Prepare to add a few more items to your ultimate bucket list because I’m about to introduce you to some of Africa's (and likely the WORLD'S) most over the top stays. If you’re looking for something different - I mean something completely unlike anything you’ve seen before, well, Africa delivers! Here are a few BEYOND unique places to stay in Africa - underwater rooms, treehouse lodges, surreal savannah suites - each of these destinations promises luxury, adventure, and scenery that feels straight out of a dream.
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The Manta Underwater Room – Pemba Island, Tanzania
Underwater Dreams: The Manta Room in Tanzania
• What’s Special: Sleep in a floating suite anchored in a blue hole off the coast, with glass walls revealing vibrant marine life. At night, underwater spotlights bring shy creatures into view, making it feel like your own private aquarium.
• Insider Tip: Stay just one night in the underwater room and split your time with a sea-view villa to make the most of both worlds.
•Getting There: Fly into Zanzibar, take a short flight to Pemba, then a boat ride to the resort.
Londolozi Private Granite Suites – Sabi Sands, South Africa
Luxury on the Savannah: Londolozi Private Granite Suites
• What’s Special: This luxury safari lodge boasts private plunge pools with views over the Sand River, personalized Big Five game drives, and outdoor dining under the stars.
• Insider Tip: Don’t miss the candle-lit dinners overlooking the river—a pure savannah dream moment.
• Getting There: Fly into Johannesburg, then take a connecting flight to Sabi Sands.
Félicité Island, Seychelles – Six Senses Zil Pasyon
Eco-Luxury in Paradise: Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Seychelles
• What’s Special: Set on a private island, Six Senses offers beachfront villas with infinity pools and a spa focused on eco-friendly luxury. The mountains themselves look like elephants and the hotel is carved right into the rocks.
• Insider Tip: Book the private spa pod for an unforgettable view of the ocean while you unwind.
• Getting There: Fly to Mahé, Seychelles, and enjoy a helicopter transfer to Félicité Island.
Kagga Kamma Lodge – Cederberg Mountains, South Africa
Under the Stars: Open-Air Suites at Kagga Kamma Lodge
• What’s Special: Sleep under the stars in an open-air cave suite with mountain views and endless stargazing opportunities.
• Insider Tip: Bring a good night camera to capture the clear night sky, one of the best spots for stargazing.
• Getting There: Fly into Cape Town and drive three hours to reach this remote lodge.
Sasaab Lodge – Samburu National Reserve, Kenya
Safari Meets Culture: Sasaab Lodge in Kenya
• What’s Special: Moroccan-inspired design meets African wilderness with infinity pools and views over the Samburu landscape.
• Insider Tip: Take a camel ride or visit a Samburu village for a deep dive into local culture.
• Getting There: Fly to Nairobi, then take a connecting flight to Samburu.

Giraffe Manor – Nairobi, Kenya
Dining with Giraffes: A Stay at Nairobi’s Giraffe Manor
• What’s Special: This boutique hotel allows you to dine with giraffes who peek through the windows—a truly Instagram-worthy experience!
• Insider Tip: Book early; this spot fills up fast! Aim for breakfast time to interact with the giraffes.
• Getting There: Fly directly to Nairobi. Giraffe Manor is a short drive from the airport.
Rovos Rail – Southern Africa
Train Through Africa: The Elegance of Rovos Rail
• What’s Special: Known as one of the world’s most luxurious trains, Rovos Rail offers multi-day journeys through Africa, with vintage elegance and breathtaking scenery. • Insider Tip: Opt for the journey from Pretoria to Victoria Falls for a scenic and historic route.
• Getting There: Start in Johannesburg and catch the Rovos Rail from Pretoria.
Nkwichi Lodge Star Bed – Mozambique
From Treehouses to Star Beds: Africa’s Most Quirky Escapes
• What’s Special: Sleep under the stars in a “star bed” on the shore of Lake Malawi. Wake up to the sound of lapping waves and birdsong.
• Insider Tip: Take a canoe out at sunrise for a quiet, stunning view of the lake.
• Getting There: Fly into Lilongwe, then take a connecting flight or drive to the lodge.
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Dodo’s Folly at Hippo Point – Naivasha, Kenya
Dodo’s Folly: A Quirky Tower Retreat Overlooking Lake Naivasha
• What’s Special: A quirky, 8-story tower with panoramic views over Lake Naivasha, ideal for nature lovers and bird watchers.
• Insider Tip: Climb to the top floor for the best views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Getting There: Fly into Nairobi and take a two-hour drive to Naivasha.
Final Thoughts
Each of these destinations is a testament to Africa’s breathtaking diversity and incredible creativity. For a quirky-stay lover like myself, I am in awe of how this continent houses MANY of these out of the box options - sleeping underwater, waking up in a treehouse, exploring the wild by train - I wish I could try every one! I got 15 here and could have easily doubled or even tripled the list in Africa alone! Have you tried any of these exotic stays in Africa or elsewhere? And, which one will you add to your travel list next?