ASPIRE Pick of the Week: 5 African Luxury Summer Destinations

Africa is not just a diverse mix of countries, cultures and languages, but also a continent full of beautiful, luxury destinations that offer more than an experience of a lifetime.

Whether you are going solo, as a family or a group, these 5 African countries should be on your radar if you are planning to take a vacation soon

Botswana
Wilderness Safaris Jao Camp guest area
Image courtesy of Wilderness Safaris, Jao Camp

This south African country is fast becoming a top safari destination that prides itself on offering luxury experiences for travellers: on the 19th of May, 2021, Evolve Back launched their first-ever international property in Central Kalahari, citing “a stable democracy and the highest per capita income in Africa” as part of their reasons for choosing Botswana.

In addition to the newly-launched Evolve Back Gham Dhao Lodge, you can also check out Jao Camp in the heart of Okavango Delta.

The camp features two exclusive villas and five suites equipped with private plunge pools, lounge, dining areas and en-suite bathrooms. Travellers also get exclusive access to Africa’s best wildlife areas.

Rates start from $13 195 per villa for up to four guests.

Kenya
The Africa Adventure Consultants safari will visit the Giraffe Manor in Kenya
Enjoy breakfast with giraffes at the Giraffe Manor in Kenya. Image courtesy of The Giraffe Manor

Another leading safari destination, Kenya is famous for its Indian Ocean coastline, lakelands, the Great Rift Valley, mountain highlands and wildlife. One of the reasons why many people plan a holiday to Kenya is to see Giraffe Manor‘s herd of resident Rothschild giraffe, one of the most endangered giraffe species in the world.

Located within almost 57 hectares of indigenous forest in the Langata suburb of Nairobi, the exclusive hotel accommodates 25 guests. Start your day with breakfast with the giraffes or take a leisurely walk to the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife Giraffe Centre in the company of these friendly animals.

Rates start from $875 per adult sharing.

Zanzibar
The Residence Zanzibar is a luxury desitnation in the east of Africa
Enjoy exciting views at The Residence. Image courtesy of The Residence Zanzibar

Zanzibar is the place for those who want to immerse themselves in bespoke experiences. Travellers can soak up the ocean views from an all-inclusive resort, indulge in tantalising cuisine or explore the markets. If extravagance is what you seek, visit The Residence Zanzibar, a five-star property cocooned among 32ha of tropical gardens.

Besides taking a sunset stroll on the 1.6km stretch of beach, guests can learn about the rare red colobus monkey, explore a spice plantation or spend afternoons at the spa.

Rates start from $1 234 a night per villa.

Mauritius
The luxury desination in Africa does not only offer comfort but also wellness
Image courtesy of the Shanti Maurice Resort and Spa

While Mauritius remains a budget-friendly destination for travellers, visitors can enjoy a plethora of exclusive experiences that showcase its beaches, reefs and lagoons. Luxury travellers will appreciate Shanti Maurice Resort & Spa in Saint Felix.

The five-star property was voted Mauritius’s Leading Boutique Hotel at the World Travel Awards for 2020 and 2019.

The Shanti Villa sleeps 10 people and is among its top accommodation offerings. Spanning more than 1000m², the Shanti Villa boasts a 140m² temperature-controlled private swimming pool built with jacuzzi beds, a wrap-around balcony, kitchen, and a butler.

Rates start from €1 943 a night.

Egypt
Enjoy a luxury cruise on The Oberoi Philae
Image courtesy of The Oberoi Philae

Travel back in time to Egypt’s ancient temples and pyramids, enjoying the sights and sounds through a cruise along the Nile River.

The Oberoi Philae, dubbed one of the most luxurious cruises on the Nile, boasts all-day fine dining, a movie theatre, dance floor, fitness centre, spa and a unisex beauty salon.

The spacious accommodation comes in cabins, suites and suites with a terrace, each offering all the mod-cons needs for smooth sailing. Cruises offered are from four to seven nights.

Rates for the four-night cruise starts from €675 a room a night.

Morocco
A view from the luxury The Grand Riad, a destination in Africa
Image courtesy of The Grand Riad

Morocco is known for its grand beaches, sweeping views of the desert and distinct architecture.

Spend a night or two at The Grand Riad, The Royal Mansour in Marrakech. Among the amenities included are a central patio with a retractable roof, Moroccan lounge, a private hammam, fitness room, office and library, games room, three bedrooms and an outdoor shower.

Rates are available upon request. However, CEOWORLD Magazine reported last year that rates start from $43 000 a night.

Source: IOL