Best Safari Lodges In East Africa

An African safari is one of those once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences that every traveler should experience. A safari in East Africa is even more unique, where the pristine beauty of nature meets the thrill of being up close to majestic wild animals. Amidst this wilderness, a few lodges stand out, offering not just accommodation but a gateway to an immersive safari experience. 

From the sprawling savannahs of the Serengeti to the lush forests of Uganda, you're sure to find safari lodges in East Africa to suit your preferences. These lodges offer the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence and will enthrall even the pickiest tourists.

Let's explore the best safari lodges in East Africa. These lodges offer the perfect blend of adventure and indulgence and will enthrall even the pickiest tourists.

Top 10 Safari Lodges East Africa

Not many things compare to the excitement of going on a safari to see the magnificent wildlife up close in their natural habitat. Simple camps with tents for a wild experience are available, as are opulent lodges with swimming pools, spas, and fine cuisine for those who want creature comforts.

The following are the top 10 safari lodges we recommend in East Africa.

1. Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Bisate Lodge, located on the borders of Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, features six elegant and relaxing villas with views of the neighboring villages, woodlands, and cloudy mountain peaks. The principal activity is hiking inside the national park to observe the mountain gorillas. Other options include hiking in the mountains, seeing golden monkeys, and visiting the grave of famed primatologist Dian Fossey. 

One reader said the staff is "amazing," and the food is "delicious," especially the homegrown vegetables. Another visitor said staying at Bisate was "the absolute best experience we have ever had. The food, service, and rooms were beyond amazing."

Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

2. Gibb's Farm, Karatu, Tanzania

Gibb's Farm, a luxurious lodge in Northern Tanzania, provides a much-needed break for safari tourists visiting East Africa.

There are seventeen guest cottages, one suitable for a family or party. They are all located on the property. The cottages, built of stone and wood, have polished eucalyptus floors and handmade furniture. Gibb's artist-in-residence has given each a unique theme. Upon entering the cottage, there is a tiny entry hall and a vase filled with fresh flowers. This area opens onto a lounge that has a cozy fireplace!

There are undoubtedly more upscale options in the vicinity of the Ngorongoro Crater. But in terms of history and character, Gibb's Farm, with its farmhouse on the forested crater slopes and built as a coffee plantation in 1929 by German farmers, comes out on top.

3. One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda

One of Rwanda's most upscale hotels, this luxurious lodge is tucked away on the edge of the immaculate Nyungwe Forest National Park within a working tea plantation. It also provides easy access to the park's animals, including chimpanzees and monkeys.

Each suite has an open fireplace, patio, and giant soaking tub for post-trek relaxation. The on-site spa specializes in African-inspired treatments, accentuated with chemical-free African skincare products.

The homestead, the property's main building, hosts the location for your all-inclusive meals and beverages. Every night, the chef moves around to speak with the visitors and gives copies of any recipes you ask for. One of the highlights is that the staff pleasantly surprises you with a dinner at a unique private table amidst the tea leaves on the premises.

One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda

4. andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

One of the most sought-after safari locations in the world is the Ngorongoro Crater, with its enormous walls housing one of the most significant concentrations of species in the world (and Africa's highest population of lions). So, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is among the favorite safari lodges in Africa; with one of the 30 rooms with leather recliners, crystal chandeliers, and banana-leaf roofs, you may wake up in the middle of all grandeur. 

The scenery constantly transforms as the mist dances over the expansive wildlife sanctuary below, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight. Visitors may find themselves momentarily disoriented as if transported to a different time or place amidst this lodge's enchanting ambiance. Everything is carefully curated to spark the imagination and accentuate the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding natural beauty.

5. Angama Mara, Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

This East Africa safari lodge feels ultramodern and refined. It is perched atop a cliff with a view of the Mara plains and the Great Rift Valley. The abundance of animals that roam the area is the only thing that rivals the breathtaking scenery. Angama is the ideal location for an exciting African safari without sacrificing comfort or luxury.

6. Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

The classic and elegant Bateleur Camp is nestled amidst the bush at the base of the picturesque Oloololo escarpment, which forms the edge of the Great Rift Valley in Kenya's renowned Masai Mara National Reserve.

Visitors may enjoy a wilderness safari amidst the reserve's incredible year-round concentration of animals, which includes the seasonal Great Wildebeest Migration. They may almost only explore this area on foot or by game drive, where they can find immaculate outdoor dining spots.

andBeyond Bateleur Camp, Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

7. Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

If you want luxury, adventure, and the perfect wilderness tours and safari experience, the Four Seasons Serengeti is the place to be.

See the Big Five grazing freely over the plains or observe herds of zebra and wildebeest coming together. After exploring to your heart's content:

• Re-hydrate yourself in the canvassed villas.
• Relax in the spa.
• Enjoy the sun by the pool.

8. andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park Area, South Africa

Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge is a classic safari lodge ideally situated on a private concession within the world-famous Kruger National Park, bringing the beauty of Africa to life.

Leading safaris are knowledgeable and highly skilled teams of rangers and trackers who ensure delicate off-roading practices to provide up-close views of elephants, buffalo, rhinos, lions, leopards, spotted hyenas, giraffes, and other species.

andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park Area, South Africa

9. Lion Sands Game Reserve, Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

Lion Sands Private Game Reserve in South Africa offers a once-in-a-lifetime African safari experience. Its 10 kilometers of riverbank guarantee a vast diversity of species.

Lion Sands Private Game Reserve has two magnificent lodges with outstanding facilities. The Sabie River banks are home to the Lion Sands safari resorts, which provide breathtaking vistas. While visiting any Lion Sands resort, you can reserve a romantic night spent beneath the stars at the upscale Chalkley and Kingston Treehouses.

10. Bwindi Lodge, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

Bwindi Lodge is one of Africa's most distinctive resorts, perched above the ancient Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and offering breathtaking views of the forest canopy across a tranquil creek.

This Bwindi National Park accommodation is an excellent location for seeing the birds and monkeys concealed by the greenery. A new spa and sauna have been added, two new luxury bandas have opened, all standard bandas have been renovated, and the lounge and library have been redesigned since 2021.

Bwindi Lodge, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

Conclusion

East Africa has many destinations, each with its distinct charm. However, Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers an unmatched adventure among misty mountains and endangered mountain gorillas.

Imagine going on guided hikes through lush forests, facing the majestic creatures in their natural habitat, and having endless luxury accommodations for every preference.

We recommend applying for a Uganda eVisa through our website to streamline your journey. Our user-friendly online application process makes obtaining your visa quick and hassle-free, ensuring a seamless start to your adventure in Uganda.

Your next excellent safari adventure awaits, and Uganda is ready to welcome you with open arms. Get your East Africa tourist visa online and embark on a journey of a lifetime.