Top 15 Most Unique Hotels from Around the World
When it comes to creating unforgettable travel experiences, staying in a unique hotel can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 15 most unique hotels from around the world, carefully curated to offer exceptional comfort, culture, and natural beauty. From luxury tented camps in Africa to eco-friendly resorts in Asia and boutique hotels in Latin America, these accommodations provide more than just a place to rest—they offer immersive experiences that connect guests to the heart and soul of each destination. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these hotels promise to deliver an unparalleled travel experience.
How Do We Choose Our Hotels and Why?
At Miru Adventures, we believe that every journey should be as unique as a carefully crafted, one-of-a-kind cake. Imagine a baker who sources all ingredients locally, ensuring each cake is special and tailored to perfection. That’s our approach to selecting hotels – every stay should be a memorable adventure, crafted with care and attention to detail. Here’s how we do it:
Locality
We prioritize hotels that work closely with their local communities. This means you get early access to exclusive spots, hear genuine stories from locals, and experience a commitment to sustainability and well-being.
Imagine walking with an anti-poaching unit in Kenya, gaining firsthand insights into wildlife conservation, or participating in a coral project in Palau, helping scientists and the local community combat coral bleaching. By choosing hotels that source their operations and experiences locally, we ensure that your stay supports and respects the local culture and environment.
Knowledgeable Leaders
At Miru Adventures, we provide our own experienced leaders who travel with our customers to these most unique hotels ever. Our leaders are experts in interpreting the local culture, customs, and environment. They have extensive experience and speak the local dialects, allowing them to create real and genuine interactions with the local communities.
Picture yourself on a game drive in Tanzania, guided by a Miru leader who knows every detail of the landscape, or in India, where you get to cook and share meals with local families, learning about their traditions and culinary secrets through our knowledgeable leaders.
In addition to our own leaders, we also source local operators from the hotels themselves or trusted partners. This ensures that your experience is enriched with deep local knowledge and expertise. These knowledgeable leaders enhance cultural interactions and help you understand the local heritage and environment deeply, making your stay more than just a place to sleep, but a rich, educational, and immersive experience.
Personalized Experiences
We look for unique hotels that offer curated, personalized experiences. Whether it's a private tour, a unique cultural activity, or tailored amenities, these hotels ensure that your stay is engaging and inclusive.
Imagine catching the perfect sunset at the Taj Mahal, timed just right for an unforgettable view, or having a bespoke dining experience under the stars in a remote African safari camp. Our goal is to make sure every moment of your trip is special and reflective of your personal interests and needs.
Creative Trip Programming
We choose hotels that think outside the box, offering unique and innovative programs. This could be anything from staying in remote locations to engaging in sustainable practices. Envision joining a sustainable tourism initiative in the Galapagos, where your stay helps protect the unique biodiversity, or exploring the untouched wilderness of Namibia with guides who reveal the hidden wonders of the desert.
These creative offerings allow you to make the most of your travel experience, ensuring that your journey is not just a trip, but a series of unforgettable moments.
By focusing on these four main ingredients – locality, knowledgeable leaders, personalized experiences, and creative trip programming – we ensure that our recommended hotels provide not just a place to stay, but a gateway to deeper, more meaningful travel experiences.
With this philosophy in mind, we have curated a list of the top 15 most unique hotels from around the world. Each unique hotel really embodies the essence of Miru Adventures, offering luxury, comfort, and a deep connection to the local culture and environment. Let's explore these unusual hotels in exceptional destinations and discover what makes them truly unique.
Africa
Africa is a continent of incredible diversity, offering a wide range of landscapes, cultures, and experiences. From the vast savannas teeming with wildlife to the rich traditions of local communities, Africa provides an unparalleled backdrop for unique and memorable adventures. Here are some of the most unique hotels in Africa that embody the spirit of Miru Adventures.
Elephant Pepper Camp – Mara North Conservancy, Kenya
Nestled in the heart of the Mara North Conservancy, Elephant Pepper Camp offers an authentic safari experience that blends luxury with a profound connection to the natural world. This camp, located in a prime area of the conservancy, ensures that guests are deeply immersed in the African wilderness while enjoying modern comforts.
The camp features traditional safari tents that provide comfort while maintaining a close connection to nature. These spacious canvas tents are equipped with private en-suite bathrooms, featuring flush toilets and traditional safari showers, ensuring that guests enjoy all the comforts of a modern luxury hotel room in a wild setting. Each tent also includes a private verandah with a hammock, perfect for relaxing and taking in the stunning views of the savannah.
Guests at Elephant Pepper Camp can enjoy guided game drives in open-sided 4x4 vehicles, led by highly qualified Maasai guides and trackers. These drives offer the chance to witness the iconic Big Five and the incredible wildebeest migration. Additionally, the camp offers night game drives and guided bush walks, providing a comprehensive safari experience.
Unique dining experiences are a highlight at Elephant Pepper Camp. Guests can enjoy bush dinners under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness. The camp also supports cultural visits to Maasai villages, offering an immersive experience where guests can learn about the rich traditions and daily lives of the local Maasai people.
Elephant Pepper Camp is committed to eco-friendly practices, utilizing solar power and minimizing its environmental impact through sustainable construction techniques. This dedication to sustainability, along with its luxurious amenities and deep connection to the local culture and environment, makes Elephant Pepper Camp a perfect choice for those looking to minimize their environmental footprint while enjoying the best of what Kenya has to offer
Kwara Camp – Okavango Delta, Botswana
Nestled in the heart of the Okavango Delta, Kwara Camp offers an exclusive safari experience within a private concession that borders the Moremi Game Reserve. This camp provides guests with a perfect blend of luxury and immersion in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.
The camp features nine intimate, traditionally styled canvas tents, each elevated on wooden platforms. These tents come equipped with en-suite bathrooms that include both indoor and outdoor showers, and some tents even have outdoor baths with stunning views over the floodplains. The tents also have ceiling fans and mosquito nets, ensuring comfort and a touch of elegance in the wild.
Kwara Camp offers a wide range of activities that allow guests to fully explore the unique ecosystem of the Okavango Delta. Guests can enjoy game drives, both during the day and at night, providing excellent opportunities to see predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards.
Water-based activities include mokoro (dugout canoe) excursions and boat trips on a double-decker boat, which are particularly popular for birdwatching and exploring the lush waterways. The camp also offers guided walks and fishing, allowing for a more intimate and tranquil exploration of the delta.
The camp's commitment to sustainability and conservation is evident through its operations. Kwara Camp operates a digital detox experience, meaning there is no Wi-Fi or cell phone connectivity, encouraging guests to disconnect and fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. The on-site restaurant serves locally sourced meals, enhancing the authenticity of the stay while supporting the local economy.
Overall, Kwara Camp promises a luxurious yet authentic safari experience, providing guests with unforgettable wildlife encounters and a deep connection to the natural beauty of Botswana.
Entamanu – Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Perched on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, Entamanu offers an exceptional blend of luxury and sustainability in one of the world's most dramatic landscapes. The camp’s eco-conscious design incorporates Maasai cultural elements and ensures a minimal environmental footprint while providing guests with a luxurious stay.
Guests stay in spacious, heated tented suites that offer breathtaking views of the crater and the surrounding highlands. These tents are equipped with en suite bathrooms and cozy furnishings, ensuring comfort even in the challenging highland climate. The camp is designed to provide warmth and shelter, featuring gas heaters in the rooms and fires in the main lounge area.
Entamanu offers a variety of activities to enrich your stay. Educational crater tours allow guests to learn about the geological and ecological significance of the Ngorongoro Crater. Walking safaris led by knowledgeable guides provide an opportunity to explore the surrounding area on foot and gain a deeper understanding of the local flora and fauna.
Guests can also enjoy cultural interactions with Maasai warriors, learning about their traditional customs and way of life. These interactions are designed to be genuine and respectful, often taking place in exclusive Maasai bomas away from tourist crowds.
For relaxation, the camp’s on-site bar serves refreshing cocktails, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. With its commitment to sustainability and deep connection to the local culture, Entamanu Ngorongoro offers a truly unique and immersive experience for travelers.
Mala Mala – Sabi Sands, South Africa
In the renowned Sabi Sands game reserve, Mala Mala offers a premier safari experience with luxurious accommodations and prime Big Five viewing. The lodge’s suites and guest rooms are elegantly designed with private decks and en suite bathrooms, providing a high level of comfort and privacy. Guests can enjoy personalized service and tailored safari experiences, including game drives and bush walks led by expert guides.
Mala Mala’s commitment to conservation is evident in its operations, which focus on sustainable tourism practices and community involvement. The lodge’s unique features include an on-site bar and a lounge area where guests can relax and share stories of their adventures.
The dining area offers five-course meals prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a memorable culinary experience. For those seeking an unforgettable experience, Mala Mala provides the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and conservation.
Mala Mala Game Reserve is a sprawling 13,300-hectare private reserve on the Sand River, offering some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa. The camp features 10 luxury suites, 8 luxury rooms, and 1 single room, each equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and private decks. Guests can enjoy game drives in open 4-wheel drive vehicles, night drives, photographic safaris, and walking safaris.
Asia
Asia is a continent of contrasts, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern innovations. From the tranquil beaches of Indonesia to the bustling streets of Vietnam, Asia offers a rich variety of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. Here are some of the most unique hotels in Asia that reflect the diverse beauty and culture of this vibrant continent.
Wakatobi Resort – Indonesia
Situated in the heart of Wakatobi National Park, Wakatobi Resort is a diver’s paradise. This resort seamlessly blends luxury with a deep commitment to marine conservation. The resort offers a range of accommodations, including overwater bungalows and beachfront villas, each providing stunning views of the surrounding ocean and direct access to pristine coral reefs.
Guests at Wakatobi can immerse themselves in world-class diving and snorkeling experiences, exploring some of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems on the planet. The resort’s house reef, easily accessible from the shore, is renowned for its vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life, including pygmy seahorses, turtles, and a plethora of colorful fish species. For those seeking a unique accommodation experience, the underwater hotel suite offers the best of the underwater world experience, where guests can sleep surrounded by marine life.
Wakatobi’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its operations, focusing on the protection and preservation of local marine ecosystems. The resort works closely with local communities and scientists on coral conservation projects, offering guests the chance to participate in these initiatives and contribute to the fight against coral bleaching.
Dining at Wakatobi is a culinary delight, with an on-site restaurant serving fresh seafood and locally sourced produce. Guests can enjoy beachfront dining, creating the perfect setting for a romantic dinner under the stars. The resort also emphasizes personalized service, ensuring that each guest’s stay is both comfortable and unforgettable.
Andaz Bali - Indonesia
Inspired by a traditional Balinese village, Andaz Bali offers a unique blend of luxury and local culture in the serene coastal village of Sanur. The resort is designed to reflect the rich heritage of Bali, featuring lush tropical gardens, local craftsmanship, and modern amenities. Each of the 149 rooms, suites, and villas incorporates Balinese elements, creating a harmonious balance between contemporary comfort and traditional aesthetics.
Guests can indulge in various wellness programs and spa treatments at the resort’s Shankha Spa, the largest in Sanur. Cultural workshops and activities provide a deep dive into Balinese traditions, allowing visitors to connect with the local culture through art, dance, and culinary experiences.
The resort’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-friendly operations, including the use of local materials and sustainable practices throughout its facilities. The themed rooms provide a unique accommodation experience, with each room reflecting different aspects of Balinese culture and design.
Private beach access allows guests to enjoy the pristine sands and clear waters of Bali’s coastline. The on-site bar offers a selection of local beers and exotic cocktails, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Dining at Andaz Bali is a culinary journey, with the on-site restaurant serving a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Beachfront dining options add to the allure, providing the perfect setting for a romantic dinner under the stars.
Satri House – Luang Prabang, Laos
Satri House is a blend of French-Indochinese architecture and serene elegance, offering guests a luxurious retreat in the heart of Luang Prabang. The hotel is housed in a historic colonial mansion that was originally built by the parents of Prince Souphanouvong, the first President of Lao PDR. This unique historical background adds a rich cultural dimension to the stay.
The boutique hotel features lush gardens, creating a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation. Each room and suite is adorned with antique furnishings and traditional Lao decor, providing an authentic yet luxurious experience. The themed rooms reflect different aspects of Lao culture, enhancing the guests' connection to the local heritage.
Satri House offers various cultural activities, such as cooking classes and workshops, where guests can learn about traditional Lao crafts and cuisine. The on-site restaurant serves a delightful mix of local and international dishes, using fresh ingredients sourced from the region. Guests can enjoy their meals in the open-air dining area overlooking the beautiful gardens.
The hotel also features a serene spa, where guests can indulge in traditional Lao massages and wellness treatments. The on-site bar serves a selection of local beers and refreshing cocktails, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Luang Prabang’s cultural landmarks.
The central location of Satri House allows for easy access to the city's temples, markets, and the Mekong River, making it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Laos.
For more detailed information, you can visit their official website or explore guest reviews on Mr & Mrs Smith.
Park Hyatt – Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Park Hyatt combines French colonial charm with contemporary luxury. The hotel features elegantly designed guest rooms and suites, each offering modern amenities such as en suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and free WiFi. The rooftop pool provides stunning views of the cityscape, making it a perfect spot to relax.
Guests can indulge in gourmet dining at the hotel’s two on-site restaurants, Opera and Square One, which serve a mix of Italian, French, Vietnamese, and seafood dishes. The on-site bar offers a selection of fine wines and local beers, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.
The hotel's prime location allows for easy access to the city's vibrant nightlife and cultural sites, including the Saigon Opera House and Notre Dame Cathedral. Guests can also participate in Vietnamese cooking classes, providing a deeper connection to the local culture. With its blend of luxury and local charm, Park Hyatt ensures a memorable stay in the bustling heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
Taj Lake Palace Hotel – Udaipur, India
Set in the middle of Lake Pichola, Taj Lake Palace offers a regal experience with its floating palace design. Originally built in the 18th century, this exquisite white marble palace has been transformed into a luxurious hotel that still retains its historic charm and grandeur. Guests can enjoy boat rides on the lake, heritage walks, and traditional Rajasthani performances. The hotel's luxurious suites and historical ambiance create an unforgettable stay, reflecting the rich heritage of the region.
The Taj Lake Palace features 83 rooms, including 17 suites, each elegantly appointed with antique furnishings and ornate glasswork. These suites provide breathtaking views of Lake Pichola, the Aravalli mountains, and Udaipur's cityscape. The en suite bathrooms and themed rooms offer modern comforts while maintaining a traditional aesthetic.
Dining at the Taj Lake Palace is a culinary journey with its on-site restaurants offering a variety of Rajasthani and international dishes, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The hotel's bar serves a selection of fine wines and exotic cocktails, perfect for enjoying the sunset over the lake.
Guests can also indulge in spa services, enjoy the outdoor pool, and participate in cultural activities such as folk dances and music performances.
Jamtara Wilderness Camp – Pench National Park, India
Located in the wilderness of Pench National Park, Jamtara Wilderness Camp offers an intimate and luxurious experience in the heart of nature. The camp features ten luxury safari tents, each equipped with en suite bathrooms and private verandahs that overlook the serene landscape. Guests can truly connect with nature while enjoying all the comforts of modern amenities.
One of the camp's standout features is the unique star bed experience. Inspired by the traditional machans used by villagers to watch over their crops, these raised platforms allow guests to sleep under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle. This experience offers a profound connection to the wilderness, with the night sky providing a natural, awe-inspiring canopy.
Guests at Jamtara can partake in safari drives and nature walks, exploring the rich biodiversity of Pench National Park. The camp also offers village walks, allowing visitors to engage with the local community and learn about their way of life. The camp’s commitment to conservation and community involvement is evident in its operations, which aim to protect wildlife and support local livelihoods through responsible tourism practices.
The on-site restaurant serves delicious meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. The bar offers a selection of local beers and refreshing cocktails, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure.
Jamtara Wilderness Camp provides a unique blend of luxury, nature, and cultural immersion, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an unforgettable experience in the Indian wilderness.
Palau Pacific Hotel – Koror, Palau
Nestled on the private white sand beaches of Koror, the Palau Pacific Hotel is a haven for those seeking luxury amidst natural beauty. The resort spans 64 acres of lush tropical gardens, providing a serene backdrop for an unforgettable stay. The accommodations include oceanfront rooms, suites, and water bungalows, all designed with island-inspired décor and modern amenities such as private balconies or terraces, en suite bathrooms, and stunning ocean views.
Guests at Palau Pacific Hotel can indulge in a variety of activities that highlight the unique marine environment. Snorkeling and scuba diving excursions allow exploration of vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, making it one of the premier diving destinations in the world. The resort also offers traditional Palauan massages, providing a unique cultural experience.
For dining, the on-site restaurant serves fresh seafood and locally sourced dishes, ensuring a memorable culinary experience. Guests can enjoy themed rooms that reflect Palau's rich culture and history. The Akoi-Koi Bar and other dining facilities offer a selection of fine wines and exotic cocktails, perfect for unwinding after a day of marine exploration.
The resort's commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its operations, which aim to protect the local ecosystem while providing guests with an exceptional experience. With its combination of luxury, natural beauty, and cultural richness, Palau Pacific Hotel stands out as a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Alila Jabal Akhdar – Jabal Akhdar, Oman
Perched on a cliffside in the Al Hajar Mountains, Alila Jabal Akhdar combines eco-friendly design with luxurious amenities and breathtaking views. This unique resort is designed to reflect the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. The resort offers a range of activities including hiking, cultural tours, and spa treatments, all while surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
Guests can stay in beautifully appointed rooms with private balconies that offer stunning views of the rugged landscape. The themed rooms at Alila Jabal Akhdar provide a unique accommodation experience, each reflecting a different aspect of the local culture and environment.
The resort’s on-site restaurant serves a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. Guests can relax in the lounge area, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, or enjoy a drink at the bar, which features a selection of fine wines and exotic cocktails. The resort's commitment to sustainability and luxury is evident in every detail, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience both comfort and the natural beauty of Oman.
For more details about Alila Jabal Akhdar, including activities, dining options, and accommodations, you can visit their official website.
Latin America
Latin America is a region of immense natural beauty and cultural richness. From the pristine beaches of the Galapagos to the vibrant streets of Valparaiso, this continent offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Here are some of the most unique hotels in Latin America that reflect the spirit of adventure and discovery.
Finch Bay – Galapagos, Ecuador
Located on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos, Finch Bay is an award-winning eco-hotel offering an unparalleled experience in one of the world's most unique ecosystems. Surrounded by mangroves and the pristine waters of the bay, the hotel provides a tranquil retreat with a strong commitment to sustainability and conservation.
Guests can stay in beautifully appointed rooms and suites, each designed to offer comfort while blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The hotel features an outdoor pool, private beach access, and lush gardens, providing a serene environment for relaxation.
Finch Bay offers a range of activities that allow guests to explore the rich biodiversity of the Galapagos. These include guided snorkeling and scuba diving excursions, wildlife-watching tours, and visits to the nearby Charles Darwin Research Station. The hotel's unique location provides easy access to some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the Galapagos, where guests can observe sea lions, marine iguanas, and a variety of colorful fish.
The on-site restaurant serves a variety of fresh, locally sourced dishes, with a focus on sustainable seafood and organic produce. Guests can enjoy their meals with stunning views of the bay, creating a memorable dining experience. The hotel's bar offers a selection of fine wines and exotic cocktails, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Finch Bay's commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-friendly practices, such as solar energy use, water conservation, and waste management programs. This dedication to the environment ensures that guests can enjoy their stay while minimizing their impact on the fragile ecosystem of the Galapagos.
Somerscales Boutique Hotel – Valparaiso, Chile
Set in the vibrant city of Valparaíso, Somerscales Boutique Hotel combines historical architecture with artistic design. Housed in a 19th-century mansion that was once the home of the British painter Thomas Somerscales, the hotel offers a blend of colonial charm and modern comfort. Guests can explore the colorful streets of Valparaíso, participate in wine tours, and enjoy cultural festivals. The hotel's personalized service and unique ambiance make it a standout choice.
The hotel's rooms are elegantly furnished with antique pieces and feature themed decor that reflects the artistic heritage of the region. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay.
The on-site restaurant serves a variety of local and international dishes, providing a memorable dining experience. Guests can relax in the lounge area, which offers stunning views of the surrounding city and bay. The hotel's bar offers a selection of fine wines and exotic cocktails, perfect for enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Valparaíso.
Somerscales Boutique Hotel's prime location provides easy access to some of the best cultural and artistic sites in the city, making it an ideal base for exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of Valparaíso.
Refugio da Ilha – Pantanal, Brazil
Situated in the heart of the Pantanal wetlands, Refugio da Ilha offers an immersive eco-lodge experience surrounded by one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. Guests can participate in a variety of activities, including birdwatching, boat safaris, and horseback riding, making it an ideal destination for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.
The lodge's dedication to sustainability and conservation is evident through its eco-friendly operations and involvement in local research and conservation projects. For instance, the lodge supports initiatives like the PAPAGAIO VERDADEIRO and the ARARA AZUL projects, which focus on the preservation of native species. These efforts ensure that guests not only enjoy a unique adventure but also contribute to the protection of this vital ecosystem.
Refugio da Ilha offers themed rooms with private bathrooms that reflect the surrounding jungle, providing comfort while maintaining a close connection to nature. The on-site restaurant serves a variety of dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering guests a true taste of the region’s culinary heritage.
The lodge’s bar serves local beers and refreshing cocktails, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. With its prime location, Refugio da Ilha provides easy access to some of the best wildlife viewing spots in the Pantanal, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all guests.
Final Reflections on Unique Stays Across the Globe
Each of these hotels embodies the spirit of Miru Adventures by offering unique, luxurious, and immersive experiences that connect guests with their surroundings and local communities. From the wilds of Africa to the vibrant cultures of Asia and the rich biodiversity of Latin America, these hotels provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable adventures.
Whether you're exploring the majestic landscapes of the Ngorongoro Crater, experiencing the vibrant marine life in the Galapagos, or immersing yourself in the historical charm of Valparaiso, these exceptional destinations promise to enhance your travel journey. Consider these unique stays for your next adventure, and let Miru Adventures guide you to experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime, creating memories that resonate long after you've returned home.