Les meilleures stations balnéaires d'Afrique du Sud
South Africa’s coastline is a showcase of stunning beach resorts, where ocean beauty meets luxury. For discerning travellers, the country offers a variety of exclusive beach lodges, each with its own special charm. From the beaches of the Western Cape to the untouched shores of KwaZulu-Natal, the best beach resorts in South Africa offer experiences that blend relaxation with natural splendour. This guide highlights the finest places to stay along South Africa’s coast, where luxury and unforgettable ocean views await. With a personalised itinerary crafted just for you, your South African beach holiday promises to be as remarkable as the country itself. The Western Cape’s best beach resorts 1. Morukuru Beach Lodge Set within the beautiful De Hoop Nature Reserve, Morukuru Beach Lodge is a sanctuary unlike any other. This eco-friendly lodge offers an immersive experience in one of South Africa’s most protected marine areas, known for its towering dunes, diverse birdlife, and seasonal sightings of southern right whales. Perched along a secluded stretch of coastline, the lodge feels like a private oasis, with stunning views of the ocean and surrounding fynbos. Morukuru’s design blends seamlessly into the environment, with large windows that fill each space with light and provide sweeping views of the coast. Rooms feature private decks, ideal for relaxing with morning coffee or taking in the sunset after a day of exploring. With activities like guided marine walks, dune hikes, and beach strolls, Morukuru invites guests to connect deeply with the area’s extraordinary biodiversity. It’s the perfect destination for travellers who seek a luxurious, nature-immersed retreat in one of the best beach resorts in South Africa. 2. Tintswalo Atlantic Located at the foot of Table Mountain National Park and overlooking the shimmeringwaters of Hout Bay, Tintswalo Atlantic is a hidden gem that offers a secludedescape with unparalleled ocean views. Often described as Cape Town’s best-keptsecret, this intimate hotel features individually decorated suites, each inspired by anisland around the world, creating a unique atmosphere for every guest. Tintswalo’slocation is a significant part of its appeal, providing the feel of a remote getaway justa short drive from Cape Town’s attractions. With decks that overlook the ocean, spacious rooms filled with bespoke furnishings,and private balconies, guests can unwind while taking in the beauty of the Atlantic.Tintswalo Atlantic is renowned for its tailored cuisine, with menus that incorporatefresh, local ingredients and can be enjoyed with views of the surrounding mountainsand sea. This luxurious retreat, combining privacy with convenience, stands out asone of the best beach resorts in South Africa, ideal for those seeking a peacefulsanctuary with easy access to the city’s wonders. 3. The Bay Hotel Situated in the vibrant seaside suburb of Camps Bay in Cape Town, The Bay Hotel is a sophisticated beachside destination that offers stylish accommodations right next to one of Cape Town’s most popular beaches. With the Twelve Apostles mountain range as a dramatic backdrop and the white sands of Camps Bay Beach just steps away, The Bay Hotel captures the lively spirit of the area, making it one of the best beach resorts in South Africa for those who want to experience the city’s coastal energy in comfort. The hotel’s rooms and suites showcase views of either the ocean or mountains, with balconies that let in the fresh sea breeze. The interiors combine contemporary elegance with a relaxed, beachside feel, offering plush bedding, spacious bathrooms, and lounge areas. Dining options include the Tides Restaurant, which serves innovative dishes with local flavours, and the Caamil Bar, known for sunset cocktails overlooking the beach. With its prime location and chic accommodations, The Bay Hotel is perfect for travellers who want a luxurious stay in the heart of Cape Town’s beach culture. 4. Ellerman House Perched on the slopes of Lion’s Head, Ellerman House is an exclusive retreat that epitomises luxury with an unmistakable South African touch. Once a private mansion, Ellerman House has been transformed into a boutique hotel that combines classic elegance with modern sophistication, making it one of the most refined beach resorts in South Africa. With sweeping views over the Atlantic and a highly personalised approach to service, this is a destination that appeals to those looking for both privacy and indulgence. The hotel offers just 13 individually decorated rooms and suites, many with private terraces for soaking in the ocean views. Its impressive private art collection, one of the finest in South Africa, gives Ellerman House a distinctive cultural appeal, offering guests an enriching experience that goes beyond traditional hospitality. Paired with a world-class wine cellar and tastings curated for guests, Ellerman House is the perfect choice for those who want to combine luxury and culture in a beachside setting. 5. Walkers Bay Lodge Located on the serene shores of Plettenberg Bay, Walkers Bay Lodge offers an elegant and intimate escape along South Africa’s Garden Route. The boutique lodge is known for its welcoming atmosphere and exclusive beach access, providing a setting that is both luxurious and laid-back. Walkers Bay Lodge is one of the best beach resorts in South Africa for travellers looking to balance quiet relaxation with easy access to coastal activities. Rooms are designed to showcase the ocean views, with private terraces for enjoying the beauty of Plettenberg Bay. Guests can explore the beach, go whale watching, and even swim with seals seasonally. For those looking to relax, the lodge offers spa treatments and cosy lounge areas that make it easy to unwind completely. Walkers Bay Lodge is a beautiful choice for travellers who want an intimate, refined stay on the Garden Route. 6. The Plettenberg Situated on a rocky headland overlooking Plettenberg Bay, The Plettenberg is one of South Africa’s most iconic coastal hotels. Known for its refined charm and exceptional service, The Plettenberg combines a prime location with timeless elegance, making it one of the best beach resorts in South Africa for those who want to explore the Garden Route. With panoramic ocean views and luxurious accommodations, it provides an unforgettable base for experiencing the natural beauty
The Otter Trail: Un magnifique voyage sur la côte sauvage de l'Afrique du Sud
Plongez en Afrique du Sud !Suivez les aventures de notre fondatrice, Claire Monson, alors qu'elle s'attaque à cette célèbre randonnée côtière... Jour 1 : Nous nous sommes mis à l'aventure Sans vraies attentes, mais en tête pleine d'histoires, nous avons entrepris notre voyage. À partir du camp de repos de la rivière Storms dans le cap est, nous avons été accueillis par les vagues d'écrasement de la côte sauvage et un sentier qui a serré le bord de l'océan. Chargé de sacs à dos de 14 kg, rempli de nourriture, de vêtements pour n'importe quel temps, et d'équipement de cuisine, nous avons senti l'excitation de quitter le monde réel derrière. La première journée de randonnée a été une 4,8 km gérable, bien que la négociation du terrain rocheux et des vagues d'escapade n'a pas été facile. En chemin, nous avons trébuché sur une grotte cachée et une cascade magnifique, sa piscine rocheuse qui nous a fait signe. Cependant, le froid dans l'air et notre empressement à rencontrer le reste de notre groupe nous ont exhortés à aller au premier camp. Lorsque nous sommes arrivés, le cadre de conte de fées du camp nous a immédiatement captivés, et nous avons passé la soirée autour du feu, échangeant des histoires et profitant d'un repas copieux avec nos compagnons randonneurs – un groupe fascinant de personnes dont la compagnie a rendu le sentier encore plus mémorable. Jour 2-4 : Clambering, Wildlife et River Crossings Les jours suivants ont apporté un mélange de clameurs rocheuses, de sentiers de montagne et de traversées fluviales, présentant chaque jour son propre ensemble de défis. En chemin, nous avons eu la chance de repérer une loutre sans griffes du Cap, qui s'est approchée étonnamment avant de nous replonger dans la nature, nous offrant une occasion de photographie parfaite. Nous avons aussi rencontré un boomslang vert, des babouins, du bushbuck, et quelques chats de genres,
Les meilleurs endroits pour rester en Afrique
A curated list Africa is a continent of breathtaking beauty and endless variety. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of wildlife encounters, the tranquillity of remote wilderness, or the indulgence of world-class comfort, the best places to stay in Africa offer experiences as diverse as the continent itself. From the heart of South Africa’s Kruger National Park to the forests of Uganda and the sweeping plains of the Serengeti, each destination not only promises comfort and adventure but also offers a deep connection to Africa’s remarkable landscapes and cultures. For discerning travellers and nature enthusiasts alike, Africa is a land of unforgettable experiences. This curated list highlights some of the most exclusive lodges, perfect for those who wish to combine luxury with authentic adventures in nature. Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge, South Africa Perched above the Sabie River, Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge is one of the most unique and remarkable places to stay in Africa. It is a lodge unlike any other, set in a restored luxury train that’s permanently stationed on a bridge, suspended over the river. This extraordinary blend of history, nostalgia, and wilderness offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience for travellers who want to combine the romance of Africa’s past with the wonders of its wildlife. Kruger Shalati’s historical connection to the early days of safari tourism is part of its charm, with the restored train carriages evoking the golden age of travel. But this is no ordinary train. The glass-walled suites provide breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding bush, where elephants and hippos can often be spotted below. Each room is designed with elegance and comfort in mind, offering a luxurious sanctuary from which to witness the drama of the African bush. The sense of adventure is heightened by the train’s location, with guests feeling as though they are floating above the wilderness. A cantilevered pool extends over the river, allowing you to swim while observing the wildlife below. This is not just a lodge—it’s an experience that harks back to the romance of 1920s safaris while offering all the modern luxuries you would expect. Little Mombo, Botswana Tucked away in the Okavango Delta, Little Mombo is often described as the “Place of Plenty” and is widely regarded as one of the best places to stay in Africa. Its location within Moremi Game Reserve, one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich areas, makes it a dream for nature lovers and luxury travellers alike. What makes Little Mombo stand out is not just its exclusivity but also the splendid wildlife encounters it offers. Guests regularly experience sightings of lions, leopards, elephants, and more right from their private suites. Little Mombo’s intimate setting features just four tented suites, ensuring privacy and personalised service. These luxurious suites blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment, with large verandas offering sweeping views of the floodplains where wildlife roams freely. The lodge’s commitment to sustainability is equally impressive. It is fully solar-powered and works closely with local conservation projects to preserve the delicate ecosystem of the Okavango Delta. Having received the prestigious US Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award, Best Resort in Africa – Rest of Africa Category, Little Mombo offers not only comfort but also an extraordinary connection to nature. With its world-class service, breathtaking scenery, and dedication to wildlife conservation, it’s a must-visit for those seeking the ultimate African escape. Saruni Mara, Kenya Set in a private conservancy in the Masai Mara, Saruni Mara offers a tranquil and intimate alternative to the busier safari camps in the area. This boutique lodge is known for its personalised service, and its themed cottages add an element of whimsy and charm. Each villa is uniquely designed, from the cosy “Love Shack” for couples to the literary-inspired “Writer’s Cottage.” These thoughtful touches make Saruni Mara stand out from other lodges, offering a more bespoke experience for guests who want a peaceful and private stay. The lodge’s location in the Mara North Conservancy allows for uncrowded game drives, where guests can witness the incredible wildlife of the Masai Mara without the crowds. Whether watching a lion pride or spotting a cheetah on the hunt, Saruni Mara provides an immersive and exclusive safari experience. The conservancy is home to all the iconic species, but what makes this place special is the sense of serenity and seclusion it offers. Saruni Mara also prides itself on its deep connection with the Maasai people. Guests can embark on guided walking safaris with Maasai warriors, providing insights into their culture and the land they’ve lived on for centuries. This blend of cultural immersion, personalised luxury, and breathtaking wildlife encounters makes Saruni Mara one of the best places to stay in Africa. Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Uganda Nestled in the highlands of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is an exceptional destination for those seeking adventure and luxury. As one of the closest lodges to the starting point for gorilla trekking, Clouds offers guests an exclusive gateway to one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences in Africa—tracking mountain gorillas through their forested home. What sets Clouds apart is its setting. Perched at an altitude of 2,000 metres, the lodge offers sweeping views of the Virunga volcanoes and the surrounding forests. The stone cottages, each with its own private fireplace and butler, provide a warm and welcoming retreat after a day of trekking. The lodge’s design balances rustic charm with elegant touches, creating a comfortable sanctuary high above the clouds. Gorilla trekking may be the main draw, but Clouds offers other activities such as guided forest walks, birdwatching, and community visits. For those seeking an adventure of a lifetime, this is one of the best places to stay in Africa, where guests can enjoy the rare privilege of encountering gorillas in the wild while staying in an exquisite mountain retreat. &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Tanzania &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is often described as one of the most surreal and extravagant lodges in Africa. Perched on the edge of
Célébrations aux chutes Victoria
An unforgettable adventure: celebrating a birthday on the Zambezi River and exchanging vows at the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. It all began one evening by a cosy fire. As we sat chatting about the idea of a wedding, we realised that a traditional ceremony just wasn’t for us. That’s when the idea hit us – Victoria Falls. A place of mystery, ancient history, and rainbows, it was the perfect destination for our personal celebration, and with that, our elopement to Zimbabwe began. Roughly two months after our decision, we set off for Livingstone, Zambia, where our incredible journey was about to unfold. Touchdown in Livinstone and crossing into Zimbabwe Flying into Livingstone Airport, the first thing that caught our eyes was the majestic Zambezi River winding its way through the landscape, followed by the unmistakable spray of Victoria Falls, or as the locals call it, Mosi-oa-Tunya– “The Smoke That Thunders.” It was a sight to behold, and the excitement began to build from the moment we landed. After an easy pass through customs (complete with a refreshing blast of air conditioning!), we were greeted by our guide and began the scenic drive through Livingstone. Our driver’s stories about the area’s history enriched our journey, and soon enough, we were at the Zimbabwean border. Here, we were welcomed by an unexpected greeter – a rather friendly baboon lounging near customs. It was a charming start to what would be an unforgettable adventure. Crossing the famous bungee jump bridge, we caught a fleeting glimpse of Victoria Falls in all its grandeur, along with a few brave souls leaping into the abyss. The thrill of the Falls was already palpable, even from a distance. A warm welcome at A’Zambezi River Lodge Arriving at the A’Zambezi River Lodge, we were struck by the genuine warmth of the staff. From the moment we stepped in, the friendliness and sincerity of everyone made us feel completely at home. After being shown to our river-facing room, we couldn’t help but feel that this was the perfect base for our stay. With a couple of hours before our first activity, we relaxed at the bar, sampling the local beer. While the prices were steep in USD compared to what we were used to in South Africa, the stunning views of the Zambezi and the dramatic skies more than made up for it. As we watched a warthog amble across the lawn, it felt like we were already in the heart of nature. A sunset cruise on the Zambezi River Soon, it was time for our sunset dinner cruise on the Zambezi River, one of the must-do activities at Victoria Falls. The boat was simple but charming, and as we set sail towards the setting sun, the tranquillity of the river enveloped us. The water shifted through a kaleidoscope of colours as the sun dipped lower, casting a golden glow over everything. The dinner was a delicious three-course affair, starting with soup, followed by freshly caught Zambezi bream, and finishing with apple crumble for dessert. The evening was made even more memorable by the company of elephants and cheeky monkeys along the riverbanks. By the time we returned to the lodge, we had over 100 pictures of a stunning African sunset, and a memory we would never forget. A birthday gift: spotting a leopard The next morning was my birthday, and waking up in the country of my birth felt extra special. But the day had something even more magical in store. After a leisurely breakfast, we set off on an overnight canoe safari adventure on the Zambezi River, with our guide and a team of five other crew members. As we entered Zambezi National Park, we were jolted to a stop by our guide. Climbing onto the roof of the vehicle, he scanned the horizon. Then came the whisper of excitement: a leopard! There it was, sleek and graceful, disappearing into the tall grass. It was the first leopard sighting in three years, and to have this rare and magnificent animal as the first we encountered in Zimbabwe felt like an extraordinary birthday gift. Canoeing on the mighty Zambezi After this exhilarating start, we made our way to the river, where the crew gave us a quick briefing on safety– what to do if we encountered a hippo or crocodile (which thankfully we didn’t!). Then, with the canoes ready, we set off on the mighty Zambezi River. The river carried us effortlessly along, its flow strong but gentle, and we barely needed to paddle. Passing by luxury lodges hidden among the trees and spotting vibrant birds and bushbuck along the banks, it felt like we had slipped into another world. At one point, we came upon some gentle rapids, and while they weren’t as wild as the white-water rafting the Falls are famous for, they gave us a thrilling ride nonetheless. We stopped for a break on the riverbank, enjoying a light lunch of chicken, salad, and pasta, washed down with an ice-cold Zambezi beer. It was the perfect way to recharge before continuing our serene journey down the river. https://www.hasslefreeafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/HFA-VictoriaFalls_BlogStory04_V1.mp4 The wedding at Victoria Falls After days of adventure, the moment we had been waiting for arrived – our wedding at Victoria Falls. There, surrounded by the roar of the Falls and the mist rising into the air, we exchanged vows in one of the most breathtaking settings on earth. The rainbows formed in the spray, the sound of the thundering water – it was all more perfect than we could have ever imagined. Reflections on a magical adventure Our time at Victoria Falls was more than a celebration of love and life – it was a journey into the heart of Africa’s beauty and majesty. From the sunsets on the Zambezi to the wildlife encounters and the warmth of the local people, every moment was a reminder of how special this corner of the world truly is. As we said goodbye to the Falls and made
Conquérir Kilimandjaro
From the bustling streets of Dar es Salaam to the summit of Africa’s highest peak – a journey of challenge, beauty, and ultimate triumph. As our plane descended into Julius Nyerere Airport, the city lights of Dar es Salaam shimmered below, twinkling like a starry night. It was hard to believe that just a few hours earlier, we had left behind a freezing Johannesburg. Now, the thick, humid air hit us as we stepped off the plane, a warm welcome to East Africa. The buzzing of large praying mantises around our heads and the unexpected sound of a chicken clucking in the distance were the moments that made it feel like we had truly arrived in Tanzania. Once through the slow process of customs, we were greeted by the friendly staff of our hotel shuttle, ready to take us through the dimly lit streets of Dar es Salaam to the Paradise City Hotel. Even though it was late, the city hummed with life. At the hotel, we found spacious rooms, satellite television, and, most importantly, refreshing air conditioning – a welcome respite from the heat outside. Exhausted after our travels, we settled in for a few hours of rest, knowing our real adventure would begin in the morning. A flight to Kilimanjaro and first glimpse of the mighty mountain After a much-needed sleep and a breakfast served with smiles and a good, strong cup of coffee, we headed back to the airport. Our next destination? Kilimanjaro International Airport. As we flew over the mightyMount Kilimanjaro, its snow-capped peak emerged briefly from the clouds. It was a moment of awe – the mountain seemed both imposing and inviting, a challenge we would soon face head-on. On landing, we were met by our trekking operator, Tanzania Experience, who would guide us both on our Kilimanjaro climb and our safari. The drive to Keys Hotel in Moshi was peaceful, a world away from the bustle of Dar es Salaam. Nestled under lush palm trees with a bright blue swimming pool, the hotel was the perfect place to rest and prepare for the climb ahead. The town itself felt calm and serene, surrounded by coffee plantations and the imposing presence of Kilimanjaro in the distance. As evening fell, we gathered for a pre-trek meeting with Achim, our guide, who brought with him all the gear we had pre-ordered. After a thorough briefing about what to expect on the trek and some last-minute advice on dealing with altitude sickness, we felt both excited and a little anxious about the challenge that lay ahead. After all, Kilimanjaro is no small feat. With hiking boots on and walking sticks in hand, we sat down to a wood-fired pizza, enjoying the anticipation of the adventure that was about to unfold. The climb begins: Hiking to Machame Camp Our journey began early the next morning, greeted by the sound of noisy ibis birds and a steady drizzle of rain. By the time we arrived at Machame Gate, standing at 1490 meters, the rain had set the tone for the day. But with our waterproof gear on and our backpacks loaded, we were ready. Kilimanjaro, hidden by clouds, was still a mystery – yet the excitement of the unknown kept our spirits high. We set off through the rainforest, lush and alive with the calls of monkeys and the rustling of the canopy overhead. The thick green forest seemed to wrap around us as we ascended. The altitude was already making itself known, and as we trekked higher, the climb began to take its toll. Our guide, Gideon, noticed my struggle and kindly took my daypack, offering reassurance that we weren’t far from camp. His calm presence was a comfort, and soon enough, we reached Machame Camp, nestled at 2980 meters. After a challenging day, we were greeted with bowls of warm water to freshen up, followed by a cup of tea and some popcorn. The combination of the mountain air and the East African tradition of tea with popcorn lifted my spirits. Dinner that evening was a surprise – a delicious cucumber soup, beef kebabs, and an avocado cup filled with fruit salad for dessert. It was hard to believe such gourmet meals could be made in these conditions, but the food became a highlight of each day. Shira Camp and the first glance of Kilimanjaro The next morning, we woke to a sight that took our breath away – the snowy peak of Kilimanjaro, finally revealing itself. Its towering presence filled us with both awe and humility. After a hearty breakfast of porridge, coffee, and eggs, we set off again, this time through a landscape that was entirely different from the rainforest of the day before. The trail led us through moss-covered trees, vibrant flowers, and shrubs, with Kilimanjaro watching over us from the distance. By midday, we had reached Shira Camp at 3720 meters, standing high above the clouds. The views were staggering, and we spent the afternoon acclimatizing, hiking to a nearby point at 3900 meters. The altitude was beginning to make itself felt, but the stunning landscape, with its giant Senecio trees and otherworldly atmosphere, kept us going. Lava Tower and Barranco Camp: The challenge intensifies The fourth day on the mountain was one of anticipation. We knew that the next morning would bring the final ascent to the summit. After a steep climb through barren, moon-like terrain, we reached Barafu Camp, the last stop before the summit. At 4640 meters, the air was thin, and the cold was biting. We layered up, trying to get a few hours of rest before the midnight ascent. At 11:30 pm, we were woken for tea and biscuits, our breath visible in the icy air. Headlamps on, we began the final push to Uhuru Peak. Slowly, we snaked our way up the mountain, a trail of lights winding toward the stars. Every step was an effort, but as the sun began to rise, painting the horizon in