Our Top Picks
- Matetsi Victoria Falls: Crowned the definitive leader with a reader score of 97.88, blending wild riverfront beauty with unmatched privacy.
- andBeyond Bateleur Camp: A rare gem that achieved a perfect 100 rating, celebrated for its vintage safari lodge charm and front-row seats to the Great Migration.
- Birkenhead House: The gold standard for coastal grace, offering boutique accommodations where the mountains meet the Atlantic.
- Babylonstoren: A Winelands sanctuary where hospitality excellence is defined by farm-to-table dining and centuries-old botanical heritage.
The best African resorts, as rated by discerning travelers, represent the pinnacle of luxury, blending raw natural beauty with sophisticated service. Among the most beloved properties are Birkenhead House in the whale-watching capital of Hermanus and the riverfront sanctuary of Matetsi Victoria Falls, both of which consistently lead the World's Best Awards for their ability to deliver deeply emotional and sensory-rich experiences.
Coastal Opulence: The Charm of Hermanus
There is a specific kind of magic that unfolds in Hermanus, where the rugged cliffs of the Overberg meet the turquoise expanse of Walker Bay. At the heart of this coastal theater sits Birkenhead House, a property that feels less like a hotel and more like the private beach estate of a worldly friend. For those seeking luxury South Africa resorts that balance high-fashion interiors with a relaxed, feet-in-the-sand philosophy, this is the ultimate destination.
The experience here is defined by the seasons. Between June and December, the bay becomes a nursery for southern right whales. Guests can witness these gentle giants breaching from the comfort of their boutique suites or while sipping a crisp Sauvignon Blanc on the terrace. The air here smells of salt and fynbos, a unique floral kingdom that blankets the surrounding mountains. With five-star amenities including a cliffside pool and a spa that utilizes local botanical extracts, it is no wonder the property earned a T+L Score: 95.73 | Price: $$$$.
Every meal at the house is a celebration of the Cape’s bounty. Whether it is hand-dived scallops or a delicate soufflé enjoyed as the sun dips below the horizon, the culinary artistry ensures Birkenhead House remains one of the best beach resorts in Hermanus for whale watching and gourmet indulgence alike.
Safari Grandeur: Serengeti and Maasai Mara Escapes
To talk about the top-rated hotels in Southern Africa and East Africa without mentioning the great plains would be to leave the heart out of the story. The modern safari lodge has evolved far beyond the canvas tents of old, becoming a sanctuary of high design and profound silence. When comparing best luxury safari villas in Kenya vs Tanzania, the choice often comes down to the rhythm of the wildlife sightings.
In Tanzania, Singita Serengeti House offers an exclusive-use retreat that redefines the safari experience. Here, a private butler service ensures that every whim is met, from sunrise gin and tonics in the bush to starlit dinners on the deck. The house is designed for those who value privacy, offering a front-row seat to the wildlife sightings of the Grumeti Reserve without another vehicle in sight.
Across the border in Kenya, Cottar’s Bush Villa provides a similar level of elite seclusion within the older-world glamour of the 1920s safari tradition. These properties offer expansive tented suites that blur the line between the indoors and the wild. The luxury here is found in the stillness—the sound of a distant lion’s roar or the soft rustle of acacia trees. These escapes are perennial favorites because they provide more than just a bed; they offer a profound reconnection with the natural world through hospitality excellence.
Emma's Note: When booking a safari villa, always inquire about the 'private vehicle' option. Having your own guide and tracker allows you to dictate the pace of your day, whether you want to spend four hours watching a leopard or return early for a colonial-style afternoon tea.
Cape Winelands: Farm-to-Table Sophistication
Less than 60 mins from Cape Town, the landscape shifts from dramatic coastline to the rolling, vine-covered hills of Simondium. Here lies Babylonstoren, a historic Cape Dutch farm that has been transformed into one of the most evocative destinations in the world. It is frequently cited as one of the top-rated luxury resorts in South Africa for families, thanks to its sprawling gardens and interactive farm experiences.
The soul of Babylonstoren is its eight-acre garden, where every plant is edible or has medicinal value. Guests staying in the farmhouse or the farm-style cottages are invited to pick their own plums in the summer or citrus in the winter. The culinary excellence at the on-site Babel restaurant is legendary, honoring a farm-to-table resort stays philosophy that uses only what is harvested that morning.
For the romantic traveler, the garden suites offer a serene escape tucked amidst the greenery. The interior design is a masterclass in "farmhouse chic"—white-washed walls, oversized bathtubs, and floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto the vines. It is a place that encourages you to slow down, to walk barefoot through the chamomile, and to rediscover the simple joy of a perfectly ripe peach.
Riverside Majesty: Victoria Falls & The Zambezi
Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders), remains one of the most spiritual locations on the continent. The Victoria Falls luxury hotels that line the banks of the Zambezi River offer a unique blend of adventure and sheer elegance. Matetsi Victoria Falls recently dominated the charts, being named the best resort in Africa for their 2024 World’s Best Awards with a total reader score of 97.88.
Matetsi River House and its sister lodge provide a contemporary take on the riverine experience. Guests can enjoy private plunge pools that look directly onto the river, where hippos wallow and elephants frequently cross. The service standards here are impeccable, balancing the ruggedness of the Zimbabwe bush with the refinement of a high-end boutique hotel.
Just downstream, The Royal Livingstone by Anantara offers a more classical, colonial-inspired luxury. This property is famous for its immediate access to the falls; guests can literally walk to the edge of the world's largest curtain of falling water. The highlight of any stay here is the sundowner on the deck. Watching the sunset over the Zambezi River while the mist from the falls rises like white smoke in the distance is a memory that stays with you forever.
Traveler's Toolkit: Logistics and Insider Tips
Planning a journey to these remote corners of paradise requires a bit more than just a passport and a dream. When determining how to choose the best resort in Africa for first-time visitors, consider your tolerance for travel time. While the Winelands are an easy drive from Cape Town, reaching a deep-bush safari lodge may involve multiple light aircraft transfers.
- Pricing Realities: Expect to pay between $250 and $700+ per person per night for these top-tier properties. However, many safari lodges are all-inclusive, covering meals, drinks, and twice-daily wildlife drives.
- Currency Nuance: If you are visiting Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe side), the US Dollar is the preferred currency. Ensure your bills are crisp and printed after 2006, as older notes are often rejected.
- Safety & ATMs: In Zimbabwe, ATMs are frequently unreliable for international cards. Carry enough cash for tips and small purchases to avoid frustration.
- Booking Windows: To secure a spot at these award-winning resorts, especially during the Great Migration or the whale-watching season, booking 10 to 12 months in advance is highly recommended.
The results of the latest travel surveys reflect a massive participation from the global community. More than 186,000 Travel + Leisure readers completed the survey, casting over 700,000 votes to identify these top-performing hotels.
FAQ
What are the best luxury resorts in Africa?
The highest-rated options currently include Matetsi Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, which leads with its riverfront seclusion, and andBeyond Bateleur Camp in Kenya, which recently earned a perfect 100 score from readers. Birkenhead House in South Africa is also a top contender for those seeking coastal luxury.
Which African country has the best beach resorts?
South Africa is widely considered to have the best beach resorts for those seeking a mix of luxury and activity, particularly in the Western Cape. Hermanus is world-famous for its luxury boutique stays that offer premier whale-watching opportunities alongside high-end spa and dining facilities.
What is the best time of year to visit African resorts?
The best time depends on the region. For South African coastal resorts like Birkenhead House, June through December is peak season for whale watching. For safari lodges in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, the dry season from July to October is ideal for witnessing the Great Migration and easy wildlife viewing.
Are there family-friendly resorts in Africa?
Yes, many top-tier resorts cater specifically to families. Babylonstoren in the Cape Winelands is a favorite for its interactive farm tours and spacious cottages. Many safari lodges now offer 'Junior Ranger' programs and private villas like Singita Serengeti House that allow families to enjoy the wild in total privacy.
Do African resorts offer safari packages?
Most luxury resorts located within or near national parks offer comprehensive safari packages. These typically include luxury boutique accommodations, gourmet meals, and guided game drives led by professional trackers. Properties like Matetsi Victoria Falls combine river safaris with land-based wildlife viewing for a complete experience.
