Escape to the African bush like Prince Harry: 5 luxury getaways to try, from the Duke of Sussexs

Following in his footsteps, Harry busied himself with projects around Africa to take himself out of the spotlight. As his charity initiatives grew, so too did his visits to the continent.

In a speech at the United Nations in 2022, Harry said Africa inspired “hope” and for most of his life has provided a “lifeline”.

Here are just five of the locations Harry has chosen to spend his time and, later, bring Meghan into his sanctuary:

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Botswana love

Just six weeks after their first date and around the time of Meghan’s birthday, on August 4 in 2016, Harry invited her to Botswana. The couple flew to South Africa and then took a private flight to Maun International Airport in the northern part of Botswana, reports Observer. From there they used a 4x4 to get to the final leg of their trip, the Okavango Delta.

According to reports, they stayed at Meno-A-Kwena, a US$2,000 per night deluxe tented experience. On their Netflix documentary, Harry said, “I was astonished that she said ‘yes’. This woman, that I’ve really met twice, is coming to Botswana and we’re gonna be living in a tent for five days!”

While the tented suites are not as luxurious as some accommodation in Botswana, it clearly has a comfortable and homely feel. Harry has reportedly been to the camp several times and described it as “being in the middle of nowhere”.

The tents are known for the view of the Boteti River, which has regular visits from zebra, wildebeest and elephant. There is also a swimming pool right on the cliff edge, which makes for the perfect Instagram shot. Famous for the annual migration of wildebeest and zebra between April to October, the camp also offers tours to the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park.

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Birthday safari

A year later, their love out in the open, Harry whisked Meghan away on another safari trip. This time he chose Mapula Lodge, also in Botswana’s Okavango Delta. It’s a luxury US$800 per night retreat, the name translating to “mother of rain” reports Reuters.

Choosing a traditional thatched cabin with an outdoor shower, this location is known for its views of a lagoon and rolling vistas. Guests can enjoy a sunset cruise and are even allowed to give fishing a shot (Harry apparently caught a sharped-tooth catfish).

Perhaps what the camp is most well known for is an ancient baobab tree. It is here that guests often opt to dine under the stars, listening to the sounds of the animal kingdom come alive at night.

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Sea safari

In August 2022, Harry visited Mozambique as part of his role as President of African Parks. He led an American delegation to the region, which included conservationists, US officials and philanthropists.

While there on business, Harry reportedly stayed at the famous Vilanculos Beach Lodge. Situated in the coastal town of Vilankulo, 700km north of Maputo, it’s the ideal base to explore the Bazaruto Archipelago and the Bazaruto National Park.

The marine reserve includes five islands and the Archipelago has some of the world’s best snorkeling, diving and big game fishing. Coral reefs are plentiful and the diversity of tropical fish and turtles make it a sea safari dream location. Known for its pristine ocean and incredible sea views, this luxe beach lodge is priced at around US$655 per night.

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Malawi glam

Although only a handful of his visits to Africa make the press, the royal is a regular to the continent. In 2017, he was in Malawi as part of an elephant conservation project. Local media reported he stayed at the Mvuu camp in the Liwonde National Park. He spent 10 days at the camp, which costs around US$350 a night.

The camp’s location gives a spectacular view of the banks of the Shire River. The river is a magnet for wildlife and guests are often treated to herds of elephant, wildebeest and buck having a drink. There are just 14 units at the camp, giving guests enough privacy to enjoy their surroundings without neighbours listening in. Of course, the buck don’t count.

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Ultimate “big five” location

One of Prince Harry’s favorite locations is the Kruger National Park in South Africa. The park is one of Africa’s largest game reserves and is in northeastern Africa. It has lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos and rhinos.

Harry has visited the park several times as part of conservation projects and is known to have bought several friends and girlfriends to the park to experience the magic of Africa at her best.

Lion Sands Tinga Lodge is the crème del le crème of accommodation. It overlooks the Sabie River where animals gather to drink. There are nine luxury suits where guests pay up to US$2,000 per person, per night.

Chefs create five-star meals and guests are treated to candlelight dinners while listening to the sounds of the wild. There are various entrances to the Kruger Park, but the closest gate to Johannesburg is about 392 km away.

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