Condé Nast Traveler's Triple Crown Africa Winners
- 3 days ago
- 10 min read
Condé Nast Traveler's Triple Crown is like no other hotel list out there. It's the only one that represents three awards in one: the Hot List, for the best new hotels, Gold List, for the editor favorites, and Readers' Choice, the best as chosen by the Condé Nast Traveler's audience. Win all three and you're a Condé Nast Traveler Triple Crown property. Achieving all three makes a hotel a Condé Nast Traveler Triple Crown property, a rare feat. This collection includes everything from sleek city hotels to exciting indie escapes. They differ in scope and style, but all are exceptional.
From luxurious safari camps to former palaces, these are the top Triple Crown hotels across Africa.
Mozambique: andBeyond Benguerra Island
Images: Courtesy of andBeyond Benguerra Island
Located off the southern coast of Mozambique within the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park is &Beyond Benguerra Island Lodge. Nestled among native forests, bordered by expansive beaches, and facing a safeguarded channel, it seamlessly combines marine exploration, tranquil relaxation, and the welcoming warmth of Mozambican hospitality.
Tanzania: andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
Images: Courtesy of Courtesy andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge/Photos by Stevie Mann
The Ngorongoro Crater, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries on the planet, is a three-million-year-old caldera brimming with diverse life, including black rhinos, elephants with impressive tusks, lions, and flamingos. The &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is presently closed for a comprehensive reconstruction aimed at redefining luxury, with plans to reopen in 2027. The revamped lodge is set to offer an enhanced experience, combining stunning design with the natural beauty of the crater.
South Africa: andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve
Images: Courtesy andBeyond
Situated in the pioneering Munywana Conservancy in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, and only a short drive from the untouched beaches and coral reefs of the Indian Ocean, &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve provides a distinctive Big Five safari adventure. Spanning 29,866 hectares (73,800 acres) of exceptional biodiversity across seven distinct habitats, Phinda is one of Africa’s most diverse private reserves.
South Africa: Cape Grace
Images: Courtesty of Cape Grace/Paula Beetlestone & Belinda Amoedo
Featuring rooms with views of the harbor, marina, or the magnificent Table Mountain, Cape Grace seems as though it has always belonged to the scenery. Wherever life may lead you, their 5-star luxury hotel in Cape Town will always extend a warm welcome back home.
South Africa: Babylonstoren
Images: Courtesy Babylonstoren
This idyllic version of a functioning farm in the Cape Winelands is a must-visit destination. Since 2010, Babylonstoren has attracted both day visitors and those seeking luxurious farm stays to its sunlit expanse in the Cape Winelands, featuring whitewashed Cape Dutch architecture, expansive gardens with remarkable biodiversity, and exquisite farm-to-table dining.
Kenya: Angama Mara
Images: Courtesy Angama Mara/Photo by Stevie Mann
Established in 2016, Angama Mara is perched atop the Oloololo escarpment, offering a stunning view of the Mara Triangle. It consists of two camps, each featuring 15 suites with canvas sides and tented roofs. However, the suites also have glass fronts, providing breathtaking 180-degree views of the savannah, whether you're relaxing in bed or enjoying a shower.
South Africa: Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg
Images: Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff
Although located in the heart of South Africa's largest city, the Westcliff Hotel resembles a stylish hillside village, featuring nine sunlit villas interconnected by courtyards, fountains, and gardens.
Morocco: L’Hôtel Marrakech
Images: Courtesy L’Hôtel Marrakech
This delightful retreat, situated conveniently near the lively Jemaa El Fna square, offers a blend of delectable cuisine, exceptional comfort, and service, all while reflecting the elegance of 1930s hotels. Owned by Jasper Conran, the riad showcases exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship alongside antique furniture, textiles, lighting, and art from his collection, giving it the ambiance of a home rather than a hotel.
Botswana: Jack’s Camp Botswana
Images: Photos/Teagan Cunniffe
Jack's Camp, a Moroccan-style tented safari retreat located in the heart of Botswana's dry Kgalagadi, serves as a luxurious oasis in the desert. For many years, Jack's Camp has epitomized luxury, with its cherished vintage design providing incredible comfort amidst the desert landscape.
Morocco: La Mamounia
Images: Alan Keohane alan@still-images.net
This luxury hotel has captured the enchanting atmosphere of a Moroccan palace. The extensive gardens are abundant with citrus trees, fragrant rose blooms, ancient olive groves, and a vegetable garden where La Mamounia’s chefs can often be seen gathering ingredients for the evening's dishes at the hotel’s three signature restaurants. Enhancing the royal experience, La Mamounia’s service exemplifies Moroccan hospitality with attentive and friendly staff, always offering a warm smile.
South Africa: Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa
Images: Courtesy of Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa
Le Franschhoek Hotel, with its 63 rooms, feels more like a resort than a hotel. It is a stunning renovation and enhancement of one of the original country retreats in the prestigious wine-producing valley of Franschhoek, just an hour from Cape Town. The hotel provides an exceptional array of inspiring venues, exquisite dining options, and luxurious spa treatments, showcasing top-tier hotel accommodations.
Zambia: Lolebezi
Images: Courtesy of Lolebezi
Famous for its flourishing elephant herds, groups of wild dogs, and plentiful leopards, Lolebezi stands as a symbol of wildlife diversity. Situated on the banks of the Zambezi River within Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park – one of Africa’s most exclusive and secluded destinations – this Icon Experience provides a remarkable combination of luxury and nature.
South Africa: Madikwe Safari Lodge
Images: Courtesy of Madikwe Safari Lodge
Madikwe Game Reserve ranks as the fifth-largest game reserve in South Africa. Although it's not as widely recognized, this hidden treasure is considered one of Africa's top conservation areas and provides visitors with a Big 5 safari adventure across 750 km².
Zimbabwe: Matetsi Victoria Falls
Images: Courtesy Matetsi Victoria Falls
Matetsi Victoria Falls is a prestigious luxury safari lodge located in Zimbabwe, just a short distance from the world's largest waterfall. This family-owned and independently operated lodge is elegantly designed and positioned along the Zambezi River, encompassing its own 136,000-acre untouched wilderness.
Zimbabwe: The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara
Images: Courtesy of The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara. All Rights Reserved.
Immerse yourself in elegant safari style just steps away from one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Each veranda offers expansive views of the Zambezi River and savannah, allowing you to unwind in sophistication. As the unrivaled grande dame on the Zambian side of the falls, the property is a serene oasis, home to resident giraffes, monkeys, zebras, and impalas that roam freely.
Morocco: Royal Mansour Marrakech
Images: Courtesy Royal Mansour
The Royal Mansour Marrakech is one of the select establishments globally that epitomize hotel excellence. Located just steps from Jemaa El Fna square, this Marrakech palace pulsates with life, presenting travelers with the distinctive concept of a medina within a medina. Every space is crafted to guide guests on an intuitive sensory journey. Discover the hidden and lavish history of one of the world's most stunning hotels.
South Africa: Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa
Images: Courtesy Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa & Elsa Young
In the core of the City of Gold, under the warm sun in the luxurious, tree-lined suburb of Sandhurst, you will find the captivating Saxon Hotel. This hotel offers a unique combination of rich cultural history and modern five-star service. Nestled within ten acres of stunning indigenous gardens, it provides an unparalleled private and tranquil escape.
South Africa: Singita Lebombo
Images: Courtesy of Crookes And Jackson & Ross Jackson
From the ridge where Lebombo is situated in Kruger National Park, a rugged tapestry of wilderness extends to every horizon. Large windows reveal an infinite sky, capturing breathtaking views of the valley and the shimmering river beneath. The spaces blend seamlessly, inviting the outdoors inside, along with calming sounds and elements.
Zimbabwe: Singita Pamushana Lodge
Images: Courtesy of Singita Pamushana Lodge
Singita Pamushana Lodge serves as the ecotourism branch of this 115,000-acre reserve, aiming to promote the sustainability of the wildlife and the broader ecosystem, while allowing guests to experience the enchantment of the lodge and the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve. Singita oversees the lodge on behalf of the trust, and the revenue generated supports conservation and community initiatives in the region, enabling each guest visiting Singita Malilangwe to positively impact this stunning land and its inhabitants.
Tanzania: Singita Sabora Tented Camp
Images: Courtesy of Singita Sabora Tented Camp
This destination is ideal for travelers seeking an African safari that combines the continent's modern energy with unparalleled comfort. It boasts thoughtfully designed interiors, blending a variety of textures, innovative and functional aesthetics, and a contemporary take on the classic elements of a luxurious, romantic tented safari.
South Africa: Singita Sweni
Images: Courtesy of Courtesy Singita Kruger National Park
Sweni features six suites with views of the Sweni River, located in a secluded area of Kruger National Park. Safari guides take guests near lions, elephants, buffalo, zebras, and black rhinos. Nestled within the riverine forest, Sweni offers an intimate escape surrounded by foliage and overlooking the river. The continuous sounds of flowing water, birds, and hippos highlight the natural rhythm.
South Africa: Sterrekopje Farm
Images: Courtesy of Inge Prins/Sterrekopje Farm
Nestled in the foothills of the Franschhoek mountains, Sterrekopje is a biodiverse farm and a soulful haven for healing, creativity, and play. Rooted in ancestral wisdom and a mindful lifestyle, this luxurious farmhouse is dedicated to rejuvenating the earth, body, and soul.
South Africa: The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
Images: Courtesy of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection
Nestled above the Atlantic Ocean and beneath South Africa's renowned mountain range, The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa stands as the sole establishment on the breathtaking coastal road connecting Cape Town and Camps Bay to Llundudno Beach and Hout Bay. It's an ideal spot to witness the sunset over the Atlantic, savor exquisite international dishes, indulge in the acclaimed Spa, or simply unwind and experience exceptional, warm service.
Rwanda: Wilderness Bisate Lodge
Images: Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris
Wilderness Bisate is a luxurious eco-friendly lodge nestled in the rainforest, providing Africa's most exciting wild primate adventure. Located at the base of Rwanda's Virunga volcanoes, Wilderness Bisate Lodge is a short walk from Volcanoes National Park, the leading mountain gorilla sanctuary in Africa. The lodge features six architecturally stunning forest villas, each paying tribute to Rwandan royal heritage, with views of Mount Bisoke, Karisimbi, and Mikeno.
Botswana: Wilderness DumaTau
Images: Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris, Teagan Cunniffe, Wilderness DumaTa
DumaTau, translating to “roar of the lion,” is situated in the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, a 275,000-acre private concession next to Linyanti Chobe National Park and close to Botswana's border with Namibia. This luxurious safari camp is positioned between two active elephant corridors and offers 45 km of river frontage, making it a unique safari destination. The wildlife viewing is exceptional, with animals often passing through the camp.
Nambia: Wilderness Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp
Images: Dana Allen/Courtesy Hoanib Skeleton Coast
Located in Namibia's renowned, ancient Kaokoveld, the Remote Wilderness Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp offers an adventure in a unique landscape. Explore the rust-colored cliffs and dry plains in search of wildlife adapted to the desert. Experience an exhilarating drive to the untamed, windswept Skeleton Coast. Hike over rocky outcrops, descend vast sand dunes, admire desert oases, and enjoy dining beneath incredibly starry night skies.
Botswana: Wilderness Mombo Camp and Little Mombo
Images: Crookes and Jackson/Courtesy Mombo Camp and Little Mombo
Mombo, located in the Moremi Game Reserve, boasts a history of over 30 years and has been redesigned by architect Nick Plewman and designer Caline Williams-Wynn. Experience Mombo's stylish approach to sustainability. Situated in the Okavango Delta, it offers some of the finest game viewing globally, with the luxury safari camp strategically positioned where the main Okavango River divides into its primary channels. Explore what many consider the best year-round game-viewing destination in Botswana, featuring exciting predator-prey interactions, particularly among big cats.
Botswana: Wilderness Vumbura Plains
Images: Courtesy of Wilderness Vumbura Plains & Teagan Cunniffe
A modern sanctuary elevated on decks above the floodplain offers a vantage point to observe the dynamic life of the Okavango Delta. Wilderness’s Vumbura Plains, completely reconstructed, serves as this contemporary refuge. The thatched bedrooms are linked by wooden walkways, elevated sufficiently to allow a hippo to pass beneath. This location provides an ideal spot to witness the Delta's vibrant life.
Egypt: Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First Residence
Images: Courtesy of Nour El Refai & Yehia El Alaily
Situated between zoological gardens and the Nile's western bank, Giza’s prestigious First Mall complex places you right at the heart of everything. Enjoy views of the river or the Great Pyramids from your room before setting out to discover the ancient marvels, or relax by the pool, treating yourself to an aromatic massage once reserved for Egyptian royalty.
Egypt: Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh
Images: Courtesy Four Seasons Resort Sharm El Sheikh/Kenseet
Flowing down the hillside from the desert to the sea, this Four Seasons luxury resort in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, invites you to experience one of the finest 5-star retreats on the Red Sea. Bask in the year-round sunshine; enjoy the stylish, contemporary accommodations; admire over 3,000 palm trees and panoramic sea views. Limestone cliffs surround a kilometer of private beachfront featuring crystal-clear waters and access to a protected marine reserve.
Egypt: Mandarin Oriental, Old Cataract Aswan
Images: Courtesy Mandarin Oriental, Old Cataract Aswan & Sherif Tamim
Old Cataract Aswan, a historic luxury hotel situated on the Nile's banks, perched atop a pink granite cliff with a serene majesty, provides an ideal blend of classic elegance and contemporary luxury.
Seychelles: Six Senses Zil Pasyon
Images: Courtesy of Six Senses Zil Pasyon & Adrian Gaut
This private island is a revolutionary step forward in eco-friendly retreats that maintain a sense of style. It is the ecological gem of Seychelles and the private island residence of Six Senses Zil Pasyon. Surrounded by coral-lined beaches and towering granite rocks, it exudes both drama and beauty in this eternal summer paradise. Connect with nature, swim alongside turtles, and relish an intimate getaway that celebrates tropical well-being and supreme comfort.
Comments