Best Hotels & Lodges

Kati Kati North is a camp lost deep in the wilds of the northern Serengeti in Tanzania, not far from the famous Grumeti River. With its traditional but comfortable tents, one feels truly immersed in the ecosystem, and it's the ideal springboard from which to watch the wildebeest of the Great Migration. Resembling the camps of early African explorers, Kati Kati is designed to be completely movable, leaving no trace behind, but that's not to say you'll miss out on the comforts of a permanent camp. Kati Kati Mara might not be frilly and fluffy, but you'll have everything you need, from soft pillows and crisp sheets, to hot showers and flushing loos.

The Hilton Kyoto sits in the vibrant center of the city, just 15 minutes from JR Kyoto Station. Discover nearby world heritage sites, Nijo Castle and Kiyomizu-dera Temple, as well as the popular downtown area Gion and the Nishiki market. Head to the hotels seasonal rooftop bar to enjoy stunning views across the city. During your stay enjoy the fitness center, indoor pool, and spa.

The southern Sabi Sand is leopard country, and very little stands between it and the Kruger (the borders here are unfenced, so the animals wander as they please). On the banks of the seasonal Sand River sits Umkumbe Safari Lodge Riverside, an owner-run camp that does something rare: it keeps the price sensible without skimping on the game. Elephants, buffalo and hippo amble past camp between drives, often while you're mid-length in the pool. Although, a tripwire keeps the larger visitors at a polite distance so parents can rest easy. It's honest, unshowy, and right in the thick of it.

The Central Serengeti, home to a dizzying array of wildlife, big cats galore, those quintessential rippling grass plains and the rather lovely Nyikani Camp. A relative newcomer to the Serengeti safari scene, the camp is perched atop a small hill, the bush views stretch endlessly from your tent door and the high season crowds seem a distant memory. Nothing is too much trouble here and the experienced team will spoil you from the moment you leap off the Jeep. It may be fresh-faced, but Nyikani is all about old-school hospitality and game viewing that you will never forget.

Traditional Japanese design and customs blend seamlessly with contemporary comforts in this dramatic evolution of this classic Japanese inn. Every floor functions as a private ryokan composed of 6 rooms, and an ochanoma—or traditional lounge—seamlessly connected via a tatami-matted corridor.

Chundu Island is the perfect African getaway. It offers all the right elements of a truly African experience. Guests to the island can expect complete peace and privacy. The camp is intimate and serene, with just eight comfortable and elegant rooms lining the river bank. Chundu Island is located 21km from Zimbabwe’s majestic Victoria Falls. The island is only accessible by boat. It is superbly positioned on the Zambezi River, allowing guests to experience Africa in its purest state. It is peaceful, serene and beautiful. But at the same time, guests have the opportunity to experience the best Zimbabwe has to offer. Peace and quiet combined with excitement and adventure. With Victoria Falls on its doorstep, Chundu guests have the option of participating in some of the town’s most exciting adventure activities, from bungee jumping and white water rafting to fishing expeditions and helicopter rides.

Nestled on the banks of the crystal clear Kamo River and within walking distance of major city attractions, Genji Kyoto enjoys the best of both worlds - tranquil neighborhood and central location. All rooms have river, city or tsubo garden views that soothe the mind and pamper the senses, and 9 of the riverside rooms have balconies with breathtaking panorama. Gion, Pontocho, Nishiki Market, Shijo, Kyoto Station shopping and the scenic Kiyomizu area are just 20 minutes walk away.

Ol Jogi is a magnificent private ranch-style lodge set against a boulder-strewn hillside, with just seven cottages tucked away in the lush gardens, all with astounding views over nearly 24,000 hectares (60,000 acres) of pristine wilderness – and it’s all yours for the booking. Ol Jogi lies within Kenya’s scenically diverse northern Laikipia region, renowned for its abundant wildlife, including all of the Big Five together with several rarities and a staggeringly rich birdlife. This former family ranch, with a glamorous history dating back over several decades, leaves no stone unturned in crafting the ultimate luxury safari experience.