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Travel + Leisure
5 days ago
- Travel + Leisure
Travel + Leisure Readers' 10 Favorite Hotels in Africa of 2025
Be it an ocean-view house in Cape Town, a beach resort in Zanzibar, or a riverside property close to Victoria Falls, Travel + Leisure readers love a hotel with sparkling water views. This year, our readers' favorite sub-Saharan African city hotels and resorts were largely based on location and scenery—but great service was a major consideration, too. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. The Giraffe Manor dining room. Brian Siambi/Giraffe Manor Once again, Cape Town hotels dominated T+L readers' picks of African city hotels, with four of the top five based in the South African 'Mother City.' Perhaps that's not surprising: A popular destination in its own right, as well as an arrival point for safaris, Cape Town has a slew of incredible luxury hotels. This year, T+L readers show their love for waterside properties, with Ellerman House (No. 2), One&Only Cape Town (No. 3), and Cape Grace, a Fairmont Managed Hotel (No. 5) having ocean or harbor views. Service was also a focal point—one reader noted the 'friendly staff' at Cape Grace, while another praised the 'over-the-top' service at Ellerman House. Giraffe Manor: Nairobi, Kenya Giraffes patrol the exterior of Giraffe Manor, in Kenya. The only top five property not based in Cape Town, Giraffe Manor (No. 1) heads the list of African city hotels, up from fifth place last year. The hotel is in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi, and is named (and famed) after the herd of Rothschild's giraffes that live on its leafy grounds and 'visit' guests for breakfast, poking their heads through the windows for a handful of dried grass pellets. 'A delightful experience to spend time with the giraffes,' wrote one T+L reader. Another wrote it was 'one of the best stays of my life.' 1. Giraffe Manor: Nairobi, Kenya Reader Score: 97.33 2. Ellerman House: Cape Town Reader Score: 96.80 3. One&Only Cape Town Reader Score: 96.57 4. Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel, Cape Town Reader Score: 96.14 5. Cape Grace: Cape Town WBA Super Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 93.80 T+L readers' favorite African resort hotels are from all over the continent this year, including a wine farm in South Africa and a beach resort in the Seychelles. Only Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe features twice. Scenery is clearly key to why readers chose these five resorts: 'Paradise!' wrote one former guest about Four Seasons Resort Seychelles (No. 4). And the word 'beautiful' crops up repeatedly in comments about The Victoria Falls Hotel (No. 5): 'a beautiful hotel on a beautiful property,' wrote one reader. Kilindi Zanzibar: Tanzania A plunge pool on the deck of a villa at Kilindi Zanzibar. A new entry on the 'World's Best Awards' list, Kilindi Zanzibar (No. 1) has debuted as 2025's favorite African resort hotel, as chosen by T+L readers. The beach resort is based on the island of Zanzibar, off the Indian Ocean coast of mainland Tanzania. Although readers commented on a range of aspects—including the location ('paradise') and its suitability for honeymooners—service, including management, was mentioned the most. 'Staff are so attentive to fulfill guests needs,' wrote one T+L reader, while another described the villa hosts as 'attentive, smart, and hardworking.' 1. Kilindi Zanzibar: Tanzania Reader Score: 99.50 2. Matetsi Victoria Falls: Matetsi Private Game Reserve, Zimbabwe Reader Score: 97.47 3. Babylonstoren: Simondium, South Africa Reader Score: 95.41 4. Four Seasons Resort Seychelles Reader Score: 94.75 5. The Victoria Falls Hotel: Zimbabwe Reader Score: 86.55
Los Angeles Times
01-07-2025
- Los Angeles Times
Second-Story Visitors: Why Giraffe Manor is Among the World's Most Unique Hotel Experiences
Located just minutes outside Nairobi, in the Langata suburbs, the Giraffe Manor stands out as one of the world's most unique hotels and a truly bucket-list-worthy destination. It's famous for its resident Rothschild giraffes, offering guests an intimate and luxurious experience with these magnificent animals. Modeled after a Scottish manor home, Giraffe Manor started as a family abode, built around 1932 by businessman Sir David Duncan. Over the years, it has transformed into a 5-star boutique hotel now owned and managed by the Safari Collection, drawing giraffe enthusiasts from around the globe. Giraffe Manor is both a luxury hotel and a conservation center for Rothschild giraffes. The 12-acre estate provides a safe home for these once-endangered species, along with plenty of chances for guests to interact with them. Upon check-in, you'll be assigned a room or suite in one of two buildings: the Main House or the Garden House. The Main Manor features six rooms, all offering direct giraffe feeding opportunities, making it the central hub of the property. The Garden House is the newer wing, also with six rooms, three of which provide direct giraffe feeding access. If you're lucky enough to reserve one of the nine giraffe-feeding rooms, you might get a memorable 5 a.m. 'wake-up call' from a giraffe. They'll often wander up to your window or balcony looking for a morning treat. One of the most unforgettable moments at Giraffe Manor is enjoying breakfast with a giraffe poking its head through the windows, stretching its long neck toward your table. There's also a daily afternoon tea on the terrace, perfect for taking photos with the giraffes in the picturesque surroundings. Guests can feed them special food pellets provided by their assigned butlers, who also help tailor your interactions, ensuring a personalized – and giraffe-filled – experience throughout your visit. While the giraffes are, of course, the main draw, there's more to explore on the gorgeous estate and in the lush surrounding areas. Next to the Main Manor is The Retreat, a wellness center where you can enjoy massages, work out, or take a dip in the infinity pool. You can also arrange a private candlelight dinner in the beautiful Orchid House, which boasts over 150 different types of orchids. For those interested in the inner workings of the hotel's mission and the animals themselves, the Giraffe Centre is located right on the property grounds, offering programs focused on giraffe conservation. The Manor's grounds are also home to various other animals, including warthogs, monkeys and many bird species. Can't get enough wildlife? Just a short drive from Giraffe Manor is Nairobi National Park, where guests can go on a safari to see a variety of wildlife, including lions, zebras, buffalo, warthogs, impalas and over 400 species of birds. The Karen Blixen Museum, the former home of the Danish author of Out of Africa, is also nearby. This unique haven, filled with giraffes, is one of the most photographed hotels in the world. Its special setting and unforgettable animal encounters make it a must-visit destination for anyone who loves animals and nature. The dry seasons from June through October and December through March are generally the best time to visit Giraffe Manor. During these months, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. April through May and November tend to have heavy rainfall, which can make outdoor experiences less enjoyable. However, fewer tourists usually visit during these wetter periods, offering a quieter atmosphere and possibly more one-on-one time with the animals. Booking a stay requires significant advance planning. While the Main Manor can only be booked as part of a package with one of the Safari Collection's other hotels, the Garden House can be reserved as a stand-alone stay based on availability. For either option, securing your reservation well in advance for this truly unique experience is highly recommended.
Yahoo
06-03-2025
- Yahoo
20+ Awesome Things to Do in Kenya for an Unforgettable Trip
Kenya is a land of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage—making it one of the most exciting travel destinations in the world. Whether you're dreaming of witnessing the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Diani, or exploring Nairobi's vibrant city life, Kenya has something for every kind of traveler. From thrilling safaris to unique cultural experiences, this guide covers 20+ incredible things to do in Kenya to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure. Get ready to explore the best this incredible country has to offer! A flagship property unique to Kenya is the Giraffe Manor, a boutique hotel in Nairobi set in stunning acres of private land and indigenous forest since the 1930s. Open courtyards, lush gardens, and sunny terraces make the property a wonderful place to explore, but the main highlight is the herd of iconic safari mammals that reside on the property—giraffes! Visitors can enjoy a breakfast tea and interact face-to-face with these endangered animals (and possibly get a kiss in the process). Another not-to-be-missed encounter located in Nairobi National Park is the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, a sanctuary for orphaned baby elephants and rhinos. Most of the animals were rescued by the organization that has been operating since 1977. Visitors are given a chance to foster these adorable mammals before they get released into the wild. You'll be amazed to see how these gentle giants are cared for and nurtured back to health. The trust allows visitors to watch the animals be fed and even bathed, making it a heartwarming experience that you'll cherish forever. If you're in Kenya, a visit to the Masai Mara and Samburu is a must. These are two of the most popular and breathtaking safari destinations in the country. The Masai Mara is famous for its exceptional population of big cats, game, and the annual migration of zebra, Thomson's gazelle, and wildebeest from the Serengeti every year from July to October, a migration so immense it's called the Great Migration. The flood of animals filling the open savanna is breathtaking and include herds of elephants and giraffes, as well as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas. Meanwhile, Samburu National Reserve (in the North) is best for unspoiled views of safari wilderness and interacting with the friendly Samburu people. Both safaris offer an incredible opportunity to get up close with wildlife in their natural habitat. Read next: The COOLEST Safari Lodge in Samburu, Kenya If you're looking for a thrilling wildlife experience in Kenya, going rhino tracking on foot in Samburu is a must-do. This unique adventure allows you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. This is honestly perhaps the most exhilarating thing you can do in Kenya! It lets visitors in on an immersive experience with the rhinos while actively contributing to their protection. Herds of elephants can also be seen roaming freely in the vast landscape. You'll be guided by professional trackers who are experts in their field. They will teach you how to track rhinos based on their footprints, droppings, and feeding habits. One of Kenya's prime reserves where guests can get close-up views of the Big Five—buffalos, rhinos, leopards, lions, and elephants with a snowcapped Mount Kenya as a backdrop. Plus, the conservancy is known to let guests meet rhinos as it houses the last Northern and Southern White Rhinos, as well as Baraka—a blind Black Rhino. The conservancy is also known for its innovative conservation projects. It's the largest black rhino sanctuary in East Africa and the only place in Kenya where you can see chimpanzees. Running for Rangers—a wild footrace supporting Kenya's brave rhino rangers' event—is also a highlight of Ol Pejeta Nakuru in the Great Rift Valley is home to huge flocks of flamingos—one of the most photogenic birds in the African wildlife. More than 450 kinds of bird species can be seen and photographed in the park—with scenic grasslands and woodlands as a backdrop. It's also home to a rich diversity of other wildlife forms including pythons, leopards, waterbucks, and warthogs. Mt. Kenya is Africa's second highest peak, behind Kilimanjaro, and reaches over 17,000 feet (3,800 meters). Guided trips are available to visitors wanting to scale the continent's second-highest mountain via any of the three peaks: Batian, Nelion, and Point Lenana. The trek is less crowded than Mount Kilimanjaro but challenging nonetheless. It usually takes 4-5 days to complete the trek with verdant forests and moorlands shrouding its slopes. The best time to hike Mount Kenya is during the dry seasons, from January to February and from July to October. During these months, the weather is more predictable and the trails are less slippery. Remember, this is a high-altitude hike, so take your time to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness. Also, hiring a local guide is highly recommended. They know the mountain well and can ensure your safety during the hike. An excursion to Lake Turkana's primordial sceneries is certainly one for the books. This massive saline lake, also known as the Jade Sea, is located in the Northern part of Kenya and is home to the world's largest population of Nile crocodiles. Black sand beaches, three active volcanoes, and three crater lakes—with little to no change from millions of years ago—make up the region. It's also home to the world's largest colony of Nile crocodiles and is where the earliest hominid fossils were found. A UNESCO World Heritage site located at Kenya's northern coastline, Lamu Island's Old Town is the oldest Swahili settlement in East Africa and features the best-preserved structures from 700 years ago. Know more about the country's culture at the Lamu Museum and Lamu Fort and wander through the maze-like streets lined with traditional mangrove timber and stone houses. Take a traditional dhow sailboat ride for a unique perspective of the island. The friendly locals are always ready to share stories of their heritage, making your visit to Lamu Island not just a sightseeing trip, but a rich cultural experience. Remember to try some Swahili dishes while you are there. The cuisine, a blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences, is as rich and diverse as the culture itself. Named after its lava-carved landscape and intense geothermal activity within the Great Rift Valley, Hell's Gate National Park is one of the rare parks in Kenya that permits camping, and visitors can also explore the majestic sceneries on foot or via bicycle. Cycling through the park is a popular activity among visitors, offering a chance to explore the vast savannah, dramatic cliffs, and towering volcanic columns at your own pace. Don't forget to visit the park's famous hot springs and take a dip to relax your muscles after the ride. Also, make sure to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it with the stunning views of the park as your backdrop. It also features obsidian caves, water-gouged gorges, and towering cliffs that can be scaled as well. One of East Africa's largest coastal forests, Shimba Hills National Reserve is abundant in flora and fauna and has the highest concentration of African elephants. It holds four campsites, and the scenic Sheldrick Falls and Mwaluganje Forest are shelter to the rich birdlife and other endemic species like the Sable antelope, Zanzibar Red Bishop, red-necked-Spur fowl, Croaking Cisticola, and fruit bats. Tsavo East National Park's open and majestic bush landscape makes it easy to spot Kenya's iconic elephants covered in orange dust, as well as giraffes, zebras, and dik-diks during the summer months—even more majestic seen in aerial view via plane as it has stunning views of Mt. Kilimanjaro. It's an experience that will give you a bird's eye view of the park, allowing you to spot elephants, lions, and even the elusive leopard from above. For rock climbers, Yatta Plateau and Mudanda Rock are must-tries. Wasini Island is Kenya's hidden paradise located at the southern coast and is also where Kisite Mpunguti Marine National Park is located. Visitors can swim and snorkel in its blue-green waters and even rent a traditional dhow to explore the surroundings. See a number of fascinating marine creatures including humpback dolphins, green sea turtles, and colorful seabirds. Fly high up in the sky to a 360-degree view of Kenya's distinct landscapes and wildlife unfiltered. The popular Masai Mara National Reserve is particularly majestic to look at during the break of dawn as it glides silently over the savannah grasslands and wilderness. Visitors who book a ride between July and October are in for an outdoor treat to see the 'Great Migration' happen. Tourists who are up for something offbeat and peculiar can take a trip to Kit Mikayi—a grand 'tor' (120 m high rock formation) located in western Kenya in the town of Kisumu. This natural formation is deemed a shrine and has a religious and spiritual significance to the ethnic communities who live around it. Visiting Kit Mikayi offers you an opportunity to learn about the Luo-Kakello Clan's customs and traditions. You can listen to fascinating folk tales narrated by the locals, and if you're lucky, you might even witness a traditional ceremony. After you've arranged accommodation, taking a stroll through Nairobi's streets is a trip of discovery and an opportunity to learn about the city's rich history. Several historic buildings, national monuments, statues, and markets add to the stories and influences of the city's colonial past. The McMillan Memorial Library, Kipande House, Jamia Mosque, and war memorial pillars are just few of the things that can be admired while strolling through the cityscape. Along Kimathi Street, you'll find a statue of Field Marshall Dedan Kimathi as well as landmarks like the Hilton Hotel. A little distance away lies the Tom Mboya statue, and further along Moi Avenue, a reminder of a tragic event awaits you at the August 7th Memorial Park. Joining a tour guide is one of the best ways to see Nairobi on foot. Your local guides will provide you with facts and stories about the city, as well as lead you to the most exciting sites and landmarks. Read next: 20 Amazing Things to Do in Nairobi, Kenya for an Unforgettable Trip Shop at these cultural markets to know how locals do it! The Maasai Market is famous for its beautiful handcrafted jewelry, beaded accessories, and traditional Maasai attire. Here, you can find everything from colorful bracelets and necklaces to Maasai shukas, which are traditional blankets worn by the Maasai people. The market is also a great place to buy unique souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones back home. Meanwhile, Kibuya Market is the place to be when shopping for clothing, metal pieces, footwear as well as fruits, coffee, and tea. Take a break from land safaris and try it via boat this time on the gleaming waters of Lake Naivasha. The safari's cool atmosphere makes for a relaxing and peaceful time in the open water where one can spot a myriad of colorful birds idling about including flamingos, saddle-billed storks, pink-backed pelicans, and kingfishers. One can also spot African fish eagles nesting in the nearby acacia woodland. Home to one of the biggest calderas in the world, Menengai Crater is located in the Great Rift Valley in Kenya and is a popular camping grounds for outdoor enthusiasts. The crater is situated on the Rift Valley floor with its volcano forming about 200,000 years ago. Soak in the panoramic and sweeping views of the plunging cliffs and crater and enjoy sightings of more than 400 species of birds. Kerio Valley is one of the landmark features of the Great Rift and there's no better sport to scale its beauty than paragliding. There are a number of take-off points in the valley where one can enjoy a smooth launch and safe landing. This excursion covers more than 10 kilometers of aerial distance and scenic panoramic landscapes. Kenya has 536 kilometers of coastline, and many of those kilometers are beautiful beaches. These golden and white sand beaches are dotted with luxury resorts and holiday homes. Watamu is one of the most popular beach destinations in Kenya. The Swahili town on the north coast has five stunning beaches that are ideal for couples, families, and watersport enthusiasts. Some of the nicest beaches in Watamu are Turtle Bay Beach, Garoda Beach, and Jacaranda Bay. There are more beautiful beaches along the Swahili coast besides Watamu. Mombasa beaches like Nyali Beach and Bamburi Beach are among them, as are Diani beaches like Tiwi, Diani Beach, and Galu Kinondo Beach. They're protected by coral reefs and Diani Beach is particularly known and loved for its water sports, including scuba diving opportunities. Read more: What to Wear on a Safari – Practical Outfit Ideas for Women & Men
