We spent the past few weeks getting you all psyched up to take your first, or maybe your next safari! We’ve introduced you to the variety of animals you’ll encounter, offered suggestions on the best time to go, and advised on how to pack… Now we can talk about some of your best accommodation options for your stay- all tailored to your own personal preferences and what’s important to you.
There’s something magical about waking up to the distant call of a lion or sipping coffee as giraffes silently cross the horizon. It’s true that where you stay on safari shapes your experience just as much as what you see. From tented suites to star beds under the African sky- the accommodations available across Africa’s top safari destinations are as diverse as the wildlife itself.
Let’s explore the main types of safari accommodations, complete with real-world examples to inspire your next adventure.
Luxury Tented Camps
Tented camps are the quintessential safari experience- but don’t let the term “tent” fool you. These are not your average camping setups. Picture spacious, beautifully designed canvas suites with hardwood floors, elegant furnishings, king-sized beds, and en-suite bathrooms. Often perched in remote locations with sweeping views, tented camps immerse you in nature while pampering you with warm hospitality.
What makes them special: Open-air living, close wildlife encounters, and a romantic sense of adventure. Many offer gourmet dining, spa treatments, and impeccable service.
Example: Sanctuary Baines’ Camp, Botswana: With only six luxurious suites nestled in the Okavango Delta, this eco-friendly camp features star beds and even bathtubs on private decks overlooking the lagoon.
Safari Lodges
Safari lodges are permanent structures and range from cozy boutique properties to larger resort-style lodges. Typically located in or near national parks and private reserves, they offer stunning architecture, high-end amenities, and seamless service. Expect polished finishes, gourmet cuisine, and often a pool or spa to relax between game drives.
What makes them special: The comfort of a luxury hotel combined with the wild charm of the bush. Lodges are ideal for travelers who want an upscale, effortless experience.
Example: Singita Ebony Lodge, South Africa: Located in the Sabi Sand Reserve, this elegant lodge blends colonial style with modern luxury and is renowned for its conservation focus and world-class wine cellar.
Mobile Camps
Mobile camps are designed to move with the wildlife, offering guests front-row seats to some of nature’s most dramatic events—like the Great Migration. While temporary, these camps are thoughtfully appointed and offer comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and delicious meals prepared fresh in the bush.
What makes them special: Flexibility, intimacy, and a raw, authentic connection to nature. You fall asleep with the sounds of the bush all around you.
Example: Serengeti Under Canvas, Tanzania: This AndBeyond-operated mobile camp follows the migration path throughout the Serengeti, offering luxury in the most remote corners of the park.
Private Villas and Safari Houses
For families, small groups, or travelers who value privacy above all, private safari villas or safari houses are the ultimate retreat. These exclusive-use accommodations often include private chefs, butlers, guides, and vehicles, creating a completely personalized safari experience.
What makes them special: Total privacy, tailored schedules, and immersive luxury. Perfect for multigenerational trips, milestone celebrations, or simply escaping the crowds.
Example: Cottar’s Bush Villa, Kenya: A private 5-bedroom luxury villa set within a 7,600-acre private conservancy, with views stretching into the Masai Mara. Comes fully staffed and offers access to world-class wildlife viewing.
Star Beds and Sleep-Out Decks
For the wildly romantic or truly adventurous, some camps offer open-air sleepouts or “star beds.” These setups typically involve raised platforms or decks with a plush bed and mosquito netting—and nothing but the night sky and African bush as your backdrop.
What makes them special: This is the Africa you dream about. It’s peaceful, exhilarating, and deeply memorable. Sleep to the rhythm of the wild, with no walls between you and the stars.
Example: Loisaba Star Beds, Kenya: Handcrafted four-poster beds on wheels are rolled out onto open-air platforms overlooking a watering hole frequented by elephants, leopards, and more.
Choosing the Right Fit
The best part? You don’t have to choose just one. Many luxury safaris combine a few different styles, allowing you to enjoy the rustic charm of a mobile camp, the refinement of a lodge, and the thrill of a night under the stars.
When planning a safari, your lodging isn’t just where you sleep, it’s an integral part of your adventure. With the right guidance, you can choose accommodations that enhance your safari in every way: comfort, style, and unforgettable moments.
Ready to start dreaming? Let’s talk about creating your own custom safari experience—tailored to your style, your pace, and your wildest dreams.
Let’s Work Together!
I would love to meet you and get to know all about your dream vacation! So, if you’re ready, schedule your first travel consultation with me now! Not quite ready to start planning yet? Get inspired HERE, and check out my Planning Process to see how I work.
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