Top Hotels in Africa and the Middle East

Africa and the Middle East boast some of the most stunning natural landscapes on earth. For every palm-fringed island or lush desert oasis, there exists a vibrant city worth exploring — from ancient capitals like Cairo to glimmering metropolises like Cape Town. Once you’re there, you’ll uncover an abundance of hotels that serve as perfect jumping-off points for discovering these spectacular locales.

Annual Awards and Reader Insights

Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, iBestTravel gathers insights from readers worldwide regarding their travel experiences. Readers share their opinions on top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated based on facilities, location, service, food, and overall value while being classified as either city or resort properties.

Top Destinations of 2023

This year, one destination stands out: South Africa, which is home to four of the top properties, including the winner. Cape Grace, claiming the No. 3 spot on our list, is nestled on its private quay in Cape Town, beloved by readers for its harbor views and elegant design featuring chandeliers, antiques, and French doors. This 120-room icon is also a favorite of celebrities like Beyoncé and the Obamas.

Elegant Accommodations

The Waldorf Astoria Jerusalem offers all the amenities one would expect from a modern property located in the heart of a historic city: 225 opulent rooms, three restaurants (two of which are kosher), and an indoor pool. “This hotel is excellent and first-class,” remarked a satisfied guest.

Unique Urban Hotels

This year’s list also features properties that redefine urban hotel expectations. For instance, the modern, low-lying alcazar known as La Mamounia in Marrakesh boasts 207 opulently decorated rooms and suites surrounded by tiled courtyards and fragrant orange trees. One reader even described La Mamounia as her “dream hotel.”

Giraffe Manor Experience

Also highlighted is Giraffe Manor, a colonial home located on the outskirts of Nairobi, set on 12 private, forested acres and home to a herd of Rothschild’s giraffes. Remarkably, this year’s winning property is also a distinct city hotel, a serene collection of suites and villas that feels worlds away from its prime location in South Africa’s largest city.