Best Hotels & Lodges

Running through the very heart of the famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve, is the Sand River, a mightily beautiful seasonal river that attracts herds of elephants and buffalo, prides of lions and the endangered white rhino. And on the banks of the river sits Londolozi's Pioneer Camp, undoubtedly the most exclusive camp in the region. If Ralph Lauren designed safari lodges, this is how he would do it, and the three gleaming mahogany suites are impeccable in every way. Book one of the suites and enjoy a romantic hideaway in the shade of the ebony trees, or book all three and bring the family for an exceptional safari that everyone will enjoy.

Hailed as one of the best new stays around by the sort of magazines well-heeled travellers peruse, Sikelia Luxury Retreat on the tiny Italian island of Pantelleria is well deserving of the hype. An elegant white-washed outpost on the wild and windswept isle, whose name is derived from the Arabic for 'daughter of the winds', Sikelia's a first-class escape amid the farmsteads and their rough-hewn volcanic-rock walls. Outside, the traditional dammuso-style structures with their domed roofs have an archaic appeal; indoors, the style is contemporary, the spa treatments serene, and the creative cuisine is the island’s very best.

This intimate lodge sits on the edge of a crystal clear lagoon, nestled between the magnificent Overberg Mountains, and the famous whale coast near Hermanus in the Western Cape. Here you will unwind and relax to the sights and sounds of nature at its very best. Secluded luxurious suites offer breath-taking views and there are so many ways to enjoy the spectacular surroundings - from boat cruises and guided nature walks to kayaking, E-biking and whale watching. Mosaic delights with its friendly warmth, sumptuous cuisine and one of the best sunsets along the Garden Route.

Frans Indongo Lodge sits on a private reserve close to northern Namibia's Waterberg mountain range. The lodge has impressive, humbling origins, that speak to southern Africa's complicated history. Dr. Frans Indongo, the lodge's owner (now one of Namibia's wealthiest businessman), was born to local farm workers during the apartheid era and grew up tending livestock. Fast-forward a few decades and he's the proud patron of this reserve that offers down-to-earth local hospitality, surprising game viewing (including sable antelope, black springbok, nyala, and black and white rhino) and convenient proximity to several significant wildlife conservation partnerships.

Voyager Ziwani Tented Camp sits on the outskirts of southern Kenya's Tsavo West National Park. On the edge of a small lagoon near the Santee River and within a private sanctuary, it enjoys an ever-constant parade of hippos, crocs and numerous water birds, to name but a few. Ziwani is part of a collection of Kenyan camps, known for their sociable, high-energy atmosphere, and there's plenty of activities on offer, fro guided game walks to night drives. The kids club in particular is a highlight and little ones will be well looked-after and entertained!

Right on the sea-front, where once the American Consulate stood, Tembo House is something of a landmark in the historic Stone Town streets. Its great location, close to both the House of Wonders and the Old Fort, is slightly removed from the spindly, maze-like streets of the town, and it's easy to find after a long day of wandering. Inside, there are new and old sections to the hotel, but a common theme in both is colourful glass windows and an interesting array of antique furniture from all over the world. If you're looking for central options without an astronomical price tag, this is the place to be.

After a complete refurbishment and new ownership, Tulela is both a world away from modern life and thoroughly steeped in luxury – not excessive, but discreet and respectful of its natural surroundings. Discretely tucked in the trees on a bend in the seasonal Ntsiri River on the western edge of the Greater Kruger region, Tulela sits in the Klaserie Private Game Reserve (one of the largest privately owned sanctuaries in South Africa), at the heart of the country's most iconic wildlife area. See the Big Five along with the other major players – wild dog, cheetah, giraffe, and a host of birds.