Africa luxury hotlist – where to go if money is no object
WHEN you think about Africa, what is the first thing that comes to your mind? For me, Africa is rich. Rich in experiences, in culture, in history, in landscapes and luxury.
In celebration of Africa Day on Tuesday, May 25, here is a guide to some destinations on the continent and the unique experiences it offers: Botswana
Botswana has become a leading safari destination that prides itself on offering luxury experiences for travellers. Jao Camp in the heart of Okavango Delta is among the stops to add to your bucket list. The camp features two exclusive villas and five suites equipped with private plunge pools, lounge, dining areas and en-suite bathrooms. Travellers also get exclusive access to Africa’s best wildlife areas. Rates start from $13 195 (R184 510) per villa for up to four guests.
See: Include Okavango Delta, a Unesco World Heritage Site, on your itinerary. Explore towns like Maun and Kasane or search for wildlife at Chobe National Park or Gaborone Game Reserve.
Kenya
Kenya is famous for its Indian Ocean coastline, lakelands, the Great Rift Valley, mountain highlands and wildlife. One of the reasons many people plan a holiday to Kenya is to see Giraffe Manor's herd of resident Rothschild giraffe, one of the most endangered giraffe species in the world.
Located within almost 57 hectares of indigenous forest in the Langata suburb of Nairobi, the exclusive hotel accommodates 25 guests. Start your day with breakfast with the giraffes or take a leisurely walk to the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife Giraffe Centre in the company of these friendly animals. Rates start from $875 (R12 403) per adult sharing a night.
See: Another bucket list adventure for travellers is the renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve that boasts spectacular ecosystems and safari experiences. Many visit this Kenyan gem to see the wildebeest migration, which takes place between July and October. Lamu and Malindi are fast becoming hot destinations for travellers as they offer a range of activities.
Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a destination for those who want to immerse themselves in bespoke experiences. Here, travellers can soak up the ocean views from an all-inclusive resort, indulge in tantalising cuisine or explore the markets. If extravagance is what you seek, visit The Residence Zanzibar, a 5-star property
cocooned among 32ha of tropical gardens.
Besides taking a sunset stroll on the 1.6km stretch of beach, travellers can learn about the rare red colobus monkey, explore a spice plantation or spend afternoons at the spa. Rates start from $1 234 (R17 399) a night per villa.
See: Be sure to explore Stone Town,
Nungwi Beach and go on a spice tour. Mauritius
While Mauritius remains a budgetfriendly destination for travellers, visitors can enjoy a plethora of exclusive experiences that showcase its beaches, reefs and lagoons. Luxury travellers will appreciate Shanti Maurice Resort & Spa in Saint Felix. The 5-star-property was voted Mauritius’s Leading Boutique Hotel at the World Travel Awards for 2020 and 2019. The Shanti Villa sleeps 10 people and among its top accommodation offerings, spanning over 1 000m², the Shanti Villa boasts a 140m² temperature controlled private swimming pool featuring jacuzzi beds, a wrap-around balcony, kitchen, and a butler. Rates start from €1 943 (R33 309) a night.
See: Add Port Louis, Grand Baie, Mahebourg, Le Morne and Rodrigues to your itinerary.
Egypt
Travel back in time to Egypt’s ancient temples and pyramids, and one way to enjoy the country is through a cruise along the Nile River.
The Oberoi Philae, dubbed one of the most luxurious cruises on the Nile, boast all-day fine dining, a movie theatre, dance floor, fitness centre, spa and a unisex beauty salon.
The spacious accommodation types come in cabins, suites and suites with a terrace, each offering all the mod-cons needed for smooth sailing.
Cruises offered are from four to seven nights. Rates for the 4-night cruise starts from €675 (R11 567) per room a night.
See: Cairo is ideal for those who want to see history and world-famous sites like the sphinx.
Take a tour of the Pyramid of Giza, the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in the Giza pyramid complex bordering El Giza in Egypt. Morocco
Morocco is known for grand beaches, sweeping views of the desert and distinct architecture. Spend a night or two at The Grand Riad at Royal Mansour in Marrakech.
Among the amenities included are a central patio with a retractable roof, Moroccan lounge, a private hammam, fitness room, office and library, games room, three bedrooms and an outdoor shower. Rates are available upon request. However, CEOWORLD Magazine reported last year that rates start from $43,000 (R602 547) a night.
See: From Asilah, a picturesque seaside town, to Ifrane, a city showcasing alpine-style architecture, Morocco offers a vast range of experiences. Capital city Rabat features the Kasbah of the Udayas, Chellah and Andalusian Gardens. Marrakech boasts the Medina,souks and hammam. A day trip to Fez and Casablanca is also a must.