Hotels & Lodges | Timbuktu Travel

Steigenberger Cecil Hotel

Alexandria

82 Rooms

From $90 per person/night

A proud, stately hotel with delightful sea views set along Alexandria's iconic promenade.

Alexandria was once a city filled with dazzling palaces and fragrant temples. Sadly, half of it was lost to the Mediterranean Sea, a moment you can well imagine while strolling along The Corniche, grabbing a pastry at a cafe or listening to the surf roll in. Built in 1929 on the harbour's edge, the Steigenberger Cecil Hotel has witnessed Alexandria's renaissance into the mod, fast-moving hub it is today. Holding onto remnants of the city's 'Little Europe' era, the hotel features grand, gold-ringed columns, antique rugs and Moorish style throughout the lounges and rooms.

Mantana Tented Camp

Lake Mburo

9 Rooms

From $320 per person/night

A hidden gem overlooking lush bush, rugged hills and a lake that shimmers

Some 250 kilometres south of Kampala is Lake Mburo National Park, home to many antelope species, buffalo, zebra, croc, hippo, leopard, hyena and a rich birdlife (including the rare, prehistoric-looking shoebill). It is here, overlooking the lake from the slopes of a hill called Rwamahungu, that you'll find Mantana Mburo. This small, simple camp, with just nine tents, may not offer luxury or haute cuisine, but it's the perfect place to stay if you're looking for a comfortable bed, meals that are well cooked and filling, helpful service, gorgeous views and a rich animal and birdlife on your doorstep.

Cap Karoso

Sumba

From $290 per person/night

A sensational oceanfront resort with all the high-end trimmings and a sense of heritage.

Sitting pretty on the remote western tip of Sumba Island, the area surrounding Cap Karoso is virtually untouched by tourism. With its concrete-clad, linear structures, Cap Karoso was an ambitious addition to the island and is now one of the loveliest resorts on this side of the Wallace Line. The resort experience is constantly being reinvented and there's an ever-changing rotation of artists, chefs and experts ready to share their unique talents with the guests. Every detail is on-point and bespoke, overseen by one of the Parisian owners including everything from specialised oolong tea blends to commissioned works by Indonesian artists.

Nuarro Lodge

Nampula

12 Rooms

From $250 per person/night

Far-flung Mozambican beach paradise with a hyper-local conscience.

Located on northern Mozambique’s remote coastline and the calm waters of Nanatha Bay, Nuarro Lodge is a rustic escape for responsible eco-tourists and vacant-minded vacationers alike. Just north of the town of Nacala, set within a marine reserve, the lodge is fronted by pristine stretches of beach and hard coral reefs (great for diving), and backed by lush mangrove forest. Locally minded and locally made, the lodge, all its furniture, the food and the staff are local. For many guests this is an important ethical criterion; for others it's simply interesting trivia. Whatever your mindset, this pristine, tropical backwater beckons.

Hotel Au Bois Vert

Antananarivo

Popular |

44 Rooms

From $90 per person/night

Unexpected tranquillity in Madagascar's high-spirited capital.

Tucked away in Antananarivo's eternal bustle, just a five-minute drive from the international airport, is a blissfully peaceful oasis. If you've just landed and are planning to head off on a journey through this intriguing island, we recommend you head to Au Bois Vert to catch your breath. The property spans three hectares of woodland, with a large courtyard and a swimming pool, and sleek,modern accommodation that offers oodles of old-world Malagasy charm. Soothe your travel-weary muscles at the spa, then head to the on-site restaurant for a variety of regional and French-influenced cuisine (there's a pizza oven too!).

Sunbird Ku Chawe Hotel

Zomba Plateau

32 Rooms

From $370 per person/night

Hiking, views, and home-style comfort on Malawi's heavenly Zomba Plateau

Zomba, once the capital of Malawi, is a bustling mix of colonial architecture, dusty markets and some rather dazzling natural surroundings. Rising to the north of the city is the Zomba Plateau, with its pristine mountain vegetation, biodiverse forests and tall peaks surrounding the plateau's saucer-shaped interior. The views from up there are simply breathtaking, and Sunbird Ku Chawe Hotel on the rim offers some of the best – all the way to distant Mount Mulanje. Access is via a steep, winding road (luckily tarred), but the crisp, high-altitude air, birdsong-filled surroundings and extraordinary views are ample reward, and more.

Yared Zema International Hotel

Axum

60 Rooms

From $60 per person/night

Be poised to explore Ethiopia's ancient city from this simple hotel in Axum.

The northern Ethiopian town of Axum is known for its enormous carved obelisks, relics of the powerful Aksumite kingdom that reigned from the 1st to the 8th centuries AD. These impressive monoliths hint at the power and importance of a civilisation that lay at the junction of Africa, Arabia and the Greco-Roman world. Sadly, modern-day Axum bustles with urban business, with little to remind you of the city's former stature. Nevertheless, Yared Zema International makes an acceptable choice for a night or two. You can't miss its tall, peachy facade, with sun-reflective glass.

The Turbine Hotel

Knysna

24 Rooms

From $170 per person/night

Quirky charm at this beautifully renovated power station-turned-boutique inn.

Turbine Hotel & Spa is an imaginative transformation of a power station into a wonderfully quirky hotel, with the sympathetically restored original workings very much in situ throughout the building. Pipes and machinery aside, this is a five-star boutique inn, with ultra-modern spaces, gorgeous rooms, great food, a range of world-class facilities, and a tranquil canal-side setting on Knysna's lovely Thesen Island. Explore the workings, stroll to the nearby shops, head off to catch a glimpse of whales, cruise the charming Knysna Lagoon, and pamper yourself at the spa.

Nomad Kigelia Ruaha Camp

Ruaha

6 Rooms

From $810 per person/night

Take a walk on the wild side at this rustic yet elegant bush camp in Ruaha.

Unlike most temporary camps, Kigelia has a modicum of luxury that is in keeping with its external environment. Constructed of canvas to leave as little foot print on the land as possible, there is nothing but the relaxing necessities to distract you from the surrounding beauty. It has a remote setting under kigelia (sausage) trees and overlooking the Ifuguru Sand River. Enjoy the daily game drives with a worthwhile walking safari thrown into the mix for good measure. Wonderfully positioned for predator sightings, herds of elephants, buffalo, giraffe and much more. There is never a dull moment at this camp.

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco

Siena & Val d'Orcia

42 Rooms

From $560 per person/night

A 900-year-old Tuscan village reborn as a luxury wine estate with private golf.

The property boasts Italy's only private golf club, a renowned Brunello di Montalcino winery, gourmet dining, and a serene spa. Despite world-class amenities, the estate maintains an intimate atmosphere where guests can experience the timeless beauty of Val d'Orcia while enjoying exceptional privacy and personalized service.

Hakone Ginyu Spa-resort

Hakone & Mount Fuji

From $260 per person/night

Embedded in the forests of Hakone, tranquillity is the theme of this fabulous onsen resort

Enveloped by a sea of greenery in the foothills of the misty Hakone Mountains, the Ginyu Spa Resort feels far, far away from reality. And yet, you can still reach the central town in a few minutes to enjoy Hakone's museums and art galleries. The resort blends the classic architecture of Japan with the blissful atmosphere of a Balinese spa. Upon arrival, you'll be charmed by the waiting staff before changing into your yukata (kimono-style outfit) and making a beeline for the infinity onsen (bath) where you can soak for a few hours, revived by cups of tea and sake.

Hotel Antumalal

Lake District

22 Rooms

From $210 per person/night

A historic yet organic hotel with bold style and fabulous views of Lake Villarica.

Meaning the 'Corral of the sun' in Mapuche, Antumalal makes it clear that the view takes centre stage - and what a view it is... Perched on a rocky hilltop overlooking the turquoise Lake Villarica, the hotel enjoys sensational sunsets. Built in the Bauhaus style by a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, the hotel has its roots in nature, while the interiors paint a fascinating picture of its history. Built in 1950, the guest book includes Queen Elizabeth II, Neil Armstrong and James Stewart, and it's now run by the founders' daughter. There's plenty to do as well, from white water rafting to trekking through the national parks on your doorstep.

Belmond Hotel das Cataratas

Iguazu Falls

187 Rooms

From $360 per person/night

Surrounded by lush forest & the falls, enjoy front-row seats to a natural spectacle

Look up ‘exclusivity’ in the dictionary and there's probably a photo of Belmond Hotel das Cataratas. Surrounded by 700,000 acres of pristine national park, this uber-swish hotel is literally as close as you can get to one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders, Iguazu Falls. It's the only hotel on the Brazilian side of the park and your only neighbour for miles (and miles) is pristine emerald forest, bursting at the seams with tropical flora and fauna including wild dog and armadillos. The soundtrack of the crashing falls accompanies activities from dawn to dusk and back at the hotel, there's a pool to float in, caipirinhas to sip, and two delicious restaurants to make use of. Oh, and did we mention you'll be the first into the park in the morning?

Camp Savuti

Savuti

5 Rooms

From $790 per person/night

A rustic tented safari camp in Botswana’s remote Chobe National Park.

Botswana is undoubtedly one of the finest safari destinations in Africa, and its vast tracts of pristine wilderness are a sanctuary for a staggering diversity of wildlife. Camp Savuti lies on the banks of the Savuti Channel in a remote part of the Chobe National Park, accessible only by light aircraft. The scenic flight is an adventure in itself, and provides a great opportunity to get a feel for this immense, wild area. The camp accommodates a maximum of 10 guests in 5 comfortable tents and has a wonderfully wild and isolated feel, with exceptional game viewing and birdwatching.

La Villa Bahia

Salvador de Bahia

17 Rooms

From $110 per person/night

Embrace history at this mansion duo in Bahia's Pelourinho quarter.

Salvador de Bahia is a city of history. It was the landing site of Brazil's first governor, as well as being the birthplace of Carnival - and right at its centre is Pelourinho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the neighbourhood where La Villa Bahia resides. Comprised of two old, colonial mansions, La Villa sits along a lively esplanade where there's always something to discover for tourists and locals alike. At La Villa, there are plenty of cool, relaxing spaces too from its greenery-enveloped patios to the panoramic terrace where a glass of chilled caipirinha awaits, served by barmen clad in vintage uniforms.

Victoria Can Tho Resort

Mekong Delta

92 Rooms

From $150 per person/night

Tucked away at the river's edge, all the perks of a resort but with the heart of a home.

A picture of bygone charm, Victoria Resort was built to emulate a classic French villa and wrapped in peach walls with white colonnaded verandas, it's just the place to live out all your riviera dreams. Wooden walkways lead down manicured lawns for a stroll beside the water, a view enjoyed from grassy roof terraces and scenic cruises on the Lady Hau. The spacious rooms are a sunny mix of bohemian and provincial, offering a welcome return after a day spent cycling through the countryside or browsing the floating markets of Can Tho. Away from the madding crowds, relaxation comes easily here.

Meikles Hotel

Harare

Popular |

312 Rooms

From $190 per person/night

Historical grande dame in the heart of Zimbabwe's capital city.

For 100-plus years, through the colonial era of Rhodesia into modern-day Zimbabwe, Meikles has overlooked the country's commercial centre, African Unity Square. An icon of African history, it is the meeting place for dignitaries, celebrities, and up-market travellers looking for a haven in the city. Enter between two giant lion sculptures that flank the refurbished northern wing of the hotel (legend has it that if a virgin walks past them, they let out a roar). This iconic hotel may be frayed around the edges, but she is still stands proud among the bright purple jacaranda trees in Harare's pulsing heart.

Delfin I

Pacaya Samiria

22 Rooms

From $1.8K per person/night

An intimate & one-of-a-kind jungle experience aboard the smallest boat on the Amazon River

The Delfin I is the most intimate and luxurious of all the Delfin River boats, offering only four suites and unbeatable service. With two itineraries of either three or four nights, cruises are designed to showcase the flora and fauna of the Pacaya Samiria Nature Reserve and include all the iconic highlights of the rainforest, as well as activities exclusive to the Delfin I, from cultural opportunities and visiting local schools to SUPing, kayaking and canopy walks. Combined with undeniable luxury, delicious meals and the intimacy of travelling in a small group, it's an experience that's hard to beat.

Hostería Hacienda Pinsaqui

Otavalo

28 Rooms

From $90 per person/night

A restored hacienda in an idyllic setting, perfect for hikes, horserides & taking it easy.

Around two hours south of Quito, Otavalo is an amalgamation of Ecuador's rugged, superlative scenery and deeply-embedded culture. Set in gardens filled with 200-year-old cypress trees and stone pathways, this centuries-old hacienda has a remarkable history. Most of the original house was destroyed in an earthquake in 1868, but even after restoration, it still retains an authentic charm. You'll see traditional Spanish elements in the sweeping arches, adobe walls and antiques. There's plenty of opportunity for adventure too: ride horseback through the foothills of the Imbabura Volcano, hike into the lush cloud forest and visit the largest indigenous market in Latin America.

Canyon Lodge

Fish River Canyon

25 Rooms

From $180 per person/night

A haven in the desert

Become immersed in the breathtaking landscape of Namibia. Perched on a rocky outcrop of granite boulders overlooking the moonscape of the desert, the stone guest rooms at this outpost lodge are camouflaged in the natural environment and offer a unique experience—on the doorstep of Africa’s largest canyon.

iuDia On the River

Ayutthaya

11 Rooms

From $110 per person/night

A quaint and cosy boutique hotel nestled on the river banks of Ayutthaya's ancient kingdom

For some, the view is the best part of any Thai hotel, and by those standards, iuDia on the River holds the trump card. Built on the banks of the 'River of Kings', the hotel looks directly upon the ancient ruins of Ayutthaya and whilst cooling off in the pool or over a cocktail on the rooftop, you'll enjoy views of the towering, stone stupas, sacred temples, and palaces of the erstwhile capital of Siam. Inside, the hotel feels homely and uncontrived with tasteful touches, charming service and cultural events for a deeper look at Siam's history, music and traditions.

Amangalla

Galle

Popular |

30 Rooms

From $480 per person/night

The historic allure of Galle Fort wrapped up in a charming and elegant package.

In its tropical garden, Amangalla has a tranquil feel that has attracted guests for over 150 years. From its home in Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the hotel has views of the harbour and the fort's aged ramparts that warrant many scenic strolls. Amangalla combines heritage furnishings and old-fashioned hospitality with the likes of poolside cabanas and deeply relaxing spa treatments. Venture out into the quaint streets where time seems to have stood still; pop into the town's myriad antique shops and watch as locals fly their kites. Return after your day of exploring to G&Ts and one of the island's glorious sunsets.

Calanoa Lodge

The Colombian Amazon

From $250 per person/night

Find a deeper connection with the natural world at this ingenious lodge in the Amazon.

After arriving at Leticia, the meeting place of Colombia, Brazil and Peru, you'll spend the next few hours winding down the Amazon's waterways until you reach Calanoa Lodge. The brainchild of Marlene and Diego Samper, the lodge goes beyond simply being accommodation and functions as a space to discover how creativity and nature intertwine. You'll have the chance to experiment through a variety of mediums including music, photography and art. The lodge is also deeply involved in the community and advocates for sustainable tourism through many of the activities – local guides lead you on informative walks through the forest and you'll have the chance to visit a nearby school.

The Oberoi Rajvilas

Jaipur

71 Rooms

From $250 per person/night

Romantic architecture, sumptuous rooms and an eye for the finer things in life.

Laid out over 32 acres of landscaped gardens, The Oberoi Rajvilas is its very own city of peach - like an oasis in the Rajasthan desert. There's plenty to keep you occupied, beginning with an Indian wine tasting where you'll enjoy a tour of India's vineyards via your tastebuds - and learn a little about how to match wines with your meals. Enjoy high tea at Naila Fort as the landscape is lit up by a technicolour sunset. Around 80 strutting peacocks and a plethora of other birds fill the air with song and add even more colour to this spectacular spot.

Hotel Makanda

Manuel Antonio

27 Rooms

From $240 per person/night

A dreamboat resort with designer suites and the Pacific laid out at your feet.

On a steep cliff above the Pacific, Hotel Makanda is as whimsical in its design as it is in location. After a facelift a few years ago, the hotel wouldn't look out of place on the pages of Architectural Digest and every space is unique and creative: think stand-out wall motifs, Balinese trimmings and bespoke artwork. Saltwater infinity pools in secluded corners, spa treatments to die for and one hell of a view complete the heavenly picture. The hotel also happens to be 10 minutes away from Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica's smallest national park, which, with its easygoing trails and a splendid array of birds and beasts living amongst the trees, is exactly where you want to be. Indulge in the peace and luxury of resort life in the adults-only paradise.

Terre Des Etoiles

Agafay Desert

18 Rooms

From $160 per person/night

Glamping in the Agafay Desert, complete with epic views and blockbuster activities.

Terre Des Etoiles began with a wild dream to revitalise the Agafay Desert, one hectare at a time. The result? A bonafide oasis amongst the burnished, mineral hills of the Agafay. Inspired by the traditional Berber homes in the Atlas Mountains and the nomads of the Sahara, the tents fit right in, whilst still serving a good amount of safari-luxe. We highly recommend sitting on your private patio with a mug of mint tea watching as the landscape changes colour. Terre Des Etoiles feels otherworldly and while you may love the daytime activities, stargazing in the desert can't be beaten...

Park Regency

Sharm El Sheikh

432 Rooms

From $180 per person/night

Incredible diving, superior facilities and all the makings of a dream seaside getaway.

Just a few sandy footprints away from one of the world's most exquisite diving spots, the Park Regency is a top-tier resort in Sharm El Sheikh. Before you set foot off the grounds, there are scores of waterways and pools to splash in, karaoke nights to get involved in, and Bedouin music performances to entertain, not to mention the glittering views of Gardens Bay to enjoy. The Park Regency sprawls along three beaches, including the private Club Beach, and all are dotted with loungers and well-protected from the wind. Every space here was designed to take advantage of the views, from the Red Sea to the Sinai Mountains - and there's no doubt that you'll be ogling at it at every chance.

Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge

Pakbeng

30 Rooms

From $50 per person/night

Bucolic, charming and hidden far off the tourist trail, this is a true sanctuary.

Pakbeng is pretty as a picture, one that includes soaring mountain peaks, gently flowing rivers, and a peace that is truly palpable - and completing it is Sanctuary Lodge. Nestled high on a hill overlooking the Mekong, it does just what is says on the tin, fulfilling the promise of quiet days watching elephant splash at the river's edge and tranquil dips in the pool. Laos feels untouched and undisturbed by modern life but a few days at the Sanctuary confirms it from the moment you disembark at the dock. Sipping on a BeerLao (a local staple), you'll think, 'this is the life'.

Pita Maha Resort & Spa

Ubud

24 Rooms

From $220 per person/night

A love letter to the craftsmanship & idyllic beauty of Ubud, Pita Maha is utterly dreamy.

Embedded in the lush hills of Ubud you'll immediately feel a sense of tranquillity on arrival at Pita Maha. There are just 24 villas, all designed in a style reminiscent of a traditional Balinese village and furnished with works by local artisans. Every corner of the property looks out over miles of emerald forest and foliage including the infinity pool, an ideal spot for spending many lazy hours. And, when you're not taking in views of the idyllic Campuhan Valley or luxuriating at the spa, the artistic world of central Ubud is just five minutes away.

Villa 33

Blantyre

9 Rooms

From $80 per person/night

A well priced B&B in lush and peaceful surrounds.

Blantyre is one of the largest urban areas in Malawi, but despite it being the commercial trade centre, it still retains a peaceful, laid-back feeling, helped by the lush, green environs. Set in two acres of beautiful tropical gardens in the quiet suburb of Namiwawa, Villa 33 is a simple B&B without frills and fuss, and well worth the price. Take your time to find the hidden little nooks in the gardens and kick back, cool drink in hand, to watch the troupes of monkeys frolicking in the trees. A peaceful way to start or end any safari in Malawi.

Best Hotels & Lodges

Steigenberger Cecil Hotel

Mantana Tented Camp

Cap Karoso

Nuarro Lodge

Hotel Au Bois Vert

Sunbird Ku Chawe Hotel

Yared Zema International Hotel

The Turbine Hotel

Nomad Kigelia Ruaha Camp

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco

Hakone Ginyu Spa-resort

Hotel Antumalal

Belmond Hotel das Cataratas

Camp Savuti

La Villa Bahia

Victoria Can Tho Resort

Meikles Hotel

Delfin I

Hostería Hacienda Pinsaqui

Canyon Lodge

iuDia On the River

Amangalla

Calanoa Lodge

The Oberoi Rajvilas

Hotel Makanda

Terre Des Etoiles

Park Regency

Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge

Pita Maha Resort & Spa

Villa 33

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