15 East Africa luxury hotels not to be missed

See Africa Today

Apr 15

Is sleeping in the finest luxury hotels in East Africa your ideal escape? Even though spending the festive season at home is a lovely experience, there's something special about travelling to a beautiful destination and staying in a luxury hotel.

While various types of hotels are available to accommodate guests with different budgets and needs, there remains an immense demand for luxurious hospitality establishments throughout East Africa and the continent. You can visit them on Easter Holiday, Christmas or any other time your schedule allows.

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The most represented international hotel chains in East Africa are Serena Hotels (19 establishments) and PROTEA (6 establishments), with Kenya having the highest number of rooms by international hotel chains. For those seeking a luxurious experience, we've crafted an outstanding list of prestigious hotels in East Africa.

What Countries are Part of East Africa?

East Africa is composed of the following countries.

Kenya
Tanzania
Rwanda
Burundi
Uganda
South Sudan

Each of these nations offers an eclectic mix of luxury hotels that you can choose from to enhance your stay in any one of them.

What is the Most Developed Country in East Africa?

Kenya is the most developed country in East Africa, and this nation offers a variety of premium accommodation options, with many high-end hotels and resorts located within its borders. According to the 2016 report released by Jones Lang LaSalle, a US-based property advisory firm, Kenya's hotel industry is saturated with four- and five-star hotels, particularly within Nairobi.

This can be attributed to the fact that it serves as both a regional headquarter for multiple international companies and NGOs and an entry point for leisure tourists visiting Africa. Let's look at the finest luxury hotels in East Africa.

1. Fleuve Congo Hotel By Blazon Hotels, Kinshasa

Luxury hotels in East Africa — Fleuve Congo Hotel By Blazon Hotels.

Featuring free WiFi, a tennis court and an all-year outdoor swimming pool, Fleuve Congo Hotel by Blazon Hotels is set in Kinshasa. The luxury hotel has air-conditioned, soundproofed rooms that are fitted with a wardrobe, desk, mini bar and flat-screen TV. Some rooms in the accommodation have a seating area and a dining area while others offer a city view or river view.

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Guests can enjoy breakfast daily, buffet, American, continental and full English/Irish breakfasts. In addition, this property also serves vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free breakfasts. You can enjoy a meal at the onsite La Rivieira restaurant that serves international cuisine.

2. Kin Plaza Arjaan by Rotana, C

Located 400 m from the Embassy of France in Kinshasa, Kin Plaza Arjaan by Rotana features a restaurant, bar and free WiFi throughout the property. The hotel has a sauna and fitness centre, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant. The air-conditioned rooms include a flat-screen TV and seating areas where you can relaxwith views of the river or city. There is a 24-hour front desk, and hairdresser's at the property. Car hire is available at this hotel, and the area is popular for golfing.

3. Corinthia Hotel , Khartoum

The Corinthia Hotel, Khartoum, is one of the luxury hotels in East Africa in the Sudanese capital and has a unique egg-like design. It's located at the crossroads of the Blue and White Nile Rivers, with beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding it. This stunning glass-and-steel structure stands out among other landmarks in Khartoum's commercial district – fondly referred to as 'Gaddafi's Egg.' The Guests can take advantage of the onsite pool, restaurant, spa, fitness centre and complimentary shuttle service to nearby tourist attractions.

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4. Grand Holiday Villa, Khartoum

Step into a time machine and experience colonial splendor at Khartoum's Grand Holiday Villa. Established in the early 1900s, this was Sudan's initial hotel controlled by the iconic Sudanese Railway. Originally intended for adventurous international guests; eventually, it became an important hub for high society locals who would congregate in its opulent lobby-lounge.

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Businessmen, politicians, and even the Queen of England have stayed here. Now restored to its former glory, this property offers various services, including a swimming pool and an onsite restaurant serving delectable Sudanese cuisine. You can choose from rooms or private apartments with balconies overlooking the Nile River.

5. House of Waine, Kenya

Immerse yourself in the luxurious and exclusive hospitality of House of Waine, a family-run boutique hotel situated in Karen's plush neighborhood. Initially, a family residence, House of Waine was converted into a luxury hotel in 2004 to cater to guests seeking outstanding comfort and service.

Its interior design has been crafted with sophistication and elegance, resulting in this magical haven where warm hospitality reigns supreme. Rooms at the hotel come with all modern facilities plus a relaxing sitting area outside – perfect for winding down after a long day exploring.

6. EnglishPoint Marina, Mombasa

EnglishPoint Marina is ideal for vacationers seeking luxury stays along Kenya's coast. Situated in Nyali, one of Mombasa's prime areas, this hotel has unbeatable and exquisite features that make it a top hospitality destination on the African continent. You are close to Mombasa CBD and can access spectacular amenities such as a boutique hotel, two- and three-bedroom apartments with full furnishing, an outdoor jacuzzi accessible through penthouses, waterfront restaurants and even an underground nightclub.

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With its ultra-modern furnishing, the hotel offers incredible views of Mombasa's picturesque skyline and such renowned Old Town attractions as Fort Jesus and the Old Port.

7. Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, Tanzania

Ngorongoro Serena Lodge is one of the luxury Hotels in East Africa renowned for its one-of-a-kind views of the incredible Ngorongoro Crater. This breathtakingly beautiful inactive and un-flooded volcanic crater has become known as the world's eighth wonder.

With easy access to Serengeti National Park and only four hours away by car from Arusha in Tanzania, it's no surprise that this hotel continues to bewitch guests around the globe. It boasts pre-historic cave paintings adorning its walls, arched stonework passages, and timber decks linking it together.

8. Elewana Kilindi, Zanzibar

Elewana Kilindi, on the stunning northern coast of Zanzibar, is a remarkable resort and one of the luxury Hotels in East Africa. Relax and reconnect at this adult-only paradise in its 15 dome-shaped pavilion suites offering mesmerizing ocean views, each with its private pool and an alluring 'rainfall' shower. There's plenty to do, from snorkeling, deep sea fishing or taking part in a spice tour through stone town to enjoying some time out together at the spa before embarking on a romantic dhow cruise. With only a few hours away from Kilindi Zanzibar airport, don't let another moment pass by without booking your unforgettable stay here today.

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9. Manta Resort, Zanzibar

Embark on a journey of a lifetime and visit Manta Resort, situated near Pemba Island in Zanzibar. Enjoy a night in an underwater room and participate in this extraordinary experience whilst floating upon Indian Ocean waters. You will be surrounded by exotic marine life – thanks to Swedish engineers who designed it beautifully using local hardwood. Enjoy the best of both worlds with a rooftop spot for sun basking and star gazing and an underwater bedroom that provides guests with 360-degree views of local marine life. A ladder brings you to the roof from sea level, where there is also a lounge area and bathroom.

10. Bisate Lodge

All About Rwanda's Most Expensive Luxurious Lodge,Bisate Lodge — Bisate Lodge in Rwanda.

Perched on the southern boundary of Volcanoes National Park, Bisate Lodge is perfect for visitors looking to embark on a gorilla or golden monkey expedition. Thoughtfully designed with a blend of traditional Rwandan aesthetic and modern materials that guarantee comfort like none other – experience a stay unlike any other here at Bisate Lodge. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of Mikeno, Karisimbi and Bisoke volcanoes while relaxing at this awe-inspiring lodge. Make the most of your stay with luxurious restaurants featuring shared lounges, fireplaces, and decks providing stunning scenery.

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11. The Retreat by Heaven

Indulge in the utmost luxury when staying at The Retreat by Heaven, an exclusive boutique hotel in downtown Kigali. You'll relish your spacious room with teak wood furnishings, a private patio for front and back views, peaked ceilings for extra breathing space, outdoor rain showers, and saltwater plunge pools. Feeling adventurous? There's horseback riding on Mt.Kigali or weaving baskets while learning about traditional Rwandese beer-making techniques from local villages – all accompanied by organic food locally sourced from Rwanda farms.

12. The Manor Hotel

The Manor at Nyarutarama – Kigali's most exclusive neighbourhood – and is a magnificent exemplification of lavishness and extravagance. Accessible from the city's major attractions, including the Genocide Memorial Center and the Kigali Convention Centre, with ease.

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The Manor is ideal for both business and relaxation purposes. Its modern architecture offers guests aesthetically pleasing spaces outfitted to meet their desires for sumptuous accommodation; its rooms are elegant yet practical; they boast alluring decor flawlessly designed to complement any luxurious stay.

13. Kampala Serena Hotel

Serena hotels in East Africa are experiences you can't forget in a hurry. That's why the Kampala Serena Hotel is a place for a relaxing festive holiday. The hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in East Africa, with stylish accommodations, exceptional amenities, and exceptional dining. For the wealthy traveller, Kampala Serena Hotel offers a secure and lush oasis in the center of Kampala.

With 188 guest rooms, including 13 luxurious suites ranging from open-plan Executive to Royal Suite, it boasts seven hectares (17 acres) of beautifully manicured aquatic gardens and an indulgent free-form pool among terraces, bridges and waterfalls.

14. Protea Hotel by Marriott Kampala

Equipped with modern boardrooms and conference rooms, you can wow clients with a delicious meal in one of its four rooftop bars providing stunning views of Kampala. Keep up your fitness routine at the gym or take a dip in the pool after an intense session—or take advantage of a weekend getaway to explore sites such as Ndere Cultural Centre and Kasubi Tombs; Independence Monument and Uganda Martyrs Shrine are only moments away.

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15. Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort

Perfectly situated just a short drive from Uganda's bustling capital, Kampala, Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort is an abode of ultimate luxury and breathtaking views. Upon arrival, you will quickly feel at home with its wide selection of excellent amenities and extraordinary services designed to ensure your relaxation.

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The family-oriented retreat provides something for everyone – whether it be the fitness centre, spa or pool; children can also find pleasure in the many fun activities available onsite. The resort also features exquisite restaurants and bars serving mouth-watering local and international delicacies, providing the perfect place to enjoy your meal with friends or family.