Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp: Namibia

Nestled in one of the most remote areas of the Kaokoveld in the northern part of the private Palmwag Concession lies Hoanib Skeletal Coast Camp. Explore this isolated area with daily game dives that showcase a surprising wealth of desert-adapted animals. Each of the eight large ensuite tents (including one family tent) and the main area and pool look out over a wide, rugged valley that slopes down to the almost-always dry Hoanib River.

Wilderness Safaris Mombo Camp and little Mombo: Botswana

Nestled in the middle of the Okavango Delta, where hundreds of animals can be seen grazing, playing and sleeping, lies Wilderness Safaris’ premier safari Lodge. The two camps are connected by a boardwalk where little Mombo has just three tents and main Mombo has nine. 1920s style chandeliers dangle near the gin bar, where you can gather to share stores of day’s adventures.

Gibbs Farm: Tanzania

If you’re looking for history, character and charm in a stunning location then look no further than Gibbs Farm in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania. Built in 1929 as a coffee plantation, this charming old-world house will transport you to the golden era of safari, where you can enjoy excellent game viewing, bush walks, hiking and romantic sundowners.

L’Hotel Marrakech: Morocco

Removed from the hustle and bustle of the city this hotel offers a serene, calm and elegant environment, where you can immerse in the magic of Morocco. Everywhere you look you’ll find antiques, rare artworks, hand-loomed carpets and signature fabrics adding layers of thoughtful luxury and personality. With only five suites you’ll feel like you’re staying in a decadent private home. Read More about L’Hotel Marrakech.

Bisate Lodge: Rwanda

Rwanda has become one of Africa’s most buzzed about and exclusive destinations, and nowhere more so than the gorilla rich Virunga Mountains. Arranged like giant birds’ nests around the natural amphitheatre of an eroded volcanic cone lie the six thatched pods. Inside the swooping ceilings and woven grass walls curve around to huge windows with knockout views of the peaks where Dian Fossey studied gorillas.

Singita Sabora Tented Camp: Tanzania

Nestled on the Serengeti plains lies this luxurious 1920s style tented camp. Each of the nine tented suites leads directly onto the plains, where daybeds will provide the ideal spot for reading, afternoon naps and incredible game viewing. Steeped in character, this camp will surprise you with an opulence that is delightfully incongruous with the rugged terrain of the surrounding savannah plains.

North Island, a Luxury Collection Resort: Seychelles

Set foot on your own private island in the Seychelles. With just 11 villas on this property, your footprints will be the only evidence on the island’s vast, untouched beaches. North Island epitomises the freedom that complete privacy allows, extraordinary experiences, perfectly personalised to your preferences, and service that is generously big hearted. Experience true barefoot luxury on North Island.

Victoria Falls Hotel: Zimbabwe

If you feel that admiring one of the world’s magnificent wonders should be done while staying somewhere equally as grand then book a room at the Victoria Falls Hotel. This grand Edwardian-era hotel was built in the early 1900’s and boasts numerous tea parlours, dining salons and perfectly manicured lawns.

Beldi Country Club: Morocco

For a serious reset, hit Beldi Country Club, where the roomy spa has handcrafted chandeliers and bronze sconces, plus views over the long reflective pool. This property nails the idea of the ultimate luxury retreat, with prime access to Marrakech’s urban treasures. Nothing here feels overwrought, too primped or precious; the 38 rustic guest rooms are spare, save for intricate wooden chairs, unadorned four-poster beds, and the occasional woven rug thrown across otherwise bare floors.

Ellerman House: South Africa

Ellerman house is one of Cape Town’s most exclusive addresses, minutes from the best beaches and Table Mountain cableway, but close enough to the city and its dynamic food, art, and design scene. Ellerman house encapsulates the grandeur of a bygone era while embracing all modern life’s creature comforts. Boasting 13 individually styled bedrooms, attention to detail and personalised service reigns supreme in this stunning hotel.

Royal Mansour: Morocco

The magnificent Royal Mansour is the gold standard for luxury hotels in Marrakech. Created to host guests of the Royal Family this hotel aims to be amongst the most incredible places to stay in the world. Each of the 53 suites are unique and decorated in its own deliciously enchanting style, the larger of which feature private pools and decks. Boasting cosy lounges, shaded patios, exquisite bathrooms and terraces with a view of the Atlas Mountain, Royal Mansour is what dreams are made of.

La Mamounia: Marrakech

An enchanting and historic oriental palace in the heart of bustling Marrakech, La Mamounia has been a favourite hideaway for discerning international travellers since 1923. La Mamounia is a modern oasis that’s retained its famous historical features, including mesmerising zellige mosaic tiling, high arched ceilings and traditional Moroccan architectural details. The amazing medina of Marrakech will lure you outside the walls but sometimes it’s all too tempting to stay and wallow in the glamour that is La Mamounia.

andBeyond Benguerra Island: Mozambique

With around 140 species of birds—from kingfishers to flamingos—and some of the best snorkelling and diving in the world, it is hard to beat this natural retreat. Perfect beaches aside, there’s horseback riding, sunset cruising on a traditional dhow and big game fishing to be enjoyed. Don’t miss a visit to see the flock of flamingo that inhabit a nearby freshwater lake—especially with a “castaway picnic” to accompany you to a completely secluded beach.

One&Only Le Saint Geran: Mauritius

Over on Mauritius, One&Only Le Saint Géran is one of the most beloved Indian Ocean hotels, with a fiercely loyal following since it opened in 1975. Tamper with an old favourite at your peril but there was a collective sigh of relief when the hotel revealed a more than $55 million renovation a couple of years ago: lighter, brighter, the very model of a sharp, slick, sophisticated beach retreat… and still in the island’s best spot.

Hotel Nord-Pinus Tangier: Morocco

When French hotelier Anne Igou dressed up a former 18th-century palace in Tangier with Syrian chandeliers and lacquered cabinets, she created one of the few hotels that could draw attention from the scene in Marrakech. Nord Pinus is filed with a gorgeously eclectic mix of artisanal objects: stained glass windows, mid century furniture, vintage wardrobes and a riot of colourful tiles.

Es Saadi: Morocco

The white-on-white lobby at retro retreat Es Saadi feels opulent rather than minimalist; it’s both a little kitschy and throwback glamorous. Originally built in 1952, Es Saadi is steeped in tranquillity opulence and style: wander through Assyrian lounges with crushed velvet sofas pas rose filled fountains and down long, arched corridors to exit into the lush 20-arcre filled garden.

Content summarised from Conde Nast’s Gold List report.

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