Luxury Safari Lodges in Africa: The Editor's Directory

The Editors Answer

Frequently asked

Which is the best country for a luxury safari?

Botswana for water-based safari (Okavango Delta, low-density concessions); Kenya for the Mara migration and Lewa rhino conservancies; Tanzania for Serengeti scale and Ngorongoro Crater; South Africa for the easiest first safari (Singita Sabi Sand, Royal Malewane, malaria-free reserves). Rwanda for gorillas.

What does an all-inclusive luxury safari lodge include?

At the top tier (Singita, Great Plains, andBeyond Phinda, Wilderness's premium camps), the nightly rate covers all meals, premium drinks, twice-daily game drives with a private vehicle, conservation levies and laundry. Helicopter transfers, spa treatments and special bush dinners are typically additional.

How much does a luxury African safari cost per night?

Entry-level luxury safari camps run €1,200–€2,500 per person per night fully inclusive. The flagship private-concession lodges (Singita Sasakwa, Great Plains Mara Plains, Wilderness Mombo) sit at €3,500–€7,000+. Private use of an entire camp adds 30–50%.

When is the best time to go on safari?

Dry season is best for game viewing — June to October across most of East and southern Africa. The Great Migration in the Mara runs roughly July–October. Botswana's Okavango Delta floods peak May–August. Avoid the heavy rains (March–May in East Africa, December–February in southern Africa) unless you're chasing newborn wildlife.