A global distinction, earned every day: Rhulani's 13th consecutive victory

Some achievements become even more meaningful with every passing year. On Saturday evening, 17 October, Rhulani Safari Lodge once again reached an extraordinary milestone, receiving the prestigious title of “Best Luxury Bush Lodge – Global Winner” at the 2026 World Luxury Hotel Awards, marking our 13th consecutive global victory.

Thirteen years at the top, one dedicated team, and an enduring passion for excellence – Rhulani Safari Lodge celebrates another extraordinary milestone at the 2026 World Luxury Hotel Awards in Bucharest, Romania.

The announcement was made during the glittering World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony at the magnificent JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel in Romania. Rhulani was invited to this exclusive international gathering for the 13th year in a row, and, as has become a proud tradition, the lodge's owner, Rolf Steiner, travelled to the host city personally to receive the trophy on behalf of the entire Rhulani team.

Yet, behind this remarkable series of victories lies a story far more important than a collection of trophies.

Thirteen years at the top – and never taking it for granted

Since our first victory in 2014, Rhulani Safari Lodge has continued to earn this global distinction year after year. Thirteen consecutive wins are a source of immense pride, but they also represent thirteen years of responsibility: the responsibility to maintain exceptional standards, to keep improving, and to ensure that every guest who arrives at Rhulani experiences the quality, warmth and attention to detail that define our lodge.

In the world of luxury hospitality, consistency is one of the greatest challenges. It is not enough to deliver an outstanding experience once. Every day brings a new group of guests, new expectations and countless small details that must come together seamlessly. From the comfort of our private chalets and the quality of our cuisine to the knowledge and passion of our field guides, the attentiveness of our hospitality team and the unforgettable moments experienced out in the African bush, excellence depends on the commitment of every individual.

At Rhulani, we know that maintaining this standard requires hard work, discipline, investment and a genuine passion for what we do. There is no standing still. We continually seek ways to refine our offering while preserving the personal atmosphere and authentic connection with nature that make Rhulani special.

That is why receiving this award for the 13th consecutive year is not simply another trophy. It is an encouraging confirmation that our daily efforts continue to make a difference – and a powerful motivation to keep striving for the very best.

An international recognition built on trust

Established in 2006, the World Luxury Hotel Awards has become one of the most prestigious international recognition platforms in luxury hospitality. This year's celebrations were particularly special, as the organisation marked its 20th anniversary, bringing together outstanding hospitality establishments and industry representatives from across the world.

The recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the support of the people who know and appreciate what we do. Guest and public voting, including support from loyal guests, business partners and friends, plays an important role in the awards process, alongside the organisers' assessment of excellence within the industry.
For Rhulani, this makes the achievement deeply personal. Behind every vote is someone who has experienced our hospitality, recommended us to others, worked with us as a travel partner, or followed our journey over the years. Their confidence in us is something we never take for granted.

As the World Luxury Hotel Awards celebrates two decades of recognising excellence, we are proud that Rhulani has been part of this journey for most of those 20 years. Our first global victory in 2014 began a relationship that has continued to inspire our team and strengthen our determination to deliver memorable safari experiences.

A memorable celebration in Bucharest

The 2026 gala took place at the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel, an impressive five-star property renowned for its grandeur, elegant surroundings and distinguished hospitality. The hotel holds a special place in Marriott's European history: it was the first JW Marriott hotel to open in Europe.

Against this distinguished backdrop, guests from around the world gathered to celebrate outstanding achievements in luxury hospitality. For Rhulani, the evening was both a celebration of the past thirteen years and an opportunity to reflect on the people and values behind our success.

For Rolf Steiner, receiving the trophy personally was once again a way of representing everyone who contributes to Rhulani's success – from the team working at the lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve to the guests and partners who support us across the globe.

Although the trophy is presented on stage to the lodge's representative, the achievement belongs to an entire community. It is the result of many years of shared effort, loyalty and belief in what Rhulani stands for.

Above all, this award belongs to our team

Our most heartfelt thanks go to every member of the Rhulani Safari Lodge team.
Every game drive, every carefully prepared meal, every welcoming smile, every thoughtfully maintained chalet and every moment of genuine care contributes to the experience our guests take home with them. Much of this work happens quietly, behind the scenes, without applause or recognition. But it is precisely this collective commitment that makes a lasting difference.

To our management, guides, chefs, hospitality staff, housekeeping team, maintenance colleagues, and everyone working behind the scenes: this trophy belongs to you. Your dedication, professionalism and passion are the foundation of our success. We are immensely proud of what we achieve together.

We also extend our sincere gratitude to our loyal guests, business partners, travel agents, friends and supporters around the world. Your votes, recommendations, trust and continued encouragement have helped make thirteen consecutive global victories possible. You are an important part of the Rhulani story.

The journey continues

Thirteen consecutive years as the world's “Best Luxury Bush Lodge” is an extraordinary achievement, but we see it not as a finish line, but as a commitment to the future.

At Rhulani Safari Lodge, our philosophy remains unchanged: to create exceptional safari experiences in which understated luxury, personal hospitality, the beauty of the African wilderness and a genuine respect for our surroundings come together naturally.

As we return our attention to everyday life in Madikwe, we do so with renewed pride and motivation. The trophy from Bucharest is a reminder of how far we have come – and, above all, of the responsibility we carry to continue delivering the quality our guests and partners have come to expect.

Thirteen years. Thirteen global victories. One dedicated team. And the same passion for the African bush that has inspired us from the very beginning.

Thank you for being part of our journey. ❤️

Rhulani Safari Lodge – #FeelTheBush