Southern Africa might be at the bottom of the world map, but it’s at the top of every discerning traveller’s bucket list! The stunning and diverse landscapes offer scenery from your wildest dreams. Amid the wild, you will find hand-selected luxury lodges that do not compromise comfort and quality. The lodges we listed below are some of our favourite gay-friendly places to stay in Southern Africa that offer world-class amenities and attention to detail while leaving minimal traces on the environment.
Chobe Game Lodge, Botswana
Chobe Game Lodge is on the iconic Chobe River in Chobe National Park. It stands as a trailblazer in eco-conscious luxury safaris in Botswana, setting the standard as the country’s first luxury lodge.
Enjoy a wild experience in silence on Chobe Game Lodge’s electric vehicles, Image Credit: Chobe Game Lodge
2014 was a banner year for this lodge. They launched a solar-powered safari boat and electric game drive vehicle, which revolutionised the luxury safari experience with quiet, sustainable alternatives. Today, Chobe Game Lodge’s fleet consists of four electric boats (of which three are fully solar-powered), and silent electric game-drive vehicles. While these initiatives enhance the serenity of your game drive, they significantly reduce their environmental footprint. The four electric vehicles saved over 9,600 litres of diesel, while the electric boats saved over 5,000 litres of petrol!
Chobe Game Lodge blends their environmental efforts with luxury. Guests can relax in 40 elegantly designed rooms or four suites. Each suite features its own plunge pool and uninterrupted views of the Chobe River. Being located in Chobe National Park, you'll be spoiled with wildlife sightings.
Cheetah Plains, South Africa
If you want to splurge and go full-out larney, we highly recommend Cheetah Plains! They are a model of eco-conscious luxury, redefining the luxury safari experience with an unwavering commitment to protecting the environment.
All the ultra-luxe safari experiences with none of the environmental impact, Image Credit: Cheetah Plains
Located in the pristine northeast corning of the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve (Greater Kruger National Park), Cheetah Plains operates off the grid, relying on solar energy to power their villas, putting them in a carbon-negative position.
They also boast custom-built electric Land Cruisers (with seat warmers and seat coolers!), charged with clean solar energy, driving about 32,000 km per year. To put things into perspective, a traditional 4x4 would emit over 7,000 CO₂ over the same distance.
They don’t skimp on boujee amenities! For example, this ultra-luxe safari lodge features heated toiled seats and remote-controlled blinds. Collectively, their eco-conscious efforts mitigate 581 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, the equivalent of 20,000 trees.
Machaba Safaris, Botswana and Zimbabwe
Machaba Safaris is consistent with its ethical eco-practices across 11 camps. Collectively, Machaba Safaris manage 170,000 hectares of conserved wilderness in premier safari destinations like the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park in Botswana, and Mana Pools and Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. All the luxury camps maintain a consistent standard of eco-luxury, blending modern amenities with environmentally conscious practices.
Enjoy luxury and nature at Ingwe Pan in Mana Pools, Image Credit: Machaba Safaris
Designed to operate with minimal environmental impact, each camp relies on a hybrid system of solar power and backup generators. Energy-efficient appliances and lighting reduce consumption while foregoing hairdryers and air conditioning to lighten their footprint. Every camp site’s temporary setup ensures rapid rehabilitation of the landscape within 1.5 years of dismantling.
By combining exceptional safari experiences with a strong commitment to conservation, Machaba Safaris sets a benchmark for sustainable luxury in Africa.
Chitwa Chitwa, South Africa
For a sophisticated safari experience in the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, pop over the Chitwa Chitwa. Energy efficiency is at the core of their operations and is a testament to their commitment to preserving the pristine environment.
Be wrapped in ultimate eco-conscious luxury, Image Credit: Chitwa Chitwa
Some of their initiatives include using LED lighting, energy-efficient air conditioners with inverters, solar water heating systems, and pool pumps that operate on advanced VF Intelliflow technology.
The suites’ thatch roofs provide effective insulation, minimising the need for heating or cooling and contributing to sustainable energy use.
Water and waste management are equally prioritised. Laundry facilities incorporate eco-friendly machines and greywater recycling systems that irrigate the lodge’s lush gardens. All waste is responsibly transported to certified depots for proper recycling and disposal. Additionally, all cleaning agents are ecologically approved and free of harmful phosphates, aligning with Chitwa Chitwa’s green ethos.
Their holistic approach ensures guests enjoy the comforts of modern luxury while respecting and preserving the natural splendour of the reserve.
Let’s Travel without Leaving a Trace
Southern Africa’s gay-friendly, eco-conscious luxury lodges offer more than just amazing stays – they provide a chance to connect with nature while safeguarding the wilderness for future generations.
Glide along the Chobe River, indulge in opulence at Cheetah Plains, and unwind at the eco-chic Chitwa Chitwa. Let’s dive into guilt-free indulgence, where luxury supports a greener planet. Your dream safari awaits.
Featured Image: Gomoti Plains, Machaba Safaris
