Our top 10 Private African Houses

We made a top 10 selection of our favorite Private African Houses. There are actually plenty of these stunning small hotels and villas all over Southern and Eastern Africa.

So while we only mention ten in this list, it would be perfectly possible to tour around any of the destinations we offer from Namibia to Kenya in complete privacy. Feel free to contact us to send you an overview of all the amazing Private African Houses we have visited and in our portfolio for your next safari!

1. African Villa

Okonjima – Namibia

Okonjima African Villa in Namibia offers an exclusive private safari retreat set within the vast Okonjima Nature Reserve, overlooking a wildlife-rich waterhole in untouched wilderness. This stylish thatched villa features two en-suite bedrooms in the main house and two luxury mini-suites, accommodating up to eight adults and four children in complete comfort. With its infinity pool, private chef, dedicated host and panoramic bush views, the villa blends relaxed luxury with an authentic conservation-focused safari experience. Perfect for a self-drive or fly-in journey through Namibia, Okonjima African Villa invites guests to enjoy a truly personal stay surrounded by extraordinary wildlife and wide-open landscapes.

2. Azulik Private Lodge

Bazaruto – Mozambique

Located on top of a sand-dune on the tip of the San Sebastián peninsula in the south of the Bazaruto archipelago this private lodge is absolutely stunning for a small group of 8 or less. The beach is also located within a wildlife sanctuary, with a variety of free-roaming game, including Zebra, Kudu, Eland, and Sable Antelopes!

3. House in The Wild

Masaai Mara – Kenya

This is a truly natural addition to a fly-in or overland East Africa itinerary! House in the Wild is a relaxed, owner-run safari retreat set along the Mara River within Kenya’s private Enonkishu Conservancy, offering an easygoing alternative to traditional luxury camps. With just ten individually styled rooms and cottages, it’s ideal for couples, families or small groups looking for a great time surrounded by open lawns, river views and abundant wildlife.

4. Chongwe River House

Lower Zambezi – Zambia

Another spectacular private getaway is the Chongwe River House. With room for only 8 in 4 suites, this place has a sensational view over the Chongwe River! The design is inspired by the shape of termite hills and blends into nature. The large private pool and deck look out onto the breathtaking vistas of the Zambezi river.

At Chongwe River House you also get your own guide and private chef, allowing you to choose your own pace for safari and meals. Exploring the amazing surroundings can also be done by boat or in canoes!

5. Jabali Private House

Rauha – Tanzania

The complete wood-build Jabali House has very large decks connecting on three sleeping rooms, for up to six guests. The shared areas haven a lounge and an open-plan kitchen and a very large plunge pool. The big windows are covered with classic shutters and its roof is created from a mixture of bush materials giving the house a rough feel on the outside. But inside the décor is very cosy and modern with wood furniture.

The house is set next to the river in one of the best areas for Ruaha to spot the wildlife, which you also help to protect thanks to your stay here.

6. Upendo Beach Villas

Zanzibar – Tanzania

Located along a secluded stretch of white sand on the Michamvi Peninsula, Upendo Beach is a boutique retreat offering four beautifully designed villas, ranging from one to six bedrooms. Ideal for families and group getaways, each fully serviced villa offers a relaxed, home-away-from-home feel, with generous space to unwind. Villa Shiva is a standout, being the most spacious of them all, complete with a stunning infinity pool that overlooks the shoreline.

7. Khayelitshe House

Matobo Hills – Zimbabwe

Set in the awe-inspiring Matobo Hills, where ancient balancing rocks rise against endless skies, you’ll find the exclusive retreat known as Khayelitshe House. This extraordinary villa in Zimbabwe is the ultimate private sanctuary for families and friends! With just four beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms and indoor-outdoor living spaces, its design blends organic simplicity with warm, eclectic touches inspired by African heritage and global travels. Your private chef, guide and host will ensure every moment is unforgettable, from sundowners by the pool and fireside dinners under the stars to guided rhino tracking on foot, hikes to ancient cave paintings and cultural excursions to historic sites.

Days here are filled with walking safaris, birding, sunset drives and immersive wildlife experiences, making Khayelitshe House a perfect base for discovering the rich natural and cultural wonders of the Matobo Hills.

8. Chobe Princess Houseboats

Chobe River – Namibia

Gliding along the Chobe River, on the Namibian side of the Caprivi Strip, the Chobe Princess Houseboats offers an unforgettable experience for both adults and kids. Every corner of the houseboat is designed for comfort, set against one of the world’s most incredible wildlife landscapes. The whole family can enjoy an all-inclusive river adventure, spotting elephants, hippos, and other extraordinary animals right from the deck!

9. Serengeti House by Singita

Grumeti – Serengeti – Tanzania

Specifically created for families and small groups of friends, the Singita Serengeti House has only 4 bedrooms overlooking the local waterhole and plains of the Serengeti. The natural wood and stone construction is a stunning example of a private safari house: open-plan designed with both the sun and shade in mind! The large terraces seamlessly flow over into the plains. Next to your own pool this villa also has its own tennis court!

10. Morukuru Family Houses

Madikwe Game Reserve – South Africa

Arriving at Morukuru Family feels less like checking into a lodge and more like stepping into your own private safari home. Set within the malaria free Madikwe Game Reserve, these exclusive use houses are surrounded by wide open plains, riverine forests and extraordinary wildlife. Each home is designed for complete privacy, with beautifully styled suites, generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, and warm contemporary African interiors that instantly put you at ease. Your dedicated guide, host and private chef take care of everything, from unforgettable game drives and bush walks to relaxed fireside dinners beneath a sky filled with stars!

De Hoop Game Reserve – South Africa

The five-bedroom Morukuru Beach Lodge is made for easy family getaways. Located in De Hoop Nature Reserve, The house can be booked on an exclusive-use basis. Sleeping up to 10 adults and 4 little ones, there is plenty of room to unwind, from poolside afternoons to evenings around the firepit. With a rooftop terrace, swimming pool, and direct beach access, guest are spoilt for choice when it comes to family fun!