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Forget the rustic safaris of old that you probably think about when you read the word safari. Luxury African safaris are fast becoming the preferred way to explore the world’s finest, wildest and most absolutely gorgeous continent.
The modern luxury African safari experience is all about exclusivity, comfort, and giving guests memorable once-in-a-lifetime encounters with Africa’s most majestic wildlife, without compromising on the lavishness.
Since today’s affluent travellers aren’t just looking for an escape, they are being catered to in new ways so that their Africa getaway is a seamless, tailor-made experience that speaks to their opulent tastes.
Luxury African safaris have evolved into the ultimate high-end getaway, and if this is the kind of holiday that speaks to you, in this guide, we’ll help you find the perfect fit for your travel expectations.
How is the African Safari Experience Evolving?
The traditional safari has undergone a serious glow-up.
While in the past it was all about the tents, out-of-the-way remote locations, and basically just having to rough it, these days the Africa safari is all about personalisation, exclusivity, and giving guests precious moments wrapped in pure luxury.
The safari experience is now something that can quite easily rival a holiday in a world-class luxury destination, like Mauritius or the Seychelles, but with the Big 5 and other animals coming right up to your doorstep and an afternoon spent in the lodge spa, enjoying a deep massage, whilst listening to the sweet bird song outside.
The African safari is almost unrecognisable and these are just some of the ways that the experience has evolved:
You can Expect More Comfort in the Wild
Luxury African safaris now feature accommodation with private plunge pools, five-star cuisine, and spa treatments, right in the middle of the bush, away from the rest of the world.
Think lavish lodges and tented camps with chandeliers, king-sized beds, and even air conditioning, because why should you sacrifice comfort while exploring the wild?
You can Book Bespoke and Personalised Safaris
Time is precious, and travellers want experiences that are specifically planned according to their interests.
High-end safari operators and tour companies now curate ultra-personalised itineraries, which can include things like a private game drive with an expert guide, a gourmet bush breakfast, or an intimate candlelit dinner under the stars.
You can Look Forward to Specialised Safari Experiences
Safaris are generally all about the game drive, but that is not the case anymore. As affluent and those more discerning travellers look to include more elements into their trip to Africa, they are treated to plenty of fun and more interactive experiences, such as:
- Walking safaris – These will allow you to get up close and personal with nature and are guided by expert trackers. Such safaris are generally smaller and as such they can be a lot more personalised and educational.
- Photography safaris – These trips are perfect for shutterbugs. Photo safaris are generally guided by expert photographers and conducted from specialised vehicles.
- Helicopter safaris – This is the best way to see the dramatic African landscape. Such experiences are quite rare, so make sure that the luxury African safaris you are browsing include such a trip, if this is what you want to experience.
- Gourmet safaris – These are far from your common safari but if you are a foodie, you will appreciate such a trip as you will get to enjoy world-class cuisine, fine wines, and even private chefs in the remote wilderness.
Which Countries Most Commonly Book a Safari Holiday?
While Africa is home to countless safari destinations, these five countries have become immensely popular among travellers who want to book luxury African safaris. Each of these destinations have a whole host of luxury options that tick all the boxes and include some truly wonderful and unique experiences that will make the whole holiday something extraordinary.
South Africa
A hotspot for luxury travel, South Africa is home to some of the most exclusive private game reserves, such as Sabi Sands and Phinda.
Travellers flock here to stay at the ultra-luxurious lodges, where they can look forward to top-tier services, and the chance to combine their safari with a trip to one of the world-class wineries in the Cape Winelands, a tour of the Garden Route or a hike up into the Drakensberg.
Kenya
As one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, Kenya attracts high-end travellers from all over the world, looking to indulge in the ultimate safari experience.
The Maasai Mara in Kenya is the most popular destination and is famous for its spectacular wildlife sightings and luxurious tented camps, while helicopter safaris and private game drives will add an extra layer of exclusivity.
Botswana
Known for its high-end, low-impact tourism model, Botswana is home to some of the most exclusive safaris in the world.
Private concessions in the Okavango Delta and Linyanti region are famous for giving travellers complete privacy, five-star lodges, and unique wildlife encounters away from the crowds.
Tanzania
From the beautiful Serengeti to the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania is a dream destination for affluent travellers.
In Tanzania, you can join luxury mobile camps follow the Great Migration, while the best safari destinations also have opulent lodges with fine dining, and panoramic views of some of Africa’s most dramatic landscapes.
Zambia
For travellers who are looking for an ultra-exclusive safari, Zambia is the perfect choice.
Known as the birthplace of walking safaris, here you can look forward to intimate, luxury camps especially in South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi, where guests who want to experience Africa’s wildlife up close in complete seclusion generally head.
Which Countries Are Best for a Safari Holiday?
Africa is home to some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife, but where should you go for the ultimate safari experience? To inspire you, here are the best destinations for luxury African safaris. Each of these destinations guarantees a safari that’s as spectacular as it is indulgent.
Botswana
Home to the exclusive Okavango Delta, Botswana is the gold standard for high-end safaris. Private game reserves, stunning water-based safaris, and top-tier lodges make it a dream destination.
Kenya
Kenya is synonymous with safaris, and luxury lodges here go above and beyond. Picture hot-air balloon rides over the Maasai Mara followed by Champagne breakfasts in the bush.
South Africa
With its ultra-luxurious lodges in the Kruger National Park and the private Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa is perfect for those who love world-class service and top-tier comfort.
Tanzania
Serengeti National Park has some of the most stunning landscapes, and high-end safari camps here redefine luxury. From mobile tented camps following the Great Migration to ultra-exclusive lodges, it’s pure indulgence.
Namibia
For those who want something a little different, Namibia’s luxury safari lodges have some of the most breathtaking desert landscapes views, exclusive game drives, and the opportunity to do some stargazing.
What Sort of Luxury Accommodation Can You Expect on an African Safari?
Today’s safari accommodations are in a league of their own. No matter where you stay, every detail is designed to specifically create a safari experience that’s equal parts extravagant and authentically African, ensuring that you still get to enjoy that old-world safari vibe.
If this is your first time booking a luxury African safari, these are the sorts of accommodation facilities you can book:
- Luxury tented camps – Opulent suites with en-suite bathrooms, fine linens, and breathtaking views, luxury tented camps are every glampers dream! Some of these camps have outdoor baths and showers, which make for quite the experience.
- Private safari villas – Perfect for those who want an ultra-exclusive experience with personal chefs, private pools, and dedicated safari guides, private safari villas are preferred by couples and for special occasion holidays.
- Boutique lodges – Stylish and intimate, boutique lodges are often designed to disappear into the landscape and generally include five-star services and gourmet dining. These lodges also often have their own spas and gyms.
- Sky beds and star gazing suites – For a one-of-a-kind experience, some lodges have open-air suites where you can sleep under the stars. Such lodges are quite common in Namibia.
African Travel Concept: The Perfect Fit for Your Luxury African Safari
When it comes to Luxury African safaris, not all experiences are created equal. If you’re looking for a high-end, extraordinary safari experience, African Travel Concept is your go-to travel company.
From hand-picked luxury lodges to exclusive private safaris, we have a range of perfectly curated tours and personalised itineraries that will match your unique travel style. Whether you need a transfer, want a gourmet safari experience, or wish to have a helicopter tour over the Namib, we will ensure that every detail is flawlessly executed.
So, where will you be sipping Champagne in the bush next?
Luxury African safaris aren’t just about seeing wildlife, they’re about experiencing Africa in the most stylish, and comfortable way possible. If you’re ready to indulge in the best safari experience money can buy, now’s the time to book your exclusive escape.
