This year’s World’s Best Awards survey closed on March 2, just before widespread stay-at-home orders were implemented as a result of COVID-19. The results reflect our readers’ experiences before the pandemic, but we hope that this year’s honorees will inspire your trips to come — whenever they may be.

Top City Hotels in Africa

Africa has an incredible diversity, making it difficult to encapsulate the praises of the entire continent, its people, and the myriad experiences available. An estimated 2,000 languages are spoken, and the number of distinct ethnic groups is well into the thousands. There’s no better way to glimpse Sub-Saharan Africa’s rich cultural blend than to visit the region’s cities. Readers of iBestTravel have shared their insights on the best city hotels in Africa for your next urban adventure.

Every year, iBestTravel invites readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—sharing their opinions on top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels are rated based on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties are classified as either city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

1. The Silo, Cape Town

Score: 96.00

More information: theroyalportfolio.com

No Cape Town hotel in recent memory has been more eagerly anticipated than the Silo, a stunning transformation of a converted grain silo on the V&A Waterfront. Upon its opening in 2017—followed by the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa—it quickly became a favorite. Liz Biden’s eclectic design and a rotating collection of contemporary art, plus unbeatable views from its convex windows, make this hotel visually striking. One reader even exclaimed, “This hotel may rate as our favorite of all time. Our room was spectacular with a view beyond words.” The stylish rooftop pool provides a perfect vantage point overlooking the bay, while luxurious bathroom features make it an oasis of relaxation.

2. Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa, Johannesburg, South Africa

Score: 94.88

More information: saxon.co.za

3. Giraffe Manor, Nairobi, Kenya

Score: 94.40

More information: thesafaricollection.com

4. Cape Grace, Cape Town

Score: 93.42

More information: capegrace.com

5. One&Only Cape Town

Score: 92.28

More information: oneandonlyresorts.com

Experience the diverse culture and luxurious settings across major cities in Africa. Explore more about the World’s Best Awards at iBestTravel.