Whether it's a luxury tree house or a lodge above the forest canopy, these treetop stays all add a sense of adventure to your travel experience.
1. TONGABEZI
Livingstone and Victoria Falls, ZAMBIA
Victoria Falls is one of nature's great spectacles as the River Zambezi comes crashing down from sheer drop onto the rocks below, and can be seen from the tiny Livingstone Island, where Dr David Livingstone first glimpsed the thundering waters. On the banks of the River Zambezi, Tongabezi is a collection of luxury riverfront cottages with an additional secluded tree house, built amongst the branches of the riverine ebony tree and featuring a pine deck for unsurpassable river views. Take a helicopter ride, tour the falls and cruise along the river at sunset.
2. TARAGIRE TREETOPS
Tarangire National Park, TANZANIA
In its own private game reserve on the fringes of Tarangire National Park, this safari lodge is designed to fit in harmoniously with the surrounding African bush. The main area is built around a 700-year-old baobab tree, with 20 spacious treehouses in its vicinity; all boasting decks that are ideal for birdwatching or savoring sundowners with a view across Tarangire. Set out on game drives and night-time drives, and take in the view from the infinity pool.
3. PACUARE JUNGLE LODGE
Pacuare Reserve, COSTA RICA
The 25,000-acre Pacuare Reserve consists of primary virgin rainforest sprawling from the Talamanca Cordillera to the eastern Caribbean lowlands, with cascading waterfalls and the rapids of Pacuare River running through; a dense wilderness that is the habitat for howler monkeys, river otters and blue heron, among an astonishing diversity of bird and mammal species. The riverside Pacuare Jungle Lodge features treetop luxury cabins, some with private infinity pools, affording views over the surrounding wilderness. Head up to The Nest for an unforgettable breakfast or dinner in the jungle canopy; a platform that can be accessed by zip-lining in and rappelling down.
4. BLANCANEAUX LODGE
Mountain Pine Ridge, BELIZE
In the protected Caribbean forest of Mountain Pine Ridge, the Francis Ford Coppola mountain lodge Blancaneaux Lodge is located in one of the highest points of the country, and from its vantage point in the forest, affords views over the surrounding area, with a cooler climate for outdoor pursuits. The Balinese-style lodge overlooks a small river and waterfall, which you can look out on from the lodge's private infinity pools. The lodge is near the ancient Maya archaeological site of Caracol, and a pool, spa and stables are all a part of Blancaneaux Lodge too.
5. TSALA TREETOP LODGE
The Garden Route, SOUTH AFRICA
Stretching across 300 kilometers, The Garden Route consists of lush forested mountainside, tranquil lagoons, sandy bays and stretches of beach; all flourishing with diverse flora and fauna, including the coast's exceptional marine life. The stylish Tsala Treetop Lodge is situated inland from Plettenberg Bay, with luxurious treetop cabins built amongst the coastal forest. Discover the coastline's abundant wildlife by whale watching, setting out on a bird watching tour and visiting the nearby elephant sanctuary.
6. ONGUMA TREE TOP CAMP
Etosha National Park, NAMIBIA
Etosha National Park covers a variety of habitats from mopane woodland to open savannah, with much of the land taken up by the Etosha Pan and scattered with waterholes that attract the park's game. Located on the eastern side of Etosha, Onguma Private Reserve offers an exclusive and intimate safari stay with 30 different animal species including black rhino, lions, leopard and desert elephant, as well as over 300 bird species. Tree Top Camp is entirely built on stilts and constructed around the trees for uninterrupted views over the reserve's waterholes. Each day games drives are taken through Etosha National Park as well as the private reserve.
7. YACUTINGA LODGE
Misiones Rainforest, ARGENTINA
Merging into Iguassu National Park with the majestic falls nearby, Misiones Rainforest is a protected expanse of wilderness, as the last remains of the Atlantic rainforest that once stretched across Argentina and Brazil. This unique habitat is home to rare wildlife among over 100 species of mammals and as many as 500 bird species. The eco-friendly Yacutinga Lodge is situated amongst 570 hectares of protected forest, and the ideal base for exploring the surroundings. Set out on nature walks, go bird watching and cool down in the lodge's swimming pool.
8. SERIAN CAMP THE NEST
Mara Conservancies, KENYA
In the North Mara Conservancy, Serian Camp is situated in a high-density game area with lions, leopard and cheetah, and over 450 bird species. The camp's luxury colonial-style tents are situated right by the Mara River with panoramic views over the water, while the camp's tree house -The Nest - is built high up in a Warburgia tree in a secluded spot on the river bank. While staying at the camp, set out on bush walks, game drives and try your hand at river fishing.
