A relatively new, but highly reputable safari rating service, Safari Awards has announced their 2011 Safari Awards. It is worthwhile perusing this list and the last few years.
There are both old friends and welcome newcomers on this list. For budget or mid-range travellers it should be noted that most (but not all) of these camps and lodges are at the top end of the price range as well as being high quality. Without denegrating any of the winners, Cape to Cairo offers a few of its own comments.
Among old friends we note the following:
Jack’s Camp in the Makadigkadi Plains of Botswana is perenially noted for both its accommodations and hospitality as well as for the quality of its guiding – which is unique. In our view this is the place you should not miss. Their companion Uncharted Africa Mobile Safaris is aptly rated the best mobile camping operation in Botswana.
Likewise Robin Pope continues high ratings for safari guiding in South Luangwa National Park as does the Bushcamp Company.
Singita (South Africa and the Grumeti Reserves in Tanzania) has established the highest standards of luxury accommodations including a boutique safari lodge architectural style as well as high honors for its cuisine. It’s wine cellars are unmatchable in a safari lodge.
Skeleton Coast Safaris in Namibia, a long-running family business, remains a top choice.
The Wilderness Safari luxury camps, as well as the cooperated Selinda Reserve camps, perenially receive high awards in Botswana.
African Horseback Safaris’ operation at Macatoo Camp continues to receive top billing for a Horseback safari operation. For those interested in Horseback riding the African Horizons operation on private land in South Africa is excellently priced.
For Kenya, Cheli and Peacock continue to receive top awards including for Tortilis Camp, Elsa’s Kopje, Joy’s Camp, Cottar’s 1920s Camp, Saruni and Saruni Samburu.
Great Plains conservation including Zarafa and Selinda Camp, Mara Plains, Camp, Lukulu Camp and Ol Donyo for a new slant on upscale safaris
Among newcomers there are some pleasant surprises in more off beat locations:
Explorers Gorongosa in Mozambique
Satao Camp in Tsavo East, Kenya
Manafiafy Lodge and the stunning Anjajavy Beach Resort on Madagascar
Kwando Safaris Tau Pan Camp
Chiawa and Old Mondoro in the Lower Zambezi
