NightingTales: Our Top 10 Safari Lodges & Camps in Africa

Hotel lists are subjective, varied, and every publication and organisation has different “favourites”, often for differing reasons and biases. This list does not merely list the most expensive or exclusive properties in Africa, but contains our genuine favourites. We have visited all of these lodges in Africa, and have a personal connection to all of them!

Garonga Safari Camp, South Africa

A hidden gem, unbelievably good value for money for the quality, and an amazing atmosphere. Garonga was started by the indomitable Bernard “Bernie” Smith, and has become one of the Greater Kruger’s most loved safari camps for those in the know. In the sparsely visited Makalali Game Reserve, Garonga is the most epic safari destination for first timers and old hands alike. We cannot recommend it more highly.

Ol Malo, Kenya

An adult adventure playground - think walking safaris, horseback safaris, camel safaris, fishing, swimming, and helicopters. Run by one of the most charismatic and welcoming families (including their 10+ dogs!) - the Francombes - one can find in the remote Samburuland! Many a guest has spent many a long night around the fire gazing out at the stars and hills of northern Kenya enthralled by the magic of Ol Malo.

Setari Camp, Botswana

Of the Okavango Delta’s many amazing camps, Setari holds the most magical setting of them all. Superbly remote and surrounded by the floodwaters of one of Earth’s greatest natural wonders, Setari is a different kind of safari - slow, calm, and relaxing.

Matetsi Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

This lodge is not only wonderfully luxurious and fabulous, it has it all. An amazing story behind it, an indomitable conservation ethos, and a stunning location on one of Africa’s great rivers. It is just a stone’s throw from the mighty Victoria Falls.

Mila Tented Camp, Tanzania

Mila exudes what safari should be - it is back to basics but in a luxurious way, concentrating on world class guiding, phenomenal wildlife, and exemplary hosting. This adventurous yet luxurious tented camp in the heart of the Serengeti’s vast plains is a step above its peers.

Singita Kwitonda, Rwanda

Singita, oh Singita! This list could be filled with Singita lodges. They set the platinum standard for safari lodges across the continent, but Kwitonda is the most magical of the lot… with breathtaking views of the Virunga volcanoes, the rainforest gently encroaching on the lodge, the essentially Michelin quality dining experience, and the fact one can trek Mountain Gorillas from Kwitonda make this lodge arguably one of our favourite properties in the entire world.

Bomani Camp, Zimbabwe

There is no lodge or portfolio more dedicated to community-led conservation and involvement than Bomani Camp and Imvelo Safaris in all of Africa in our opinion. Sitting on the edge of Zimbabwe’s oldest and largest National Park, Hwange, Mark “Butch” Butcher and his team have created something undeniably special in this often overlooked corner of Africa - Bomani allows for a truly different and memorable safari experience.

House in the Wild, Kenya

The Masai Mara is one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife areas, providing ridiculous game viewing and the quintessential grassy savannah most associated with Africa. House in the Wild allows for this magical experience, but by doing it slightly differently. The lodge has an incredible connection with the local community, and lets its guests see this amazing destination through a different lens - with a tremendous number of activities and experiences, the Wood family & the HITW team have created something truly special in this remote corner of the Mara.

One of Matt's many videos taken from Mashatu's sunken photographic hide

Mashatu Lodge, Botswana

Mashatu is our Founder, Matt’s, favourite place in all of Africa (and the world). It is seldom spoken of, hard to get to, and enviably untouched. The bush just feels “different” here, the game drives more exciting, and the experience heightened. Mashatu Lodge and the surrounding area should be on anyone’s bucket list who wants to experience what we feel is “real Africa”.

Chiawa, Zambia

What a lodge, what a setting, what a team. Chiawa is a stalwart of the Zambian safari industry, with humble beginnings as a rustic fishing lodge, Chiawa has developed into one of the most experiential and incredible safari lodges in Zambia. Located on one of the most beautiful stretches of one of Africa’s greatest rivers, the Zambezi, Chiawa holds a special place in anyone’s hearts who has had the privilege of visiting it.