Embarking on a journey into the heart of nature, where exotic creatures roam freely in their Natural habitats, was once the privilege of intrepid adventurers willing to endure weeks of travel into the remote wilderness. However, in today's modern era, the landscape of eco-tourism has undergone a remarkable transformation.
Chic and sustainable nature resorts now offer luxurious adventures that provide guests with unparalleled access to delicate yet meticulously maintained ecosystems.
In response to the growing demand for opulent excursions that prioritize immersive animal experiences, hotels around the globe have risen to the occasion, catering to the desires of eco-adventurers seeking unforgettable encounters with wildlife.
From the vast plains of Tanzania to the sprawling landscapes of Texas, these hotels offer a diverse range of adventures, inviting guests to embark on thrilling encounters with majestic eagles, gentle elephants, and a myriad of other captivating creatures.
In this collection of the world's most distinctive lodges and eco-resorts, privacy and immersion are paramount. Each property has been carefully selected for its commitment to sustainability, ensuring that guests can enjoy unparalleled access to pristine natural environments while minimizing their ecological footprint.
Whether you seek a tranquil retreat amidst the Amazon rainforest, a luxurious sanctuary nestled in the heart of the African savannah, or a secluded hideaway in a vibrant jungle teeming with life, these exceptional hotels promise to deliver an unforgettable experience that celebrates the wonders of the natural world.
So, pack your bags and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime as you embark on a journey to discover the untamed beauty of the world's most extraordinary landscapes.
You will be surrounded by incredible scenery and an abundance of animals at these rainforest lodges.
Location: Via Ahuano - Campana Cocha Dorado, km 4, Ahuano, 150108, Ecuador
The Gaia Amazon Eco Lodge, nestled in the enchanting Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest, offers an immersive experience for nature enthusiasts. Here are the key details about Gaia Amazon Ecolodge:
Accommodations: The lodge provides comfortable rooms with various configurations:
Family Room with Balcony: Features 2 bunk beds and 1 queen bed, accommodating up to 4 guests.
Quadruple Room with Balcony: Offers 4 bunk beds, ideal for group stays.
Double Room with Balcony: Perfect for couples, with a queen bed.
Beachfront: Enjoy stunning river views and access to a private beach area.
Free WiFi: Stay connected during your rainforest adventure.
Hiking: Explore the lush surroundings on nearby trails.
Airport Shuttle: Arrange transportation from Quito Mariscal Sucre International Airport (approximately 133 miles away) for a fee.
Sustainability Efforts: Gaia Amazon Eco Lodge is committed to sustainability, making investments to minimize environmental impact.
No credit card is needed to book.
The kind of accommodation and duration of stay determines the rate.
For specific availability and prices, you can check the property’s website
Gaia Amazon EcoLodge Rated by TripAdvisor: 5star
This 20-guest lodge is rustic and provides basic rooms, huts, and open common spaces with views of the Amazon's flowing streams and dense, wildlife-filled vegetation. Its eco-ethos and secluded setting deep into a cocoa tree forest offer a true connection to the almost legendary surroundings.
All meals and guided activities, such as trekking through rain forests, chocolate-making workshops, and a (powered) canoe journey along the Napo and Arajuno rivers, are included, even for stays as short as one night. But if you want to include a butterfly farm, a shamanic cleaning ceremony, and much more on your agenda, you want to stay longer. Almost all visitors are deeply touched by the encounter at this location because of its exceptional beauty and tranquility.
Giraffe Manor, an iconic boutique hotel nestled in a leafy suburb of Nairobi, offers a truly unique experience. Here are the details:
Location: Duma Rd, Nairobi, Kenya.
Rooms: There are twelve individually decorated rooms, each providing first-class comfort and the ambiance of an elegant family home.
Giraffe Encounters: The charming herd of resident Rothschild’s giraffes roams the surrounding sanctuary. Guests can enjoy once-in-a-lifetime encounters with these majestic creatures during breakfast and afternoon tea, where they can even feed the giraffes by hand.
The Retreat at Giraffe Manor: Located on the same property, it grants guests access to a stunning pool and wellness facilities.
Now, let’s talk about the price.
Per Person Sharing: US$ 580
Per Child Sharing: US$ 374
Giraffe Manor Rated by TripAdvisor: 4.6 out of 5.
Please note that Giraffe Manor is a unique and exclusive experience, and as such, it comes with a hefty price tag. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, this might be the perfect choice!
For more information, you can visit the official Giraffe Manor website. Keep in mind that prices may vary based on availability and season.
Forest-surrounded house draped in greenery. The Rothschild's giraffes, which live there, stretch their long necks through the huge open windows while you eat pancakes with blueberries, signifying that they want to be fed grass pellets. Once more, you'll feed them while having scones, sandwiches, and desserts in the garden for afternoon tea. Visit the nearby Giraffe Centre to find out more about the endangered animal and the hotel's conservation initiatives.
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The Hotel das Cataratas, A Belmond Hotel is a luxurious gem nestled within the breathtaking Iguaçu Falls in Foz do Iguaçu, Brazil
The hotel is situated at BR 469 Km 32, Parque Nacional Do Iguaçu, Foz do Iguaçu, CEP 85859-899, Brazil.
This 5-star hotel offers traditional Portuguese-styled rooms adorned with dark wood furniture and warm natural tones. Some rooms even feature balconies and seating areas. You’ll find two delightful dining options:
Ipê Grill Restaurant: Overlooking the pool.
Itaipu Restaurant: With views of the falls. Both restaurants serve a delectable selection of International and local Brazilian cuisine. In the evenings, you can enjoy live music at the downstairs bar.
Swimming Pools: The hotel features two swimming pools.
Free WiFi: Stay connected during your stay.
Airport Shuttle: Convenient transportation.
Spa and Fitness Center: Pamper yourself.
Bar: Sip on refreshing drinks.
Exceptional Breakfast: Start your day right.
Guest Reviews: With an exceptional rating of 9.7, guests have praised it as the best hotel they’ve ever stayed in! Couples particularly appreciate the location, giving it a 9.9 rating for a romantic getaway.
Hotel das Cataratas Rated by TripAdvisor: 5-Star
imagine sipping a cocktail by the swimming pool or playing tennis on the provided court while surrounded by the spectacular Iguaçu Falls. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and luxury seekers alike.
One of the biggest waterfalls in the world and a rainforest filled with tapirs, blue-throated macaws, huge anteaters, toucans, howler monkeys, plush-crested jays, ocelots, and jaguars are both accessible from the only hotel located within Iguassu National Park in Brazil.
Take one of the five-star hotel's trips to the adjacent Bird Park, the only place in the world devoted to protecting birds from the Atlantic rainforest, or to Bela Vista Biological Sanctuary, which researches to save endangered species like jaguars. Both provide opportunities to see a variety of creatures.
The Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass is a luxurious resort and spa located in Chandler, Arizona, United States. Here are some key details:
Address: 5594 W Wild Horse Pass Blvd, Chandler, AZ, 85048, US
Rated by TripAdvisor: 4.5 out of 5 based on 1863 reviews
Overview: This resort elegantly blends Native American culture.
It’s situated in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert, not far from downtown Phoenix. The Sheraton Wild Horse Pass offers an array of activities, including 2 on-site golf courses, an equestrian center for lessons and trail rides, and 4 spacious swimming pools. The first-class spa features authentic Native American healing treatments. After exploring the nearby Wild Horse Pass Casino, you can enjoy gourmet meals at the resort’s on-site restaurants. The hotel also boasts private balconies or patios with views of the mountains or Gila River, as well as outdoor trails for evening strolls. Couples particularly appreciate the location,
For the most up-to-date prices and availability, you can visit the official Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass website. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this oasis in the desert promises an unforgettable experience
Visit the Land of Mustangs exhibit at the center to learn more about them, including their cultural significance and historical background. Also offered by the facility are sunset rides that conclude with margaritas.
The Shinta Mani Wild - A Bensley Collection is a remarkable retreat nestled in the heart of nature.
Location: Shinta Mani Wild is situated in Prey Praseth Village, Ou Bak Rothed Commune, SihanoukVille, Kampong Seila, Cambodia.
Description: This luxurious tented accommodation offers an infinity pool, water sports
facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Every apartment has a private bathroom with a bathtub, slippers, bathrobes, and a hair dryer. The on-site restaurant specializes in African, American, and Argentinian cuisine.
Experience: Guests can enjoy cycling, fishing, and relaxing on the sun terrace. The property also provides free use of bicycles and offers massage treatments at the wellness area.
Airport: The nearest airport is Sihanouk International Airport, approximately 61 miles away.
Price: Unfortunately, it’s not currently possible to make reservations for this hotel. However, you can explore nearby hotels and their availability.
Rated by TripAdvisor: 5 star
Guest Review: “We adored every little detail. Staff is so lovely, always smiling, extremely helpful, spa is amazing, food is divine, beds are so comfortable!”
Please note that Shinta Mani Wild is not just a luxurious escape; it’s also committed to conservation efforts, making your stay even more meaningful
The Southern Cardamom National Park, where this opulent tented camp is located, is one of the few remaining sanctuaries in Cambodia for wild elephants, monkeys, and other Indigenous species. Within this immense, unexplored wilderness, the eco-camp is situated in a private nature sanctuary. You may arrive in style by taking an army jeep or a chauffeured car, or if you want to wow, you can zip line across the jungle and land on the other side with a cocktail waiting to greet (and celebrate) you.
While its meals, adventure programming (both included in the rates), service, and luxurious tents created by Bill Bensley along the riverbed more than hold their own, the camp's isolation and purpose to safeguard the region from poaching, mining, and logging are what really set it apart. Tracking gibbons, participating in a foraging and cooking course, going on a boat excursion along the meandering canals, or patrolling the forests with the Wildlife Alliance against poaching might all be part of a regular day.
Mango Bay Resort is a tranquil retreat nestled on Ong Lang Beach in Phú Quốc, Vietnam.
Location: Ong Lang Beach, Phú Quốc, Vietnam.
Accommodation: Spread across 2297 feet of private sandy beach and 20 hectares of natural greenery, this eco-friendly nature resort offers a serene escape. The rooms and bungalows feature four-poster beds, ceiling fans, and cotton mosquito nets, allowing you to enjoy the cool natural breeze. You can choose from sea-view or garden-view accommodations, both with lovely terraces.
Free WiFi access.
Complimentary parking on-site.
Solar-heated hot-water showers in the bathrooms.
Asian and Western food is served at Mango Bay Beach Restaurant.
Beautiful views of the dawn and sunset are available at Beach Bar Mango Bay, along with cool beverages.
At the tour desk, guests may plan day trips, have a soothing massage, or simply rest on the sun deck.
Laundry facilities and a business center are available at the property.
Mango Bay Resort Rated by TripAdvisor: 4.5 star
Guest Reviews: Mango Bay Resort has received excellent ratings for its location, beachfront, and direct contact with nature. Couples, in particular, appreciate the serene setting for a relaxing getaway.
Price: For the most up-to-date prices and availability, you can visit the official Mango Bay Resort website
Vietnam's largest island, Phú Quốc, was once a lonely tropical paradise, but rapid development in the early 2000s brought big-name hotels, five-star resorts, clubs, and even casinos to the island. There's a more environmentally conscious side to all that tourism hoopla, which is personified by locations such as Mango Bay. Sustainable building elements, such as rammed earth and local wood, were used to construct the coastal home sanctuary.
Everything from composting to low-water toilets in the (open-air) restrooms to mattresses chilled by a low-energy substitute for typical air conditioning demonstrates a commitment to energy, water, and environmental conservation.
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Aarunya Nature Resort & Spa is a luxurious retreat nestled in the central hills of Kandy, Sri Lanka.
Location: The resort is situated on the outskirts of Kandy City, overlooking the Knuckles Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Specifically, it’s located at Galekade - Malgamandeniya Road, Konakalagala, Central Province, 20141.
Private Villas: Each villa offers spectacular views of the Knuckles Mountain and Conservation Forest.
Experience Dining: Located in a real hamlet, the Aahaara Restaurant offers both modern and traditional Sri Lankan food.
Pool: Lounge by the pool and soak in the breathtaking surroundings.
Spa: Enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments.
Fitness Center: Stay active during your stay.
Free Bikes: Explore the area on complimentary bicycles.
Free WiFi: Stay connected throughout your visit.
Villas are equipped with amenities such as private plunge pools, bathtubs, or hot tubs.
Continental or traditional Sri Lankan breakfast is served in various private settings.
Guest Reviews: Visitors have praised the resort’s beauty, cleanliness, and exceptional staff.
Price: To check availability and pricing for your desired dates, you can visit their website
Rated by TripAdvisor: 5 star
This eco-lodge gets its name from a Sanskrit term that means "first rays of the sun," and it's a fitting allusion. With its east-facing hilltop location, Aarunya offers a spectacular view of the dawn emerging from the densely forested Knuckles Mountain Range, a UNESCO natural heritage. Seven acres of lush garden grounds are scattered with modern villas and suites, many of which feature pools and hot tubs and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forest. Explore the cinnamon, coffee, pepper, banana, clove, and avocado trees; indulge in an ayurvedic spa treatment; or, in the infinity pool, pretend to defy gravity.
The Pacuare Lodge is a hidden gem nestled in the lush rainforest, overlooking the Pacuare River in Costa Rica.
Location: The lodge is situated in the Turrialba region, specifically in Bajo Tigre.
The address is Turrialba, Bajo Tigre, 30510.
Rated by TripAdvisor: 5 star
It’s perched on the banks of the Pacuare River, which National Geographic has recognized as one of the world’s top ten scenic rivers.
A sustainable nature retreat surrounded by pristine rainforest, Pacuare Lodge is the sister resort of Lapa Rios, the country's first eco-lodge. So much so that arriving at the resort usually requires rafting down the Pacuare River (although 4x4 arrivals are also possible).
Like Lapa Rios, the costs include three meals, afternoon coffee and pastries, transportation (to and from San Jose), and a variety of on-site activities. Take a canopy tour to zip through the trees, try canyoning in a slender jungle gorge, and join guided excursions through the 700-acre private rainforest reserve in addition to bird-watching tours where your guide, armed with a telescope, will point out colorful toucans and exquisite sunbitterns.
The spectacular Canopy Villa, possibly the coolest hotel room in Costa Rica, is reached by a private suspension bridge and offers 360-degree views over the river and jungle. Other features of the jungle-ensconced luxury villas include outdoor showers and spring-fed pools. The Jaguar Villa features a tree platform and its bridge across the river.
Islas Secas Resort, located on a remote island off Panama’s Pacific Coast, is a hidden treasure that combines luxury with sustainability. Here are the key details:
Islas Secas is situated in the Gulf of Chiriquí, just a few hours west of Panama City.
The Gulf spans from the Costa Rican border on the west to the Azuero Peninsula on the east.
The resort is set on a 14-island archipelago, with 13 of these islands remaining untouched.
The Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park, which covers 36,423 acres, surrounds the area, protecting islands, reefs, mangroves, and diverse marine and terrestrial wildlife.
Rated by TripAdvisor: 5 star
Guests can delight in exploring the Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park, which spans across 36,423 acres.
The park protects islands, reefs, mangroves, and diverse marine and terrestrial wildlife.
The 20-mile stretch between the Secas archipelago and the mainland coast of Panama allows for endless exploration of vibrant waters.
Bespoke gastronomy offerings and activities cater to adventurers of all kinds.
At this exclusive island eco-lodge, located 20 miles off the Pacific coast of mainland Panama, there can only be a maximum of 23 other guests. The idea of the casitas at the resort, which is covered with rainforest, is to connect the internal and outdoor spaces. With stylish décor, private pools or outdoor soaking tubs, and thoughtful extras like Panama hats and binoculars for exploring the island and its archipelago, all five room types—including numerous multi-casita possibilities for an ideal family vacation—offer stylish accommodations.
What is the best way to approach that? At Coiba National Park, which is recognized by UNESCO, activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming with turtles, gliding over the crystal-clear sea on an electric surfboard, and having a beach picnic. While sipping pre-dinner drinks at Terraza, you may catch up with a couple of your casita neighbors and exchange ideas for the next day's itinerary.
The Broadmoor spans an impressive 5,000 acres within the breathtaking Pikes Peak region. Additionally, it includes an extra 2,000 acres across its Wilderness Experience properties: The Ranch at Emerald Valley, Cloud Camp, and Fly Fishing Camp.
Nestled under the shadow of the Rocky Mountains, this resort offers a serene and picturesque setting.
Guest Rooms and Suites: The main resort boasts 784 guest rooms and suites.
Championship Golf Courses: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy 36 holes of championship golf.
Award-Winning Spa: Pamper yourself at the resort’s award-winning spa.
Fitness Center: Stay active with the fitness center, which offers various amenities.
Outdoor Activities: Explore the great outdoors with activities like mountain biking, mountain climbing, and hiking.
Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs: Take a dip in two swimming pools, three outdoor hot tubs, and a lap pool.
Tennis Courts and Pickleball: Enjoy six tennis courts (with tennis camps) and pickleball courts.
Children’s Programs: Families can participate in engaging children’s programs.
Dining Options: Choose from 20 diverse restaurants, cafes, and lounges.
Retail Shops: Explore 19 specialty retail shops.
Pet-Friendly: The Broadmoor welcomes your furry friends.
Rated by TripAdvisor: 4.5 star
As a winner of the AAA Five-Diamond and Guide Five-Star accolades for the longest straight period, The Broadmoor is a unique property.
Situated near The Broadmoor, which provides a giraffe-feeding VIP experience, is the 146-acre Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, which is home to over thirty endangered animal species. It is the only mountain zoo in the United States. Take a look at the Five-Star hotel's wilderness properties as well. You can go horseback riding at The Ranch at Emerald Valley in Pike National Forest, ride a mule to Cloud Camp, a luxurious lodge perched 9,000 feet above the Tarryall River, or stay at the Orvis-endorsed Fly Fishing Camp to hunt trout.