We typically focus our attention on all-inclusive resorts located in the Americas and Caribbean. But friends have recently returned from vacationing in Africa and so it made us take a look at what all-inclusive resort options exist in this part of the world. And we were surprised!!
When you think of an African vacation, images of vast savannas, majestic wildlife, and ancient civilizations often come to mind. Yet, for a growing number of travelers, the continent offers a different kind of paradise: the all-inclusive resort. From the sun-drenched shores of the Red Sea to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar and the wild coastline of Kenya, Africa’s all-inclusive scene provides a unique and luxurious way to experience its breathtaking beauty without compromising on convenience.
The all-inclusive model in Africa is a study in diversity. It spans from the sprawling, mass-market resorts of Egypt, which cater to a global clientele, to the exclusive, eco-conscious lodges of Mauritius and the unique safari-and-beach pairings of Kenya. Each destination offers a distinct vibe, resort landscape, and set of experiences, making it essential to choose the right one for your travel style.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the major all-inclusive resort areas of Africa. We’ll identify and categorize the top resorts, distinguishing between those built for a romantic adults-only escape and those designed for a fun-filled family adventure. This will help you discover which African gem is your perfect match for a truly unforgettable vacation.
1. Egypt: The Red Sea Riviera
Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera, encompassing destinations like Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Marsa Alam, is Africa’s undisputed all-inclusive giant. Its year-round sunshine, vibrant coral reefs, and proximity to some of the world’s most famous ancient sites make it a powerhouse of tourism. The all-inclusive scene here is a well-oiled machine, offering everything from sprawling family compounds to secluded, adults-only havens.
All-Inclusive Resorts for a Family Adventure
Jaz Aquamarine (Hurghada): This massive resort is a perfect example of a family-friendly all-inclusive done right. It boasts a staggering number of swimming pools, a dedicated water park with slides and a lazy river, and a lively entertainment team. The resort’s layout is designed to keep families entertained, with a kids’ club and a variety of on-site activities. The numerous restaurants and buffets cater to a wide range of tastes, making it a stress-free option for families with picky eaters. Vibe: High-energy, activity-rich, and family-focused. Best For: Families with children of all ages, as well as groups who want a non-stop, fun-filled vacation.
Rixos Premium Seagate (Sharm El Sheikh): A premier luxury all-inclusive that’s perfect for families seeking a high-end experience. This sprawling resort boasts its own private beach, a huge water park, and a kids’ club with a wide range of activities. The resort’s all-inclusive package is comprehensive, with a stunning number of à la carte restaurants and bars. Its main appeal is its ability to blend luxury with a family-friendly atmosphere, ensuring both parents and children have an unforgettable experience. Vibe: Upscale, modern, and amenity-rich. Best For: Families seeking a top-tier luxury vacation with extensive amenities and a focus on quality.
Pickalbatros Jungle Aqua Park (Hurghada): A paradise for families, this resort is famous for its incredible water park, which features a thrilling selection of slides, a wave pool, and numerous other water attractions. The all-inclusive package is comprehensive, with a focus on providing endless entertainment for children. The resort’s atmosphere is energetic and fun, making it a great option for families who want to spend their vacation splashing and playing in the sun. Vibe: Playful, high-energy, and water-focused. Best For: Families with active children who want a vacation centered around a world-class water park.
All-Inclusive Resorts for an Adults-Only Escape
Meraki Resort (Hurghada): This adults-only resort is a unique all-inclusive experience. It’s known for its bohemian, party-like atmosphere, with a strong focus on music, nightlife, and a social scene. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including a large main pool, a beach club, and a wide array of dining options. It’s a great option for friends or couples who want a fun and lively vacation without children around. Vibe: Bohemian, social, and lively. Best For: Friends and couples who are looking for a high-energy, party-focused all-inclusive escape.
Rixos Sharm El Sheikh (Sharm El Sheikh): This resort is an exclusive, adults-only property that is known for its luxurious and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a great option for couples who want to relax and unwind without the distractions of a family-friendly resort. It offers a wide array of amenities, including a stunning spa, a variety of gourmet dining options, and a beautiful beach. The resort is designed for romance and relaxation, making it a perfect spot for a honeymoon or a romantic getaway. Vibe: Luxurious, serene, and romantic. Best For: Couples seeking a high-end, peaceful, and secluded all-inclusive experience.
2. Zanzibar, Tanzania: The Island of Spice and Seclusion
Zanzibar, a legendary archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, offers a truly unique all-inclusive experience. It’s a blend of pristine, turquoise waters, rich history (Stone Town), and a laid-back, “pole-pole” (slowly, slowly) pace of life. All-inclusive resorts here are often a luxurious base for a safari-and-beach combination.
All-Inclusive Resorts for a Family Adventure
Melia Zanzibar (Kiwengwa): This resort is a fantastic option for families who want a luxury all-inclusive experience in a stunning, secluded location. It’s a large, grand resort with a beautiful beach, a variety of dining options, and a wide array of activities for all ages. The resort also offers a kids’ club and a variety of family-friendly amenities, making it a great choice for families who want to relax and enjoy a luxurious vacation. Vibe: Grand, luxurious, and family-friendly. Best For: Families seeking a top-tier luxury resort with a beautiful, secluded beach.
TUI BLUE Bahari Zanzibar (Kiwengwa): This is a great family-friendly option that offers a blend of classic all-inclusive amenities and a local, authentic vibe. The resort is known for its large pools, a kids’ club, and a variety of activities for all ages. Its strong focus on local culture and cuisine provides a unique and authentic experience for families who want to explore beyond the resort. Vibe: Classic, relaxed, and culturally-rich.
All-Inclusive Resorts for an Adults-Only Escape
Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar (Nungwi): This adults-only resort is located on one of Zanzibar’s most beautiful beaches and offers a luxurious, serene, and couples-focused experience. It’s a stunning, grand resort with a wide array of dining options, a beautiful spa, and a variety of activities. The resort is designed for romance and relaxation, making it a perfect choice for honeymooners and couples. Vibe: Grand, luxurious, and couples-focused. Best For: Couples seeking a high-end, all-inclusive experience on a beautiful, secluded beach.
The Mora Zanzibar – Luxury All Inclusive (Matemwe): This resort is a truly unique, luxury, all-inclusive escape for adults. It’s located on a stunning, pristine beach and offers a level of seclusion and privacy that is unparalleled. The resort is a perfect option for couples who want to get away from the crowds and enjoy a truly tranquil, intimate, and personalized vacation. Vibe: Exclusive, tranquil, and luxurious. Best For: Couples who are looking for a secluded, personalized, and high-end all-inclusive experience.
3. Mauritius: The Volcanic Isle of Refined Luxury
Mauritius is a volcanic island nation known for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and lush green interior. The all-inclusive scene here is almost exclusively high-end and luxurious, often with a focus on romance and exclusivity.
All-Inclusive Resorts for a Family Adventure
LUX* Grand Gaube (Grand Gaube): This resort is a fantastic family-friendly option that offers a blend of luxury and a fun, activity-rich experience. It has a kids’ club with a variety of activities, a teen club, and a wide array of family-friendly amenities. The resort is known for its beautiful beach and its stunning, modern design, making it a great choice for families who want a luxurious, high-end vacation. Vibe: Luxurious, modern, and family-friendly. Best For: Families who want a top-tier luxury all-inclusive experience with a focus on quality and amenities for all ages.
Tamassa Bel Ombre (Bel Ombre): A lively, family-friendly all-inclusive known for its youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. The resort offers a great kids’ club, a variety of activities, and a fun, social atmosphere that makes it a perfect choice for families who want to enjoy a lively and engaging vacation. Vibe: Youthful, social, and lively. Best For: Families with older kids and teens who want a fun and active vacation.
All-Inclusive Resorts for an Adults-Only Escape
Riu Palace Mauritius (Le Morne): This adults-only resort is a great option for couples who want a tranquil, all-inclusive experience. It’s known for its stunning location, with a beautiful beach and a dramatic backdrop of the Le Morne Brabant mountain. The resort offers a wide array of amenities, a variety of dining options, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a great choice for couples who want to relax and unwind. Vibe: Tranquil, peaceful, and romantic. Best For: Couples who want a serene, all-inclusive vacation with a focus on stunning natural beauty.
SALT of Palmar (Belle Mare): This adults-only resort is a unique, eco-conscious, all-inclusive escape. It’s a boutique resort with a focus on sustainability, local culture, and wellness. It offers a unique, intimate experience with a focus on local food, a stunning spa, and a variety of wellness activities. Vibe: Eco-conscious, intimate, and tranquil. Best For: Couples who want a unique, sustainable, and wellness-focused all-inclusive experience.
4. Kenya & Morocco: A Mix of Safari, Culture, and Beach
In Kenya and Morocco, the all-inclusive model is often a complement to a cultural or safari adventure, providing a comfortable base for exploration.
All-Inclusive Resorts for a Family Adventure
Voyager Beach Resort (Mombasa, Kenya): This classic all-inclusive resort is a perfect base for families who want to combine a beach vacation with a safari. The resort is a great option for families, with a kids’ club, a variety of activities, and a fun, lively atmosphere. Its location on the coast makes it a great starting point for a safari adventure. Vibe: Classic, lively, and family-friendly. Best For: Families who want a beach vacation with a great on-site kids’ club.
Kenzi Club Agdal Medina All Inclusive (Marrakech, Morocco): Located in the heart of Marrakech, this resort offers a unique blend of resort amenities and local culture. It’s a great option for families, with a water park, a kids’ club, and a variety of activities. The resort also offers a great base for families who want to explore the historic city of Marrakech. Vibe: Culturally-rich, family-friendly, and active. Best For: Families who want to combine a resort vacation with a cultural experience.
All-Inclusive Resorts for an Adults-Only Escape
TUI BLUE Medina Gardens (Marrakech, Morocco): This adults-only resort offers a tranquil, all-inclusive experience in the heart of Marrakech. It’s a great option for couples who want a peaceful, relaxing vacation while still being able to explore the city. The resort is known for its elegant design, its beautiful gardens, and its peaceful atmosphere. Vibe: Tranquil, peaceful, and culturally-rich. Best For: Couples who want a peaceful, relaxing vacation with easy access to a historic city.
The Ultimate Breakdown: Your African All-Inclusive Match
| Destination | Resort Name | Vibe | Type |
| Egypt | Jaz Aquamarine | High-energy, family-focused | Family-Friendly |
| Rixos Premium Seagate | Upscale, modern | Family-Friendly | |
| Pickalbatros Jungle Aqua Park | Playful, water-focused | Family-Friendly | |
| Meraki Resort | Bohemian, social | Adults-Only | |
| Rixos Sharm El Sheikh | Luxurious, serene | Adults-Only | |
| Zanzibar | Melia Zanzibar | Grand, luxurious | Family-Friendly |
| TUI BLUE Bahari Zanzibar | Classic, relaxed | Family-Friendly | |
| Hotel Riu Palace Zanzibar | Grand, luxurious | Adults-Only | |
| The Mora Zanzibar | Exclusive, tranquil | Adults-Only | |
| Mauritius | LUX* Grand Gaube | Luxurious, modern | Family-Friendly |
| Tamassa Bel Ombre | Youthful, social | Family-Friendly | |
| Riu Palace Mauritius | Tranquil, peaceful | Adults-Only | |
| SALT of Palmar | Eco-conscious, intimate | Adults-Only | |
| Kenya/Morocco | Voyager Beach Resort | Classic, lively | Family-Friendly |
| Kenzi Club Agdal Medina | Culturally-rich, active | Family-Friendly | |
| TUI BLUE Medina Gardens | Tranquil, peaceful | Adults-Only |
Conclusion: Your Unique African Adventure Awaits
Africa offers a stunning variety of all-inclusive experiences, each with its own unique charm and appeal. From the bustling, family-friendly resorts of Egypt to the secluded, romantic escapes of Zanzibar and Mauritius, the key to your perfect vacation lies in identifying your priorities.
If your ideal getaway involves high-energy fun, world-class diving, and a family-focused atmosphere, Egypt’s Red Sea Riviera is your undisputed champion. For those who seek a blend of a relaxing beach vacation and a cultural safari adventure, the coast of Kenya offers a perfect combination.
If your priority is a tranquil, secluded, and luxurious escape on a pristine beach, Zanzibar is an excellent choice. And if your travel style is more about sophistication, romance, and a stunning natural landscape, Mauritius is a perfect fit. Finally, for a blend of a resort vacation and a rich cultural experience, Morocco provides a truly unique and unforgettable journey.
No matter which destination you choose, the warm hospitality, stunning beauty, and rich culture of Africa are guaranteed to deliver an unforgettable all-inclusive experience. Happy travels!
