The best Airbnbs provide diversity and individual perks, unlike the usual generic, cookie-cutter hotels. Private land, a home with a narrative, various group capacities, exclusive locations, architecture and themes. What’s not to love about that?
Maybe your wish is for a luxury island retreat or a safari adventure. Perhaps you hope to return to your diasporic roots, camping under the Orion. All is possible in Africa, which flourishes with innumerable, superlative rentals. Whatever your motivation, we’ve collated some of the best Airbnbs in Africa for you.
Note: All prices correct at the time of writing
A breath-taking, botanical farmhouse in Stellenbosch, Western Cape – £600 p/n
An Airbnb luxe habitat with five-star ratings, lodging up to nine guests, it is, moreover, a working flower farm. It abounds externally with flora and internally with curious cultural artefacts. Within the Cape Winelands, you are never far from a carafe, while you bask in the pool and delight in the mountain scenery. Every room exudes character, furnished with natural materials – a must stay.
A stunning boutique treehouse in Watamu, Kenya – £195 p/n (plus service fee)
Next on our list of the best Airbnbs in Africa is this Gaudi-esque, architectural dream complete with mosaics and stained glass marvels. This not only makes the cut for our list of Africa’s best Airbnbs but it was also listed in Harper’s Bazaar as one of ‘The World’s Best Treehouse Hotels ’. With 360° views, overlooking both forest and pearly sands and a 14 guest capacity; it is markedly elevated above the rest.
For more information on visiting Kenya go here
An off-grid intimate experience in Western Cape – £93 p/n (£25 service fee)
A popular, romantic farm pod with an indoor/outdoor shower, fireplace and library. Private access is available to the entire farm, which includes an orchard and marked trails. It also features an outdoor pool, formed by two intersecting rivers, for a cheeky dip. Contact the Superhost – Charne – to get back to nature.
Yvea House, a rock-perched apartment in Sao Tome – £77 p/n
The wise person who built his house on the rock surpassed himself. Beyond the spray, it offers a simple yet sustainably sourced home with ocean sights, natural ventilation and access to a natural rock pool. Expect a friendly porch lizard or two, since you are at one with wildlife here!
An independent designer studio in Mauritius – £47 p/n
Next on our list of Africa’s best Airbnbs is this owner-designed dream of an accommodation, built and inspired by the owner’s international travels. Your private suite within the villa boasts an in-floor bathtub, custom-made furniture, pristine design elements and unequivocal natural landscapes. Shared access is offered with the Jacuzzi, gym, pool and tropical gardens. Swing in the pool-side hammock, while savouring a fresh coconut.
A traditional houseboat in Egypt – £135 p/n for a two-bedroom apartment
On the Nile floats a wonderfully authentic Egyptian houseboat. Awarded the ‘most unique Airbnb stay’ in Egypt by Cairo Scene, the wooden 1920s architecture will make you swoon. Furthermore, the centrality of the vessel provides a superb exploratory base. Visit the nearby city, Zamalek Island, pyramids or the Red Sea.
An entire Madagascan villa, Casa Faly – £452 p/n
A stunning fully staffed villa for up to 10 people, this is no wallflower. Swim on a private beach, be pampered in the massage room, meditate on the extensive terrace or simply inhale Madagascar’s Indian Ocean breeze.
Nkwichi Lodge in Mozambique – £190 p/n
A mesmerising paradise on the Rift Valley coastline. Ground yourself by ingesting the nearby oasis water, bathe in carved rock and dream on four-poster beds from locally carved wood. Have a lakeside barbeque or use their private chef. Try snorkelling, boat hire or access the Manda Wilderness Conservation Area in this remote and private wonderland.
Moonrise Dome in Western Cape, South Africa – £127 p/n, plus service fee
Choose between slumbering among the stars, in the geodome or the open treehouse. An architectural spectacle, built with a matching interior. With a nearby private dam and waterfall, the bountiful landscape will astonish even the most worldly. A great site to observe a full moon from your night quarters. Also, look out for the luminous fireflies against the Witzenberg peaks!
Nkala Safari Lodge, South Africa – £861 p/n
Accommodation and safari combined, the lodge resides within the Black Rhino Game Reserve. It houses up to 12 guests with game drives and a viewing deck included. With an onsite chef and jungle gym, keep yourself trim while observing the fabulous wildlife. Then unwind around the fire and soak in the bathtub.
*****
As you can see, there are a number of spectacular Airbnbs in Africa, with rich experiences and settings intertwined. Recharge your batteries and your ancestral soul in these alluring abodes. Choosing where to stay may be your only dilemma!
Can you suggest any other Airbnbs for this ‘best of’ list?
Which of the Airbnbs appeals to you the most?
Comment below to let us know!
