Top 10 Luxury Hotels In East Africa

While many hotel options cater to visitors with diverse budgets and preferences, the demand for upscale hospitality enterprises remains sky-high across East Africa and the continent. These East Africa hotels are not only places to stay but also provide pleasant experiences and other services. Whether you visit East Africa at any time of the year, expect to be amazed by the natural beauty that awaits you.

Explore top luxury East African hotels for tourists

Overview of East Africa’s nationals and culture

Which countries are part of East Africa?

East Africa is made up of the following countries.

• Kenya
• Tanzania
• Rwanda
• Burundi 
• Uganda
• South Sudan

Each of these countries has a diverse selection of luxury hotels from which to improve your stay.

Luxury accommodations in countries of East Africa 

Which is the most developed country in East Africa?

Kenya, the crown jewel of East Africa, is the most developed country in the region. It boasts a plethora of luxury lodging alternatives, including several high-end hotels and resorts. According to 2016 research published by Jones Lang LaSalle, a US-based real estate advising firm, Kenya's hotel sector is brimming with four— and five-star hotels, particularly in Nairobi. This is a testament to the country's thriving economy and appeal to leisure travelers and business enterprises.

This is because it acts as a regional headquarters for several foreign enterprises and non-governmental organizations and an entrance point for leisure travelers visiting Africa. Let's have a look at the top luxury hotels in East Africa.

Explore 10 East African luxury hotels for travelers

1. Corinthia Hotel , Khartoum

Staying at one of the most luxurious East African hotels

The Corinthia Hotel in Khartoum is one of East Africa's premium hotels, with a distinctive egg-shaped design. It is located at the intersection of the Blue and White Nile rivers, surrounded by magnificent gardens. This spectacular glass-and-steel skyscraper, nicknamed 'Gaddafi's Egg,' stands out among the other attractions in Khartoum's business center. Visitors may enjoy the on-site pool, restaurant, spa, fitness center, and free shuttle service to surrounding tourist destinations.

2. House of Waine, Kenya

House of Waine is one of the best East African hotels in Kenya

Immerse yourself in the luxury and unique hospitality of House of Waine, a family-run boutique hotel in Karen's upscale area. Originally a family home, House of Waine was transformed into a luxury hotel in 2004 to cater to customers wanting exceptional comfort and service.

Its sophisticated and elegant interior design creates a beautiful retreat where warm hospitality reigns supreme. The hotel's rooms are equipped with all modern amenities, and there is a pleasant sitting space outdoors, ideal for unwinding after a long day of touring.

The hotel's ultra-modern furnishings provide stunning views of Mombasa's gorgeous skyline and well-known Old Town sites such as Fort Jesus and the Old Port.

3. EnglishPoint Marina, Mombasa

EnglishPoint Marina is suitable for travelers seeking luxurious accommodations along Kenya's coast. This hotel in Nyali, one of Mombasa's most exclusive regions, boasts unrivaled and beautiful characteristics that make it Africa's premier hospitality destination. You're near Mombasa's central business district. Enjoy fantastic amenities, including a boutique hotel, two—and three-bedroom apartments with complete furnishings, an outdoor jacuzzi accessible via penthouses, waterfront restaurants, and even an underground disco.

4. Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, Tanzania

Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is one of the best safari lodges in Tanzania

Ngorongoro Serena Lodge is a premium hotel in East Africa known for its breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro Crater. This stunning and inactive volcanic crater has been named the world's eighth wonder.

With easy access to Serengeti National Park and a four-hour drive from Arusha in Tanzania, it's no wonder this hotel continues to entice visitors worldwide. Its walls are adorned with prehistoric cave murals, and its vaulted masonry tunnels and timber decks connect it.

The lodge's 75 rooms and suites are meant to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The rooms are big, comfortable, and attractively equipped, with modern conveniences such as en-suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and private balconies or patios.

5. Elewana Kilindi, Zanzibar

Elewana Kilindi, located on Zanzibar's magnificent northern shore, is a unique resort and one of the most luxurious hotels in East Africa. The retreat has 15 dome-shaped pavilion rooms with ocean views, each with a private pool and a 'rainfall' shower. There are lots to do, including snorkeling, deep sea fishing, a spice tour around Stone Town, and relaxing at the spa before going on a romantic dhow sail. Kilindi Zanzibar airport is just a few hours away, so you can arrange your fantastic vacation here.

6. Manta Resort, Zanzibar

Stay overnight at Manta Resort in Zanzibar

Visit Manta Resort in Zanzibar, near Pemba Island, for an unforgettable experience. Spend the night in an underwater chamber and engage in an incredible experience while floating on the Indian Ocean waves. Thanks to Swedish engineers who constructed it elegantly using local oak, you'll be surrounded by unique aquatic life. Enjoy the best of both worlds with a rooftop area for sunbathing and stargazing and an underwater bedroom with 360-degree views of the surrounding aquatic life. From sea level, a ladder leads to the roof, which also has a sitting space and a bathroom.

7. Bisate Lodge

Bisate Lodge, located on the southern edge of Volcanoes National Park, is ideal for travelers seeking a gorilla or golden monkey adventure. Experience a stay unlike any other at Bisate Lodge, thoughtfully created with traditional Rwandan aesthetics and modern materials to provide unparalleled comfort. While relaxing at this stunning resort, guests may enjoy amazing views of the Mikeno, Karisimbi, and Bisoke volcanoes. Make the most of your stay with luxury restaurants that have communal lounges, fireplaces, and terraces with great views.

8. The Retreat by Heaven

At the upscale boutique hotel The Retreat by Heaven in Kigali's downtown, pamper yourself to the height of luxury. Your room is expansive and well-appointed, with enough hardwood furniture, front and back terrace views, peaked ceilings for more breathing space, outdoor rain showers, and saltwater plunge pools. 

Are you in the mood for adventure? In addition to learning about traditional Rwandese beer-making methods from nearby communities and horseback riding atop Mount Kigali, other activities include weaving baskets and eating organic cuisine produced nearby on Rwandan farms.

9. Kampala Serena Hotel

Kampala Serena Hotel is one of the best East African hotels in Uganda

Serena hotels in East Africa provide memorable experiences. The Kampala Serena Hotel is ideal for a peaceful Christmas trip. The hotel is one of the most luxurious in East Africa, offering contemporary suites, outstanding services, and exceptional food. For the affluent traveler, Kampala Serena Hotel provides a secure and green haven in the heart of Kampala.

It has 188 guest rooms, including 13 exquisite suites ranging from open-plan Executive to Royal Suite, seven hectares (17 acres) of magnificently groomed aquatic gardens, and an abundant free-form pool surrounded by terraces, bridges, and waterfalls.

10. Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort

Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort is one of the best luxury accommodations in Uganda

Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort, located just a short drive from Uganda's busy city of Kampala, offers ultimate luxury and beautiful vistas. Upon arrival, you will feel right at home with its extensive assortment of superb amenities and exceptional services geared to your comfort. 

The family-oriented resort has something for everyone, whether it's the fitness center, spa, or pool; youngsters will enjoy the numerous engaging on-site activities. The resort also has magnificent restaurants and pubs that provide delicious local and foreign cuisine, making it the ideal spot to dine with friends or family. Check out things to do and see around Kampala City. 

Planning your trip to explore top luxury East African hotels 

Wherever you travel in East Africa, these luxury options will please your stay, enabling you to embark on an extraordinary voyage filled with unforgettable experiences and memories. Get yourself a ticket to these spectacular destinations today with an East Africa tourist visa, your adventure awaits!