General Information
Expectations for hotels in Africa can vary widely depending on the country, city, and specific hotel you choose. Africa is a diverse continent with a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget hotels and everything in between. In major cities and popular tourist destinations, you can find internationally renowned luxury hotel chains, boutique hotels, and upscale resorts. In remote areas, you might find smaller guesthouses, apartments, and budget-friendly options.
Here are some general things to consider when it comes to hotels in Africa:
Quality: The quality of hotels can also vary significantly. Luxury hotels in major cities are often fairly on par with international standards, offering top-notch amenities, service, and facilities. In more rural or less developed areas, accommodations may be more basic, but they can still offer unique and enriching experiences.
Prices: Hotel prices in Africa can be quite variable. Luxury hotels in cities can be expensive, while budget options in rural areas can be quite affordable. It’s important to research and book accommodations that fit your budget and needs.
Safety: Safety is a concern in some regions of Africa, so it’s essential to research the safety of the area where you plan to stay and choose accommodations accordingly. High-end hotels often have security measures in place.
Amenities: The amenities offered by hotels can differ widely. Luxury hotels typically offer a range of amenities, including restaurants, pools, fitness centers, spa facilities, and more.
Cultural Experiences: Staying in a hotel in Africa can be an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. Some lodges and apartments offer cultural experiences, safaris, and interactions with local communities.
Local Accommodations: In addition to international hotel chains, Africa also offers unique local accommodations, such as riads in Morocco, safari lodges in national parks, and eco-friendly resorts in coastal areas. These options can provide a more authentic and immersive experience.
Check Visa and Entry Requirements: Depending on your nationality and the country you plan to visit, you may need a visa or have specific entry requirements. Make sure to check and comply with these regulations before booking accommodations.
Room Types and Room Category
Hotel rooms are categorized and priced according to the number of occupants, number and type of beds, and the amenities that they offer, decor, specific features, room size and even views from the hotel and their rates vary accordingly.
Guest Rooms are assigned morning of the arrival of the guest by the front desk agent who blocks the room according to the room category purchased and at that time, tries to accommodate any specific room requests, such as adjoining rooms, non-smoking rooms, etc.
Here are some common room types you might encounter and what they generally indicate:
Luxury Hotels: Africa boasts many world-class luxury hotels, often found in major cities, coastal resorts, and safari destinations. These hotels offer opulent accommodations, fine dining, spa services, and various amenities. Examples include the Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa, and the Royal Mansour in Marrakech, Morocco.
Safari Lodges and Camps: In Africa’s wildlife-rich regions, safari lodges and camps offer accommodation for those looking to explore the continent’s natural beauty. Examples include Singita Kruger National Park in South Africa and Serengeti Under Canvas in Tanzania.
Guesthouses and Bed & Breakfasts: In many African destinations, you can find guesthouses and B&Bs that offer affordable and cozy lodging. They can provide a more personal touch to your stay.
Resorts: Africa’s coastal regions and islands, such as Zanzibar and Mauritius, have numerous beachfront resorts. These offer beach access, water sports, and relaxation opportunities.
Eco-Lodges: Eco-friendly accommodations are increasingly popular in Africa, especially in eco-sensitive areas. These lodges and camps emphasize sustainability and environmental conservation. Examples include Lewa Wilderness in Kenya and Sausage.
Floating Hotels: In places like Lake Victoria and the Nile, you can find unique floating hotels and houseboats, providing a different kind of water-based experience.
Tented Camps: For a unique safari experience, some camps offer luxury tents with all the comforts of a traditional hotel room.
Remember that the availability and variety of hotels can vary greatly from one African country and city to another. It’s essential to research and book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, and to consider your specific travel needs and budget when choosing a hotel.
Bedding
Americans are used to hotels in the US which normally offer big rooms with either 2 queen sized beds or 1 king bed. It is very important to be aware the rest of the world, does not follow those same standards, unless you opt to stay at a familiar chain property.
This is the dilemma that is faced by many tourists or travelers when visiting other countries. It cannot be stressed enough that different countries have different bed size standards which also translates into certain hotels not carrying certain bed sizes.
For example, most hotels in Africa offer twin beds as the default bedding. The configuration could be one twin bed (for single occupancy, normally the smallest rooms in a hotel), 2 twin beds separated by a nightstand or 2 twin beds pulled together to form a double bed, but may not be as large as king or queen-sized beds.
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Special Requests:
Special Requests are forwarded to the hotel when requested. Remember that these cannot be reserved ahead of time, they are provided to the hotel so that the Front Desk can do what is possible to accommodate you but are subject to availability on your day of arrival.
Connecting Rooms: Rooms with individual entrance doors from the outside and a connecting door between. Guests can move between rooms without going through the hallway.
Adjoining Rooms: Rooms with a common wall but no connecting door.
Adjacent Rooms: Rooms close to each other, perhaps across the hall.
Room Location: Request a room on a higher or lower floor, close or far from the elevator, etc.
Room Quality: Request a quiet room, or specific room location, but requests are not guaranteed and are solely at the hotel’s discretion.
Guest Rooms are assigned the morning of the arrival of the guest by the front desk agent who blocks the room according to the room category purchased and at that time, tries to accommodate any specific room requests, such as adjoining rooms, non-smoking rooms, etc.
Location of Hotel
Depending on a hotel’s primary purpose, its location is a major consideration:
Major Cities:
Look for hotels that are located in the city, close to the major points of interests. Most big cities, especially those in Europe, are ‘walk-able’ cities, being in a centrally located property, close to the main attractions, with nice restaurants in the area, etc, is ideal.
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Remember, you are there to visit, so although, the price of the hotel may be slightly higher, you will save tons of money on transportation. Plus the convenience of being able to go back to the hotel easily to drop off items if you are shopping or to get ready for dinner are worth every penny.
Beach Resort or Island Destinations: If you are traveling to a beach resort, a beachfront location or access to the beach will be very important. Do remember, that beachfront locations will most probably be a little more expensive. But as your vacation will be based around the beach and the property, the location and the amenities included will definitely affect the quality of your vacation.
Inland Resorts: A lakefront location or mountain backdrop combined with access to towns or cities will make a difference in pricing.
Hotel Star Rating
There is no universal star rating system across Africa and not all stars are equal. Different countries in Africa have their own systems for rating hotels, and some may use international standards, such as those established by organizations like the Hotel Association of Thailand or international hotel chains that maintain consistent standards across their properties.
For example, you may come across star ratings that range from one star to five stars or more, with one star representing basic accommodations and services and five stars denoting luxury and top-tier amenities.
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International standardization, often considered by government tourism departments, hoteliers, and independent organizations, will not occur until someone can account for differences in culture and geography – not everyone agrees on what makes a good bed, or whether bathrooms should have bidets.
It’s essential to note that star ratings provide a general guideline, but individual experiences at a hotel can still vary. Therefore, it’s a good idea to read reviews, check ratings from reliable sources, and consider your personal preferences and needs when choosing a hotel in Africa or any other destination.
Hotel star ratings in Africa can vary by country, and different countries may have their own rating systems or adopt international standards. Here are some general examples of star ratings commonly used for hotels in Africa:
Three-Star Hotels: Three-star hotels offer a good level of comfort and service. They provide a range of amenities, including on-site dining options, room service, and sometimes a fitness center or swimming pool.
Four-Star Hotels: Four-star hotels are considered upscale and offer a high level of comfort and service. They have well-appointed rooms with more amenities, such as minibars, in-room safes, and high-quality bedding. They often have multiple dining options, conference facilities, and other services.
Five-Star Hotels: Five-star hotels represent the pinnacle of luxury and service. These hotels provide top-of-the-line accommodations, fine dining, and a wide range of amenities and services. Guests can expect spacious and well-designed rooms, high-end toiletries, concierge services, and more.
It’s important to note that the specific criteria for star ratings can vary by country, and there may not be a standardized system across all of Africa. Additionally, some hotels may exceed the expectations of their star rating, while others may not fully meet them. Therefore, it’s advisable to read reviews and do thorough research when choosing a hotel in Africa to ensure it meets your specific needs and expectations.
Hotel Reviews
TripMasters post a review score for all of our hotels. The higher the score assigned to the hotel, the better the quality of reviews, thus a hotel with an 89 score, will most likely be much better than a hotel with a score of 75.
TripMasters per-selects the hotels that we offer in each city. We strive to offer the best available according to reviews and location. Keep in mind that in smaller cities or towns that do not have a large variety of hotels, we may need to offer hotels with lower scores in order to be able to have sustainable availability.
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It is well worth the time spent to read the summary of reviews on a selected property.The more you research ahead of time, the more satisfied that you will be during your trip. But do keep in mind that some hotels provoke polarized reviews. A lot of this depends on the kind of room that you end up with, and remember that if you choose the more economical options of a standard room or Economy Room, it will most likely be smaller and in a more disadvantageous location than a Superior or Deluxe Room would be. It is, also, largely subjective – due to expectations, age, social background… if you`re used to 4 or 5 star hotels and suddenly end up in a 3-star, you may not be prepared to deal with the level of comfort or service.
Take both overly negative and overly positive reviews with a grain of salt. The truth lies usually somewhere in the middle. Try to spot `trends` in the reviews to determine where the negativity (or positive mentions) come from.
Keep in mind that these are general expectations and can vary widely depending on the specific hotel, city, and country. It’s always a good idea to read reviews and do some research before booking to ensure your chosen hotel meets your specific needs and preferences.
Amenities and Fees
When it comes to choosing the perfect accommodation for your trip, hotel amenities play a crucial role in the decision-making process. From complimentary WiFi and well-equipped gyms to included breakfasts and relaxing pools, hotels strive to offer a range of services that enrich each guest’s stay. Some luxury hotels even go the extra mile, offering world-class spas, airport shuttle services, and gourmet dining options. For families, amenities like play areas, organized activities, and connecting rooms can make all the difference. Business travelers, on the other hand, may find conference rooms and business centers extremely useful. Don’t forget to check the complete list of amenities before making your reservation to ensure the hotel meets all your needs and expectations.
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There are 3 fields to help in making your hotel selection.
Air Conditioning
Americans are used to air conditioning 24/7, everywhere and anywhere. Other areas of the world, especially Europe are not as used to air conditioning as we are. Also remember, that many of the hotels in Europe are built on historical buildings way before the a/c was discovered! So it is very important to pay attention to the `Facilities` section on the description of our hotels.
Under Facilities:
Air Conditioning
The common areas of the hotel are air conditioned.
Under Room Facilities:
Air Conditioning (centrally regulated)
The temperature in your room is regulated for the whole building. This means that you cannot adjust the temperature in your unit yourself. And also that it may be only turned on during certain periods of the year – normally from June to September.
Air conditioning (individually regulated)
The temperature in your room is regulated in your room by you! This is the best option possible for you to be completely responsible for the level of cool or heat that you are accustomed to. But do keep in mind, that units in Europe may not be as effective as they are in the USA.
Internet Access
Internet access in hotels is fast becoming a standard amenity. Most hotels today offer free WiFi with a password provided by the front desk. But there are still some hotels who only offer internet access at a computer in the lobby, or will only offer access with a fee. If having access to WiFi is a mandatory need for you, be sure to pay attention to the Facilities section and look for the following. Please keep in mind that the structure and age of the building can sometimes affect the quality of the WiFi connection, so certain areas of the hotel may be spotty.
Under Facilities:
WLAN access – WiFi is available at hotel
WiFi – WiFi is available at hotel
Under Room Facilities:
Internet access – Internet is available, most probably through WiFi Internet Connection – This may be a physical internet connection only.
Car Parking
If you are going to be renting a car in order to get around the countryside, seeing if there is parking at your hotel is very important.
Under Facilities:
Car Park – denotes that the hotel offers parking. Please note that this does not mean that parking will be free. In most cases, be ready to pay for parking fees. Also, some hotels may have parking available, but not on the hotel grounds, but in a separate area close by.
Elevators: Smaller hotels and older buildings may not have elevators. If you have mobility concerns, be sure to inquire about this when booking.
FEES
Our hotel prices include all hotel taxes and service charges as mandated by law. Unfortunately, certain fees and taxes are now imposed directly by City Ordinances and certain resorts which can only be paid at check out.
City Taxes:
More and more cities are now adding compulsory city taxes which are required to be paid by the GUESTS on top of pre-paid rates on all booked hotel accommodation. These taxes vary by the category of the hotel booked and the number of nights you will be staying at the property.
Please look at your voucher, the taxes to pay at check out are indicated in the voucher comments.
Resort/Maintenance Fees:
Many resorts in popular beach areas are now also charging guest directly for Resort/Maintenance fees and cleaning fees. Unfortunately, those cannot be included in our pre-paid rates and need to be paid at check out directly to the hotel.
Please look at your voucher, the fees will be detailed in our voucher comments.
To avoid surprises, it’s advisable to carefully review the hotel’s policies and fee schedule when making a reservation. Additionally, if you have questions about specific fees, don’t hesitate to contact the hotel directly before your stay to clarify any potential additional costs.
Booking Non-refundable Rates
Ever wondered why nonrefundable rates are cheaper than the regular rack rates, even if the room is the same? It`s because the hotelier benefits from the lower price, too. Locking you in at that low rate guarantees she or he won`t have an empty room, which would cost the hotelier money. Of course, trying to pinch a few pennies will end up costing you if you need to cancel.
Booking Non-refundable Rates
Ever wondered why nonrefundable rates are cheaper than the regular rack rates, even if the room is the same? It’s because the hotelier benefits from the lower price, too. Locking you in at that low rate guarantees she or he won`t have an empty room, which would cost the hotelier money. Of course, trying to pinch a few pennies will end up costing you if you need to cancel.
Look before you book: If there is any chance at all that you’ll need to cancel your hotel reservation (ex. bad weather, difficult connection, chance of illness) then forgo the nonrefundable rate. Yes, you’ll pay more upfront, but you won`t be out much bigger bucks should you need to put your trip on hold.
B&B, Guesthouse, and Apartments FAQ’S
Are you wondering what to expect when staying at a B&B, guesthouse, or apartment? These lodging options offer a unique, more personalized experience that feels close to home. Bed and Breakfasts (B&B) often include a homemade breakfast in the price, providing an opportunity to interact with other guests. Guesthouses offer a more intimate feel, often with fewer rooms and more personal attention. Apartments are ideal for longer stays, offering the convenience of a kitchen and more space. Check out our FAQ section to find out which option best suits your travel needs.
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Is there a specific cutoff time for check-ins?
Hotels in Africa, like those around the world, typically have a standard check-in time in the early to mid-afternoon, often around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM. However, flexibility and policies can differ among hotels.
Each B&B or other accommodation option will have a set time for check-in. If it is not listed on your voucher, you may ask us to verify, or you can call ahead on your own prior to your arrival.
In some countries, where tourism is more geared toward beaches and activities in the sun, you might notice that check-in times at B&Bs or similar accommodations may be later than in countries where this is not as crucial to the country`s tourism economy. There is no one hard and fast rule even by country, but we have taken the time to study a handful of B&B options in many European countries and we can give you a rough estimate of what to expect. Remember to find out your B&B`s check-in times in advance of arrival, either through TripMasters or by calling the property directly, and call ahead to the owners of the property if you feel like you will be later than 30 minutes before the check-in cutoff. If you fail to call ahead, you may lose your reservation and need to find alternate accommodations, at an additional cost.
Will someone be on-site to check me in?
No, not always. In many countries, B&Bs stop staffing the ‘front desk’ area (if there is a physical one) at 3 p.m., which is also the same time many B&Bs start the check-in process. Your B&B should provide you with check-in details in advance of your arrival. However, if you have not received them within a week of your arrival, reach out to us or directly to the B&B and make check-in arrangements for when you do arrive. If anything, the instructions from the B&B should let you know what to expect. If you are staying in an apartment or efficiency rental, you may have to pick up the keys from another location or another person who isn`t the landlord. Make sure you know where you`re going and who you need to speak to (if anyone) before you go on your trip, so you are prepared.
Note: For travelers booking self-drive packages and not relying on other modes of transport between cities, make sure you know what your driving times are and account for delays such as traffic, weather, and road closings; those things can add up if you are not prepared, and can cause you to be late. To avoid jeopardizing your reservation, make sure to call ahead if you feel like you are going to miss the check-in cutoff — and make sure to make that call far enough in advance of the cutoff, so you do not inconvenience the property owners too much when you do arrive. Calling ahead is very important!
Is there parking available on-site?
It is very important that you figure out the parking situation at your accommodation option before arriving in Europe. We recommend that you ask about this during the booking process with TripMasters. The short answer is that it depends on the property, and in many parts of Europe, simply being a guest does not entitle you to free parking. Many times, when parking is offered, it is an extra expense with a set fee per night. With that said, in many cases (but not all) there are parking options, which can consist from anything to parking lots to underground car parks, also all offered for a fee.
What are sleeping arrangements like?
If you have trouble with mobility or accessibility for whatever reason, B&Bs and similar accommodations may not be the best options for you. Sometimes the room you will be staying in might be located up a few flights of stairs, perhaps as many as three or four. Now this isn`t a continent-wide rule, and in many European nations you will find lists of accommodation options that are suitable for disabled people or people with limited mobility; you should access this list from the tourism standards board of the country in question you will be visiting.
Since many of these are private residences, and many are older buildings, expect situations which may be cozier than you are used to. Rooms can be small compared to U.S. hotels or even U.S. B&Bs, and if you are expecting a king-size bed, it would be best to make sure this is all confirmed beforehand, because that may not even be an option offered in smaller properties. Floors may creak and walls may be thin. They add to the coziness and overall experience, but it is important to be aware that, while welcoming, you most likely will not get a `chain hotel` experience — the hope is that you will get an experience that is even better.
Do B&Bs always include breakfast
The inclusion of breakfast in Bed and Breakfast (B&B) accommodations in Africa, as in other parts of the world, can vary depending on the specific B&B and its policies. While the term “Bed and Breakfast” suggests that breakfast is typically included, it’s not always the case, and there can be variations in what is offered. Here are some considerations:
Breakfast Inclusion: Many B&Bs in Africa do include breakfast as part of the room rate. This breakfast may range from a simple continental breakfast with items like bread, pastries, and coffee to more elaborate, home-cooked meals.
Variations: The style and quality of breakfast can vary widely. Some B&Bs take pride in offering a hearty, homemade breakfast with local or regional specialties, while others may provide a basic self-serve breakfast.
Options: Some B&Bs may give guests the option to include or exclude breakfast in their reservation, allowing you to choose based on your preferences.
Room Rate: It’s important to check the room rate and what it includes when booking a B&B. Be sure to confirm whether breakfast is included and what type of breakfast is offered.
Special Dietary Requirements: If you have dietary restrictions or specific preferences, it’s a good idea to communicate them to the B&B when booking to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
Local Practices: The approach to breakfast in B&Bs in Africa can also be influenced by local customs and practices. For example, some B&Bs in rural areas may offer traditional or local breakfast options.
It’s always a good practice to check the specific policies and offerings of the B&B you plan to stay at. You can find this information on the B&B’s website or by contacting them directly. This way, you can ensure that the accommodation aligns with your expectations and dietary preferences, especially if breakfast is an important part of your stay.
Is Wi-Fi available?
It depends on the country and the property, but the trend is that these accommodation options are moving toward more connectivity for its guests. If this is an important factor in your accommodation selection, make sure you establish that the property has Wi-Fi during the booking process.
Is room service available in B&Bs?
In many B&Bs, limited `room service` is available as the owners wish to keep competitive with other accommodation options. This, of course, is completely at their own discretion and such `service` will be far more limited than you will find in a hotel. While some B&Bs offer maid service during one`s stay, many do not, and instead clean your room after you leave. If you require something routine such as extra towels, or small toiletries, B&B owners will be accommodating. You may get more customized service in farm homestays, which you can find from France all the way to Eastern Europe — it is a subset of the local tourism industry called agritourism.
Can I stay at a B&B or similar accommodation option for just one night?
Many B&Bs offer stays of one night, but it’s safe to say that the majority require stays of at least two nights. This can be for a number of reasons, perhaps first and foremost that many B&Bs are located in high-tourism areas and just like in many touristed areas of the U.S., accommodations require stays of what would be the equivalent of ‘a weekend’.