On safari: Africa's most luxurious lodges

Recently updated on July 13th, 2023 at 09:20 am

Picture this. Waking to the call of the local wildlife in your luxury suite; the tangerine sun rising over the sweeping African landscape. From your window, you spy gazelles foraging for freshly sprouted leaves, and if you’re lucky, elephants roaming in the not-too-distant horizon.

Sound too good to be true? Think again.

No longer does a safari adventure have to mean roughing it with the wildebeest. Instead, Trafalgar brings you a collection of carefully-curated safari stays, based on a lifetime of local expertise, local connections and an innate passion for the land.

From private viewing decks over the Zambezi River and intimate access to Africa’s Big Five, to private, sustainable villas and opulent spa services, you’ll have the chance to view the real Africa – home to the Trafalgar founders – through a different lens.

Becks Safari Lodge – Hoedspruit, South Africa

This Trafalgar-exclusive lodge, set in the pristine African bush within the Karongwe Private Game Reserve, will go beyond your wildest safari dreams. Each air-conditioned suite (only 10 in total) boasts views of either the Makhutswi River or a nearby waterhole, meaning your odds of spying the inquisitive African wildlife are quite high. When you’re not admiring the scenery from the main building’s viewing deck, take a refreshing dip in the luxury infinity pool or curl up in your comfy, air-conditioned abode made from locally-sourced materials.

EXPERIENCE THIS ON: Essence of South Africa

 

The River Club – Livingstone, Zambia

Coming to you from the peaceful banks of the Zambezi River, this elegant property offers 11 split-level thatched cottages, each with uninterrupted views and its own private deck. The River Club prides itself on its attentive and unrivalled personal service to guests, so expect first class treatment, incredible facilities and even an infinity-edged swimming pool. Spend time in the colonial style main building, which houses a fascinating library that focuses on the history of southern Africa. In fact, the lodge’s owner-manager, Peter is an avid historian, so settle in for a sundowner as he shares tales of Zambia’s heritage.

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Xugana Island Lodge – Botswana/Okavango Delta

Nestled under a canopy of trees overlooking the Xugana Lagoon, this unique lodge takes prime real estate in the most spectacular permanent water site in the Okavango Delta. Guests must embark on a scenic flight just to reach this paradise-on-earth (adding to its exclusivity) and can look forward to sumptuous meals, delicious cocktails and an array of water activities, including birdwatching and the unique mokoro canoe safaris that traverse the waterways of the delta.

EXPERIENCE THIS ON: Botswana Delta Experience

 

Thorn Tree Bush Camp – Arusha, Tanzania

For those wanting to get down and not-so-dirty with the local wildlife year-round, look no further than this classic tented safari camp located in the majestic Seronera area of Serengeti National Park. Not only is Thorn Tree Bush Camp the perfect place for spotting lion, leopard and elephant, but it’s the ideal destination for those who prefer immersing themselves in the wilderness. Think: bright stars, stunning sunsets and the real sounds of Africa. Plus, the whole camp is powered by solar energy so you can rest easy knowing you’re doing your bit for the environment.

EXPERIENCE THIS ON: African Safari Adventure

 

Trafalgar has handcrafted a collection of brand-new African itineraries based on unrivalled expertise, immeasurable passion and a family connection to the local people and places.

If a luxury safari adventure sounds like your idea of bliss, take a look at the new offering and let us know what your dream safari experience would be below.