Top African Safari Luxury Packages - Best Itineraries, Cost and Travel Guide
We plan our luxury safari in Africa to give you an memorable experience that combines the thrills of an African safari with luxurious accommodations, cultural experiences, gourmet food, and top-notch services.
Each of our luxury safari holidays in Africa is tailor-made to take you to the best African safari destinations where you will get close and personal with the world’s most iconic wildlife. Expect to see lions, leopards, elephants, gorillas, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest migration, black and white rhinos, and more.
Some of the destinations you can expect to explore on a luxury African safari with us include the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. We also take our guests to the wildlife-rich Okavango Delta in Botswana, victoria falls, Kruger National Park in South Africa, South Luangwa National Park, and many other top safari destinations.
In this article, James Gatheru, our Senior safari consultant, will share all the information you need to plan the best luxury safaris in Africa. Some of the things we will cover include, the best destination, the best luxury safari lodges to stay in each destination, and the best time to visit. But before then, let us share our contact details and our most booked luxury African safari packages.
Contact Us to Start Planning or to Book Your Luxury African Safari Package
We invite you to contact us via phone or WhatsApp at +254-704-532-105 to start planning your luxury African Safari tour.
You can also reach us through email at safarioffers@kenyaluxurysafari.co.uk or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com, james@ajkenyasafaris.com or even fill out our “Book a Safari Form.”
We are the local experts of luxury African holidays, and we shall plan the best trip for you.
Our Most Booked African Safari Luxury Holidays
Luxury African Safari Vacations - Where to Go
There are many luxury safari destinations in Africa, and the top 10 to visit will depend on your specific interests and budget. Here are a few destinations that are often considered some of the best luxury safari destinations in Africa:
- Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: The Maasai Mara is known for its big cat populations and the annual wildebeest migration. The best luxury tented camps in Masai Mara include Mara Bushtops, Mara Explorer, and the Mara Serena Safari Lodge.
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Serengeti is known for its vast grasslands and diverse wildlife. The Serengeti plains are dotted by numerous high-end safari lodges including the Serengeti Bushtops Luxury Camp, Siringit Serengeti camp, and more.
- Okavango Delta, Botswana: The Okavango Delta is a unique safari destination, offering a mix of land and water-based activities. It’s known for its diverse wildlife and offers a range of luxury accommodation options. These include andBeyond Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp and the andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp.
- Kruger National Park, South Africa: The Kruger National Park is known for its big cat populations and diverse wildlife. The best luxury safari lodges in Kruger National Park include Singita Lebombo Lodge, &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, and Singita Lebombo Lodge.
- South Luangwa National Park, Zambia: The South Luangwa National Park is known for its diverse wildlife and walking safari experiences. The best luxury accommodation options at this lodge include Mfuwe Lodge, Flatdogs Camp, Kapani Safari Lodge, and Bilimungwe Safari Camp.
- Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania: The Ngorongoro Crater is home to a high concentration of wildlife. The best lodges and tented camps around Ngorongoro include Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, and Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge.
- Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe: Hwange National Park is known for its diverse wildlife and offers a range of luxury accommodation options, including lodges and tented camps.
- Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania: The Selous Game Reserve is a protected area located in southeastern Tanzania. It was established in 1922 and is named after the British explorer and conservationist Frederick Selous.
- Samburu National Reserve, Kenya: The Samburu National Reserve is known for its big cat populations and diverse wildlife.
- Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique: Gorongosa National Park is a protected area located in central Mozambique. It was established in 1960 and covers an area of about 4,000 square kilometers. The park is known for its diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, zebras, hippopotamuses, crocodiles, and many species of birds.
These are just a few examples of the many excellent luxury safari destinations in Africa. Ultimately, the best destination for you will depend on your specific interests and budget.
Which African country is best for safaris?
There are many different African countries that offer excellent safari experiences, and it can be difficult to narrow it down to just a few.
However, here are five countries that are often considered some of the top safari destinations in Africa. Next, we look at the top safari destinations in each of these countries.
Kenya Safari, East Africa
Kenya is home to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, which is known for its big cat populations and the annual wildebeest migration. It also offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury tents and lodges to private homes.
The best luxury safari lodges in Masai Mara include Angama Mara, Entim Mara Camp, and the andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp. You might also love Cottar’s Safaris, Kicheche Mara Camp, and Elephant Pepper Camp. You might also love your stay in the Elewana Sand River camp.
Other popular African safari destinations in Kenya include Samburu Game Reserve, Amboseli National Park, Tsavo National Park, and the Great Rift Valley Lakes.
Kenya is also home to private reserves such as Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lewa wilderness, and more. Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the most popular private reserve in Kenya, offers an exclusive safari experience.
It’s here that you get to meet the world’s two remaining Northern white rhinos and the biggest population of black rhinos in Africa.
African Safari Destinations in Tanzania
The Serengeti in Tanzania is another dream safari destination, known for its vast grasslands and diverse wildlife. It’s also home to the Ngorongoro Crater, which is home to a high concentration of wildlife. Other popular safari destinations in Tanzania include Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, and more.
The best luxury safari lodge in Serengeti includes Four Season Safari Lodge Serengeti, Siringit Serengeti Camp, and the Meliá Serengeti Lodge. The Ngorongoro crater lodge is the best place to stay during a luxury holiday in Ngorongoro.
South African Safari Destinations
South Africa is home to a number of renowned national parks, including the Kruger National Park, which is known for its big cat populations and diverse wildlife. Other popular safari destinations in South Africa include Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Phinda Private Game Reserve, and Table Mountain in Cape Town. During a safari in South Africa, you can also take a trip to explore its extensive wine cellar, Indian ocean beaches, and many other activities.
The country also offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury tents and lodges. The best luxury hotels in South Africa include Saseka Tented Camp, Londolozi Kruger National Park, Singita boulders lodge, Singita’s safari lodges, and more.
Safari Destinations in Botswana
The Okavango Delta in Botswana is a unique safari destination, offering a mix of land and water-based activities. It’s known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Other popular safari destinations in Botswana include Moremi game reserve and Chobe National park. Both parks offer pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife.
Luxury African Safari Destinations in Zambia
Zambia is home to the South Luangwa National Park, which is known for its diverse wildlife and walking safari experiences. The country is also home to Victoria Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the world. The best luxury hotels around Zambia Victoria falls include the Elephant camp, Singita boulders lodge, and Matetsi Victoria Falls.
These are just a few examples of the many excellent safari destinations in Africa. Ultimately, the best destination for your luxury African safaris will depend on your specific interests and budget.
What is the best time of year to go on safari in Africa?
The best time to go on safari in Africa depends on the specific destination and the type of wildlife and experiences you’re interested in. Here are a few general guidelines:
- Dry seasons: In general, the dry seasons are the best times to go on safari in Africa. During these times, the weather is typically dry and warm, and the animals are easier to spot because the vegetation is not as dense.
- Peak season: The peak safari season varies by destination, but it is generally during the dry seasons. During this time, prices may be higher and the parks may be more crowded.
- Rainy seasons: The rainy seasons are generally not the best times to go on safari in Africa, as the weather can be unpredictable and the animals may be harder to spot due to the dense vegetation. However, some destinations, such as the Okavango Delta in Botswana, can be excellent during the rainy season because of the abundance of water and the resulting concentration of wildlife.
It’s a good idea to research the specific destination you’re interested in and consider the weather and wildlife patterns when deciding on the best time to go on safari. You can also consult with a safari operator or travel agent for more specific guidance.
How much does a 10-day safari cost?
The cost of a 10-day safari in Africa can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. These include the destination, the type of accommodation, the activities included, and the level of luxury required. Here are a few general guidelines:
Budget safaris
Budget safaris can cost as little as $100-150 per day, but these typically include basic accommodation and only a few activities.
Mid-range safaris
Mid-range safaris can cost anywhere from $200-500 per day, depending on the specific destination and activities included. These safaris typically include comfortable accommodations and a variety of activities.
Luxury safaris
Luxury safaris can cost $500 or more per day and include high-end accommodation, gourmet meals, and a variety of activities.
Overall, a 10-day safari can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the level of luxury and the specific destination and activities included. It’s a good idea to set a budget and research different safari operators and packages to find the best option for you.
What is the best month to go on safari in South Africa?
The best time to go on safari in South Africa depends on the specific destination and the type of wildlife and experiences you’re interested in. Here are a few general guidelines:
- Dry seasons:
In general, the dry seasons are the best times to go on safari in South Africa. During these times, the weather is typically dry and warm, and the animals are easier to spot because the vegetation is not as dense. - Peak season:
The peak safari season in South Africa varies depending on the region, but it is generally during the dry seasons, which run from May to September in the Kruger National Park and from June to October in the private reserves. During this time, prices may be higher and the parks may be more crowded. - Rainy seasons:
The rainy seasons are generally not the best times to go on safari in South Africa, as the weather can be unpredictable and the animals may be harder to spot due to the dense vegetation. However, some destinations, such as the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, can be excellent during the rainy season because of the abundance of water and the resulting concentration of wildlife.
It’s a good idea to research the specific destination you’re interested in and consider the weather and wildlife patterns when deciding on the best time to go on a safari. You can also consult with a safari operator or travel agent for more specific guidance.
How much is a safari trip in South Africa - Explore Greater Kruger National Park?
The cost of a safari trip in South Africa can vary widely, depending on a number of factors including the destination, the type of accommodation, the activities included, and the level of luxury desired. Some budget-friendly safaris may cost around $1,000 per person, while more luxurious options can cost several thousand dollars per person.
Here are a few things to consider when determining the cost of a safari trip in South Africa:
- Destination: South Africa has a number of national parks and private reserves that offer safari experiences and magnificent wildlife experiences. The Kruger National Park is known for its more affordable safari options, while the private reserves tend to be more expensive.
- Accommodation: The type of accommodation you choose can also impact the cost of your safari. Luxury tents and lodges tend to be more expensive than more basic options, such as budget camps or guesthouses.
- Activities: The activities included in your safari package can also affect the cost. Options such as hot air balloon rides and guided walking safaris may cost extra.
- Group size: The cost of a safari may also vary depending on the size of your group. Large groups may be able to negotiate a lower price per person.
To get a more accurate estimate of the cost of a safari trip in South Africa, it’s a good idea to research different safari operators and destinations and get quotes for different options.
The 10 Best African Safari Lodges in Africa
There are many excellent safari lodges throughout Africa, and the top 15 will depend on your specific interests and budget. Here are a few examples of some highly-rated safari lodges in Africa:
- The Royal Portfolio is a collection of luxury lodges located in South Africa. It includes four lodges: The Royal Malewane, La Residence, Birkenhead House, and The Silo. Each lodge offers a unique setting and a range of luxurious amenities. The Royal Portfolio is known for its excellent service and attention to detail. The lodges are located in various destinations in South Africa, including the Kruger National Park, the Western Cape, and the Garden Route. Activities at The Royal Portfolio lodges include game drives, guided walks, and cultural experiences. Accommodation at The Royal Portfolio lodges includes a range of luxurious rooms and suites, as well as private villas.
- Singita Sasakwa Lodge is a luxury lodge located in the Singita Grumeti Reserve in Tanzania. It’s known for its elegant colonial-style architecture and luxurious amenities, including a spa and fitness center. Activities at the lodge include game drives, guided walks, and cultural experiences.
- Thorntree River Lodge is a luxury lodge located in the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia. It’s known for its beautiful setting on the banks of the Zambezi River and its luxurious amenities, including a spa and fitness center. The lodge is located in an area known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, and offers a range of activities including game drives, boat cruises, and guided walks. Accommodation at Thorntree River Lodge includes a range of luxurious rooms and suites, as well as private villas.
- Private Kulala Wilderness Reserve is a luxury lodge located in the NamibRand Nature Reserve in Namibia. It’s known for its stunning setting in the Namib Desert and its luxurious amenities, including a spa and outdoor pool. The lodge is located in an area known for its diverse wildlife, including desert-adapted species such as rhinos, giraffes, and lions, and offers a range of activities including game drives, guided walks, and hot air balloon rides. Accommodation at Private Kulala Wilderness Reserve includes a range of luxurious rooms and suites, as well as private villas.
- Ivory Lodge is a luxury lodge located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa. It’s known for its stunning setting in the heart of the reserve and its luxurious amenities, including a spa and an outdoor swimming pool.
- Singita Grumeti Reserves, Tanzania: Singita Grumeti Reserves is a collection of five luxury lodges located in the Serengeti National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and annual wildebeest migration.
- Ol Donyo Lodge, Kenya: Ol Donyo Lodge is located in the Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve and offers a range of luxury accommodation options, including lodges and private villas. It’s known for its big cat populations and diverse wildlife.
- The Bushcamp Company, Zambia: The Bushcamp Company is a collection of six luxury tented camps located in the South Luangwa National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and walking safari experiences.
- andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa: andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve is a collection of six luxury lodges located in the KwaZulu-Natal region of South Africa, known for its diverse wildlife and beach experiences.
- Mombo Camp, Botswana: Mombo Camp is a luxury tented camp located in the Okavango Delta, known for its diverse wildlife and water-based activities.
- andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, Kenya: andBeyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp is a luxury tented camp located in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, known for its big cat populations and diverse wildlife.
- Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, South Africa: Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge is a luxury lodge located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, known for its big cat populations and diverse wildlife. The hotel has a private plunge pool and it offers both walking safaris and private game drives.
- Londolozi Private Game Reserve, South Africa: Londolozi Private Game Reserve is a collection of five luxurious lodges located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, known for its big cat populations and diverse wildlife. Each of the lodges offers luxury accommodation featuring private plunge pools and en suite bathrooms. In our opinion, the lodges are the perfect choice for luxury honeymoons to the African bush.
- Selous Safari Camp, Tanzania: Selous Safari Camp is a luxury tented camp located in the Selous Game Reserve, known for its diverse wildlife and water-based activities.
Where to Go for A Luxury Safari in Africa
Next, we look at the best destination for a luxury safari in Africa:
Cape Town
Cape Town is a city located on the southwestern coast of South Africa. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and spectacular scenery, with Table Mountain providing a dramatic backdrop to the city. Cape Town is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich history and diverse culture.
It is home to a number of historical landmarks, including the Castle of Good Hope, the oldest building in South Africa, and the District Six Museum, which documents the forced removal of thousands of people from the area during the apartheid era.
The Sabi Sands private game reserve
The Sabi Sands is located within the Kruger National Park in South Africa. It covers vast plains measuring 600 hectares. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including leopards, lions, and African wild dogs. The reserve is known for its luxurious lodges and its abundant wildlife, making it a popular destination for safari-goers. Most tailor made holiday to this reserve also include a day or two in the larger Kruger National Park.
Zimbabwe Safari
Zimbabwe is a country located in southern Africa, known for its diverse and stunning natural beauty. It is home to a number of national parks and game reserves, including Hwange National Park, which is known for its abundance of wildlife.
Hwange National Park is the largest game reserve in Zimbabwe and is home to a wide variety of species, including lions, leopards, elephants, and rhinos.
The park is located in the west of the country and covers an area of over 14,500 square kilometers. It is known for its diverse ecosystem, which includes savannas, forests, the Luangwa river, and wetlands.
Somalisa Camp is a luxury safari lodge located within Hwange National Park. It is known for its stylish tents, which are equipped with glass woodburners, copper bathtubs, and red-brick walls.
The camp is surrounded by acacia trees in the annual floodplain of the island, providing a serene and peaceful setting for guests to enjoy – even from the main lodge. If you are looking for an unforgettable journey and a luxurious safari experience, look no further than a trip to Hwange National Park with a stay at Somalisa camp.
Zambia Safari
Zambia is a country located in southern Africa, known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of wildlife. It is home to a number of national parks and game reserves, making it a popular destination for luxury safaris. In addition to the South Luangwa National Park, other popular destinations for safaris in Zambia include the Lower Zambezi National Park and the Kafue National Park.
Luangwa is a region located in eastern Zambia, known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of wildlife. It is home to the South Luangwa National Park, which is a popular destination for luxury safaris. The park is known for its diverse ecosystem and is home to a wide variety of species, including leopards, elephants, lions, and numerous bird species.
Chinzombo Camp is a luxury safari lodge located within the South Luangwa National Park. It offers spacious and modern villas with private swimming pools and views of the surrounding wilderness. The camp is known for its excellent game-viewing opportunities, and guests can go on drives or safaris to see a wide variety of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and lions.
Botswana
Botswana is a country located in southern Africa, known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of wildlife. It is home to a number of national parks and game reserves, making it a popular destination for luxury safaris.
The Okavango Delta is a unique ecosystem located in northern Botswana, known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of wildlife. It is home to a number of national parks and game reserves, including the private Sena Concession, which is known for its excellent game-viewing opportunities.
Zafa Camp is a luxury safari lodge located within the private Sena Concession in the Okavango Delta. It is known for its small size and intimate atmosphere, with just four large tent rooms overlooking the Zibanja Lagoon. Each room has its own swimming pool and is decorated in a traditional African style. The camp is accessible by helicopter, adding to its exclusivity and luxury.