With so much species to view across Africa, it’s easy to forget that the continent also offers the kind of breathtaking natural beauty that would be the main lure in any other location. Even without the scores of wondrous species nearby, the Masai Mara, the coastlines of the Indian Ocean in South Africa, the ocher deserts of Namibia, and the vertiginous drama of Victoria Falls would all captivate the world. That’s why the best African resorts, which focus on relaxing amid breathtaking nature, feel so special: they emphasise slowing down and simply being still, with a 6 a.m. game drive optional.
- The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara
You’re directly on the Zambezi River’s edge, and there’s no bad seat in the house: balcony bistro tables, spa rooms, poolside loungers, hammock swings, and restaurant dining all have views of the river. And it’s apparent that travelers are aware of this advantageous placement. One reader of the property remarked, “Views of the Zambezi and the noise of the falls are magnificent.” It’s the “greatest site for gin sundowners on the banks of the river,” according to another. The resort’s high-tea experience, as well as the team of staff butlers who guarantee that no wish goes unfulfilled, were also mentioned by voters.
2. The Oyster Box
You’re directly on the Zambezi River’s edge, and there’s no bad seat in the house: balcony bistro tables, spa rooms, poolside loungers, hammock swings, and restaurant dining all have views of the river. And it’s apparent that travelers are aware of this advantageous placement. One reader of the property remarked, “Views of the Zambezi and the noise of the falls are magnificent.” It’s the “greatest site for gin sundowners on the banks of the river,” according to another. The resort’s high-tea experience, as well as the team of staff butlers who guarantee that no wish goes unfulfilled, were also mentioned by voters.
3. Matetsi Victoria Falls, Matetsi Private Game Reserve, Zimbabwe
Look no farther than our first-place winner, Matetsi Victoria Falls, for a new, breezy decor with killer vistas, which one T+L reader described as “absolutely magnificent in every aspect.” The 18 apartments and two villas on the property are situated on a nine-mile length of land overlooking the Zambezi River, about 25 miles from Victoria Falls. The ideal site, dubbed “paradise on earth” by one guest, provides a gateway to all of the river and falls’ activities, including whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, ziplining, fishing, and canoeing. There’s a full menu of spa treatments, from body wraps to mani-pedis, as well as a library equipped with books and games for those looking for a less high-octane experience. If you want to go on a game drive, ATV excursion, or guided bush walk, the 136,000-acre Matetsi Private Game Reserve has plenty of wildlife, but after sampling the elevated fare prepared by the resort’s team of Zimbabwean chefs, you might be tempted to spend your days poolside, recovering from your food coma.
The best part about a Kenya safari? You’re guaranteed to see a wide variety of wildlife no matter where you are.
