Dive right into the best pools in Africa
What’s an African holiday without taking some time out from exploring the sights to relax poolside or taking a dip after a thrilling morning out on safari? In fact, one of the best ways to relax on safari, is to enjoy a bit of African sun, let the sounds of the bush lull you and perhaps seeing the odd visitor come up to the pool to drink.
Here are the Top 10 Favourite pools as voted by the Timeless Africa Safaris Team
1. Rise above the City, The Silo Hotel, Cape Town
This infinity pool, located just below the Rooftop Bar of The Silo Hotel, had to match the iconic architecture of the luxury hotel and the impressive Zeitz MOCAA next door, and they certainly did that. Voted by Big 7 Media as the 3rd Best Pool in the World, this is probably one of Cape Town’s most Instagrammed swimming pools. With 360 degree views of the City, Table Mountain, the harbour, and Table Bay there is no better place on a summers’ day. Open to guests only, but even if you just pop in for a cocktail at the rooftop bar – you’ll get the vibe.
2. To Infinity and Beyond, Jabali Ridge Lodge, Tanzania
Off-the-beaten-track in Tanzania, you will find the Ruaha National Park and within it, set on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Mwagusi River and Ikuka escarpment, Jabali Ridge. Cool off in the glorious infinity pool set amongst giant boulders, overlooking the vast plains. This is where peace lives.
3. Take me to the River, Royal Chundu Lodge, Zambia
You’ve taken to the sky in a helicopter flight over the Victoria Falls, you’ve jumped off the bridge, you’ve swum in the Devil’s Pool and braved the white waters… we think you’ve earned some downtime sitting poolside, watching the mighty Zambezi River flow on by…
4. I had a pool in Africa, Angama Mara Lodge, Kenya
Yes, yes, we know Karen Blixen said: “I had a farm in Africa”, but nowadays, you have the luxury of exploring Kenya’s incredible wildlife in the Masai Mara and surrounds and taking in that view from a lounger poolside. Angama Mara is set on the very site where some of the most romantic scenes in Out of Africa were filmed. With its high vantage point, this pool invites you to sit back, relax, and take in that view as you dip your toes.
5. Rockin’ it, Singita Pamushana Lodge, Zimbabwe
The majestic architecture of this remote lodge has always been a signature of the property. The detailed stonework and imposing proportions of Great Zimbabwe form the reference point for its design. Whilst each suite has its own plunge pool, most guests venture to the main pool to escape the heat of the day. The views across Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve are impressive and if you are lucky, you will see animals in the Malilangwe dam below.
6. Engage your Senses, Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Seychelles
Tropical nirvana awaits you in Seychelles and whilst adventures on land, in the sea, or hopping from island to island by air makes for an incredible holiday, enjoy some privacy at your villa pool. If you are traveling as a family, the residences are ultra-luxe and sleek with private pools to match, which is just the spot.
7. Day to night, Sonop by Zannier, Namibia
Sure, you will stay at Sonop to enjoy classic dune and desert activities, but we recommend you stay an extra day just so you can spend the day at the pool, toast another wonderful day in Africa at sunset, and then settle in to watch a movie on the big screen, with the desert as a backdrop. Drop Dead Gorgeous we say!
8. Dawn patrol, andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge, South Africa
Seeing elephants come to drink from the lodge pool is a sight seen at quite a few lodges in South Africa, especially if the pools are built on ground level. Imagine cooling off from the mid-day heat and you are joined by a herd of elephants who have the same idea! Sounds like the perfect adventure, one you can only have in Africa.
9. Jungle Oasis, One&Only Nyungwe House, Rwanda
Imagine retiring to the lush jungle swimming pool after tracking Chimpanzees, and swinging amongst the treetops on a swing-bridge canopy walk in the Nyungwe National Park? You’re surrounded by nature, in the heart of a working tea farm… sheer bliss.
10. Planning to pop the question? Londolozi Granite Suites, South Africa
The private pools at Londolozi Granite Suites in the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve offer the ultimate in luxurious romance. After game drives in search of leopards and other Big Five, a gourmet dinner around the fire, retire to your suite where your bath and pool awaits under the starry sky. If you are planning to ask the ‘Big Question’ – do it here – there is no way your partner will say no! And remember, a wildlife safari is a perfect honeymoon experience or any occasion to celebrate life really.
