experiences:
Rwanda
With a key focus on gorilla trekking, your luxury safari experience takes a slightly different direction, with you exchanging a safari vehicle for a pair of good hiking boots. The country also has a few incredible safari destinations offering a luxury safari experience. Your experience throughout the “land of 1000 hills” will bring adventure and outstanding beauty.:
- Volcanoes National Park – Here you will find luxury in both your accommodation and in the uniqueness of your experience. Enjoy the splendor of seeing a gorilla in its natural habitat and reminiscing back in your luxury lodge or camp.
- Akagera National Park – Take your luxury safari further afield when visiting the savannahs and riverines of the Akagera National Park, with wildlife encounters affording you the opportunity to witness majestic elephants or lazy lions soaking up the East African sun.
- Nyungwe Forest – Home to around 300 bird species, witness a colorful display of incredible birdlife, and enjoy looking out for the golden, blue, or red-tailed monkeys. The setting is serene giving a hint of luxury to your stay.
Uganda
Famous for gorilla trekking experiences and known for its sheer natural beauty, your luxury safari exploration in Uganda is vast. Your destinations include:
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Home to mountain gorillas, Bwindi Forest is a dramatically beautiful destination holding the secret locations of gorilla families, living in lush surroundings. High-end luxury accommodation is available on the edge of the forest entrance, all boasting an elegant ambiance in a quiet setting.
- Queen Elizabeth Park – Uganda’s beauty is incredible and spans beyond the forest, to open savannahs in Queen Elizabeth Park. You can enjoy a safari seeking buck and members of the “big five”, which include the famous tree-climbing lions. Sit back on a sunset cruise down the Kazinga channel on a luxury afternoon of water and wildlife wonder, with a plethora of birds to enjoy.
- Kibale Forest – The Kibale Forest is home to chimpanzees, and during your visit, you will have the opportunity to walk the forest floor, keeping an eye out for cheeky chimps swinging from tree to tree or scuttling through the shrubs nearby. Luxury accommodation may be a little distance away from Kibale, however the adventure is well worth it.
- Murchison Falls – Dramatic curtains of water add a romantic vibe and stunning element to your Uganda luxury safari. Spend time taking in the tranquility of Murchison and enjoy the wildlife nearby.
Kenya
A country known for outstanding game viewing opportunities and exceptional luxury safari accommodations, experiencing the parks and reserves of Kenya will not disappoint. Game drives, boat rides, and luxury adventures await you in Kenya. Destinations include:
- Masai Mara – Discover a day on the plains in the Masai Mara on your private game drive, the open savannah a playground to incredible wildlife, and luxury safari accommodation perched in strategic spots, offering either incredible views or prime water hole or river location. A hot-air balloon ride can be enjoyed over the Masai Mara.
- Amboseli – Known as having the ultimate view of Mount Kilimanjaro which lies just across the border in Tanzania, Amboseli is one of Kenya’s prettiest parks. Home to thousands of elephants, game viewing in general is incredible here. Luxury lodges and camps can be found inside the Park and just outside its main gates, offering easy and quick access into the Park for those early morning and late afternoon game drives.
- Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru – Watch as pink flamingoes tip-toe through the waters of Lake Naivasha and Lake Nakuru, the display is a truly magnificent sight. Luxury accommodation nearby offers high-end guests, honeymooners, and families, the opportunity to enjoy the glistening waters and surrounding wilderness, home to incredible birdlife and an array of wildlife.
- Tsavo East & West – Enjoy a romantic dinner under the stars in Tsavo East or West and experience the joy of witnessing the ‘red elephants’, named from the red dust covering their skin. Your luxury accommodation will be set against a backdrop of volcanic hills and the inviting Mzima Springs.
Tanzania
The Northern Safari Circuit of Tanzania comprises luxury safari lodges and tented camps scattered along river banks, among treetops, and nestled in the remote bush of the country’s most famous parks.
- Tarangire – Named after the river that runs through it, the Park is famous for its ancient baobab trees and large elephant herds. Luxury accommodation in the Park complements the beauty of this popular safari region.
- Serengeti – Arguably one of East Africa’s most famous safari destinations, the Serengeti National Park offers a safari experience over its vast open plains, that encompasses natural beauty, rich Masaai traditions, and luxury accommodation. Game viewing is exceptional, and includes the opportunity to witness the Great Migration crossing between the Masai Mara and the Serengeti.
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ngorongoro Crater is not only aesthetically stunning but an incredible wilderness concept created by nature. Wildlife roams in an Eden-like setting, with luxury and elegant accommodations set upon the rim offering captivating views over the Crater. Cultural encounters are possible here, where you have the chance to learn about the culture and heritage of the Maasai people.
- Lake Manyara – Take your safari to the waters of Lake Manyara, nestled beneath the Rift Valley escarpment. It’s known for its soda lake, stunning birdlife, and tree-climbing lions.
Luxury Accommodations
There is a wide range of high-end accommodation options to choose from, all offering a luxury safari experience, that delivers on design, comfort, and service. Opulence is blended with the beauty of your natural surroundings, offering an overall luxury experience. Many also emphasize sustainable practices and community engagement, ensuring that luxury travel contributes positively to local conservation efforts and economies. Options include:
Safari Lodges – East Africa’s safari lodges range from comfortable family-style lodges, to small, luxury lodges and exclusive private escapes. Enjoy tasteful reception areas, a warm and welcoming lounge area with elegant decor depicting local culture, and accommodation that boasts neat wood or stone frames, a private deck, and possibly a private plunge pool. Eco-lodges focus on sustainability, minimizing environmental impact. En-suite bathrooms with ball-and-claw baths and large showers, an intimate outdoor shower perched under a bushy tree. Spa services are on offer in most lodges.
Tented Camps – These offer a glamorous camping experience with spacious, well-appointed tents that feature en-suite bathrooms, private decks, and a plunge pool. Some tents have tall, billowing canvas flowing from ceiling to floor, others have wooden walls with canvas ceiling and porch cover, while some offer a tented sleeping space with wood or stone en-suite bathrooms. Privacy is key and elegance is a must, with fresh linens and minimal furniture completing your living space. You can enjoy a spa treatment during your stay at most tented camps.
Bush Villas – Imagine your very own private safari villa, complete with a dedicated team on hand to see to your every need. Meals prepared to your specification, a private game drive vehicle so you can spend as long as you like out in the bush, or take some time out to enjoy the facilities at your luxury home in the wilderness. Accommodation is sophisticated with local flare, and all expected amenities.
Tree House Sleepout – This is a unique experience and option to spend a night in a private game reserve in East Africa. Your guide will drop you off for the night, but be on standby and close by should you require anything. Mostly open to a beautiful night sky, you will have the pleasure of a sleep under the stars, on a totally elegant scale. Another example of a treehouse stay would be the Gorilla’s Nest, located at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park, this eco-luxury retreat offers secluded treehouses and suites with floor-to-ceiling glass windows. It provides a gateway to gorilla trekking while emphasizing sustainability and local culture.
Mobile Camps – Luxury tented options set up in temporary locations create an ambiance of awe, as you find yourself somewhere in the middle of the breathtaking East African wilderness. Attention to detail, five-star service, and beautiful decor are only surpassed by delicious cuisine and safari drives culminating in a stunning African sunset.
Unique Urban Stays – Picture looking out of your bedroom window and being greeted by a gentle giraffe looking for an early morning treat. Or enjoying breakfast and suddenly welcoming a nosey giraffe peering through the window. Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya offers such an experience, a unique and thoroughly enjoyable occurrence. Other unique stays can be found in the Aberdare National Park, properties on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, and nest-shaped lodges blending in with nature in Rwanda.
What to Expect on Your East Africa Luxury Safaris
When you think about a luxury safari, several factors need to be considered. These include:
- Five-star service – Luxury guests will expect a level of service that ensures every request and safari desire is considered both in the lodge or camp, as well as out on a private safari drive. Putting the guest first, delivering service with a smile and ensuring timely delivery of food and drink, as well as clear communication at all times, is key. Ensuring guests are comfortable and happy throughout their stay is important when embarking on a luxury safari.
- Attention to detail – It is the small things that count, and when on a luxury safari, having all the expected amenities in your luxury lodge or camp, can make or break your experience. General bathroom amenities, fresh water, a fully-stocked bar if your accommodation includes this, and an exceptionally clean room, are just some of the details that need to be just perfect. If guests have any medical or dietary requirements, this will be taken into consideration of course.
- Going the extra mile – Some guests may have a specific beverage they desire and ensuring this is available during their stay is a luxury touch. Unique experiences such as a private dinner on your deck, a romantic bush dinner, or a beautiful riverside breakfast, add that special touch to your experience.
- Exceptional Accommodation – Elegance, class, luxury… these words that easily describe what you can expect from a luxury safari. Beautiful sleeping and private living spaces that blend with nature and depict local culture and art, make a luxury safari, exceptional. Subtle turndowns with delicate touches, complemented by gentle lighting at night, all accompanied by the sounds of the surrounding bush, are what luxury safari guests can enjoy.
What Are the Levels Of Luxury Safaris and Their Cost
The levels of a luxury safari can be categorized into four sections, which vary from mid-range to ultra-luxury, each with its own special elements, and offering a variety of price points. These are:
Mid-Range Luxury
This level would include comfortable tented camps and lodges that offer a classic safari experience, with good amenities, neat and minimalistic rooms, and en-suite bathrooms. Dining is often served in a simple setup with quality cuisine, and locations are varied throughout and outside national parks. The price range for this category ranges from around $100 – $500 per person per night.
Luxury
High-end lodges and tented camps with excellent amenities, personalized service, and a gourmet dining experience are on offer in this category. These accommodations are often situated in prime locations within the parks and private reserves. Price points range from $300 to $1000 per person per night.
Premium Luxury
Experience exclusive lodges and camps with top-tier amenities, exceptional service, and a unique experience, that may include a treetop sleepout or private bush dining options. Accommodation may feature a private plunge pool, a larger sleeping space, and the option of outstanding massage or spa treatments. Prices range from $1000 to around $3000 per person per night.
Ultra-Luxury
Guests staying in this type of accommodation can enjoy opulent luxury in their private accommodations as well as in the lodge or camp’s public areas. These are usually set up in private conservancies or concessions and may include the option of sole-use or private villas, with a personal butler, and custom-created experiences. Helicopter tours, private wine cellars and exclusive safari experiences may be on offer. Price points start from around $3000 right up to a luxury $ 15,000 per person per night.
It’s important to note that prices can vary significantly based on factors such as location, season, and specific property. For example, luxury accommodations in popular areas like the Maasai Mara or Serengeti may command higher prices, especially during peak wildlife viewing season
Activities and Attractions
Embarking on a luxury safari offers you the opportunity to enjoy 4×4 game drives, either in an enclosed or an open vehicle, or a guided bush walk where your qualified safari guide will show you the smaller treasures of the bush. Some East Africa safari destinations will offer night drives, with the chance to witness nocturnal favorites such as porcupine and cervical, and hippos grazing. Hot-air balloon rides over famous game reserves offer a different perspective on the wilderness below, and selected sunset stops round up a day of outstanding adventure on your luxury safari.
Cultural activities include visits to local communities, where you can learn about their rich heritage and traditions. You will hear stories of their past and learn some tricks of their trade while enjoying the company of the truly remarkable people of East Africa. Some other luxury safari highlights include private dining along the river banks just after sunrise, a private dinner on your lodge or tent deck, or a romantic sleepout in a luxury treetop setting. Wine tasting in-camp or in-lodge with a qualified sommelier, indulging in a 7-course food-and-wine pairing meal, or soaking up a private, luxury massage either in the lodge’s spa or on your private deck, are just some ideas of what you can do on your luxury safari.
Bush and Beach Combinations
What better way to end your East African luxury safari than with an idyllic beach break. A bush and beach combination will vary in length and can be enjoyed in a variety of luxury accommodations. Along the East African coast, luxury beach resorts and island retreats provide a perfect complement to safari experiences. Types of luxury beach accommodation include:
- Boutique Beach Hotels – These offer a blend of luxury and local Swahili-style and often feature private villas or suites, with incredible ocean views. Facilities, amenities, and service are five-star, with a focus on relaxation and luxury.
- Island Retreats – Enjoying ultimate opulence in an ultimate setting on a private island, will afford you the perfect escape in seclusion and relaxation. Outstanding service, private encounters, and delectable cuisine are par for the course.
Destinations include:
- Zanzibar – from Stonetown’s local charm and boutique hotels to the beach resorts in Nungwe or Matemwe Beach, there are many incredible luxury hotels and resorts for guests to choose from.
- Mombasa – Kenya’s east coast is home to some wonderful resorts and hotels, making the extension of a luxury safari, easy to meet.
- Indian Ocean Islands – Luxury resorts and hotels in the Seychelles and Mauritius offer a complete, high-level stay that can be easily combined with your East African safari. Class, character, and exceptional service are important factors to consider and expect at all times.
A luxury safari can be defined in many ways, and whether you are looking for subtle comfort with local charm and flare, or an opulent experience in some of East Africa’s most dramatic locations, the key focus remains the same – outstanding service with an incredible wildlife experience. Breathtaking landscapes, intriguing wildlife, and charming locals all offer a perfect blend of grandeur and adventure.
Whether it’s a treehouse in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or a private villa on a Seychelles island, luxury accommodations in East Africa cater to every desire. Exclusive lodges, private tented camps, and relaxing resorts of Zanzibar and Mombasa, when combined, create an unforgettable luxury safari experience in East Africa. You can be assured that each stay is not just a vacation but a transformative journey through Africa’s most iconic destinations.