In southern and East Africa we have landscapes boasting sweeping bushveld views, wide open plains of mixed woodland and savanna, meandering rivers, wild coastlines; and hypnotic skies hovering above. Our wildlife roams freely throughout these landscapes, coming alive at dawn and dusk. The calls of Africa sound across flowing rivers, endless horizons and the rolling savannas. Africa – she is exquisite in her wild beauty and untamed nature.
The best way to take advantage of wild and untamed Africa is to create a serene hub of luxury that allows you to immerse your senses while providing an escape from everyday life. An outdoor bathroom is the quintessential place to make your already tranquil safari escalate by a notch or two. A bath overlooking the wilderness? Well that’s just a sliver of luxury in the midst of the raw bushveld.
The below lodges have the most amazing bathrooms, each designed to take advantage of the spectacular views of the wilderness beyond. Whether it’s a copper tub filled with bubbles under the stars, or a plunge bath surrounded by natural stone, these places offers an outdoor safari bathroom experience worth their weight in gold – or bubbles!
&Beyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge
Located in an ancient mahogany forest in a remote corner of Tanzania in the Lake Manyara National Park lies this exquisite treehouse lodge. The park is home to the famous tree climbing lions and boasts plenty of other incredible game viewing opportunities. The tree lodge is the ideal spot for a bathroom with a view. How can you resist Tanzania’s best bath with a view?
Madikwe Hills is located in a malaria-free area in the heart of the Madikwe Game Reserve. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the big five reserve, this five-star lodge certainly offers commanding views of rugged bushveld. The service, cuisine and overall experience is high end, but the most enchanting feature of all is that bathtub. Oh, that bathtub.
A beautiful ball-and-claw, a deep bath is neatly placed on a patio that spills out from your private room. Drink champagne, and watch elephants while you immerse yourself in an indulgent bubble bath.
Sanctuary Baines Camp, Botswana
Baines Camp is cocooned by the Okavango Delta’s sparkling waters and offers an intimate safari experience in the midst of emerald green, lush vegetation. There are only five suites which mean personalised attention from staff. The camp is in its own concession in the Moremi and sits on raised wooden platforms high above the Boro River.
The best way to celebrate the astounding views? To relax in the massive outdoor area that has an “opulent star bath” as the central focus.
Matetsi River Lodge in Zimbabwe
This contemporary and sophisticated villa is located close to the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls. Local artworks adorn the walls, and decor is refined and elegant. Extensive private verandahs overlook the mighty Zambezi River teeming with hippo and crocs. The surrounding area is pure wilderness bliss, and it’s no surprise that the bathroom is one of the best-kept secrets of this place.
Somalisa Camp in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Hwange National Park is a prime game viewing destination in Zimbabwe. The region is renown for its abundant elephant herds and predator action. Somalia offers a quintessential safari experience and has a range of activities on offer. Guests can enjoy game drives, bush walks and night drives while staying at Somalisa.
This award-winning camp is located on an acacia island set-upon a floodplain. It’s a highway for wildlife traffic, and all areas of camp have been cleverly designed to take advantage of their natural surrounds. Somalisa combines a sense of heritage with subtle safari sophistication. A gigantic copper bathtub complete with matching sinks and artefacts reminiscent of a bygone era can be found in the expansive bathroom area.
Tongabezi Lodge on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls
Tongabezi is home to 5 houses and 4 river cottages, each with a unique design. The Honeymoon House is romantic, the treehouse is adventurous and the cottages overlooking the river have spectacular views. All accommodation options have one thing in common – they’re of a premier standard of luxury.
It’s no surprise that Tongabezi has been the recipient of many travel awards, and has even received a special mention in Conde Naste Traveller. Our favourite bathroom set-ups are the outdoor baths at both the River Cottages and in the Honeymoon House.
