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Little Black Book of Villas in Africa – East Africa Edition

Ker & Downey Africa > Journal > Little Black Book of Villas in Africa – East Africa Edition

Our team of LuxVenture® experts is here to share some of our favorite villas in Africa, hand-picked by us for you – the discerning adventurer. In this list, we cover some of the finest villas to grace the gorgeous shores and savannahs of East Africa.

East Africa is an untamed region of exceptional landscapes, people and wildlife in one of the planet’s most dazzling corners. Few other areas offer you the opportunity to experience such extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking islands and beaches and captivating cultures such as this one. What’s more, opting to stay in a villa during your time in East Africa will elevate your entire experience to the next level. Think ultimate privacy, exclusive use of facilities, decadent meals and personal service. A villa stay in East Africa is an adventure of a lifetime not to be missed.

Are you ready?

Zanzibar

Xanadu Luxury Villas

A magnificent dining setting outside Kimwondo Villa at Xanadu - one of the top villas in Africa.

A magnificent dining setting outside Kimwondo Villa at Xanadu

Located on one of the most stunning beaches on the south east coast of Zanzibar, Xanadu Luxury Villas is home to eight, soon to be nine, magnificent villas. At Xanadu, there is a huge emphasis on privacy and tranquility. Therefore, each villa comes with its own private outdoor space, plunge pool and dedicated butler. A team of local and international chefs use only fresh seafood, home-grown spices, fruits and vegetables and organically farmed or sourced proteins guaranteeing an exceptional, tailor-made dining experience. The spa is located directly on the beach and the helpful staff can arrange a variety of outings around the island for those seeking a bit of adventure.

Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa

Located on the immaculate white sands of Paje Beach, on the east coast of Zanzibar, an experience at Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa is as much about relaxation as it is about adventure. This luxury boutique hotel caters for the romantic getaway, the family holiday and everything in between. If it’s the effortless combination of space, comfort, privacy and luxury in a stunning setting you seek, you’ve come to the right place.

An unforgettable villa getaway, you won’t want your coastal luxury experience at White Sand to end.

 A guest enjoying the private pool in front of the family two-bedroom villa - one of the top villas in Africa.

A guest enjoying the private pool in front of the family two-bedroom villa

There are only 11 private exclusive-use luxury villas on four hectares of land to ensure the maximum space and privacy for each guest. Each boasts a dining lounge, extensive sun deck and swimming pool, recreational area and awe-inspiring guest rooms. An unforgettable villa getaway, you won’t want your coastal luxury experience at White Sand to end.

Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas

An aerial view of the five Isaraya Over Water luxury villas - one of the top villas in Africa.

An aerial view of the five Isaraya Over Water luxury villas

Located over-water on Konokono Beach Resort’s jetty, Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas in Zanzibar combine modern style and convenience with an authentic, simple East African feel. Miles apart from the concrete jungles that make up modern cities, these water villas incorporate Makuti thatched roofs infused with Mahogany, Teak and Mangrove wood in their construction. The five villas come with a spacious patio sundeck, where you can relax on a sunbed and take in the awe-inspiring sunsets of Chwaka Bay with a sundowner in hand. With direct access through private stairs, you’ll also be able to enjoy the pristine Indian Ocean water at your convenience. Elegant designs coupled with an immaculate service ensures privacy and intimacy.

Rwanda

Singita Kataza House

Set right on the edge of Volcanoes National Park and surrounded by the striking Virunga mountains in Rwanda, Kataza House provides the ultimate in exclusivity and comfort. This modern African home instinctively caters to guests’ every need with features such as a fully-equipped fitness center, a cinema, wine cellar, two heated plunge pools and an outdoor fireplace.

This modern African home instinctively caters to guests’ every need with features such as a fully-equipped fitness center, a cinema, wine cellar, two heated plunge pools and an outdoor fireplace.

A look at Kataza House’s stunning lounge area while guests are served by dedicated staff - one of the top villas in Africa.

A look at Kataza House’s stunning lounge area while guests are served by dedicated staff

With gorilla-trekking experiences within easy reach, the villa’s four opulent suites provide a contemplative space in which to appreciate the life-changing experience of coming face to face with these special, endangered creatures. An onsite garden abounds with fresh produce and culminates in a bespoke farm-to-table food journey that celebrates the fresh flavors of this endearing country.

Tanzania

Beho Beho Bailey’s House

Awe-inspiring views from one Bailey’s House’s bedrooms - one of the top villas in Africa.

Awe-inspiring views from one Bailey’s House’s bedrooms

Beho Beho Bailey’s House is your home in Africa. Ideally positioned on a ridge overlooking the main camp at Beho Beho, this private villa is located in the heart of the Selous Game Reserve, now known as the Nyerere National Park, in Tanzania. The villa enjoys spectacular views into the valley and hippo pools. With two spacious ensuite bedrooms, one with a king-sized bed and one twin bedroom, Bailey’s House caters for all types of travelers, from honeymooners to friends and families. A stay here is a luxurious base for exploring the wonderful Nyerere National park, but on your own terms. Whether on foot, in your private safari vehicle or by exclusive private boat on the nearby Lake Tagalala. A private pool, sun deck and shade of a sun-umbrella provides the perfect amenities for those looking for a sense of calm and relaxation during the heat of the day.

Singita Serengeti House

This exceptional contemporary African home is tucked into the tender slopes of Sasakwa Hill and is surrounded by 350,000 acres of private wilderness that engulfs you in near perfect stillness. Designed exclusively for families and groups of friends in search of absolute tranquility, Singita Serengeti House offers guests refined safari living in a home of their own.

The remarkable veranda at Singita Serengeti House - one of the top villas in Africa.

The remarkable veranda at Singita Serengeti House
Designed exclusively for families and groups of friends in search of absolute tranquility, Singita Serengeti House offers guests refined safari living in a home of their own.

The villa accommodates up to eight guests, with two suites in the main house and two neighboring suites connected by short, paved pathways. The lavishly balanced living spaces include a spacious open-plan lounge, dining area and a cutting-edge media room. Outside, guests can enjoy the views from a vast veranda, pool deck and extensive outdoor dining area overlooking the waterhole. When guests aren’t enjoying the barefoot luxury atmosphere of the property, they can experience the protected area in which it sits, which is home to a rich wildlife population.

Four Seasons Serengeti

The spacious, open-plan lounge area at the Four Seasons Serengeti Presidential Villa - one of the top villas in Africa.

The spacious, open-plan lounge area at the Four Seasons Serengeti Presidential Villa

Nestled in the heart of the central Serengeti amidst wide open plains, the Four Seasons Serengeti Presidential Villa is the perfect place to explore the best-known wildlife sanctuary in the world. Ideal for family vacations, this expansive, thatched-roof villa caters for six adults or four adults and two children. There are three king-sized beds and a sleeper sofa and three full bathrooms and outdoor shower, all furnished in a contemporary African style with earth colors and wood. Spend your days lounging in and around the infinity-edge pool while your private chef prepares a delicious meal, recount the day’s adventures on any one of your private balconies or make use of the in-villa gym. Other unique amenities include a dedicated, around the clock personal attendant and elevated Serengeti views with a waterhole below.

Kenya

Almanara Boutique Hotel

Located south of Mombasa in Kenya, Diani Beach lies between the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and the expansive plains of the Shimba Hills National Reserve and is home to the Almanara Boutique Hotel. Almanara Resort’s flagship accommodation offering, this unique villa called ‘Casa Bella’ is tucked amidst imposing palms and tropical gardens.

This villa guarantees a 5-star luxury experience while being immersed in the authentic cultures of East Africa.

The stunning view from the ocean room at the Almanara Boutique Hotel - one of the top villas in Africa.

The stunning view from the ocean room at the Almanara Boutique Hotel

Comprising three Ocean View Rooms and two Ocean View Suites, the villa offers guests the opportunity to enjoy spectacular views and opulent service in a small boutique hotel setting. Casa Bella is decorated with Italian marble and mosaic throughout and there is copious amounts of space for guests to unwind. A sensational entrance hall opens onto an extensive veranda overlooking the ocean and swimming pool below. This villa guarantees a 5-star luxury experience while being immersed in the authentic cultures of East Africa.

Sirikoi House

The barman preparing a delicious cocktail at Sirikoi House - one of the top villas in Africa.

The barman preparing a delicious cocktail at Sirikoi House

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is 68,000 acres of pure wilderness and is also home to Sirikoi House by Sirikoi Lodge. Sirikoi epitomizes an eco-chic African home that offers true opulence but also achieves a sense of comfortability and unpretentiousness. The villa includes three en-suite bedrooms, which lead onto a central living and dining area renowned for its exclusive positioning and furnishing. A private deck with a fire pit that overlooks the wetland provides the perfect setting for sundowners and private meals. Sirikoi House caters for six guests and is sold on an exclusive basis. It comes with its own private safari vehicle, guide, chef and team of staff so that your stay at this award-winning conservancy is more than memorable.

Cottar’s Private Bush Villa

For those who seek absolute privacy, combined with dedicated staff, award-winning guides, and a plethora of wildlife, Cottar’s Bush Villa offers the only real private luxury home in the Maasai Mara. Designed by Louise Cottar and built by hand using native and eco-friendly materials, this bush villa caters for up to 12 guests and comes complete with its own 25-meter long swimming pool.

Views simply don’t get better than those from the upstairs balcony at Cottar’s Private Bush Villa - one of the top villas in Africa.

Views simply don’t get better than those from the upstairs balcony at Cottar’s Private Bush Villa
Cottar’s Bush Villa offers the only real private luxury home in the Maasai Mara.

Set amidst a backdrop of the Olderkesi Hills and boasting breathtaking views over the savannah plains below, Cottar’s Private Bush Villa is equipped with elegant features. This includes a large living room, dining room, spectacular viewing deck and five en-suite bedrooms, each with stunning views. Rented on an exclusive basis only and provided with a devoted game drive vehicle and guide, expect nothing short of a world-class safari experience with a stay at this incredible villa.

Don’t miss out on a stay at one of these extraordinary villas in Africa for yourself. Get in touch with your LuxVenture® Designer today and plan a stay at one of these luxurious properties. No trip to East Africa is complete without this exclusive experience!

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