Faces of Africa: An Epic Journey

Sitting high on a ridge top with views across Uganda and to the forested Virunga Mountains in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,  Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is aptly named. The main lodge building is bright and airy, with a huge lounge, bar, candlelit dining area and terrace from which to enjoy the vista at breakfast or at night when the orange glow of Mount Nyiragongo’s lava lake can be seen on the horizon. Eight stone cottages are found a little down the slope, each homely with warming fireplaces, huge windows and large bathrooms, Two of these have two-bedrooms with a small living area in between. The border of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is on the opposite slope of the ridge, meaning you can meet your guide and walk straight into the park to meet the gorillas. You can also go on a guided walk of the local village, visiting projects and the school which the lodge supports, getting an insight of what its like living next to the forest and its ape inhabitants.

Impeccably placed for tracking the wild gentle giants of the Bwindi and inconceivably sophisticated for its remote location, the Sanctuary Gorillas Forest Camp combines a very special jungle atmosphere with one of the most magical wildlife experiences there is. Sitting aloft one of the high flat ridges of this, the UNESCO-protected Bwindi Forest, this simple but explorer-chic lodge has eight tented, standalone rooms built on wooden decking and en suite bathrooms furnished with the likes of bathtubs from where you can look out into the forest as you soak. The outdoor campfire area is where some of your meals to swapping stories take place, and there’s a communal cottage with a bar and restaurant for eating and relaxing in with the other guests on cooler nights. However it’s the daily activities here at the camp that are the real star of the show, from community walks to meet local tea-pickers or the shaman of the Batwa pymgy tribe, to guided forest walks to spot the park’s captivating flora and fauna. But most come to track the magnificent gorillas of Bwindi with expert guides traversing the thick foliaged slopes happening upon family groups grazing. Gorilla tracking is all year round and is always with a group of no more than 8 people at a time.

Located on the misty green slopes of a valley close to the Buhoma gate of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Bwindi Lodge is perfectly located to track the forest’s famous inhabitants and experience the local community. There are eight stone and timber, glass-fronted guest bandas with thatched roofs strewn down the slope. Each has been hand crafted and enjoys wonderful views out to the forests on the other side of the valley from their private verandahs. Locals till the volcanic soil in the hills up to the primeval forest’s edge, where wildlife including chimpanzees, mountain gorillas and monkeys jumping from tree to tree can sometimes been seen from the lodge. The main activity here is gorilla trekking into the national park. There are also numerous hikes and trails to sights such as waterfalls and tea plantations, and the chance to meet the locals on community tours. After a day in the forest, return to the lodge for complimentary massage, a drink by the bar’s fire and a dinner out on the terrace.

Singita Mara River Tented Camp is located on the northern banks of the world-renowned Mara River in the Lamai triangle and is celebrated for its annual wildebeest migration crossings. The Lamai triangle covers 40,000 hectares (98,000 acres) of the northern most tip of the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, neatly slotted between the Masai Mara National Park in Kenya in the north, and the Mara River in the south. The Lamai triangle is a unique area of Tanzania due to its distinctive soil composition resulting in one of the highest year round concentrations of wildlife in the Serengeti National Park. Singita Mara River Tented Camp consciously seeks to eliminate the use of unnecessary energy and non-biodegradable materials. In keeping with this concept, the camp is truly ‘off the grid’ and relies entirely on a custom designed solar power array and uses recycled and natural materials.

Lamai Serengeti Lodge has a pride of place up on a kopje overlooking the vast open Serengeti plains towards the Maasai Mara in Kenya. With just 12 delightfully stylish rooms all perched in, around and on top of the rock, you will be extremely well catered for and feel heartened by this little bit of paradise. Ideally placed to catch sightings of the migration as it attempts to cross the Mara River (July to October), this lodge offers you an experience that is highly sought after in relation to the epic journey of these fantastic beasts. The northern Serengeti, which is where Lamai is perfectly located, is a rather different world to the southern part of the park. With a continuous supply of lush foliage to munch on, the plains game in this area rarely needs to move on in search for greener pastures. This in turn means that the predators don’t have to leave the sanctuary of their territories to hunt and they remain rather smug in the areas around the lodge. Although leopards have a larger territorial space to traverse, they don’t need to exhaust themselves and can sometimes be seen elusively stalking among the kopjes that are so typical of this part of the Serengeti. Not far from the main lodge is a smaller, more private and exclusive lodge which has four rooms and neither lodge has any idea they exist. Each camp has its own pool, dining and lounge areas. Both are classically designed and made to completely fit in with their surroundings. Making use of the rocks they are built on, the rooms are a mix of canvas and more sturdy materials and have spectacular views from on high. Each has its own private viewing deck and veranda for those spectacular sundowners.

This is one of the most luxurious and opulent tented camps in Tanzania. With first-class comfort, space and style throughout. The extremely large tents are built on raised wooden platforms on the hillside (ensuring they all have a good view of the landscape). There is an inner, closed part to the tent comprising of the bedroom and bathroom and an extremely large covered outdoor veranda outside of the this, with a seating area and jacuzzi from which to enjoy the surrounding landscape in style. The large hotel restaurant allows individual dining and plenty of relaxation space. Service is professional and helpful, with butler service. Another perk of staying here is the complimentary massages, included in your package. The excursion vehicles include a spotter (for a better chance of finding the big game) and the guides here are excellent.

A larger scale of luxury based in the northern part of the Serengeti, Sayari has 15 permanent raised-deck tents with wide deck verandas that overlook the bushy scrubland around the camp. The tents are palatial, with very comfortable beds and a large bath, ideal for sinking into after a great day of sightseeing. The camp has a rather grand feel to it with spacious decking and intricately decorated areas that you can lounge in and relax when you aren’t out on game drives. Service is of a high standard and this is definitely one of the most luxurious camps in the North Serengeti.

This seasonal camp (set up only from mid-June to mid-November) provides the perfect migration experience for a hands-on family or group of friends.The camp itself lies in the Serengeti National Park, north of the Mara River near the Lamai Wedge, sitting in a hidden valley of the Wogakuria and is perfectly placed for the dramatic Mara river wildebeest spectacle. Each of the 8 comfortable and spacious tents has an en-suite bathroom with a flushing toilet and bucket shower and there’s 24-hour generator-powered electricity throughout. The candle-lit mess tent provides an elegant area for dining. Comfortable and jovial, the atmosphere at Serian Serengeti North is noticeably relaxed, informal and carries a real sense of adventure. For larger groups, the entire camp can easily be hired exclusively with the private use of the game vehicle. Serian Serengeti North Camp boasts expert guides who will bring you to follow the herds and their accompanying predators as they negotiate the crossing. The vicinity of the camp also hosts a good variety of game, especially big cats. Guests at Serian will receive exclusive use of a private safari vehicle and guide at no extra cost.

Strategically scattered for more privacy amongst the boulders and grassy slopes of the Wogakurya Hills, this delightful collection of ten contemporary en-suite tents are a modern, intimate and charming welcome to the northern Serengeti. Amongst this wild yet gentle landscape your 70-square metre glass-fronted luxury tent, complete with private plunge pool, large contemporary en-suite bathroom (indoor & outdoor showers, tub, twin basins), and king size bed (or twin) are entwined with the authentic canvas exterior, local art, recycled timber and solar power for a pleasing contrast of comfort, conscientiousness and adventure (like all modern safaris should be). Going one step further, the lodge even has the Melengali Spa and a separate swimming pool amongst the customary bar, dining area, lounge and viewing decks. The food at Kuria Hills is as remarkable as its style and attentive services, in particular when it comes to its freshly baked delicacies distributed at breakfast and high tea. If you are here for the Great Migration (June-November), then you are well placed for being close to the thrilling Mara River (30 minutes drive), or if you’re here in the quieter season outside of this this, enjoy more privacy and seclusion alongside first class game viewing.

A more contemporary and certainly deluxe addition to the safari lodges of South Luangwa, Chinzombo is an ambitious property that cleverly maintains its authenticity on a secluded bend of the Luangwa river. Within sixty acres of private land, its six standalone and geometrically-designed villas are incredibly spacious and brings together modern innovation with the atmospheric style of camping. One of the villas can accommodate a family of five, and these are all connected by a winding path lined with Msikzi trees leading you towards the main lounge and dining area complete with firepit, spa facilities, yoga and exercise areas. Enjoy day and evening game drives in this pristine wilderness, along with the signature walking safaris.

Designed by Neil Rocher, this stunning private house is situated on Robin Pope’s Nkwali land, approximately one kilometre from the Main Camp. The super structure of the house is twenty five ancient and weathered leadwood trees – powerful and natural. The entrance side of the house is grand and exquisitely built with stones from the hills. The massive pivot door opens onto the huge main room and instantly you see incredible views through the front of the house – which is completely open. On the edge of a seasonal lagoon and with a backdrop of the Chindeni Hills, the game, including herds of elephants and journeys of giraffe, use this area to feed and water throughout the day. During the dryer months you can be lunching on the deck with up to forty elephants around you. Each of the four bedrooms has a style of its own. Extra large beds, both king size or twin fit into each room under one mosquito net. There is a wooden ceiling fan inside each net. The beds have all been designed differently, from two poster beds to raised futon style. The materials used in the bedrooms are hand painted and specifically designed, made locally at Tribal Textiles. Each bathroom has a different theme for the fittings, reflecting the colours of the rooms. From copper for the “Coral room” (including a hand made copper bath) to recycled sandblasted aluminium in the “Blue Agate” bedroom. The upstairs rooms have a suspended wooden balcony, where you can sit out at night with a moonlit view over the bush to the distant hills. The downstairs bedrooms each have a private tiled veranda with large morris chairs for quiet moments. The Luangwa Safari House is extraordinary – large and powerful, and this castle-like house gives you spacious luxury with nature on your doorstep.

Simply put, this is one of the most exclusive wilderness experiences on offer in Africa. Accompanied by the best of guides, venture out from a fixed camp, walking deep in to the bush and camping out in the wild for a couple of nights en route to your next remote lodge. It is a back to basics experience, but with touches of comfort such as stand up tents, mattresses on the ground with sheets and blankets, bucket shower, bush loo, full bar and delicious food around the fire. The days are spent walking in the game rich area of the Luangwa riverine habitat, with ebony groves, many lagoons and of course the Luangwa River itself. During your morning walk, the camp will be moved to the next site, set up for your arrival.

You’ll find the Island Lodge in prime position on the exclusive Katombora Island, protected by the Katombora rapids. A Relais & Châteaux property, and sister to the River Lodge, the Island Lodge offers guests a tranquil, luxurious, and exclusive getaway. Royal Chundu properties support a selection of positive impact initiatives including Pack for a Purpose, a foundation school and a seed project. The lodge divides itself between four, spacious and magnificent villas, providing guests with the utmost privacy during their stay. Each villa sleeps between four to six people and features private decks and spacious rooms, surrounded by the island’s unique baobabs and two thousand year old Jackalberry trees. Visit the intimate boma area for outdoor evening meals or the dining room for indoor occasions. There’s also an infinity pool, spa facilities, and two lounges for you to enjoy during your stay.

Set on a quiet, secluded spot some distance up the Zambezi river, the Royal Chundu River Lodge oozes sophistication and grace. Overlooking the unspoiled expanse of the Zambezi River and the Zimbabwean savanna of the Matetsi Private Game Reserve, it’s a place to come and relax by the river, watching for the wildlife that pass by. The lodge is a Relais & Châteaux property, only one of two in Zambia. The other is The River Lodge’s sister property, The Island Lodge. Royal Chundu properties support a selection of positive impact initiatives including Pack for a Purpose, a foundation school and a seed project. Composed of 10 luxurious suites sleeping 20 people in total, River Lodge is the main hub at Royal Chundu and the larger of the two lodges. Each magnificent and spacious river-front suite features thatched roofs and opens on to a private deck for uninterrupted river views. Suites come with double showers and king-size beds. For evening meals, enjoy the unique African experience of the dining outside at the beautiful boma. There’s also a dining room for intimate indoor occasions. Excellent spa facilities will help you unwind while activities are a mix of river-based relaxation and Falls-based adventure.

This is one of our favourites, combining spacious luxury with bags of personality and character. The lodge is set on the banks of the Zambezi in a secluded spot upstream from the falls. The main lodge has four open fronted houses, one enclosed house with private plunge pool and an enclosed family house with an exclusive garden and private pool, as well as five enclosed riverfront cottages. Sindabezi Island features four open fronted chalets and one open fronted honeymoon chalet. The houses, cottages and chalets are enormous and each decorated individually. All enjoy views of the river. Care has been taken to make this one of the most romantic places to stay in the area, with many little touches and hidden away spots to relax in. The lodge makes the most of its location away from the falls, providing a haven to relax in (many prefer a longer stay here). Staff are excellent, with a friendly and welcoming team for whom nothing is too much trouble. In addition to this, they’re also taking numerous sustainable initiatives, such as reducing the need for plastic bottles on-site.

In the eastern sector of the Mosi Oa Tunya National Park and about 12 kilometres from Victoria Falls, Toka Leya gets immediate and fantastic views over the Zambezi River, and taking advantage of these are its twelve tented rooms. Each comes with a large decking area at the front leading out from large glass sliding doors, behind which is your large stylish open plan lounge area and bedroom. The camp’s main area is situated on a large decking area, and underneath a canopy of trees right beside the main channel of the Zambezi River. Perfect for atmospheric campfires on the bank and spotting the resident wildlife. Here there is also a very spacious open-plan lounge and dining room, set beneath an enormous canvas roof and with open sides to maximise the views. The wall at the back of the living area is a really great feature; it’s made of “log tiles”, which gives the room a very natural feel. Each tent has its very own solar panel, water geyser and batteries in keeping with the camp’s aim to lessen its environmental footprint.

This lovely lodge is just 35 minutes from Livingstone Airport and sits right on the stunning Zambezi River. Each of the bedrooms are thatched cottages set around sweeping lawns – some on the riverbank, some overlooking Waterberry’s personal secluded private dam with beautiful birdlife. All the en suite rooms have their own decks for sunbathing, birdwatching, private dinners or just relaxing.. ideal for recovering from a long flight, or relaxing after the rigours of early morning and late night safari drives. Waterberry is the perfect place just to rest and watch the view – on the large terrace, the floating sun deck, in the upstairs viewing lounge and bar area or around the large swimming pool. And very importantly, their food is great too – enjoy alfresco meals, traditional bush dinners, or barbecues cooked under the stars. Bliss!

Set just a short walk away from the falls themselves on the banks of the Zambezi, one can admire the coil of steam and spray rising from the falls on the horizon. The 173 rooms and suites are set in well manicured gardens along the banks of the river. This is one of just a few hotels from which the falls can be accessed on foot, making it ideal for those who want to be as close as possible. The hotel has been built in a colonial style, harking back to the days of it’s namesake, with grand dining and lounge areas as well as a large outdoor pool and riverside deck.

One of the most famous camps in all of Africa, Wilderness Mombo Camp rightly deserves its reputation due to its remarkable game viewing experience coupled the service and luxury of the camp. Rebuilt in 2018, the camp is made up of nine very spacious and elegantly appointed tents, each built on a raised platform giving fantastic views across the plains. Most of the original material was used. Set in a thicket of giant mangosteen and fig trees, the eight suites boast sweeping views out over the floodplain which attracts a large number of animals. Each suite has a sitting room, bedroom, bathroom, indoor and outdoor shower, plunge pool and wrap-around veranda. Enjoy watching the passing wildlife and panoramic sunsets from your ‘sala’. Head to the main communal area where you’ll find a small library and a plunge pool to relax during the afternoons. Enjoy delicious meals in the dining area that overlooks the plains. The camp is committed to conservation, with much of the power provided by a solar farm and a portion of your rates go towards their preservation projects.

Wilderness Little Mombo is the smaller more intimate sister to Wilderness Mombo Camp, with just three elegant safari suites. Each are nestled under a shady canopy, each with their own en-suite bathrooms, outdoor shower and large deck to enjoy the views over floodplains that host some of the best big game viewing in Africa. The suites are linked together on the raised platform which allows wildlife to pass by underneath. Wilderness Little Mombo has its own dining room, boma, kitchen, lounge and pool, making it an ideal base for a family or group of friends seeking extra exclusivity. A raised walkway leads back to the main camp’s communal lounge, gym and thatched decking area. Dedicated to conservation, a solar farm powers much of the camp and wastewater is treated above ground. Your rate also contributes to various conservation projects including lion research and elephant monitoring. While you are offered daily morning and afternoon game drives, many choose to stay behind and take in the prolific wildlife surrounding camp. Herbivore densities – especially of red lechwe, plains zebra, giraffe and impala – are extremely high and this supports one of Africa’s highest density lion populations. Spotted hyena and leopard are other frequently seen carnivores, the latter often in camp. Birding is excellent with a great mix of water birds (wattled crane, long-toed plover) and also those species associated with Kalahari thornveld (crimson-breasted shrike, pied babbler).

Set in a vast private concession of 180,000 hectares in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Wilderness Abu Camp offers some of the most luxurious tented accommodation in the Delta. The lodge is among the most comfortable and luxurious around, with six spacious wood and canvas tents centred around the main lodge which has a library, dining room and bar as well as a relaxing swimming pool area. For an unforgettable night out under the night sky, spend a night in the wonderfully romantic star bed. Wilderness Abu Camp offers a rare world-class luxury safari experience, and the expansive 180 000-hectare Abu Private Reserve is a wildlife-rich mosaic of habitats with exceptional game-viewing and birding. A visit to Wilderness Abu Camp is the quintessential Okavango Delta safari experience – with the added bonus of being able to learn more about vital elephant conservation work. Guests can explore the Abu Private Reserve on guided nature walks and enjoy water excursions and game drives with expert guides.

Organic and hand-woven, private and intimate, Sandibe is an architecturally unique hideaway deep in the mighty Delta. Dressed in shades of copper and wood, the lodge’s grand and high interiors open out to even grander views, with spacious decks offering a spectacular spot to drink in the resident wildlife. Emerging among riverside trees in a private concession come the eight elegant suites, each exuding a sense of laid-back luxury. Filled with giant king-sized beds, outdoor showers and sparkling private plunge pools, they provide the perfect comfort after a day of spotting the Big Five on exhilarating game drives. An alfresco banquet of Pan-African cuisine is then cooked up by expert chefs, while the relaxed but attentive butlers ensure you enjoy an entirely seamless stay.

Very intimately placed in the private Jao Concession area bordering the Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta, Wilderness Jao Camp is a rather luxurious way to experience this beautiful part of the world. With just nine tented rooms, you will be well looked after and be able to enjoy some incredible service tied in with excellent guiding. Each of the tented rooms are situated a short distance from the main area and are accessed via raised walkways which adds to the charm of the place. All of the tents have their own deck area with great views over the expanse of floodplains before them, you will be nice and comfortable in your luxurious canvas setting. Jao Camp also has a great wine cellar where you can enjoy a private dinner and if you really wanted to treat yourself, they have a great spa where you can enjoy some superb treatments. Within the camp itself, you have access to two plunge pools which you might want to dip into in the afternoon heat when you aren’t relaxing inside the beautifully decorated interior with a nice book from the library. Activities here are entirely dependent on the flood levels at the time of year you visit, however as a rule of thumb you can expect about 30% game drives and 70% water activities which give you a brilliant and new perspective of the animals that call this place their home. Mekoro trips are highly recommended! As the camp is within its own concession area, it also has the ability to provide night drives (weather permitting) to spot the elusive nocturnal creatures found here.

Botswana’s mesmerizing Okavango Delta is now brighter than ever with the newly transformed (as of 2022) Wilderness Vumbura Plains. Nestled in a large private concession of 60,000 hectares in the far north of the Delta, the camp is enveloped in some of the most incredible landscapes, home to some of the best wildlife encounters in the area. The 60 000-hectare Vumbura Plains Private Wilderness Area is leased from five villages, through the Okavango Community Trust (OCT), a partnership that spans 20 successful years of impactful conservation tourism in the region. Inside, the camp celebrates its sense of place and culture, with design elements that pay homage to its wonderful setting with patterns, textures and colours bringing nature inside. Rooms at the lodge are amongst the biggest in the delta, all open plan, with a sunken seating area, private shaded deck and swimming pool outside as well as indoor and outdoor showers. There is an amazing sense of space here, in keeping with the wide-open plains that the rooms face onto. The rooms are open on three sides (with netting) giving a feeling of being closer to the nature and wildlife whilst still remaining is absolute comfort. The local connections continue throughout the camp experience.The menu celebrates seasonal produce sourced directly from local farmers, suppliers and artisans. Activities here are a mixture of game drives and water activities which will vary according to the level of the water and the time of the year. You will find day and night drives, walks and mekoro (dugout canoes) activities, with hot-air ballooning – from April to September each year – as well as scenic helicopter flights, making Vumbura an exclusive destination for the discerning adventure-seeker.

One of the most unforgettable safari experiences in Botswana, this is the area where Dereck and Beverly Joubert have spent years filming and photographing the amazing lions and buffalo that inhabit this part of the Delta. The camp itself is an intimate affair with just five traditionally styled tents and the separate two-bedroomed Duba Suite. All sit raised on recycled railway sleeper decking with incredible views over the game-rich flood plain, and each has a lounge area, private plunge pool and fabulous bathrooms. A large dining room, communal lounge area, curated wine cellar, library, open kitchen and fire pit sit at the camp’s heart. Guests can choose to dine here or in a number of more private settings, catered for by your personal butler and chef. Head out on unforgettable game drives in private game drive vehicles with your own expert guide, and on boat-based activities when water levels permit. As well as a good chance of observing extraordinary lion and buffalo interactions, the reserve has a rich diversity of species, with thousands of animals crossing the floodplain including leopard, elephant and interesting Kalahari species such as Aardwolf and Pangolins. Duba Plains is on land leased from local communities who receive all lease revenue and 80% of staff coming from these communities. The whole operation also strives to have as light an environment footprint as possible.

Nature meets comfort at Nxabega Okavango Tented Camp to create a unique safari experience of both land and water game activities. Set on the edge of the beautifully remote Okavango Delta, this rustic camp boasts just nine tents with a maximum of only eighteen guests staying here at one time. Each tent provides a large en-suite with shower and w/c facilities, while a private deck offers stunning floodplain views. The rest of the camp includes a dining room, sitting room, pool and safari shop. With a wildlife wealthy location, watch out for the impressive animals that reside in this area including buffalo, elephants and hippos plus the big cats such as lions, leopards and cheetahs. The varying range of land and water based excursions on offer consist of bush walks, exciting mokoro and power boat trips plus day and night safaris in 4×4 vehicles.

On an island in the Okavango Delta, Wilderness Jacana Camp is the ideal river camp for travellers who want to explore this rich area of Botswana from the water. Five tented en-suite rooms are perched on stilts above the water; there’s a refreshing plunge pool overlooking the river; and the dining area is located on a platform surrounded by wild date palms and two grand sycamore fig trees. After dinner, there’s an open-air lounge with a fire pit around which guests can sit and reflect on the sightings of the day. From the camp, you can explore the floodplains and papyrus swamps by mokoro (dug-out canoe). You might spot all sorts of wildlife, from crocodiles to the rare spotted-neck otter. Birdlife is also prevalent, including waterfowl and Pel’s fishing owl. Without even having to leave the camp, you can often see elephant and hippo drinking and cooling off in the water. Aside from river safaris, you can go on game drives in the dry season, or spend an afternoon – or even the night – in one of the camp’s raised ‘hides’, from which you can spot Okavango wildlife.

Xaranna has a uniquely contemporary style, uncommon in the delta with the use of clean whites and colourful textiles and fittings in its decoration. Set on an island in a private concession of 25,000 hectares There are 9 very spacious tents, each with their own private plunge pool. This is a water-based camp but there is a full range of activities on offer, from the traditional Mokoro rides, to boat safaris, game drives and guided bush walks. The standard of service and guiding here is exceptional. Xaranna is very much a place to come and look for the detail, the smaller animals and birds that live in the delta as well as the beauty of the habitat itself. This means it’s best combined with another lodge that has more big game activity to provide a balanced stay whilst in Botswana.

Wilderness Serra Cafema is located in the extreme north-west of Namibia on the banks of the Kunene River in the Hartmann Valley. Undoubtedly amongst the most remote camps in Southern Africa, Wilderness Serra Cafema is only reachable by light aircraft which adds to the exclusivity of this beautiful property. Wilderness Serra Cafema is an intimate, peaceful camp with a unique mix of rustic and luxury elements nestled amongst the shady Albida trees on the banks of the Kunene. Rapids just below camp provide a calming ambiance with guests often lulled into dreamland by the gurgling waters after a day exploring one of the driest, starkly beautiful regions in the world. Accommodation at Wilderness Serra Cafema consists of eight riverside Meru-style canvas and thatched villas on spacious, elevated decks blended smoothly into the picturesque surroundings. Each fully furnished tent has an en-suite bathroom, ceiling fan and mosquito nets. A late afternoon spent lounging on the front deck soaking up the breathtaking vistas of this contrasting wilderness is an absolute must.

Exclusive to only four guests, Private Camp is a real getaway for friends, family or honeymooners who are after a real slice of solitude and service. The villa has three spacious en-suite bedrooms, a sala, various decks, a central lounge, study, living room, dining area and a fully equipped kitchen. Roll up the canvased walls to reveal stunning views across the expansive desert. Delightful food and provisions are supplied or guests can opt for a private chef. Deep in the spectacular Namib Desert, Private Camp is a large, comfortable wooden villa offering the ultimate in privacy. Antique furniture, old leather-bound books and lounging sofas create a welcoming and contemporary oasis in this wild landscape. Designed for those who seek solitude and peace, you can relax in silence and take in the ever-changing colours of the desert. There is no swimming pool at the camp but a driver can be arranged to drive 20 to 30 minutes to use the one at Dunes Lodge. There are a number of guided activities (only for guests at this camp) to choose from to make the most of this spectacular region.

The newest and most exclusive addition to Wolwedans, Boulders Camp only has four tents surrounded by enormous granite rocks after which it was named. The camp is positioned forty five kilometres south of the main Wolwedans camp allowing for a deeper exploration of the NamibRand’s south with scenic drives and walks. Staying here you certainly feel as if civilisation seems a million miles away, yet the traditional comfort and luxury of the tents pleasantly contradicts this. There is a main tent with a dining area, breakfast deck, lounge and open fireplace to enjoy, eat and swap stories.

Dune Camp has a more grounded style that channels all the romance of the pioneer era with its six platformed tents that make it a true ‘sleep-out’ experience. The camp is located on top of a 250-foot sand dune lending it spectacular views and a pristine setting. Each tent sits on a wooden platform with its own private bathroom and a deck that overlooks the expansive desert and the star-littered night sky. Canvas windows can be rolled up for unrestricted views and desert breeze for an authentic safari feel. Dune camp remains a favourite for many who visit the reserve. The main tent has a cosy lounge, a small bar, dining area and open-plan kitchen that brings an informal, adventurous and friendly feel for all guests here. Dinner is an intimate affair with the chef laying out the tasty fare on a long wooden dining table below candlelit chandeliers.

Perched on a dune plateau for phenomenal panoramas, Dune Lodge is the largest camp at Wolwedans with nine private chalets but is also the best appointed with a well-equipped main complex and swimming pool. This is a better option for those that like the company of a few other guests amongst such a secluded expanse as the NamibRand reserve. With panoramic views over the plateau, the building’s large canvas blinds offer a unique connection to the wild surroundings, all while staying in unparalleled luxury. Each of the spacious rooms comes with en-suite bathroom, a private verandah and canvas blinds which form the wall panels and can be rolled up for what feels like a night under the stars. Sandy pathways lead to the central hub of the camp where you can sample wine from the cellar, unwind in one of two exquisite lounges, recline on the sundowner decks or relax in the library.

With sweeping views of the Atlantic, Table Mountain as a backdrop, and the buzz of a working harbour, the Victoria and Albert Waterfront is one of Cape Town’s prime locations. It is here that you’ll find The Silo. The grain silo was the tallest building in Sub-Saharan Africa when it was built in 1924, and the luxury hotel is located in the former elevator tower. The creative brain behind the project is that of prominent British designer and architect Thomas Heatherwick, whose iconic works include the Cauldron for the London 2012 Olympic Games and London’s new Routemaster bus. The Silo occupies six floors above the Zeitz MOCAA Museum of Contemporary Art Africa. A partnership between the V&A Waterfront and Jochen Zeitz, this cultural institution focuses on exhibiting cutting-edge contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora, with the Zeitz Collection forming its founding exhibition. Taking its place on Cape Town’s skyline, the hotel is a beacon of modern design. The industrial aesthetics remain with the addition of pillowed glazing panels which bulge outwards as if gently inflated. At night, this transforms the building into a glowing lantern. Each of the 28 rooms, which include a magnificent penthouse suite, are individually designed and strike the balance between industrial, stylish and comfortable. The creative team have been busy sourcing pieces from Cape Town and across the world, to ensure each room tells its own story without detracting from the natural beauty of the city, which can be seen through the 18-foot windows. Another key feature is the huge grain-shaped atrium carved out of the interior of the grain silos. The art in the hotel is in keeping with the collections in the museum. Appreciate the 360 degree panoramic views from the restaurant, champagne bar and glass swimming pool located on the rooftop while casting your eye across the ocean, city bowl and mountains. There is also a café, piano bar, spa and fitness centre and when you want to go exploring, the Waterfront itself offers a wealth of shops, restaurants and bars.

Ellerman House is a class act throughout. Not to mention a wonderful piece of history that feels very much like your own home but with top class service befitting a five-star hotel. Perched in one of the most spectacular and privileged settings in Cape Town overlooking Bantry Bay, it is the epitome of comfort and class with a relaxed, elegant style. Decoration is colonial, with a nod to the contemporary and recently refurbished to provide thoroughly modern comforts. The hotel’s Click Foundation is having an impact in the education sector and its annual ArtAngels event raises awareness and funds for the foundation.  Where Ellerman House excels above others is the excellent house staff, who in these grand surrounds create such a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Taking a (complimentary) evening cocktail from the lounge and strolling out onto the peaceful gardens overlooking the sea for sunset is the perfect end to a day in Cape Town as one feels both special and relaxing. There are just 11 rooms, two suites and two private contemporary villas. Communal areas include a spacious lounge, large garden area (with outdoor pool) and a huge spa. There is an open kitchen you are invited to visit, a pantry that you can raid as well as the complimentary evening cocktails. A particular feature of the property is its private art collection. This is simply outstanding, one of the best in South Africa with works from African masters inside the main building and then, underneath is a contemporary gallery. For anyone interested in art this will add an extra element to their stay. New for 2020,  guests will be able to book Sleep Rooms at Ellerman House. A concept created by wellness expert Harry Jameson, each of the 13 rooms at the property can be converted into wellness rooms specially designed to optimise both sleep and recovery.

At the top of Cape Town’s affluent Clifton suburb, with incredible panoramic views around the bay, of Table Mountain’s Twelve Apostles and out to sea, 21 Nettleton is one of the most exclusive addresses in South Africa. The large house has just six suites, accommodating up to 12 people. Beautifully decorated with wonderful artwork and furnishings, suites come with either mountain or ocean views. The larger suites, such as the positively sprawling 250 square metre Presidential Suite, come with views of both. Surrounding the house area wonderful gardens with a swimming pool and access to the abutting nature reserve and its hiking trials up Lion’s Head. There is also easy access down to Clifton’s famous beaches. For those looking to relax and unwind while in the city, the hotel can organise personalised spa treatments on site.

Nestled at the foot of Table Mountain with awesome cityscape and ocean views is the creative and contemporary MannaBay hotel. Splendid style and South African art adorns every spot of this property, from the rooftop Atlas Bar to the gorgeous lounge to the fabulously unique guestrooms. Whether it’s Persian grandeur or Oriental opulence that takes your fancy, pick your favourite room as each boasts its own lavish theme and scenic views. However it is the Versailles Suite that reigns as most sumptuous. Boasting not one, but two four poster beds – one sits out on the private balcony – this suite is designed with Louis XIV in mind. Accommodating a maximum of just sixteen guests, look forward to an exclusive and intimate feel here. The superb service and thoughtful extra touches add to the serene experience with mobile phones with local sim and numbers, African travel literature and in-room spa treatments all provided during your peaceful stay.

Situated in the heart of the V&A Waterfront, the Cape Grace is one of Cape Town’s most famous luxury hotels. You can expect world class, personalised service from the Grace in a location perfect for enjoying the restaurants, boutiques and entertainment of this upmarket area. The hotel also has a strong focus on contributing to community upliftment and has varuous measures in place to improve their water and energy consumption. Reflecting its location, the recently refurbished décor has a nautical theme and is full of local detail, with antiques and maps adorning the hallways. In a playful touch, sumptuous chandeliers are adorned with unusual items (such as crockery and kitchenware in the Restaurant area). The 120 rooms and suites are spacious, comfortable and elegantly decorated offering views out to Table Mountain, Signal Hill or the Marina. The hotel also features a luxurious pool and outdoor deck, a spa on the top floor and a great whiskey bar. You can walk straight out into the waterfront area here making it a perennial favourite.

Set in the fashionable Kloof Street area, the Cape Cadogan is a wonderful boutique hotel. The historic, listed building has been decorated with contemporary neutral hues giving a more light and spacious look whilst the elegant fixtures remain true to the origin of the building. Communal areas are very comfortable and include a library and lounge (with open fireplace) as well as a small garden and pool area. The rooms at the Cadogan are light and open with modern fittings sitting side by side with restored antique pieces. Service is helpful and attentive with a relaxed but professional touch. This is a great area to explore with some fashionable new restaurants appearing in the neighbourhood.