Guidebook to 5 Recommended Sustainable Hotels and Lodges in Southern Africa
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Welcome to the Safari365 guidebook to recommended sustainable hotels and lodges in South Africa. Staying at sustainable hotels and lodges while on a safari to Southern Africa offers a myriad of benefits, both for our guests and for the environment.
Environmental Responsibility: Sustainable hotels in Southern Africa are designed and operated with minimal impact on the environment. Moreover, they use eco-friendly practices like renewable energy use, water conservation, and wildlife habitat preservation. Staying at these hotels supports the conservation of Southern Africa’s ecosystems.
Radisson Red | Cape Town
This 4 star, 252-bedroom hotel became the first new hotel to receive a Green Custom Hotel design rating and also received a Green Hotel As-Build rating. The Green Star system is a comprehensive green building rating system that assesses buildings based on global sustainability standards. It assigns points across nine key categories, encompassing management, indoor environmental quality, energy, transportation, innovation, water usage, materials, land use, ecology, and emissions. Since there was no existing Green Star rating specifically tailored for hotels, developers created a customized tool for the project.
Additionally, with its central location in Cape Town, South Africa, there is convenient access to local attractions, dining, and shopping.
Community Support: Many sustainable hotels are locally owned or employ local staff, directly benefiting the region’s communities. By choosing to stay at these establishments helps support local livelihoods and promotes community development.
Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel | Cape Town
A boutique hotel, located in Gardens, is an elegant hotel with lush gardens, just 50 metres from the lively Kloof Street. from the lively Kloof Street. MORE Family Collection, which owns this property, actively supports the local community through its MORE Community Foundation. There are 5 projects that the foundation is involved with, from veggie gardens to building school rooms. They also support ‘Get Your Hands Dirty’, ‘Pack for a Purpose’ and also provide community tours. All 19- suites of this historic property was fully renovated in 2022 and they also opened the award-winning Upper Union Restaurant in 2023.
Cultural Engagement: Sustainable lodges showcase regional traditions through architecture, cuisine, and activities, encouraging cultural exchange and appreciation for guests. This not only enhances the guest experience but also supports local communities and promotes a deeper understanding of the area’s cultural dynamics.
Chobe Game Lodge | Botswana
The 47 hotel-style lodge is situated in a prime location in the Chobe National Park with the most amazing views of the Chobe River. Dedicated rangers will escort guests on a full-day wildlife game viewing experience in the morning, and later in the day, you will visit the local village, farmers, and basket weaving community. Additionally, other activities include a river cruise that can either be mid-morning or early evening with a spectacular sunset. They are well known for an extensive breakfast buffet and the afternoon high tea.
Unique Adventures: There are distinctive experiences like wildlife safaris, community-led tours, and sustainable agriculture activities. Guests can create unforgettable memories and promote responsible tourism practices.
&Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge | Namibia
Furthermore, &Beyond Sossusvlei Lodge offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of Namibia’s iconic desert landscape. It has a unique sustainable design and also offers some unique adventures. These include:
By choosing to staying at &Beyond Sossusvlei Lodge offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of Namibia’s iconic desert landscape. It has a unique sustainable design and also offers some unique adventures. These include:
- Big walk experience that takes you across ancient sand dunes and ends in a gourmet picnic breakfast that delights all who partake.
- Desert people experience that allows you to discover ancient tribes of the Sossusvlei Desert to see San rock art.
- Take a desert drive in the private reserve to explore four different habitat types and ecosystems.
Each luxury suite boasts a private plunge pool, a living room with a fireplace, a large retractable skylight above the bed and a glass-encased rain shower.
&Beyond is committed to responsible tourism and sustainable conservation practices. By staying at Sossusvlei Lodge, guests contribute to conservation efforts in the area and support local communities, ensuring that the natural beauty of Namibia is preserved for future generations to enjoy.
Personal Wellness: Many sustainable hotels prioritize guest well-being with amenities like spa treatments and wellness retreats. Here, you can rejuvenate in natural surroundings, away from urban stressors.
Royal Livingstone | Zambia
Situated on the banks of the Zambezi River overlooking the majestic Victoria Falls, The Royal Livingstone Hotel offers breathtaking views and easy access to one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. From spacious and elegantly appointed rooms to attentive service and top-notch facilities, The Royal Livingstone Hotel provides everything guests need for a comfortable and memorable stay.
The spa at The Royal Livingstone is an absolute oasis nestled in the heart of nature’s beauty. With Mosi-oa-Tunya Park as its backdrop and the Zambezi River flowing nearby, it’s truly a serene setting for indulging in relaxation and rejuvenation. Offering a blend of traditional and modern wellness rituals, from pressure-technique massages to aromatherapy, the spa promises a holistic experience that harmonizes body and soul. Featuring products from Terres D’Afrique, renowned for their dreamy formulations, guests are sure to emerge feeling utterly refreshed and pampered. It’s the perfect retreat for those seeking a tranquil escape amidst the lush greenery of Zambia’s landscape. The spa is open from 08.00 am to 07.00pm and we do recommend pre-booking your treatments.
Choose sustainable hotels and lodges in Southern Africa for a memorable travel experience. Your stay will directly contribute to preserving the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.