With an insatiable curiosity for all things different, I’ve devoted this blog to some of Africa’s most unique hotels. In keeping up with our clientele, we focus on the finest accommodation available, but this time round, with a twist.

SHIPWRECK LODGE

To begin with, allow yourself to be transported to the Skeleton Coast National Park in Namibia, an area where shipwrecking was common due to dense fogs, treacherous weather and rough surf and which subsequently become the biggest ship graveyard in the world. The eco-friendly shipwreck-shaped chalets have been designed with this in mind and can be found nestled between the dunes in this starkly beautiful landscape with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.

THE NEST @ SOSSUSVLEI

Remaining in Namibia, specifically in the Namib-Tsaris Conservancy, lies The Nest @ Sossusvlei. It was inspired by the concept of sociable weaver bird nests and biomimicry (an innovative approach offering a sustainable way of living that is inspired by nature and emulates her time-tested patterns and strategies). The villa has three cocoon-like adult bedrooms and accommodates a further four children or four adults in two cosy queen sized ‘bunk beds’ situated in a fourth bedroom.

NAY PALAD BIRD NEST

In Kenya, yet another unique concept of nesting and sleeping like a bird can be found at the Nay Palad Bird Nest. Here, perched in a nest above the ground with a 360 degree bird’s eye view of pristine nature as far as the eye can see, guests fall asleep directly under the African sky. Lit up with lanterns, and kitted with little luxuries like champagne, culinary delights, luxurious linens and hot water bottles, the open-air nest is ready for the night ahead. Guests have the option of open-air beds or within the shelter of the first floor, and get to wake up to the magical sounds of wild animals at play in this place of true, untouched wonderment.

CHALKLEY TREEHOUSE

Another delightful option for sleeping under the African night sky with its myriad of stars, is in a treehouse. Chalkley Treehouse is one such example located in South Africa’s Sabi Sand where guests are exposed to the elements, while ensconced in a luxurious double canopy star-bed, draped in mosquito netting and with stunning views of the open savannah and its night noises.

SKY SUITE OPEN AIR ROOM

The Sky Suite Open Air Room located in a rocky outcrop on one of the highest peaks of Kagga Kamma, South Africa offers guests incredible views of the surrounding mountain ranges and beautiful Fynbos valleys. Guests take in the full-of-life soundtrack that the evening brings such as the black-backed jackals calling for their mates and the wonderful hoots of the Barn and Spotted Eagle owls out on the prowl. For those preferring more shelter from the elements, there are the cave suites which have been carved out of rock.

THE GRAND DADDY

In stark contrast, are the polished aluminium airstream trailers of the Grand Daddy boutique hotel which occupy its rooftop right in the centre of the city of Cape Town, South Africa. After enjoying movies under the stars in the presence of Table Mountain, guests drift off to sleep in their own unique trailer room.

ZAMBEZI QUEEN

Although not strictly speaking ‘unique’, the Zambezi Queen in Namibia must be mentioned for the incredible and ever-changing views that this floating boutique hotel offers its guests while it floats along the Chobe River. Imagine lying in your comfortable bed watching an elephant drinking one moment, a fish eagle taking flight the next and endless unfolding vistas of wildlife gathering as you glide along.

GIRAFFE MANOR

This boutique hotel in Kenya has its stately façade, elegant interiors, verdant green gardens, sunny terraces and delightful courtyards. But what actually puts it on our list of unique African hotels has got to be the company it keeps. It has a resident herd of Rothschild giraffes which make a habit of poking their long necks into the manor’s windows in the hopes of a treat, much to the delight of its guests.

THE SILO HOTEL

What was once a grain elevator of a historic grain silo has now been transformed to the luxurious Silo Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa. Maintaining the building’s original structure, and with the addition of ingenious glass windows inserted into the geometry of the hotel floors, this hotel is worth seeking out for its art, style, architecture and design.

To find out more about these and other breathtaking hotels and lodges in our portfolio, simply get in touch with us by using the form below:

Select your Ideal Destinations

Select your Preferred Experiences