Luxury Safaris
Unforgettable journeys where wilderness meets world-class comfort.
The Essence of a Luxury Safari
A luxury safari is more than simply watching wildlife — it’s experiencing Africa’s raw beauty with the finest comforts at your fingertips. Imagine waking to the sound of lions calling in the distance, then stepping onto your private deck where coffee is served overlooking golden savannah. From private game drives with expert guides to Michelin-level dining beneath the stars, every detail is crafted to elevate the adventure without losing authenticity.
At Awake in the Wild, our luxury safaris balance exclusivity with immersion. You’ll encounter Africa’s most iconic wildlife in complete privacy, while enjoying service, accommodation, and experiences that rival the world’s best hotels.
What Makes a Safari Truly Luxurious?
Exceptional Accommodation
Luxury safari lodges and camps set the stage for your journey. Think infinity pools looking out over elephants at a waterhole, sumptuous tented suites with outdoor showers, and bespoke design that blends seamlessly with the environment. Many offer private villas, perfect for couples, families, or groups wanting complete exclusivity.
Private and Personalised Experiences
Luxury means freedom — freedom to choose when to go on game drives, how long to stay at a sighting, and what experiences to include. Our itineraries include private vehicles, dedicated guides, and flexible pacing so your safari matches your rhythm, not a group schedule.
Gourmet Dining in the Wild
From champagne breakfasts on the plains to seven-course tasting menus under the stars, dining on a luxury safari is an experience in itself. Many lodges employ award-winning chefs who fuse international flavours with local ingredients, ensuring every meal is unforgettable.
Seamless Travel and Service
Luxury is also about peace of mind. From international flights to private charters, helicopter transfers, and smooth lodge check-ins, everything runs seamlessly. At Awake in the Wild, we take care of every detail so you can simply arrive and immerse yourself in the adventure.
Iconic Luxury Safari Experiences
Private Game Drives
With your own vehicle and guide, you’ll decide where to go and when to linger. If you want to spend hours photographing a leopard, or follow a pride of lions as they hunt, the day is yours to shape.
Walking Safaris in Style
Step out with highly trained guides for intimate encounters with nature. Afterwards, return to chilled champagne and a private plunge pool — the perfect balance of thrill and indulgence.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Soar above the savannah at sunrise, watching herds of wildebeest move below like patterns in the grass. Touch down to a lavish bush breakfast, complete with sparkling wine.
Exclusive Water-Based Safaris
From mokoro canoe journeys in the Okavango Delta to luxury river cruises along the Chobe, water safaris bring a new perspective — always paired with comfort and style.
Cultural Encounters with a Luxury Touch
Meet local communities through carefully curated, respectful experiences. Enjoy private storytelling evenings, artisan showcases, or village visits that are authentic and immersive.
The Best Destinations for Luxury Safaris
Kenya & Tanzania
Home to the Great Migration and some of the world’s most exclusive safari lodges, East Africa offers both drama and indulgence. Think private tented camps in the Masai Mara or designer eco-retreats in the Serengeti.
Botswana
Synonymous with ultra-luxury safaris, Botswana is renowned for the Okavango Delta and Chobe River. Here you’ll find secluded camps accessible only by plane, with exceptional guiding and service.
South Africa
Perfect for first-time safari travellers, South Africa combines world-class lodges in the Kruger and private reserves with luxury wine tours in the Cape. A seamless blend of safari and sophistication.
Zimbabwe & Zambia
For adventurous luxury, head to Mana Pools, Hwange, or the Lower Zambezi. These destinations offer raw wilderness paired with stylish camps and incredible riverfront settings.
Namibia
Unique desert luxury — from private suites overlooking the Namib dunes to star-beds under vast night skies. Here, photography and exclusivity go hand-in-hand.
Why Book a Luxury Safari with Awake in the Wild?
Unlike large operators, we’re not about cookie-cutter packages. Every luxury safari we create is bespoke, balancing your desire for comfort with authentic immersion in Africa’s wilderness. We partner with lodges and camps that share our commitment to sustainability, ensuring your safari leaves a positive footprint on conservation and communities.
From honeymooners seeking romance, to families wanting exclusive-use villas, to photographers chasing rare light, we tailor every element. With Awake in the Wild, luxury is never about excess — it’s about experience.
Tailor-Made Journeys
No two safaris are the same.
Ethical & Sustainable
Supporting conservation & communities.
Expert Guides & Service
Handpicked, photographer-level guiding.
Trusted & Protected
ATOL & Protected Trust Services.
Discover the Wild, Your Way
A luxury safari is a chance to see Africa at its most raw and beautiful — without compromising on comfort. It’s elephants crossing the river at dusk, champagne in hand, and the kind of service that anticipates your every need.
Speak to one of our safari specialists today — call us or fill out our quick enquiry form, and let’s start creating your tailor-made luxury safari.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a luxury safari?
A luxury safari combines the adventure of African wildlife with the highest levels of comfort, privacy, and service. Expect world-class lodges or exclusive camps, private guides, gourmet dining, and personalised itineraries that allow you to experience the wilderness without compromise.
How much does a luxury safari cost?
Luxury safaris vary depending on destination, lodge choice, and season. On average, prices range from £600 to £1,500 per person per night, often including accommodation, meals, game drives, and park fees. At Awake in the Wild, we tailor each itinerary to your budget and preferences.
Where are the best destinations for luxury safaris?
Top destinations include Botswana’s Okavango Delta, Kenya’s Masai Mara, Tanzania’s Serengeti, South Africa’s private reserves, and Zambia’s Lower Zambezi. Each offers iconic wildlife with a selection of luxury lodges and camps designed for exclusivity.
What makes a safari lodge “luxury”?
Luxury safari lodges often feature spacious suites, private plunge pools, designer interiors, and exceptional dining. Many are eco-conscious, blending modern comfort with sustainability. The true hallmark of luxury, however, is personalised service and unique settings — from riverside decks to star-beds under the night sky.
Are luxury safaris suitable for families?
Yes. Many luxury lodges offer family villas, child-friendly activities, and private vehicles so families can explore at their own pace. Exclusive-use properties are especially popular for multigenerational trips, providing privacy and flexibility.
When is the best time to go on a luxury safari?
The dry season (June–October) is best for wildlife sightings, with animals gathering at waterholes and clear skies for photography. The green season (November–March) offers lush landscapes, birdlife, and fewer crowds — a great time for travellers seeking exclusivity.
What activities can I do on a luxury safari?
Luxury safaris go beyond game drives. You can enjoy walking safaris, hot air balloon rides, canoe or boat safaris, cultural encounters, photographic safaris, and spa treatments. Many lodges also offer tailor-made experiences like bush breakfasts and private sundowner setups.
Are luxury safaris eco-friendly?
Many luxury safari operators now prioritise sustainability, using solar power, local sourcing, and conservation initiatives. Awake in the Wild partners only with lodges that protect ecosystems and support local communities, so your safari is both indulgent and responsible.
How do I travel to a luxury safari from the UK?
Flights from London typically connect via hubs like Johannesburg, Nairobi, or Doha. From there, guests continue on light aircraft or private transfers directly to luxury camps and lodges. We handle every detail, ensuring your journey is smooth from start to finish.
Why book a luxury safari with Awake in the Wild?
We specialise in tailor-made luxury safaris that balance indulgence with authenticity. Unlike mass-market operators, we focus on your individual vision — whether that’s privacy, adventure, romance, or photography. Every lodge, guide, and experience we choose meets our high standards for comfort, sustainability, and service.
