Top 10 Luxury Hotels and Resorts in Africa Worth Every Cent

There’s luxury, and then there’s African luxury, where the wild meets elegance, and sunsets are best enjoyed with a cocktail overlooking the savannah or the ocean. The continent has redefined high-end travel, blending culture, comfort, and natural beauty in a seamless blend. From private island retreats to desert lodges surrounded by endless dunes, every stay here offers something unforgettable.

Here are the top 10 luxury hotels and resorts in Africa that will redefine how you think about indulgence in 2026.

1. The Royal Livingstone, Zambia

Sitting on the banks of the Zambezi River steps from Victoria Falls, The Royal Livingstone delivers classic colonial charm with modern elegance. You can even hear the roar of the falls from your balcony.

High-cost stay: Rooms start around USD 600 per night with all-inclusive options.
Low-cost alternative: Jollyboys Backpackers in Livingstone offers comfortable stays from USD 30.
Food: Fine dining with African and international fusion at The Old Drift Restaurant.
Activities: Sunset river cruises, falls tours, and local market visits.
Transport: Fly into Livingstone Airport and take a short taxi ride to the hotel.

2. One&Only Nyungwe House, Rwanda

Hidden in Rwanda’s tea plantations, One&Only Nyungwe House is surrounded

by rainforest and wildlife. It’s a perfect mix of serenity and sophistication.

High-cost stay: USD 1,000 per night with guided forest walks included.
Low-cost alternative: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel for around USD 120.
Food: Organic dishes sourced locally and prepared with a modern twist.
Activities: Canopy walks, chimpanzee tracking, and tea tasting.
Transport: Domestic flights from Kigali to Kamembe, then a one-hour drive.

3. The Oberoi Beach Resort, Mauritius

Located on the island’s northwest coast, this resort is a sanctuary of turquoise lagoons, white beaches, and private villas.

High-cost stay: From USD 800 per night for villas with private pools.
Low-cost alternative: Mon Choisy Beach Resort offers seaside comfort from USD 130.
Food: Creole and international cuisine with ocean views.
Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, and private sunset cruises.
Transport: 1-hour drive from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport.

4. Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Tanzania

Often called “the game lodge at the end of the world,” this stunning property sits on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, offering breathtaking views and unmatched safari luxury.

High-cost stay: Suites from USD 1,500 per night, including meals and game drives.
Low-cost alternative: Rhino Lodge nearby offers comfortable rooms from USD 180.
Food: Freshly prepared multi-course meals with a view of the crater.
Activities: Game drives, Maasai village visits, and crater tours.
Transport: Fly into Arusha, then drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

5. Ellerman House, Cape Town, South Africa

A masterpiece perched above the Atlantic, Ellerman House combines privacy, art, and fine wine for an unforgettable experience.

High-cost stay: USD 1,200 per night for luxury suites.
Low-cost alternative: Atlantic Point Backpackers from ZAR 500 per night.
Food: World-class dining featuring South African produce and premium wines.
Activities: Art gallery tours, Table Mountain visits, and coastal drives.
Transport: 30 minutes from Cape Town International Airport.

6. Royal Mansour, Marrakech, Morocco

Commissioned by the King of Morocco, Royal Mansour is the definition of grandeur. Every riad is a private palace with intricate architecture and personal service.

High-cost stay: USD 1,800 per night with personal butlers.
Low-cost alternative: Riad Hikaya in the medina for USD 150.
Food: Moroccan fine dining with ingredients sourced daily from the royal gardens.
Activities: Spa rituals, medina tours, and desert excursions.
Transport: 15 minutes from Marrakech Menara Airport.

7. Mnemba Island Lodge, Zanzibar, Tanzania

This private island paradise offers total seclusion, with just 12 beachfront bandas and crystal-clear waters surrounding the coral reef.

High-cost stay: USD 1,500 per night, all-inclusive.
Low-cost alternative: Zanzibar Queen Hotel on the main island for USD 100.
Food: Fresh seafood and tropical fruits served by private chefs.
Activities: Diving, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Transport: Fly to Zanzibar, then take a boat transfer to the island.

8. North Island, Seychelles

Known for hosting celebrity honeymoons, the North Island offers ultimate exclusivity. Each villa comes with a private pool, ocean views, and personal attendants.

High-cost stay: Around USD 7,000 per night.
Low-cost alternative: Le Relax Beach House in La Digue for USD 200.
Food: Gourmet meals tailored to guest preferences.
Activities: Diving, guided nature walks, spa treatments.
Transport: Helicopter transfers from Mahé Island.

9. Singita Lebombo Lodge, South Africa

Located in Kruger National Park, Singita Lebombo offers modern architecture blended into the wilderness with glass-walled suites overlooking the N’wanetsi River.

High-cost stay: USD 1,400 per night with all meals and safari drives included.
Low-cost alternative: Satara Rest Camp within Kruger for USD 150.
Food: Contemporary African fusion with local ingredients.
Activities: Game drives, bush walks, and wine tastings.
Transport: Flights to Skukuza Airport, then lodge transfer.

10. The Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh, Egypt

A Red Sea jewel offering Moorish architecture, private villas, and top-tier spa experiences.

High-cost stay: From USD 700 per night.
Low-cost alternative: Sunrise Garden Beach Resort for USD 150.
Food: Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine.
Activities: Diving, spa, and desert quad tours.
Transport: 20 minutes from Hurghada International Airport.

Travel Note

Luxury travel in Africa is more than staying somewhere beautiful. It’s about choosing experiences that reflect the culture and care for the environment. Always check if your resort supports local communities or wildlife conservation, as this ensures your travel benefits the region.

If you’re traveling on a tighter budget, look for eco-lodges and boutique hotels near these destinations. They often offer similar views and experiences without the heavy price tag.

Book early for peak seasons like December to March, and if possible, stay at least three nights at each property to fully experience its amenities.

Africa’s luxury stays offer something you can’t find anywhere else: soul, beauty, and unforgettable memories.