Best Hotels & Lodges

In 2023, Kwando 4 Rivers Camp became the newest edition to the remote western corner of Kwara Private Concession in the Okavango Delta. A smattering of Meru-style, open-sided suites sit beside a permanent lagoon, all promising a front-row seat to the activities of its resident hippos. In fact, there are floodplains, mopane forests and deep channels as far as the eye can see, offering a peek into the further excitement to come... You'll have the chance to explore to your heart's content, from off-road drives in search of the Delta's big cats or walking safaris on nearby Maboa Island.

This beautiful lodge is situated on a rocky outcrop in the central region of the vast Madikwe Game Reserve, which is fast becoming one of South Africa's top malaria-free wildlife destinations. Ten private suites, plus the separate sole-use villa at Little Madikwe Hills, are scattered amongst huge boulders and magnificent Tamboti trees facing out across open plains. It’s a superb choice for a luxurious safari in this scenic northern part of South Africa, which borders Botswana. Expect world-class hospitality, absolute luxury and premium game viewing across a diverse landscape of rugged hills, arid open savannas and lush riverine forests.

Nestled along the crystalline waters of the Bay of Mazzarò, this century-old residence whispers tales of aristocratic summers past while offering thoroughly modern indulgences. Dating from 1919, when a noble family built their dream escape amid subtropical gardens, the property retains that unmistakable ambience of a private coastal villa rather than a hotel. The secluded shoreline setting creates a haven of tranquility, yet adventure lies just moments away via the cable car that whisks you up to the cultural treasures and boutique-lined streets above. It's the perfect harmony of isolation when desired and accessibility when needed – a rare combination that keeps devotees returning year after year.

Kia Lodge is located in north-east Tanzania close to Kilimanjaro International Airport. Known affectionately as 'the door to Tanzania', it's a large lodge that embodies the African spirit, set on a hill among rolling savanna plains against the iconic backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro itself. The lodge has the atmosphere of a safari camp, with winding paths leading to individual thatched chalets that provide a warm reception or final goodbye to this beautiful country.

Imagine a classic, 19th century farmhouse, high in the hills and surrounded by lush, manicured gardens. The whitewashed walls glint in the sun and a shaded veranda looks out across a tranquil valley. Inside, antique furniture sits atop polished wooden floors and rich, damask linens are draped across luxurious leather armchairs. We’re pleased to say it really does exist in the form of Kwandwe’s Uplands Homestead, a private three-bedroomed Cape Dutch farmhouse in the heart of the reserve. Available for sole-use by families or small groups, this is an idyllic retreat for those looking for privacy, flexibility and an all-round outstanding safari.

Udai Kothi is a charming boutique heritage hotel located near Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan. It combines traditional Rajasthani architecture with modern comforts, offering a serene and elegant retreat in the heart of the city. With its rooftop pool, lake views, and personalized hospitality, it provides an authentic royal experience for travelers seeking beauty and tranquility.

Jembisa Bush Home was originally built as a family home, and is a wonderful sole-use option for families or a group of friends looking for a fun-filled bush experience with the freedom to plan your stay exactly to your own requirements. The lodge is situated within the private Palala River Reserve, named after the river which flows through it, in the beautiful malaria-free Waterberg region of Limpopo Province. This area is also renowned for the significant number of Bushmen rock paintings and ancient archaeological sites, adding a further fascinating dimension to a great all-round safari experience.

Picture the scene: your six-year-old whispering excitedly about the elephant tracks they've just spotted, whilst your toddler naps peacefully back at base after an morning of butterfly chasing. This is where families come to create those golden safari memories that'll have the kids boring their university friends senseless years later.

The Mount Nelson is an iconic landmark in the fashionable Gardens district, and is one of Cape Town’s favourite luxury hotels. The splendid entrance driveway lined with magnificent palm trees sets the scene for the colonial grandeur of the hotel itself, which oozes old-fashioned maritime style and traditional high society flair. With almost 200 rooms to choose from, this resort is a vintage gem with something for everyone, capturing the romance of days gone but sympathetically updated to include all the mod cons. A peaceful retreat just a short stroll from buzzing Kloof Street and the downtown city scene.

Lemala Kuria Hills is an elegant lodge that lies in the heart of the main corridor of the annual wildebeest migration. In a landscape dominated by the large boulders and koppies (or kopjes) of the Wogakurya Hills, near the Mara River in Tanzania's northern Serengeti, the lodge offers well-designed comfort and unrivaled sophistication. Each glass-fronted tent is tucked between boulders, offering complete privacy and panoramic views of grasslands and tree-lined watercourses. With its fine wildlife sightings, crisp decor and warm staff, this is a camp you'll have trouble leaving.

Among the ancient alleys of authentic Rome, nestled like a diamond between the Lungotevere and some of the city center's most beautiful squares, lies a small, intimate universe, a concentration of perfection and elegance. Intimate and welcoming spaces, a mysterious and captivating atmosphere, the refined allure of exotic and sophisticated details. The intense pleasure of an exquisitely curated welcome, attentive to every detail: just close your eyes and imagine yourself at home. Vilòn is all this... and so much more.