Black-Owned Premium Establishments around the World
At Jnane Tamsna in Morocco, antiques and hand-made furnishings fill well-designed outdoor spaces Courtesy Jnane Tamsna
Planning a trip can be fun or stressful, depending on who you ask. For many Black travellers, unconscious bias, racism, and a systemic history of oppression within the travel industry can often make for the latter. In choosing accommodations, for example, it seems reasonable to expect a few things, like a sense of safety, respect, and options that work with in your budget. But dating as far back as the early 1900s, when Black Americans were denied access to public accommodations because of the color of their skin (leading to the rise of the Green Book as a much-needed resource), Black travellers have often been forced to settle for less. In 2021, there is still a lot of work to be done in the hospitality industry, but with an increasing number of Black-owned accommodations throughout the world, it’s easier to know where you’ll feel welcome. As Danielle Mitchell, founder of the community Black Girls Travel Too, says of her stays at Black-owned properties, “You don’t have to stay in a five-star hotel to be treated like a five-star guest.”
Here are a few Luxury establishments in Africa
African Bush Camps
Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia. Founded by Beks Ndlovu, a professional safari guide, these luxe tented camp and lodges offer wildlife and safari experiences in some of Africa’s untouched areas.
Olma Colonial Suites
Accra, Ghana. This intimate hotel features an outdoor pool, a garden to unwind in, and is located in Accra’s city center, a short distance from the beach.
Zaina Lodge
Mole National Park, Ghana. West Africa’s first luxury safari lodge in Mole National Park, Zaina has tented chalets complete with private balconies, and a cool infinity pool to refresh in.
RLJ Kendeja Resort
Near Monrovia, Liberia. The first hotel of its kind in Liberia, this four-star resort is known for stunning views overlooking the Atlantic ocean.
Jnane Tamsna
Marrakech, Morocco. On a lush, nine-acre plot of land outside of Marrakech, this quiet boutique features five houses and pools, each uniquely designed.
Seku Bi
Dakar, Senegal. This intimate boutique features French colonial villas, contemporary African art, and a quiet location in the arrondissement of Dakar-Plateau.
Curiocity
Durban, Johannesburg, Cape Town; South Africa. A network of three hostels throughout South Africa, Curiocity outposts are designed with local style and plenty of soul.
iKhaya Lodge
Cape Town. A safari-style boutique in the center of Cape Town, iKhaya features traditional African decor and furniture.
Kruger Shalati
Skukuza, South Africa. One of 2020’s most innovative openings, the Kruger Shalati in Kruger National Park has transformed a historic train sitting on the Selati Bridge into a modern hotel.
Soweto Hotel
Soweto, South Africa. One of the most popular hotel and conference centers in Johannesburg, this hotel has 46 rooms and a traditional buffet that serves South African staples like morogo and roasted butternut.
Primate Lodge Kibali
Kibale National Park, Uganda. Right in the heart of Kibale Rainforest National Park, this eco-lodge is a great jumping off point for travelers wanting to track chimpanzees (or the 12 other primates that call this rainforest home).
Uganda Lodges
Locations throughout Uganda. A collection of luxe African-style safari lodging, Uganda Lodges has a wide variety of rooms including cottages, eco-friendly villas, and a treehouse.
Mbano Manor Hotel
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Just two miles from Victoria Falls, this all-suite boutique hotel has just 18 rooms designed to offer the comfort and privacy you’ll want after a long day at the waterfall.
Source: Condé Naste Traveler
