Africa feels vast, raw and deeply atmospheric, where long journeys move between open wilderness, ancient landscapes, remote coastlines and wildlife on a scale rarely experienced elsewhere.
Africa moves between vast wilderness, dramatic coastlines, ancient landscapes and cities full of energy and contrast. Journeys can begin in the medinas of Morocco, continue through the deserts of Namibia or the vineyards of South Africa and end beside the Indian Ocean coastlines of Zanzibar, Mozambique or Mauritius.
Elsewhere, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe bring some of the world’s most remarkable safari experiences, where open plains, river systems and wildlife reserves create landscapes that feel cinematic in scale. Across the continent, nature remains central to the experience, whether travelling through mountain ranges, along remote coastlines or deep into safari country.
Accommodation ranges from remote safari lodges and tented camps to coastal retreats, vineyard estates, riads and contemporary city hotels. Some destinations feel raw and adventurous, others slower and more refined, but throughout the continent there is a strong sense of atmosphere, space and discovery that makes travel here unlike anywhere else.
Azura Benguerra is an intimate luxury retreat on Benguerra Island in Mozambique's Bazaruto Archipelago, where personalised hospitality and a profound connection to island life define every stay. Azura never feels like a resort that could exist anywhere else. From the moment you arrive, there is an unmistakable sense that this place belongs to Benguerra. Local craftsmen built much of the retreat, many of the team call the island home, and the experiences are shaped by the traditions, landscapes and communities that surround it. Luxury here is measured as much by authenticity as it is by comfort, giving the retreat a character that is difficult to replicate. With only a small collection of villas scattered along an uninterrupted stretch of beach, privacy comes naturally. Palm thatch, timber, stone and handcrafted furnishings reflect the colours and textures of Mozambique, while attentive butler hosts quietly tailor each day around their guests. The result is relaxed rather than formal, allowing the beauty of the island to remain the centre of attention. para-2 Every villa faces the Indian Ocean with direct access to the beach, a private infinity pool, spacious timber deck and shaded beach sala. The interiors are generous without feeling over designed, balancing contemporary comforts with natural materials and local craftsmanship that reinforce the retreat's strong sense of place. Villa Amizade provides exceptional space for families, while the spectacular Presidential Villa occupies its own secluded corner of the island with three bedrooms, a 16 metre infinity pool, expansive entertaining areas and an elevated treehouse lounge overlooking the ocean. para-3 Dining is refreshingly flexible, allowing every meal to feel individual rather than scheduled. Jellyfish Restaurant showcases modern Portuguese cooking enriched by the flavours of Mozambique, with freshly landed seafood featuring throughout the menu alongside seasonal local produce and carefully selected wines. Your butler can just as easily arrange breakfast beside the shoreline, a picnic on a deserted beach or a private dinner beneath the stars as reserve a table in the restaurant. Evenings often begin at the relaxed Star Bar, where cocktails, fine wines and conversation continue long after the sun has disappeared beyond the archipelago. para-4 The surrounding Bazaruto Marine National Park offers some of the finest diving in Africa. Two Mile Reef is renowned for its colourful coral gardens, turtles, reef sharks and tropical fish, while seasonal whale watching, deep sea fishing, sailing and dhow cruises reveal another side of this remarkable coastline. Horse riding along deserted beaches and guided island walks offer equally memorable experiences on land. Azura's commitment to Benguerra extends well beyond the guest experience. Through the Azura Rainbow Fund, the retreat continues to invest in local schools, healthcare, conservation and sustainable livelihoods, allowing visitors to contribute directly to the future of the island while gaining a deeper understanding of the community that makes it so special. para-5 The Azura Spa sits quietly beside the beach, where treatments inspired by African traditions use indigenous oils and natural ingredients sourced from the region. Two peaceful treatment rooms and in villa therapies provide space to unwind completely, while the rhythm of the ocean becomes part of the experience itself. para-6 Azura Benguerra occupies a secluded stretch of Benguerra Island within the protected Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, around 14 kilometres from mainland Mozambique. Guests arrive via Vilankulo before a scenic helicopter flight that reveals the dazzling sandbanks, reefs and lagoons that have made this one of the Indian Ocean's most extraordinary island destinations.
From £1540 per night
Coral Lodge Mozambique is an exclusive beachfront retreat on a secluded peninsula close to Ilha de Moçambique, where contemporary luxury meets one of East Africa's most culturally rich and untouched coastlines. With just ten villas spread between a sheltered lagoon and the Indian Ocean, Coral Lodge delivers a level of tranquillity that is increasingly rare. The setting is remarkable, with sweeping beaches, winding mangrove channels and warm turquoise waters forming a natural playground, while the nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilha de Moçambique adds a depth of history and culture found nowhere else on Mozambique's coastline. It is this combination of pristine nature and genuine heritage that gives Coral Lodge such a distinctive identity. The lodge has been thoughtfully designed to sit lightly within its surroundings, using timber, natural stone and locally inspired craftsmanship throughout. Shared spaces remain intimate and open to the landscape, encouraging guests to spend as much time outdoors as possible, whether enjoying the sea breeze from the restaurant, relaxing beside the pool or watching traditional dhows drift across the lagoon at sunset. para-2 Each of the ten villas offers around 100 square metres of living space with generous private decks overlooking either the lagoon or the Indian Ocean. Interiors combine handcrafted furnishings, warm natural textures and subtle Mozambican influences to create accommodation that feels refined without losing its sense of place. Beach Villas greet each morning with uninterrupted sunrise views across the ocean, while Lagoon Villas look west across the calm waters, making them particularly special for sunset. Family Villas provide an additional bedroom while maintaining the same spacious layout and privacy, making them well suited to couples travelling with children. para-3 Dining is an important part of the Coral Lodge experience, with breakfast, lunch and dinner included throughout every stay. The restaurant celebrates Mozambique's outstanding seafood alongside traditional local recipes and seasonal produce sourced daily from neighbouring fishing villages and community farms, creating menus that remain closely connected to the region. The lodge also places great emphasis on memorable dining experiences beyond the restaurant itself. Breakfast can be served on your private deck overlooking the water, while romantic beach dinners beneath the stars and private island picnics reached by traditional dhow transform simple meals into lasting memories. para-4 The surrounding coastline invites exploration both on and beneath the water. Calm lagoons provide ideal conditions for complimentary snorkelling, canoeing and stand up paddleboarding, while guided excursions venture further into the Indian Ocean to vibrant coral reefs and historic shipwrecks. Traditional dhow sunset cruises remain one of the highlights, offering a timeless way to experience the beauty of this coastline. Daily transfers to Ilha de Moçambique allow guests to discover centuries of Portuguese, Arab and African history through its atmospheric streets, colonial architecture and vibrant local communities. Between July and October, humpback whales pass offshore during their annual migration, while dolphins are regular visitors to these waters for much of the year. para-5 The intimate spa continues the lodge's understated approach to wellbeing, offering massages and restorative treatments in a peaceful natural setting using locally inspired techniques and ingredients. With the sounds of the ocean never far away, it is an easy place to disconnect completely after a day spent exploring the coastline. para-6 Coral Lodge Mozambique sits within a protected nature reserve on a spectacular peninsula north of Ilha de Moçambique. Daily boat transfers connect guests with the UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the surrounding coastline provides one of the country's most rewarding combinations of marine life, cultural heritage and unspoilt natural beauty.
From £660 per night
Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort is a luxury island retreat on Mozambique's protected Bazaruto Archipelago, where towering sand dunes, untouched beaches and extraordinary marine life create one of Africa's most remarkable coastal escapes. There is a dramatic sense of scale to Bazaruto that immediately sets it apart. The island rises from the Indian Ocean in sweeping dunes that roll towards endless white beaches, while inland freshwater lakes and indigenous vegetation shelter a remarkable variety of wildlife. Offshore, the surrounding marine national park protects vibrant coral reefs that are home to dolphins, turtles, manta rays, whale sharks and one of the world's last remaining populations of dugong. It is a destination where nature remains firmly in command, yet every arrival feels effortless. With just 44 villas stretching discreetly along the shoreline, the resort never feels intrusive. Palm thatched roofs, natural timber and open spaces reflect the relaxed character of the island rather than competing with it, creating an atmosphere that is refined without ever feeling formal. This is a place where guests spend as much time admiring the landscape as they do enjoying the resort itself. para-2 Each of the 44 villas enjoys direct access to the beach, generous indoor and outdoor living space and uninterrupted views across the Indian Ocean or tropical gardens. Interiors combine contemporary comfort with subtle African influences, allowing the scenery beyond the terrace to remain the focal point throughout the stay. The Beach Pool Villas and Anantara Pool Villa offer complete privacy with their own swimming pools, while the larger family villas provide exceptional space for those travelling together. Every villa has been carefully positioned to ensure peace, privacy and an uninterrupted connection with the surrounding coastline. para-3 Dining celebrates the rich flavours of Mozambique through a collection of distinctive venues. Golfinho serves international, Portuguese and Mozambican cuisine overlooking the ocean, while Clube Naval provides relaxed lunches, fresh seafood and sunset cocktails just steps from the beach. Bespoke Designer Dining experiences can also be arranged in spectacular locations across the island, from secluded beaches to candlelit dinners beneath the stars. The resort's Spice Spoons experience offers a deeper insight into Mozambican cuisine, introducing local ingredients, regional recipes and traditional cooking techniques before guests enjoy the dishes they have created themselves. para-4 The surrounding waters provide some of the finest diving in the Indian Ocean, with colourful reefs, dramatic drop offs and exceptional marine life making every excursion different. Snorkelling, sailing, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding and deep sea fishing are all available, while traditional dhow cruises reveal the quieter corners of the archipelago. Between July and September, migrating humpback whales pass through these waters, adding another unforgettable dimension to the experience. Back on the island, guests can explore the immense sand dunes by four wheel drive, try the resort's signature dune boarding, unwind beside the infinity pool or simply enjoy the rare luxury of having vast stretches of beach almost entirely to themselves. para-5 The award winning Anantara Spa sits quietly within the gardens, offering signature therapies inspired by African traditions alongside hydrotherapy facilities, beauty treatments and wellness rituals. A fully equipped fitness centre complements the spa, while the peaceful surroundings encourage a slower pace that feels entirely in keeping with island life. para-6 Bazaruto Island lies around 30 kilometres off the Mozambican mainland within the protected Bazaruto Archipelago National Park. Guests arrive via Vilankulo before continuing by boat or light aircraft, a journey that immediately reveals the extraordinary colours and natural beauty that have made these islands one of Africa's most coveted destinations.
From £550 per night
Moments of discovery often become the most memorable part of any journey, whether found through an exceptional hotel, a remarkable landscape or an experience that reveals a destination in a new light. The places that stay with us longest are those that create a genuine sense of connection.
Across islands, coastlines, mountains and vibrant cities, every destination offers its own character and rhythm. Some invite adventure, others encourage slower exploration, but the most rewarding journeys are often those that combine comfort, authenticity and a sense of place.
From luxury hotels and boutique retreats to safari experiences, rail journeys and small-ship voyages, our collection celebrates travel that feels considered, inspiring and memorable long after returning home.
Ycona Eco-Luxury Resort, a five-star haven on Zanzibar's serene Dikoni coast, blends eco-conscious design with sophisticated indulgence, crafted for couples and celebrated as a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Forty private villas, set across 60,000 square meters of tropical forest and spice gardens, feature stone walls, wood, and glass, harmonizing with the lush surroundings. Each villa offers air-conditioned elegance, private terraces with ocean or garden views, coffee machines, minibars, safety deposit boxes, flat-screen TVs, and bathrooms with bidets. Select villas include kitchens with refrigerators, dishwashers, and ovens, plus rooftop jacuzzis for ultimate relaxation. The resort's infinity pool overlooks a 500-meter private white-sand beach, while the spa, with its yoga patio, rejuvenates with treatments using local botanicals. A fitness centre, forest trails, and activities like snorkeling, canoeing, and cycling immerse guests in Zanzibar's natural splendor. Dining at Ycona is a journey of flavour across four restaurants. The Heart of Zanzibar, a heart-shaped fine-dining venue, serves African and Mediterranean dishes, from seafood tagines to olive-crusted lamb, paired with wines from an underground cellar. Slyce - The Jungle Pizzeria crafts wood-fired Italian pizzas, while Ycona Beach Lounge offers casual coastal fare. The fourth restaurant specializes in farm-to-table cuisine, showcasing spices from the resort's gardens. Three bars, including a panoramic rooftop lounge, mix cocktails with local fruits and herbs, perfect for sunset sipping. Guests can explore coral reefs or stroll the botanic gardens, enveloped in the resort's eco-luxury ethos. Located 17 km from Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, 29 km from Kichwele Forest Reserve, and 38 km from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, Ycona Eco-Luxury Resort offers easy access to Stone Town's historic charm and Zanzibar's vibrant spice markets.
From £390 per night
The Social House Nairobi, a Preferred Lifestyle Hotel, a vibrant five-star haven in Nairobi's lively heart, captivates with its personable, off-beat charm, blending unconventional luxury with a melting pot of cultures and connections. The 83 unique bedrooms unfold with eclectic elegance, featuring air-conditioned comfort, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, desks, minibars, and sleek bathrooms with premium toiletries. Select suites offer spacious living areas for relaxed moments, creating lively retreats where attentive staff ensure thoughtful details, from plush linens to warm welcomes, fostering a sense of belonging amid Nairobi's dynamic pulse. Dining across four restaurants and bars celebrates African, American, and British cuisines with fresh, local ingredients, offering vegetarian and halal options, savoured in quirky, vibrant settings. A daily buffet or Full English/Irish breakfast brims with bold flavours. Guests can immerse in curated experiences, from unexpected events to cultural strolls, capturing Nairobi's lively rhythm with effortless flair. Just 2 kilometers from Century Cinemax Junction, 7.9 kilometers from Nairobi National Museum, 8 kilometers from Kenyatta International Conference Centre, and 10 kilometers from Wilson Airport, The Social House Nairobi offers seamless access to the city's treasures, complemented by an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, garden, terrace, seven indoor and outdoor event spaces, shared lounge, and concierge services for vibrant renewal.
From £140 per night
The Last Word Franschhoek, an exclusive five-star residence in the heart of Franschhoek village, exudes historic charm and refined elegance. Just steps from South Africa's gourmet capital, it offers access to award-winning restaurants and boutique shops. Beautifully restored in the Cape Huguenot tradition, the air-conditioned rooms blend classic and contemporary furnishings, featuring luxurious bathrooms, satellite LCD televisions with DVD players, iPod docking stations, and work desks, ensuring sophisticated comfort. Each space reflects sumptuous home comforts, creating an intimate and elegant retreat amidst the vibrant village atmosphere. A buffet breakfast is served on the covered veranda overlooking the solar-heated swimming pool and wooden deck, framed by stunning Franschhoek Mountain views. Guests can relax with a cool drink from the bar, unwind on sun loungers, or enjoy bespoke spa treatments and picnic baskets for leisurely afternoons, all tailored to enhance the serene experience. The hotel's prime location, a minute's walk from character-filled galleries and dining, invites exploration of Franschhoek's culinary and cultural riches. With complimentary secured parking and an airport shuttle to Cape Town International Airport, 45 minutes away, and Stellenbosch just 20 minutes by car, The Last Word Franschhoek delivers a seamless blend of historic allure and modern luxury in the Cape Winelands.
From £290 per night
Park Hyatt Zanzibar, a luxurious five-star hotel in the heart of Stone Town's seafront, offers an enchanting retreat steeped in Zanzibar's historic charm, perfect for romantic escapes, and is celebrated as a member of Leading Hotels of the World. The elegant rooms and suites, infused with Swahili-inspired design, feature air-conditioned comfort, flat-screen cable TVs, minibars, tea and coffee facilities, and private bathrooms with bathtubs, bidets, hairdryers, and premium toiletries. Each opens to views of the Indian Ocean or Stone Town's vibrant streets, with some offering private balconies. The sparkling outdoor pool invites leisurely dips, while the spa and wellness centre soothes with treatments blending local spices and floral essences. A modern fitness centre caters to active guests, and the tour desk arranges snorkeling, diving, or golf excursions, immersing visitors in Zanzibar's coastal and cultural allure. Dining at Park Hyatt Zanzibar is a refined experience. The Dining Room, overlooking the ocean, serves a fusion of Zanzibari and international cuisine, from fresh seafood platters to clove-infused curries, with buffet breakfasts showcasing tropical fruits and artisanal pastries. The Living Room offers light bites and afternoon teas in a cozy setting, while the oceanfront Zamani Bar crafts signature cocktails and premium spirits, ideal for savouring during Stone Town's vibrant sunsets. Guests can explore nearby historic sites like the Old Fort or join guided tours to local markets, weaving the island's rich heritage into their stay. Situated 1 km from the Zanzibar Ferry Terminal, 8 km from Abeid Amani Karume International Airport, 11 km from Masingini Forest, and 43 km from Jozani Chwaka National Park, Park Hyatt Zanzibar offers effortless access to Stone Town's historic treasures and Zanzibar's natural wonders.
From £265 per night
Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve, a luxurious retreat in Port Alfred, embodies the vision of owner Rip Miller, offering a sanctuary for rejuvenation amidst exotic natural beauty. Overlooking the Indian Ocean and vibrant bush, it blends coastal serenity with wildlife allure. Each elegantly appointed accommodation, adorned with African-themed decor, features a private deck with captivating ocean and bush views, a spacious lounge, and a private bathroom with a spa bath, ensuring refined comfort. The reserve's intimate setting invites guests to immerse themselves in the tranquil expanse of its pristine surroundings, fostering a deep connection to the landscape. The central bar, warmed by a fireplace, serves expertly crafted cocktails with scenic vistas, while the restaurant offers diverse dining options in a sophisticated setting. Guests can relax in the inviting lounge with plush sofas, browse the library's collection of books and DVDs, or explore the curio shop's array of jewellery, souvenirs, and books. The Africa-shaped swimming pool and large deck provide serene spaces to unwind. Activities abound, from beach walks and surfing to game drives, fishing, and billiards, with the private beach area enhancing coastal exploration. A shuttle service to Port Alfred Airport, just 10 minutes away, ensures seamless access, making Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve a perfect fusion of luxurious pampering and South Africa's breathtaking natural wonders.
From £335 per night
Kapama Southern Camp, an exquisite lodge in the southernmost reaches of Kapama Private Game Reserve, offers a luxurious safari haven in the Greater Kruger area. Surrounded by pristine nature, it delivers unparalleled Big Five viewing experiences. The 15 standard suites, adorned in warm earth tones, feature full en-suite bathrooms with picture windows showcasing vibrant birdlife and scenery, alongside private patios perfect for savouring sundowners while observing wildlife. Seven luxury villas elevate indulgence with private lap pools, inside and outside showers, and en-suite bathrooms with double vanities, while three family villas include separate connected bedrooms with baths, showers, double vanities, and private patios, ensuring spacious comfort. Meals are served in a contemporary open dining room, complemented by a curated wine cellar, with dinners hosted in the atmospheric outdoor boma, blending traditional charm with refined cuisine. Twice-daily game drives in open safari vehicles, guided by expert rangers, immerse guests in thrilling encounters with the Big Five, while the tranquil lounge and pool offer serene relaxation, with access to a nearby lodge's spa and fitness facilities. The camp's warm hospitality and friendly service create a soulful retreat for discerning nature lovers. Located within Kapama Private Game Reserve, with a complimentary airport shuttle service for scheduled flights to Hoedspruit Airport, Kapama Southern Camp seamlessly blends sophisticated luxury with the untamed allure of the African bush.
From £965 per night