The world’s most exclusive safari experiences sell out first
In a world where luxury travel is becoming more sought after, Africa’s most legendary safari experiences are not in sprawling resorts with hundreds of rooms. Instead, they are intimate, remote, and incredibly exclusive, designed for those who seek privacy, extraordinary wildlife encounters, and the highest level of service.
The catch? They book out fast – often years in advance. If you want to wake up to giraffes at breakfast, witness the Great Migration from a front-row seat, or stay in one of Africa’s ultra-luxury safari lodges, or the most remote, booking early is not optional – it’s essential.
Take a look at some of our favourites.
Breakfast with giraffes
world-famous Giraffe Manor
A once-in-a-lifetime experience that tops countless bucket lists, Giraffe Manor in Kenya offers guests the chance to dine with endangered Rothschild giraffes as they poke their heads through the windows.
With only 12 rooms, this iconic boutique hotel books out 1-2 years in advance, especially for peak travel seasons. If you dream of sipping your morning coffee while a giraffe gently nudges your shoulder, planning ahead is the only way to make it happen.
Of course you can just visit the giraffe sanctuary if you’re not able to book advance or afford the price tag. Check out the blog for more.
Visiting Giraffe Manor
Front-row seats
Great Migration
The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of nature’s most spectacular events, as over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles thunder across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, braving predators and crocodile-infested rivers.
The best way to witness this raw drama is from a luxury tented camp or lodge positioned in a prime location along the migration route. These camps – many with just 4 to 6 tents – are booked by safari connoisseurs years in advance. Miss the window, and you risk missing the migration altogether.
If you’re not sure what the great migration is, take a look at this blog.
Great Migration SafariUltra-luxury safari lodges
unparalleled comfort in the wild
Africa’s most exclusive safari lodges redefine luxury, offering private tents, suites or villas, world-class cuisine, award-winning spas (if that’s what you seek), and personal guides.
From Singita’s opulent lodges in the Serengeti, to Great Plains Conservation’s reserve and explorer collection camps in Botswana to private big five reserves in South Africa’s greater Kruger region these camps and lodges accommodate only a select few guests at a time.
They are also in high demand among A-list celebrities, royals, and luxury travellers who know (or their PA’s do) to book years ahead to secure their place.
Private safari camps
great for families and groups of friends
For families and friends seeking total immersion in the wild, Africa offers exclusive-use safari camps, where you’ll have the entire lodge to yourself—no other guests, just your private team of guides, chefs, and hosts dedicated to creating an unforgettable experience.
This is the ultimate in flexibility. Whether it’s a tailored menu to satisfy even the pickiest eaters, custom activity times to suit little ones, or expert childminders who allow parents to truly relax, these camps redefine luxury for family safaris. Imagine parents unwinding with a sundowner while the kids are entertained – now that’s a holiday worth booking ahead for!
Some of Africa’s most spectacular private safari properties include:
- Serian’s Kimya Kimya (Masai Mara, Kenya) – A secluded retreat in a private corner of the greater Masai Mara ecosystem, offering abundant wildlife without the crowds.
- Zarafa’s Dhow Suites (Botswana) – An elegant two-bedroom retreat with a private guide and access to some of Botswana’s most pristine wilderness.
- Tswalu’s Tarkuni (South Africa) – A breathtaking five-suite residence that feels like an entire resort just for you, ideal for multi-generational families or groups of friends.
With so few of these extraordinary properties available, they book out well in advance. Last-minute simply doesn’t work here. If you want the best private safari experience tailored entirely to you, now is the time to start planning.
Why last-minute isn’t reliable for Africa’s most iconic experiences
Unlike big hotels in cities, Africa’s best safari experiences are intimate and intentionally small-scale to preserve the exclusivity, tranquillity, and incredible wildlife encounters.
Many luxury camps and lodges have only 3 – 10 rooms. Small safari camps in prime locations book out for peak season years in advance.
High-end travellers plan ahead to secure the best experiences don’t be left with second-best options.
As specialists in tailor-made African safaris, we know which lodges and camps book out first – and how to secure them for you. 2026 is already filling fast. If you’re dreaming of an ultra-luxury safari in Africa’s most iconic destinations, let’s start planning now. Contact us today and let’s make your African safari dream a reality.