Lake Naivasha Simba Lodge

The main lodge cuts a handsome figure against the African sky, with its high thatched roof and broad terraces designed to make the most of those lake views. A swimming pool provides welcome respite from the afternoon heat, while the restaurant serves up hearty fare with a view. The grounds are particularly special – imagine playing tennis while zebras graze nearby, or enjoying a sundowner as hippos emerge from the lake for their evening constitutional.

Each room feels like its own private wildlife observation post, complete with a balcony that's perfect for early morning bird-watching or late afternoon game-spotting. The interiors offer all the modern comforts you'd expect, from ceiling fans to satellite TV, but it's the outside world that steals the show. The décor keeps things elegantly simple, letting those magnificent lake and garden views take centre stage. Families are well-catered for with interconnecting rooms available, though you might have to negotiate with the vervet monkeys about who gets first dibs on the balcony.