Eco-Luxury African Safaris Vacations & Tours

Experience Africa’s wild wonders on an eco-luxury safari

Travel bridges the gap between people, places, histories, and cultures—and our eco safari tours across Africa are designed to deepen those connections while treading lightly on the land.

As the last sanctuary for the greatest volume of wildlife, Africa offers unlimited opportunities for adventure and connection. Whether you are tracking endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda, admiring a pride of lions in Botswana, witnessing a river crossing during the Great Migration, or tracing ancient trade routes through mountain passes in Morocco, our eco-friendly luxury safari experiences immerse you in Africa’s most iconic moments—responsibly.

From luxury safari honeymoons under endless starry skies to once-in-a-lifetime luxury African safari vacations with family or friends, you'll discover the magic of the continent through personalized journeys that blend sustainability, comfort, and authentic connection.

Browse through some of our favorite eco-luxury safaris below, and chat with a private travel designer.

Sample Itineraries

Inspiration for your custom adventure

Kenya: Elephant and Conservation Luxury Safari

Explore the remote conservancies of northern Kenya, where extraordinary wildlife encounters and ground-breaking conservation work meet.

Kenya: Wild Luxury Safari

Embark on a luxury safari to experience Kenya’s exclusive private conservancies and witness powerful conservation work in action.

South Africa: Luxury Whale Migration and Wildlife Safari

Marvel at the hundreds of whales that visit the shores of South Africa each year, and end your stay with a safari.

Botswana: A group of six zebras runs through shallow water toward dry grass under bright daylight.

Botswana: Zebra Migrations and Okavango Delta

Journey through Botswana — from the remote Kalahari Desert to the rich Okavango Delta, with nights spent at luxurious, exclusive lodges.

Uganda: Kidepo National Park. A group of giraffes stands and walks on a dirt road surrounded by grass and trees in a savanna landscape.

Uganda: Kipedo Safari Extension

In the remote and far reaches of Northern Uganda, you’ll find the epic Kidepo National Park.

Uganda: Three adult gorillas sit on the forest floor surrounding a baby gorilla in the center. Lush green leaves and branches fill the background, suggesting a dense jungle environment.

Uganda: Safari and Primate Trekking

Travel deep into the heart of Uganda to encounter the country’s incredible landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Uganda: Three chimpanzees sit and hang from the branches of a leafy tree, surrounded by green foliage, with sunlight filtering through the leaves.

Uganda: Primates, Predators, and Mountain Adventures

Take an active journey through Uganda. Ascend mountains and experience rare encounters with gorilla families.

Morocco: A sunlit view of a rocky desert valley with mountains, a winding road, and scattered small buildings, seen from behind the ruins of an ancient stone wall in the foreground.

Morocco: Journey to the Heart
of Southern Morocco

Journey from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert on this transformative adventure through the south of Morocco.

Tanzania: Active Great Migration Safari

Walk, canoe, bike and hike as you see the iconic Great Migration.

Uganda: An adult gorilla sits among dense green foliage while a baby gorilla climbs on its back, both surrounded by lush jungle vegetation.

Uganda: Gorilla Tracking

Track and witness magnificent gorillas in their natural habitat.

Rwanda: Three mountain gorillas, including an adult male, an adult female, and a young gorilla, sit closely together among dense green foliage in a forest, surrounded by sunlight filtering through the leaves.

Rwanda: The Great Apes

Spend time in the wilderness of Rwanda, and see chimpanzees and mountain gorillas up close in their native habitats.

Rwanda: A large gorilla sits among dense green foliage in a forest, looking directly at the camera with a calm, serious expression.

Rwanda: Gorillas, Chimps, and Rhinos

See wild gorillas and chimpanzees, and delve into Rwanda’s vibrant culture and deep history.

A herd of gazelles grazes on dry, golden grass in a Kenyan savanna, with a few white birds nearby and flat-topped acacia trees in the background under a blue sky.

Kenya: Conservation, Community,
and Climate Resilience Safari

Northern Kenya represents one of the last wild frontiers in Africa.

Zimbabwe: A herd of elephants walks together across grassy land near a body of water, with trees and blue sky in the background.

Zimbabwe: Community Conservation
Safari for Elephant Enthusiasts

Enjoy a community-based conservation safari for elephant enthusiasts.

Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe Adventure

From the wilds of the Okavango Delta to the Lower Zambezi National Park, this itinerary promises a unique safari experience.

An elephant stands facing forward at the edge of a grassy area near a body of water in Botswana, with trees and blue sky in the background.

Botswana: Ultimate Adventure

Experience the ultimate African adventure — a safari in Botswana’s Okavango Delta and the Kalahari.

South Africa: Family Conservation Safari

Visit two of South Africa’s most conservation-minded conservancies.

Egypt: Family Adventure

From the famed pyramids to an extended cruise on the Nile, this family adventure showcases Egypt’s ancient splendors and local artisans.

Zambia: Aerial view of a wide, winding river bordered by lush green vegetation and islands, under a partly cloudy sky with expansive forest in the background.

Zambia: Ultimate Adventure Safari

With thousands of acres of national park, Zambia is an emerging safari destination.

Kenya: Follow An Elephant Family

Follow a family of elephants on foot in this incredibly intimate mobile safari experience.

Tanzania: A male lion with a thick, dark mane sits in tall, sunlit grass, gazing intently into the distance. The background is a blurred, golden savanna landscape.

Tanzania: Iconic Nature and Culture

Witness once-in-a-lifetime wildlife events and connect with the local Maasai culture.

Rwanda and Uganda: Social innovation, Gorillas, and Wildlife

Combine visits to innovative social projects with immersion in wilderness and wildlife.

Seychelles: A couple relaxes on a small sandy beach with clear turquoise water, surrounded by lush green palm trees and bushes under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.

Seychelles: Family Conservation Adventure

This luxurious island getaway gives families the chance to reconnect and make a positive impact.

Seychelles: Conservation Honeymoon

Relax on a private island and support conservation in a remote corner of paradise.

Malawi and Zambia: Grassroots change and unique adventures

Uncover innovative efforts to catalyze grassroots change and engage in unique adventures.

South Africa: Three people stand on a stone lookout at the edge of a cliff, overlooking the rugged coastline and blue ocean at Cape Point, with waves crashing below and green vegetation surrounding the scene.

South Africa: Eco-Luxury Adventure

The quintessential South African itinerary is all the best of wildlife, wine, culture, and cuisine.

Morocco: Sea, Mountains and Marrakech

Find the heartbeat of real Morocco in rural Berber villages perched atop the Atlas Mountains.

Morocco: Ancient Landscapes, Desert and Cities

Few experiences could be as special as watching the sand dunes of the Sahara ignite under the setting sun in total seclusion.

South Africa: Safari and Beach Honeymoon

Unearth Southern Africa’s secrets on a honeymoon that balances beauty, seclusion, luxury, and exploration.

A group of children in school uniforms run and play on a grassy field near tall bushes in Kenya, appearing happy and energetic.

Kenya: Family Give Back Safari

Discover Kenya off the beaten track. Community volunteering and first class wildlife make this the family trip of a lifetime.

Tanzania: Great Migration Safari

See for yourself why the Great Migration is called “the greatest show on earth!”

Madagascar: Wild Landscapes of the West and South

Reach the lesser-known corners of Madagascar, marveling in landscapes, wildlife, and warmth.

Madagascar: A traditional wooden boat with a blue and white striped sail is beached on sandy shore under a clear blue sky in Madagascar. The ocean is in the background with a few people walking along the waters edge.

Madagascar: Island Heritage Embrace

Get to know Madagascar through its most remarkable national parks and the local life of its people.

A group of students sit at wooden desks in a classroom in Tanzania, writing in notebooks and working together. Three women in the front are focused on sharing notes and collaborating.

Tanzania: Service and Safari

Spend your vacation giving back to others in Tanzania. One of our most popular trips — great for all ages!

Namibia: Ultimate Honeymoon

This is the ultimate “unchartered” honeymoon. Stay in eco-luxurious lodges while traveling the vast and achingly beautiful country of Namibia.

Namibia: Wild Adventure

This trip will take you to the iconic sights of an ancient land, while staying in beautiful, conservation-conscious luxury lodges.

Malawi: Culture, Community, and Conservation

Combine encounters with community and wildlife in warm-hearted Malawi.

Malawi and Zambia: Bush and Beach

A wonderful itinerary that combines bush and beach experiences in Zambia and Malawi.

Uganda: Epic Wilderness Safari

Discover the magnificent natural beauty of Uganda as you set off on the expedition of a lifetime.

Botswana: Luxury Honeymoon

Travel through Botswana via South Africa to some of the most luxurious and exclusive lodges available.

Morocco: A traditional Moroccan tagine with chicken, olives, lemon slices, and herbs in a decorated clay pot, surrounded by a bowl of couscous, chili peppers, fresh cilantro, and flatbread on a wooden table.

Morocco: A Taste of Morocco

Awaken your senses and enliven your mind through Moroccan culture and food.

Uganda: Great Apes of Africa

Uganda’s greatest treasures: Chimpanzees of Kibale Forest and Gorillas of Bwindi.

Your Questions Answered

What to know about Africa

What is the best time to visit Africa for a safari or wildlife viewing?

The best time for a safari or wildlife viewing in Africa varies by region. The dry season is typically ideal for spotting animals as they congregate near water, and the landscape opens up for easier viewing. For gorilla trekking, we suggest planning your trip during the dry months from June to September or December to February. If you prefer fewer travelers and a quieter experience, the shoulder seasons of March, October, and November can also be excellent times to visit.

What does “eco-luxury” mean in the context of African safaris?

For us, eco-luxury on safari means enjoying exceptional comfort and style while traveling responsibly and supporting conservation and local communities. Our Africa journeys are designed to be both sustainable and memorable, with carefully chosen lodges and camps that employ local staff and source goods from nearby artisans.

What types of wildlife and landscapes can I expect to see in different parts of Africa?

Africa offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, from the vast savannas of Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, and Zimbabwe to the lush forests and highlands of Uganda and Rwanda. You’ll also find lakes and rivers in Malawi and Zambia, as well as beautiful coastlines in South Africa and Zanzibar. Depending on where you travel, you might encounter gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, hippos, leopards, and flamingos. Each destination offers a unique blend of wildlife and scenery, making every trip distinct.

Is gorilla trekking safe, and what is required to do it?

Gorilla trekking is a guided, carefully managed experience, but it can be physically challenging due to steep, sometimes muddy terrain. Trekkers must be at least 15 years old and obtain a permit in advance.

How does Elevate Destinations ensure responsible tourism and benefits for local communities?

Since our beginnings 20 years ago, giving back has been a core aspect of our brand. By traveling with us, you help fund education, healthcare, local jobs, and important conservation initiatives, including anti-poaching efforts. We also contribute through our Buy A Trip, Give A Trip initiative, where your trip purchase creates travel opportunities for local kids.

What should I pack for an African safari or eco-luxury trip?

For an African safari, we recommend packing sturdy shoes and comfortable layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Be prepared for sun and dust, and bring clothing that works for both active days on safari and relaxed evenings at your lodge.

Can I combine wildlife, culture, and beach experiences into one trip?

Yes, we create custom itineraries that blend wildlife viewing with cultural experiences, local cuisine, and time at the beach. For example, our South Africa safari and beach journey combines game drives with time on the coast. Every trip is tailored to your interests, so we can include the experiences that matter most to you.

How far in advance should I book my Africa trip?

We recommend booking your Africa trip 12 months in advance, especially if you are hoping to travel during peak season or stay at the most sought-after lodges. Planning early ensures you have the best selection of dates, accommodations, and experiences.

Are children allowed on safari?

Children are welcome on many safari experiences, and we offer trips designed specifically for families. Some lodges and activities, such as gorilla trekking, do have age restrictions, but we can recommend the best options for your family’s interests and ages.

Africa

Eco-Luxury Safaris and Tours