As a safari company that has been crowned with many esteemed titles in the travel industry, we know exactly what it entails to present a safari fit for royalty. So, if you're looking for nothing but the most elite experiences Africa can offer, here's our hand-picked list of aristocratic accommodations to grace with your presence.
A surreal safari setting, Image Credit: Londolozi Game Reserve
What Makes a Safari Fit for Royalty?
Blue-blooded families from across the globe have fallen in love with Africa, often visiting multiple times per year. For example, the late Queen Elizabeth II visited more than 20 African countries during her reign. And Prince William, the Prince of Wales, also proposed to Kate Middleton, now the Princess of Wales, on a safari in Kenya.
What is it that keeps them coming back? Yes, often it's for charity work, but it's about more than that. Even though these royal families are used to the utmost luxury, they find something on the African continent that no other destination can offer.
The bush is a place of luxury in the heart of the wilderness, where these famous folks find true rest and escape their duties. It's a place of quiet reflection and connecting with Mother Nature in a way that's just not possible anywhere else on Earth. But, of course, with all the bells and whistles they're accustomed to.
So, your Highness, without further adieu, here's where you, too, should go for the true royal treatment...
Tea time in the bush, Image Credit: Royal Malewane
1. Londolozi Private Granite Suites, Londolozi Private Game Reserve
Londolozi Private Game Reserve not only offers a safari fit for royalty, but this private game reserve hosts one of the animal kingdom's royal families – their resident leopard monarchy. Furthermore, Londolozi is one of the very first safari camps that opened in the Kruger National Park area, celebrating nearly 100 years of existence.
Located in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve of Kruger National Park in South Africa, it's in a Big 5 paradise setting but offers the utmost exclusivity. When choosing where to send our guests seeking a safari fit for royalty, we particularly like to recommend the Londolozi Private Granite Suites, part of the esteemed Relais & Châteaux portfolio.
With three suites that can either be booked as a whole or individually, it's the ultimate safari heaven with décor and stellar service that will make you feel like you're true royalty.
A safari fit for royalty, Image Credit: Londolozi Private Granite Suites
2. Royal Malewane, Thornybush Game Reserve
The name already says it all...if you're looking for the full monty in royalty, then Royal Malewane is the place for you. With three luxury safari lodges and private bush villas, you can choose your dream luxury home in the bush.
Located in Thornybush Game Reserve in Kruger National Park, you have access to all the famous wildlife the area is known for but enjoy a more exclusive experience. If you stay at one of the private bush villas, you also don't have to share staff, as they will be dedicated solely to you.
This means that you're in full control of your itinerary and can choose how long or short you want your game drives to be. The power is in your hands – now that's royalty!
A royal setting in the bush, Image Credit: Royal Malewane
3. Singita Kwitonda, Rwanda
Singita is a name that needs no introduction and is a regal brand in the travel industry. And in the Rwandan rainforests await one of their crown jewels, Singita Kwitonda.
Located on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, home to some of the last-remaining endangered mountain gorillas in the world, it offers easily accessible gorilla trekking expeditions. Trekking through these forests to meet one of our closest relatives is nothing short of life-changing.
There are eight luxury suites, each complete with private heated plunge pools, as well as a wellness treatment area, in- and outdoor fireplaces, and massive windows to make you feel like you're enveloped by views.
View from every room, Image Credit: Singita Kwitonda
4. Jao Camp, Botswana
If there ever was a setting to make you feel regal, it's Jao Camp in Botswana. This luxury lodge sits on the most remote island in the Okavango Delta, offering you a slice of true uninterrupted wilderness.
There are five safari suites and two private villas to choose from as your palace, each featuring striking interior design. There's also an extensive wine cellar, gym, and award-winning spa to spoil you from tip to toe.
If you want the full royal treatment, stay at one of the two villas to enjoy the convenience of having a dedicated team at your beck and call, including a private plunge pool and game drive vehicle.
Luxury poolside bliss in the bush, Image Credit: Jao Camp
5. Segera Retreat, Kenya
Located at the foothills of Mount Kenya, Segera Retreat is a luxury safari camp in the Laikipia region of Kenya. You can stay in one of the luxury villas, the Villa Segera, Serega House, or feel like you're sitting high on your throne overlooking your kingdom by sleeping out under the stars in the Nay Palad Bird Nest. This elevated nest grants 360-degree views over the Kenyan savannah and is the perfect romantic setting and proposal spot.
While staying at Segera Retreat, you can also learn more about traditional bee-keeping practices in Kenya, delve deeper into the local Samburu manyatta culture, take an art tour, go wild walking with anti-poaching tracker dogs, enjoy botanical spa treatments, and so much more.
Our favourite activity? Stepping into Meryl Streep's shoes and flying in the original plane from the film "Out of Africa" to enjoy the same bird's-eye views depicted in this award-winning story. Nothing will make you feel more like a king or queen than looking down on the majestic animal kingdom!
Opt for an “Out of Africa” experience with a fly-over trip across the bush, Image Credit: Segera - Crookes and Jackson
6. Ellerman House, Cape Town
Love the finer things in life? Want to be pampered silly and drink in ocean views that will leave you dizzy with delight? After your safari, head to Cape Town to stay at Ellerman House. As the city's crowning glory when it comes to royal experiences, you can expect ultra-luxe accommodation, unbelievable wine, fine dining and art.
Their shrine to the nectar of the gods, a wine gallery, is something a true wine connoisseur will appreciate. Furthermore, the 1000 plus artworks adorning Ellerman House's walls will have art aficionados stopping and staring around every corner.
This Edwardian mansion located in one of the Mother City's most affluent neighbourhoods, Bantry Bay, will make you feel like you've stepped onto the set of the Netflix series "Bridgerton". And you'll want to pack your finest eveningwear to look the part too! From the moment you walk down the grand staircase at the entrance, you'll feel like you belong.
The best address in Cape Town, Image Credit: Ellerman House
7. La Residence, Cape Winelands
Hello glamour, hello La Residence! Located in the historically-rich, French-influenced town of Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands, this uber-opulent luxury hotel is located in the most enviable location – a private 30-acre wine estate with storybook views of vineyards and mountain ranges.
A treat for all your senses, you can taste your way through the surrounding area's fine dining establishments and wineries for days on end. After all, Franschhoek is known for being South Africa's "Foodie Capital"! But you won't want to stay out too long as La Residence itself has so much to offer, and the in-house chef will treat you to wining and dining experiences you'll reminisce about for years to come.
Take your pick of one of the individually-designed Vineyard Suites, and gather in the open-plan Terrace Room, where butlers and private chefs are there to make your every wish their command.
Your not-so-humble abode, Image Credit: La Residence
8. Kisawa Sanctuary, Mozambique
In Africa, a safari without an add-on beach escape is...well, an opportunity missed. With so many safari destinations that combine effortlessly with seaside havens, it's highly recommended for all travellers seeking a royal experience.
One of our most-recommended island escapes for discerning travellers is Kisawa Sanctuary in Mozambique. With 14 uniquely designed residences, each with a beachfront and day area including an outdoor kitchen, cabana and dedicated team, as well as a private infinity pool, it's perfect for those who don't like sharing or who value their privacy.
There's also a stand-alone spa that will bring a royal rejuvenation experience to you at your private residence. What a perfect way to end your safari fit for royalty!
Your own island escape in Mozambique, Image Credit: Kisawa Sanctuary
Book Your Safari Fit for Royalty Today
Our African Travel Experts can't wait to plan your royal escape. And if you book with us, you can rest assured that every single detail is tailor-made to your exact specifications.
Reach out today, and let's start planning!
