For a developing region like West Africa, luxury does come at a cost; while it may be a tad bit expensive, it is fair to conclude that every ounce of money spent is worth it. The current niche is sophistication, and every development or hotel management is consciously following along the path to be relevant and popular. No matter your sense of taste or preference, there’s always something unique in store for you. Africa boasts of a diverse, rich contemporary culture and heritage, fused with an unadulterated sense of hospitality; as a result, West Africa provides some of the most unique and luxurious hotel accommodations. This article primarily focuses on, in no particular order, Ten Luxurious Hotels in West Africa Tang Palace, Ghana The Tang Palace Hotel is conveniently located six km from the Independence Square in Accra. The hotel has a year-round outdoor pool and terrace, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant, or a drink at the bar. Tang Palace also includes features such as free WIFI accessibility and free private parking. All rooms come with a flat-screen TV, along with a variety of satellite channels. Certain units include a seating area where you can relax, and other units feature views of the pool or the beautiful city. In addition, rooms come with a private bathroom that is fitted with a hot tub – extras include slippers and free toiletries. Guests will find free shuttle services and hairdressers at the property as well. Seeing as Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park is seven km away from Tang Palace and the Accra Sports Stadium is six km away, the hotel also offers chauffeur services.  The four-star property is in a quiet location very close to the airport, and despite its large size, it has a nice hideaway feel to it. Comprised of freshly cut orchids, impressive chandeliers, and an impeccably dressed and attentive staff, the Tang Palace Hotel focuses on details that make your stay more memorable. Prices range from US$430 for a double and US$590 for a suite. Royal Gold Coast Hotel (Kempinski), Ghana From the Kempinski group that has a global reputation of doing things in style, the Royal Gold Coast Hotel is no exception. This hotel marks the brand’s West African debut, and with a complex that spreads over 35 hectares and is comprised of numerous buildings including commercial and residential towers, the property is a dazzling addition. The hotel itself has 269 rooms, all at least 50 sqm in size, including a pair of seriously snazzy presidential suites. Guests can also enjoy an extensive spa experience with a collection of 10 treatment rooms, a hammam, a yoga studio, and a fully kitted-out beauty salon. Other hotel features include an organic food bar, cocktail bar, tennis court, and a flashy outdoor pool. There are also seven extra meeting rooms with the latest audio-visual equipment, in addition to a number of outside meeting areas and a conference center measuring about 1,750 sq. m.  The Royal Gold Coast Hotel is home to a restaurant as well: the Papillon Restaurant is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that showcases flavors traveling the Mediterranean region from Spain to the Coast of Southern Rome in a casual, contemporary atmosphere.  The daylight-flooded restaurant got its name from the butterfly shaped roof, and it is located on the 3rd floor, adjacent to the pool and cedar terrace. Rated as one of the best values in Ghana, prices start at US$375. Movenpick Ambassador Hotel, Ghana Backed by palm-studded grounds and a sweeping azure pool, Accra’s newest luxury sanctuary is certainly living up to its hype. Dubbed as the most expensive hotel in the capital, smart waiters of the Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel are seen supplying fresh snacks and icy drinks to holidaymakers stretched out on loungers around the pool. The onsite state-of-the-art shopping center is filled with high-end goods from bold fashions at Nonterah, to Afrocentric homeware at Joe’s Perspective. In addition, the Sankofa restaurant pleases customers with a wide array of continental and local flavors, and the cocktail lounge expertly whips up any favored swill. Basking in its glory from the busiest part of Accra, Mövenpick sits across from the luxurious ends of the capital. With about 260 rooms, prices start from US$375 a day. Hotel Hilton, Cameroon Situated in the centre of the business district of downtown Yaounde, this Hilton is also just 500 m from the National Craft Market. It features an outdoor swimming pool, as well as a fitness club with a hot tub and sauna; Wi-Fi access is also available. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms and suites have a private balcony. In addition, each room at Hilton Yaounde is soundproofed, including a seating area with a flat-screen TV. Breakfast is served every morning in Le Safoutier – it also offers international buffets for lunch and dinner. Guests have a choice of 5 restaurants and bars at the hotel including Le Panoramique, which features city views from the 11th floor. Hilton Yaounde provides a range of leisure facilities, including 2 tennis courts and a squash court; a children’s playground and a business centre are also located on the site. A free airport shuttle service to the hotel takes 30 minutes for transfers from Yaounde Nsimalen International Airport, and the Palais de Congrés conference center is 5 km away. Noom Hotel, Guinea Being totally avant-garde, caring, connected, and always ideally located in the heart of busy cities, Noom hotels are designed with the business traveler in mind. This four-star, family-friendly hotel has a spectacular selection of restaurants and facilities that provide ample entertainment for holidaymakers of all ages. Situated in Conakry, Noom Hotel Conakry offers its guests air-conditioned accommodations and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. Other services include free WiFi, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar. Additionally, Noom Hotel Conakry offers a sun terrace, dry cleaning facilities, free private parking, and a business center – as well as a 24-hour front desk. The units in the Noom Hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV and a desk, and each private bathroom is fitted with a shower and free toiletries. Guests of the facility can enjoy a buffet breakfast as well; there is an on-site restaurant that specializes in European and local cuisine. Le Wafou, Cote D’ivioire Le Wafou is one of the oldest, yet splendid luxury hotels that the Ivory Coast can claim. With its expansive waters and a wet bar where guests can shake up icy cocktails, the pool is the star of this beachside retreat. A separate children’s pool is also present. Manicured Ivorian residents flock here to cool down and socialize amid the 30 acres (12 hectares) of landscaped gardens on the weekends. Hotel guests find Le Wafou to be an attractive complex of chalets, with a striking beachside location that makes for an accomplished stay. The rooms are clean, air conditioned, spacious, and include comfy beds. Overlooking the beach, the thatched setting of the Ghanaian Village restaurant is also a high point, as well as a great place to sample Ivorian dishes. Eko Hotel And Suites, Nigeria Victoria Island is a great choice for travelers interested in nightlife, food, and beaches. Eko’s pristine rooms and luxury suites offer an outdoor pool, barbecue, and children’s playground. Set in Lagos, Eko Hotel has a terrace and spa center, and guests can enjoy a meal at the included restaurant. Free WIFI is available, and free private parking is also available on site. Guests can enjoy a cup of tea while looking out at the sea or the pool. Also, every room is fitted with a flat-screen TV and private bathroom; for your comfort, you will find slippers, free toiletries, and a hair dryer. More services offered by Eko Hotel and Suites include a free shuttle service, a 24-hour front desk, hairdressers, tennis courts, and shops on the property. Car hire is also available, considering the nearest airport is Murtala Muhammed International Airport – located 20 km from Eko Hotels Limited. The Royal Senchi Hotel, Ghana Discovering the Eastern part of Ghana has always been fun. The four-star luxury hotel located on the west bank of the Volta river offers a spa, pool, conference center, and airport pickups. With 84 luxurious guest rooms, the suites are tastefully decorated with all the mod cons, including 32-inch televisions and large bathrooms. The included Senchi Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, or dinner on an a la carte menu. If you prefer the outdoors, you can enjoy your sundowner on the River Restaurant terrace and order meals from the teppanyaki or charcoal grilled meats, salads, fruit, or ice cream. The Royal Senchi Hotel prices a standard room at $240, and suites are priced at $560 dollars. Sheraton Lagos Hotel, Nigeria Sheraton Hotel is sited close to the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, in the heart of Ikeja. The hotel includes guests houses and suites; each room provides you with a TV, air conditioning, and a seating area. More features such as refrigerators, electric kettles, and coffee machines can also be found in these suites and guest houses. The private bathrooms in the rooms also include a shower, along with a hairdryer and free toiletries. At the Sheraton Lagos Hotel you will find a tennis court and a fitness center as well. Other facilities offered at the property include meeting facilities, a shared lounge, shops (on site), and free parking. Ibis Lome, Togo Located in Lomé, the Ibis Lomé hotel offers free Wi-Fi access, an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a terrace. Rooms here provide guests with a flat-screen TV, satellite channels, air conditioning, and a desk. Private bathrooms for the rooms also feature baths or showers. At Ibis Lome Centre you will find free airport shuttle service and a 24-hour front desk; additionally, the property offers free parking. Follow us on Facebook and YouTube

The Serena Group has a way of doing things differently. And their hotels are no different – each styled to perfection with that unique touch of class that Serena has come to be known for over the years. The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa was no different. From the moment you drive into the hotel and are escorted to your room, one gets to the sense of being part of something special. The entire place carries an ambience similar to that of a royal palace where each aspect of the building and operations has been carefully thought through. The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa is styled to replicate a pastel-shaded Italian hillside village and stands out among hotels in Uganda. Situated amid terraced rose gardens above its own boating marina, which has been sculpted from the sparkling waters of Lake Victoria. A gently rounded bay, studded with acacia trees, the marina is encircled by the immaculate greens of the resort’s own PGA-affiliated championship golf course. Spanned by rustic bridges and enhanced by gentle bays where a wide array of water birds gathers, the course is the ultimate fusion of natural beauty and professional challenge. Rising on gentle slopes above the marina with long views across the lush greens to Lake Victoria beyond, the hotel itself has been styled to echo an Italian palace with its campanile, glittering mosaics, rustically arched pool terrace and shaded colonnades. Set within the grounds, amid water cascades and fountains, is a Roman coliseum, which offers the ultimate wedding or event arena. And, widely spaced amongst the shaded pathways of the gardens, clusters of pastel-painted villas house the rooms, all of which enjoy panoramic views across the Marina to the hazy expanses of Africa’s second largest lake. Getting There On the shores of Lake Victoria in the Kigo District (equidistant between Kampala and Entebbe), Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa is a twenty-minute drive (30 km) from Entebbe International Airport and twenty minute’s drive to the centre of Kampala (15 km). The resort is also shortly to be linked to the Entebbe-Kampala express highway that links Kampala and Jinja by means of a 4-lane toll highway. The resort features its own helipad offering link services to the flagship 5-star Serena Kampala Hotel. Facilities The 9-hole (soon to be 18-hole) Lake Victoria Serena Championship Golf Course, Club House and Golfing Boutique The Lake Victoria Serena Marina The Club House The Citadel, all-day brasserie The Kigo, cocktail bar The Lake View Pool Terrace bar and café The South-East Asia Fusion Restaurant The Coliseum events arena A wide selection of indoor and outdoor event spaces The Maisha Mind Body and Spirit Spa Dedicated conference and social events floor Wide selection of rooms and suites: all with AC, satellite TV, Wi-Fi and voice-mail VIP entrance, helipad, dedicated car park, full security Wide range of incentives options Business Centre, travel desk, taxi and limousine service Wedding planning service Gift shop, news-stand and travel requisites kiosk. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES: Championship Golf Course Boating marina Lake cruises, sundowners and birding tours Tennis courts Volleyball courts The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & SpaOur stay at The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa was indeed a highlight of our visit to Uganda as it was undoubtedly the best hotel we stayed in during our 20-day visit to Uganda. The scenic beauty of the area combined with the excellent views of the expansive golf course from our private balcony and the sumptuous food on offer, made for a relaxing and comfortable at the last leg of our journey. More than just a hotel and spa, The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort offers an experience that is unique. The service levels are excellent, the property is well maintained and to top it all, the many activities available for guests make this property more than worthy of all the awards that the resort has won thus far. Highly recommended. The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa Address: Kigo Rd, Uganda Phone: +256 31 3221000   Follow us on Facebbok and YouTube  

The Hwange Safari Lodge features in our top 10 lists of Zimbabwe’s best luxury lodges. Have you ever stayed at Hwange Safari Lodge? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment. Holiday Guide Review includes: The Good Parts The Not-So-Good Parts Our Opinion Dining Facilities Activities How to get there Ratings Photos THE GOOD PARTS OF THE HOTEL REVIEW Hwange Safari Lodge sits right in the periphery of the Hwange National Park, offering magnificent views of the surrounding African landscape and the savannah of the surrounding jungles. Hwange Safari Lodge offers the best of both worlds, as it a tranquil retreat surrounded by wilderness and open spaces, yet provides all the amenities of the modern world. The lodge is a a two-hour drive (185 kilometres) from the international airport at Victoria Falls. The property is conveniently located just off the main Bulawayo-Victoria Falls highway making it easy for you to reach there. A beautifully designed welcome area is located at the center of the expansive resort grounds. Inside, the light-filled, high-ceilinged pavilion houses a reception area, large lounge area and the signature restaurant Dingani. Outside the lobby building is an expansive ground which also has a small swimming pool that offers lovely panoramic views of the savannah and the watering hole. Here, guests can socialize around fire pits under a magical starlit sky, while traditional music is played at selected nights. Surrounded by the wilderness of the adjoining Sikumi Forest Reserve, the lodge grounds overlook a floodlit waterhole where you can sight some wildlife at any time of the day or night. Offering sweeping views though the room’s windows, the lodge’s beautiful interiors are framed by subtle references to local architecture, seen in the simple lines of the natural timber furniture and the presence of locally-inspired touches, such as handmade paintings and local artefacts. Old solid wood is repurposed into table and bench tops, while handcrafted rust-colored bricks are used for many structures. During my visit, I stayed in one of the standard rooms, which are all housed along long corridors on either side of the main reception area. Designed in soft tones and simple lines, the open-plan suite featured a sitting area beside the double bed, and a bathroom equipped with a shower. The wooden windows provided awe-inspiring views of the all encompassing African savannah. Guests can choose to dine in the lawns in the open air or at Dingani, the lodge’s main restaurant. The latter is located adjacent to the lobby and serves a limited list of cuisines. The lodge’s chefs prepare delicious and healthy cuisine, always made with organic ingredients. There is always a choice between Western, International and locally inspired dishes. The superb à la carte breakfast is also served at Dingani. Zimbabwe Holiday Guide The lodge is operated by the renowned African Sun Group, one of my favourite hotel brands in Southern Africa. African Sun resorts & hotels are always located in some of the world’s most unique and beautiful places. Whether it be an African Sun resort on a remote area around Lake Kariba or an African Sun resort in an exciting urban setting, the touch-points are always decidedly the same. I have previous reviewed the African Sun hotel in Victoria Falls – the Kingdom Hotel. As you may expect from the African Sun brand, the Hwange lodge provides impeccable, world-class service. Similar to other African Sun resorts, all guest queries are handled to maximum satisfaction to ensure that your experience is memorable. Hwange Safari Lodge dramatic location makes for a spectacular introduction to the nearby Hwange National park as most wildlife safaris and adventures begin here. Hwange Safari Lodge is one of best lodges in this remote area of Zimbabwe, and I highly recommend to combine a stay here with a stay at some of the other African Sun lodges to immerse yourself in Zimbabwe’s wildlife, heritage and hospitality. As you journey through the vertiginous scenery of rural Zimbabwe, you will find meaningful and uplifting experiences at every turn. Each lodge and hotel has a unique character and all embrace the African Sun guiding principles, which include top-level services, sumptuous food, comfortable rooms and a typically African ambience. THE NOT-SO-GOOD PARTS Hwange Safari Lodge is a luxurious retreat, offering fabulous views, a serene ambiance, spacious accommodations, world-class service, delicious food and extensive adventure opportunities. There’s little to say against the resort, except for the following: The lodge is quiet old – it was built in 1973 and is due for a much needed upgrade. During my visit, the landscaping was not finished, and as a result, the resort grounds looked sandy, barren and a bit unattractive. That said, I learned that the vegetation has matured since my stay (due to the past monsoon season), so the resort grounds should be lush and green on any future visit. I was later informed that the Hwange Safari Lodge is being completely refurbished and should be sporting an upgraded look by next year. OUR OPINION • Good location overlooking busy waterhole • Onsite game viewing activities, plus tour to painted dog conservancy • Located just outside the Hwange National Park boundary on its own private concession • Easy access on good tar road – 185km from Victoria Falls • Comfortable hotel rooms and suites • Affordable price range with a variety of options from B&B to fully inclusive • Suitable for all types of travellers – from single to large groups • Ideal for self-drive tourists • Hotel experience – rather than an intimate safari experience FACILITIES AND SERVICES • Parking and car wash • Dry cleaning and laundry service • Baby sitting service • Credit card facilities • Wheelchair access • Expert guides and staff • Safety deposit boxes • Tennis courts • Table tennis and indoor games • Swimming pool and deck • Raised viewing platform to watch nearby game ACTIVITIES: • Game drives (early morning, afternoon and night drives);  • Walking safari;  • Village visits (cultural and pottery village);  • Trips to Painted Dog Conservancy Fully Inclusive Rates Include: • Accommodation • Breakfast, lunch, dinner and soft drinks • 1 activity per day DINING • Poolside restaurant serving light snacks and buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, and barbeque • Dingani Restaurant serving a la carte meals • Bush dinners available on request • Outside Water Hole bar opens seasonally or on request HOW TO GET THERE Hwange Safari Lodge is a two-hour drive from Victoria Falls Airport. If you decide to drive, it will take a 9-hour long drive from Harare. You can also fly to Hwange Park airstrip and arrange transfer to Hwange Safari Lodge Follow us on Facebok and YouTube

A sanctuary located on the periphery of the Mighty Victoria Fall, the expansive Kingdom Hotel is an architectural masterpiece and a haven for those looking for peace, comfort and tranquility. The property is dotted with mature palm, fruit and eucalyptus trees, which shade the turqoise-blue artificial lake around which the hotel complex is built. Beyond the palatial Suites, open-air restaurants and manicured gardens, guests will discover mystical jungles of the Victoria Falls National Park, where elephants and other wild animals still roam free. The Kingdom Hotel features in our top 10 lists of Zimbabwe’s best luxury hotels. Have you ever stayed at The Kingdom Hotel? If so, what was your experience? Leave a comment. Holiday Guide Review inlcudes: The Good Parts The Not-So-Good Parts Our Opinion Dining Facilities Advantages How to get there Ratings Photos THE GOOD PARTS Our stay at the Kingdom Hotel during our recent visit to Zimbabwe was indeed a memorable experience. This unique hotel is located adjacent to the Victoria Falls National Park and surrounded by the wild jungle on one side and the bustling city on the other. The property is set in a tranquil oasis of lush greenery that is not only in stark contrast to the arid plains and craggy hills which surround it, but also to the hustle and bustle of Zimbabwe’s main cities. The Kingdom Hotel is a nine-hour drive from Harare or you can take the a one-hour flight from Harare airport to reach here. As you approach the resort, it feels like you are travelling back in time as you pass through the sleepy bylanes of this quaint part of the city, devoid of any traffic jams or crowded traffic intersections. Built in 1999, the unique architecture of Kingdom Hotel is inspired by the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. A great deal of attention has been paid to the smaller details such as the cast iron ‘seed-pod’ bar and the hand-sculpted statues on the front lawns – all adding to that ‘magical kingdom’ ambience. The main lobby area is decorated with authentic African artworks and paintings made by local artists. The brightly themed African décor creates a typical African ambience that is both mystical and charming at the same time. The hotel has been carved out of local sandstone and marble – with grand domes, scalloped arches, gushing waterfalls and royal gardens taking you back in time to Zimbabwe’s golden age. Towering palm and eucalyptus trees are spread all across the resort complex, adding to the sense that this property has been here for many years although it is not such an old property (Kingdom Hotel opened in 1999). The hotel features the layout of a walled palace, shaded by a plethora of trees and bushes. Entrance is via an expansive and impressive porch area that looks more like a palace rampart. From here you walk down a corridor to the elegant lobby pavilion, where guests are gracefully welcomed by the resort staff with a refreshing drink, cold towel, and helpful service attendants. One of most impressive features at the Kingdom Hotel are the waterfalls that greet you as soon as you enter the hotel. Located along the corridor leading to the hotel’s main reception area, the unique waterfalls are an audio visual treat for visitors and are supposed to be miniature replicas of the famous Victoria Falls. As you walk down the staircase from the lobby pavilion to the main restaurant you will be mesmerised by the open spaces and the authentic African décor. On one side of the main restaurant is a chic open-air bar, and on the other side, is the inviting pool area The hotel has a total of 294 rooms which are situated in separate two and three storey units, built around the large man-made lake that lies at the heart of the resort. The rooms are large and spacious – decorated to match the overall authentic African theme that is carried through the entire landscape. All the rooms have balconies and some of them overlook the lake, while the others overlook the property’s lush-green gardens. The room I stayed in was in the new wing that lies across the lake from the main resort complex – its called the Kings Club. This newly refurbished wing has long corridors that are flanked by rooms on either side and the entire wing is sandwiched between the lake on the front side and a lush green garden in the rear. More often than not, you will wake up to the sounds of chirping birds that visit the lake and the gardens on their daily morning routine outings. DINING OPTIONS The Kingdom Hotel serves delicious food, with a choice of signature African dishes and Western cuisine, all of which can be tailored to suit individual tastes. Freshly picked ingredients from the the local farms are used to prepare the dishes. There’s one main restaurant, open for buffet and à la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner situated just below the lobby deck. This dining area features a grand setting, with soaring ceilings and colonnades, overlooking the tree-shaded pool and the well-manicured lawns. Opposite the restaurant is a bar, a convivial and relaxing space where light snacks and drinks are served throughout the day. The Kingdom Hotel is a self-contained world of elegant luxury, representing everything that its mother brand, the African Sun tries to achieve: tranquility, exclusivity, and a sense of well being. The African Sun is Southern Africa’s most exclusive hotel brand and the company manages a fabulous collection of intimate properties across the region. The brand is known for the understated elegance of its resorts, exquisite attention to detail, minimalist design, heartfelt service, and otherworldly locations. Among African Sun fans is a group of passionate repeat customers who call themselves ‘African Sun addicts’ (me too) and whose travel plans in the Southern Africa region are determined by locations of African Sun properties. It’s also a fallacy that African Sun addicts are always extremely rich people: I, for instance, would prefer to spend my money on three nights at an African Sun resort instead of two weeks at any run-of-the-mill mediocre hotel – as you pay, not just for accommodation at an African Sun property, but for a unique and life-long memory that you will cherish for the rest of your days. To be blunt, some of the African Sun resorts make Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton resorts look like mediocre Best Western motels. The staff at Kingdom Hotel provides impeccable service. From the concierge to the receptionists who welcome you upon arrival to the room service staff and waiters – everyone at the resort seems to be genuinely hospitable and care about making your Zimbabwean holiday a unique and enjoyable experience. While at the resort, it feels like you are a king – nothing is too much to ask for. To give you a few examples: rooms are refreshed several times per day – but you’ll rarely see someone from housekeeping, you’ll never be asked for your room number or name (African Sun knows its guests personally), and duty managers are always present at the resort and mostly there to welcome you and say goodbye. While a stay at Kingdom Hotel cannot be classified as ‘budget’, but it won’t cost you a fortune too. If ‘value for money’ is your mantra, then the Kingdom Hotel provides you with an authentic African experience and may be just the right place for you. A stay at Kingdom Hotel can be easily combined with a stay at its sister property, Hwange Safari Lodge (which I reviewed here). Both properties offer a totally different and complimentary experience on a Zimbabwe itinerary. While Kingdom Hotel offers a refined and luxurious resort experience in a lush manicured oasis in urban settings, Hwange Safari Lodge, on the other hand, is more of an upmarket lodge located in typical African rural settings from where you can explore the wilderness and the wildlife in the nearby Hwange National Park. THE NOT-SO GOOD PARTS • The Kingdom Hotel is one of the large hotels, and it can get busy especially during the tourist season and long holidays.  • For travellers from the Middle East like myself, the absence of water jet in the toilets is an inconvenience. So remember to carry you bidet spray attachment. OUR OPINION Kingdom Hotel is conveniently located just a five-minute walk from the famous Victoria Falls. The hotel is a perfect place stay while out on a family holiday or travelling in large groups. With an uncanny resemblance to the Sun City in South Africa, the Kingdom Hotel offers an authentic African experience in typical African settings. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay there and would certainly recommend it to others. SUMMARY One of our recommended hotels, it is good value for money Rooms built around a large man-made lake Design and architecture inspired by the ancient city of Great Zimbabwe The hotel has elevators and ramps for the physically challenged guests One of the closest hotels to the Victoria Falls entrance – a five-minute walk ACCOMMODATION AT KINGDOM HOTEL 112 rooms have king-sized beds 294 rooms in total 102 have queen beds 34 rooms have a king bed and a bunk bed 40 of the rooms have twin beds and a bunk bed Paraplegic rooms are available All Rooms have: Air conditioning Telephone Heaters Digital Satellite TV En-suite bathroom Hair dryer Digital safe Tea/coffee making facilities Safety deposit box Shaver socket ADVANTAGES Accommodation suitable for groups and individuals The closest hotel to the rainforest entrance Close to town centre and most activities, although operators do pick up from the hotel Various facilities on site Great rates Casino at Kingdom Hotel Victoria Falls Kingdom Hotel Casino DINING OPTIONS AT THE KINGDOM HOTEL The Great Enclosure – This entertainment complex is popular with both tourist and locals. It hosts two bars, a food court and of course the Makasa Casino. White Water – Is the main hotel restaurant which seats 240 people. This restaurant and its terrace overlook the Pool Island and the panorama of surrounding rooms. It is open for a buffet breakfast and dinner. Big Chief Steak & Grill – is situated in The Great Enclosure and is a relaxed and informal family steakhouse serving a selection of grilled steaks and seafood, pizza and burgers. Children are made welcome with lots of fun activities to keep them occupied. Quartermains – is a sophisticated Edwardian themed bar Wild Thing – is an action bar with live entertainment and a big TV screen – very popular with the young at heart and the locals. FACILITIES Secure Parking Casino Entertainment complex with restaurants, bars and casino Reception and Guest Relations services Swimming pools Child mind services on request 24-hour room service Laundry service Curio shop Conference facilities Children • Children are welcome at the Kingdom Hotel • Children 2 years and under stay for free if in the same room as their parents • Children under 12 years stay for free in a Family room (max 2 children) HOW TO GET TO KINGDOM HOTEL VICTORIA FALLS Self-drive to Victoria Falls and turn right after the Total Garage. The hotel will be on your left. Fly in to Victoria Falls Airport (21 kms) or Livingstone Airport (19 kms + 1 border crossing), then transfer to Kingdom Hotel. Photos Follow us on Facebook and YouTube

If you're planning a holiday in South Africa? Plan a visit to South Africa's favourite holiday resort and if you’re not sure what to do or where to start, we’ve got you covered with our Sun City holiday guide. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends or your better half, we’ve compiled a list of things to do at Sun City to give your holiday a kick-start in the right direction. Home to the Valley of Waves and sprawled along the border of the Pilanesberg National Park, Sun City Resort enjoys the fine distinction of being the only surf-and-safari destination within a two-hour drive of landlocked Johannesburg. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stay with your partner, a fun weekend getaway with friends or a North West holiday with the whole family, Sun City Resort has it all. Complete Holiday Package Make it a beach day on the palm-fringed shore of the Roaring Lagoon or discover the ruins of a mythical civilisation at the Maze of the Lost City. Embark on a Big Five safari into the heart of the African bush, or above it, in a hot-air balloon when you stay at Sun City in the Pilanesberg. Improve your golf handicap at two world-class golf courses, or measure your swing against that of Ernie Els at the South African Hall of Fame located at Sun Central. Find your groove on the dance floor at Encore, or find your fun at Sun Central where two levels of action-packed, family entertainment venues give you even more great things to do at Sun City. Choose from four internationally recognised hotels at Sun City. Indulge in the lavish opulence of The Palace of the Lost City or the cool sophistication of the five-star Cascades. Book your stay at the always-on Soho to enjoy access to Sun City’s thrilling nightlife, or treat the kids to an adventure holiday at the family-friendly Cabanas.  Sun City Resort is famous for hosting some of the most iconic events in South Africa, including the annual Nedbank Golf Challenge and the Miss South Africa beauty pageant. A massive selection of conference venues across Sun City Resort provides you with expertly organised meetings, conferences and exhibitions. You’ll find the right venue for any event, whether you have six or 6,000 attendees. Accommodation At Sun City No other resort in South Africa has as wide a variety of accommodation options as Sun City. If you’re looking for unsurpassed 5-star luxury, something to suit the whole family, or your own comfortable unit away from the crowds – its got everything you need. Each hotel has its own unique style, character and attractions. Sun City Casino Experience the legendary glitz and glamour of the Sun City Casino. Opened in 1979, Sun City Casino has evolved with the times and the latest technology and popular games combine in a spectacle of round-the-clock thrills for both experienced and first-time gamers. Recently refurbished, the Sun City Casino features hundreds of exciting slot machines and over 40 popular table games. And if you’re a Sun MVG cardholders, you enjoy even more benefits, including exclusive access to the Salon Privé and VIP gaming. Cash desk facilities and ATMs are available at the Sun City Casino and the Bureau de Change accepts all major currencies. However, a passport is required for any foreign exchange transactions. # Follow us on Facebook and Youtube #  

If you are looking for a fishing holiday in Africa, the Silver Fish Lodge in Mozambique is just the place for you. Silver Fish Lodge is situated 450 km north of Maputo. Built in 1998, the lodge is situated remotely on an Estuary, on the beach, with an always open mouth to the bay and thereafter the open ocean. Even though it is remote, it is close to Inhambane airport, which is serviced daily with flights from Maputo and Johannesburg. The Silver Fish Lodge is primarily a fishing lodge that caters for individuals and groups up to twelve, who usually choose a fishing package that suits their needs. There are 5 night, 7 night, and longer packages where all accommodation, food and fishing is included. This then takes out the complex budgeting associated with planning a trip like this. You pay for your flight, and the lodge takes care of the rest. The Lodge offers Fly Fishing in and around the Mangroves, Inshore bay fishing, Kayak Fishing, Offshore Ocean fishing, Deep Sea Fishing and Spear fishing safaris. You can choose from one of the three boats depending on the size of your group. Everything is included in the packages, like tackle, bait, boat packs, refreshments and fuel. At the Silver Fish Lodge you can catch most Pelagic species, including Black and Blue Marlin, Sailfish, Narrow Barred Mackerel (Cuta), GT’s, Trevally’s (also known as kingfish) Yellow Fin Tuna, other Tuna species, Sharks, Prodigal Son, Wahoo, Queen Mackerel, Queen fish, Job fish and Barracuda.  The summer months into winter are the best months for fishing. From spring day, which is the 1st September, until mid-July are the preferred months to go. As the lodge is situated in the tropics, it’s always difficult to choose the exact week, but by speaking to the lodge owner, Etienne, he will guide you with what’s happening at any time. Usually for December and April, it is necessary to book well in advance as these are our busiest times and the lodge is always fully booked months in advance. Accommodation The Lodge is within 50 meters from the water’s edge. Rooms are serviced daily. The gourmet kitchen serves mostly fresh seafood, with fish, prawns, calamari and crayfish. Also on offer are some local dishes like crab cakes (or Casquenha). Packages include three meals a day and a boat pack for those going offshore. Alternatively, you can opt for the stay without the package rates. Typically bird watchers, and people who don’t necessary have to fish all the time fit this category. Rates per room and food service is available from the menu. The lodge is 17 kilometres from Maxixe, which is a city of 70,000 people and growing. The Lodge offers accommodation for 16 people: 2 Double Chalets: Each with two double beds/ or four single beds, full bathroom and lounge, with undercover patio. 4 Single Chalets: Each with a single double bed/ or two single beds per room, with en-suite bathroom, hot water shower, toilet and basin, also with undercover patio. Buildings: Buildings are constructed with brick, thatch roofing, tiled flooring, ablution facilities, adequate exterior lighting and covered patio areas. Interiors: Interiors are equipped with lighting, plug points, comfortable seating and sleeping (fresh linen and mosquito nets) and ceiling fans. In addition, it has a restaurant, equipped kitchen, laundry, Bar and Dining room with deck, Games room (equipped with pool table, table tennis table, dart board, reading room, and offer a variety of board and card games). All units face the estuary with sea views and beach access is approx. 50 metres The Bar, Dinning Area and Braai After a long days fishing enjoy a cold one next to the Indian Ocean with the sun dropping below the horizon, while dinner is prepaired. The gourmet kitchen serves mostly fresh seafood, with fish, prawns, calamari and crayfish. We also offer some local dishes like crab cakes (or Casquenha). You can also do excellent braais (barbeques), where guests can socialise around the fire reflecting on the days activities. Dinner is served in the dining area next to the bar, 20 meters from the sea. Fishing Guides Silver Fish Lodge has some of the best fishing guides in the big game fishing arena. Etienne - Owner, Operator and Guide Etienne has been fishing for 25 + years. He has competed competitively, and this is his passion. He has fished all over the world, including Florida East coast (us), Guatemala, Panama, Mauritius, Comores, Seychelles, Kenya, Gulf coast in the US, South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique. He has also fished the Zambezi River for Tiger Fish. Been fishing Mozambique since 1994, shortly after the war stopped. Obtained his Skippers (Captains) license in 1986. His favourite catch is to put one of his guests on their personal best. Pedro - Fishing Guide Pedro is a Mozambican who lives close by. His father is a fisherman, his brother is a fisherman, and he has been fishing all his life. A qualified Mozambican Manineiro (skipper) and has worked guiding clients since the old club 15 days here at Linga Linga, 15 years ago. He likes bait fishing. Follow us on Youtube and Facebook

Umkumbe Lodge offers travellers a perfect holiday in the wilderness of Kruger National Park, South Africa. At Umkumbe Safari Lodge guests enjoy a personal, rustic and real South African safari experience. The lodge consists of ten chalets/rooms with most overlooking the Sand River. Guests regularly see elephants, hippos, buffalo and antelope grazing in the river bed. Additional facilities include a swimming pool, lounge, bar and dining area and the traditional boma, where guests will be served delicious and hearty South African meals. The reserve is home to the ‘Big Five’ (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo), as well as cheetah, wild dog and hundreds of other species of animals, birds and plants indigenous to the area. The phrase “Big Five” was coined by hunters of yesteryear – before the advent of the photographic safari – and refers to the animals considered the most dangerous to hunt.  Umkumbe Safari Lodge is located in the Sabi Sand Wildtuin, considered by many to be the premier wildlife reserve in South Africa. Located on the banks of the seasonal Sand River, Umkumbe Safari Lodge is perfectly situated in one of the best Big Five game viewing destinations in Africa. The lodge is easily accessible via either a self drive from Johannesburg, or by flying into the closest airports which are Skukuza and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) in Nelspruit. The self drive takes 6 hours from Johannesburg on good, safe roads. The flight takes approximately 1 hour. Road transfers from KMIA to Umkumbe can be arranged and take approximately 2 hours. A road transfer from Skukuza to Umkumbe takes approximately 1-1.5 hours and please bear in mind the Kruger National Park fees due when landing in Skukuza. FEATURES AND FACILITIES Umkumbe has 10 rooms and can sleep up to 20 guests. Four of the rooms are Superior Suites and suitable for families with children as they have extra sleeper couches. There are also rooms with inter-leading doors. The rooms all have small verandahs with table and chairs enabling. There is a indoor lounge with couches on which to relax, as well as a snooker table. An outdoor sitting area has views of the Sand River and a help yourself tea & coffee station. There are two dining areas, one being the boma and the other an outdoor area under thatch. The bar is fully stocked and guests are encouraged to help themselves via an honesty bar service.  The lodge does have wifi, however it is a paid for service and is available between 07:00 - 16:00. The wifi service can be intermittent due to the location of the lodge.  There is a large deck area with tables and chairs and also a wonderful pool with a view with sun loungers. Further away are more tables and chairs under a shade, and with beautiful views of the riverbed. For the fitness minded, there is a gym. DAILY SCHEDULE A typical day on safari at Umkumbe Safari Lodge: Expert rangers will ensure that your safari experience is truly memorable. Each day begins with an early morning safari game drive. In the late afternoon guests head out on another game drive and return after dark, offering guests exhilarating night game drives as well! Optional bush walks are offered every day after breakfast/brunch. 05h30 Wake-up call 06h00 Coffee and a light breakfast 06h30 Depart on morning game drive 09h00 to 10h00 Return to lodge 10h30 Breakfast/Brunch 11h00 Optional bushwalk 14h00 Tea and a light lunch 16h00 Depart on afternoon game drive and night drive 19h00 to 20h00 Return to camp and drinks at the bar Day Trip guests are also accepted at Umkumbe Safari Lodge. The Day Trip guests do not join the Lodge guests, however they do enjoy a meal afterwards in the Boma. WHEN TO GO Umkumbe is located in an area of South Africa that is beautiful all year round. The winter months (May to September) are coldest in June and July with bottom temperatures of 5°C at night; however average daytime temperatures are around 24°C. Winter is the best time for game viewing because it is dry and the bush is bare, making animals easier to spot. Waterholes and rivers become dry and the wildlife is attracted to the remaining water sources. This is a great time of year for superb sunsets, great game photographs, and staying cool! Summer occurs between October and March, peaking from December to February when temperatures soar into the high 30s (°C). This is the rainy season, which turns the earth a lush green. There is plenty of food and water so the animals are around, but the thicker bush might make them more difficult to spot. Summer migrant birds flock to the Kruger, and the hot weather makes it feel like a holiday! Photos Follow us on Facebook and YouTube to get notifications of new content uploaded on our website