Feature: Luxury African tours and safaris

The magical continent of Africa has been inspiring explorers and artists for generations. Long the reserve of intrepid explorers and scientists, tourism has now kicked off in a big way, and luxury tours abound in the varied landscapes. Conservation is key here, so safaris and park costs go a long way to help preserving the iconic wildlife for future generations. And while a safari should be high on anyone’s list of ‘things to do before you die,’ let’s not forget that above the Sahara, a very different world exists – one of medieval cities and 3,000 year old dynasties. So let us take you on a tour of this fantastic continent by showcasing some of the most luxurious tours imaginable...

The Great Migration
Watching two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle crossing the Serengeti is a once in a lifetime experience. Immense herds plunge chaotically into crocodile infested rivers, then cover the vast grassy plains in their thousands. It is now possible to track this natural phenomenon by following the herds with a mobile camp. Africa Exclusive offers a two week luxury Tanzania itinerary which includes four days of tracking in the Serengeti. Start off by staying in the fairy tale Ngorongoro Crater Lodge perched 8,000 feet high up on the crater itself. Offering stunning views of the crater floor 1500 feet below, you’ll be guided around to witness lions, elephants, and giraffes before flying to the Serengeti Mobile Camp.

Shadow the great migration as you move over grassy plains, never far away from wildebeest, gazelle, and zebra, picking up the luxury camp and dining on gourmet camp fare at night. Then enjoy some boating, walking, and fly camping among rivers and plains with a stay in the Sand Rivers Selous. Sat beside the great Rufiji River, this is Africa’s largest protected area, and home to countless animals and few tourists. Then head to the gorgeous spice island of Zanzibar for a stay in a Moorish villa by the sea.

Morocco
Located in the continent’s north west, Morocco is a fascinating destination of medieval cities, ancient ruins, Berber villages, kasbahs, and the beautiful Sahara Desert. Be blown away by sights and smells unlike anywhere else on earth, where crumbling and maze-like medinas offer Arabic delights and unique crafts. The 11 day Best of Morocco tour from Artisans of Leisure starts in Fez, the intellectual and religious heart of the nation. Staying in a former Moorish palace, you’ll tour the medieval medina: a UNESCO world heritage site of crammed, narrow streets, tiny squares, and artisan workshops. Visit the ruins of Meknes and Volubilis, and the incredible fortresses of Ouarzazate – the Valley of the Thousand Kasbahs.

Flying privately to Marrakech, spend four nights at the exclusive Amanjena, a Moorish-style resort of gardens and reflection pools. With your own guide and driver, tour the ancient streets and visit delights like the Museum of Moroccan Arts, and the Palais de la Bahia before taking a trip out to the beautiful Atlas Mountains and its many Berber villages. Prices start at £11,500 per person.

Kenya
The mythical East African country of Kenya is a land of wide-open spaces, savannahs, crater lakes, snow-capped mountains, golden beaches, and a stunning array of wildlife. No country better captures the iconic beauty of Africa than Kenya, so come out and experience it for yourself with an individually tailored safari with Abercrombie and Kent. Either stay in a mobile luxury camp – the best way to see Kenya’s national parks – or delightful, boutique lodges like Elephant Pepper Camp.

North of Nairobi at the foot of Mount Kenya is Lewa Downs, a conservation marvel where endangered species abound, like grevy’s zebra to sitatunga, and oryx. South is Amboseli, a small park famed for its herds of elephants and stunning views of Kilimanjaro, while to the east lies Tsavo – the biggest national park in the country and a place to really discover the secrets of the bush. Make sure you include the Rift Valley in your tour. This wonderland is the greatest geological fault in the world and one of the last refuges of the endangered black rhino. Then gain a rare glimpse of the day to day lives of the Masai people in the grass lands of Masai Mara. Your trip will really be one that stays with you for the rest of your life.

Egypt
Explore the Nile in unparalleled luxury on the prestigious with Kuoni on the Oberoi Zahra vessel – an inland cruise liner with 25 rooms, a swimming pool, and luxury furnishings. Spend three nights in magical Cairo before visiting Aswan’s High Dam and Philae Temple. Sail to the Botanical Gardens and marvel at the ancient Egyptian wonder of Edfu. Then explore the West Bank and the royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings, before cruising to Luxor and the Dair El Madina – the site of a workman’s village whose crafts decorated the tombs of the pharaohs.

A continent of unrivalled beauty and history, from the dawn of man to some of the oldest civilizations on earth. A trip to Africa will not disappoint.

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