Lopesan Baobab Resort

The hotel is certainly architecturally impressive and the grounds look the part with an impressive array of swimming pools. Overall we had a lovely holiday (myself, husband and 3 year old along with my parents). The hotel is in a really lovely location with lots of bars, restaurants and shops in walking distance, as is the beach. All the staff we came into contact with were excellent and provide great service and always smiling and friendly. The rooms are a good size with ample storage. However, for me this hotel doesn’t quite match the 5 star rating it has been awarded. Whilst I did like it very much I think a few points to highlight are as follows... Both our room and my parents room had issues once we checked in. In our room the TV didn’t work for 2 days and our parents room needed a new safe battery. I think rooms should be checked that they are fit for purposes before checking in guests, especially given the hotel isn’t at capacity at this time of year. I know lots of people mentioned about the lighting and I get that it adds to the theme and ambiance of the hotel overall but the rooms could be brighter and so could the restaurants. You literally couldn’t see what you are eating for dinner in some spots. The other thing about the lighting is that there is no way to control the balcony light, it is either on or off. One eve my husband and I were having a drink on the balcony as my little one was in bed and the light just went off about midnight and we were in pitch black! There should at least be a little low light somewhere on there you are able to control. There is a decent hair dryer in the bathroom but unfortunately it is attached to the wall with quite a short cord and pretty heavy so takes a fair bit of effort to dry your hair whilst keeping your arm up in the air. Not a big deal but I would bring your own. The shingle used around some of the pools is odd. If you are going to create a beach theme why not use sand or at least compacted sand? The shingles hurt your feet and were quite sharp esp for little ones. They are also prime spots in the sun, where the sun is lower in the winter, most other positions are in shade for most of the time as there are lots of trees around so if you want sunshine you have to put up with the shingle. The pools were meant to be heated but they didn’t seem it to me. My husband got in as my son wanted to go in and he was shivering but I didn’t get the courage to go in at all during our stay which was a shame. I am aware I have put quite a lot of negative points above. I did actually really like this hotel. It really is beautiful and the staff are lovely, they are just missing some really small points that would make it truly 5-star and I'm sure that a lot of these issues wouldn't make a difference in the summer months.

Arrived and was treated with a cold drink, unfortunately when we went to our room it was very dark overlooking a big tree, we complained to reds and was moved to the front of the hotel. Room was spotlessly clean and tidy, as was the whole hotel. Food was nice, with a a variety of themes. Entertainment was good. We used the children’s pool which was nice but didn’t use the children services. We particularly enjoyed the swimming pools which were all heated even in July, we spent most of the time in the lazy pool on our inflatables. Getting a sun bed is in the morning was a bit tricky If you were late out in the morning, people were reserving them going off for hours. Hotel was a short walk from shops and the beach about a 10 minute walk. Staff were very friendly. Only problem we had was the breakfast - no pure orange juice - only for exclusive guests which is not fair.

From the moment you walk into this hotel, it's a wow! The imaginative African themed resort is like no other with its rustic design of big wooden buildings, beams, bridges crossing rivers with jungle effect throughout, not to mention the hidden zebras, giraffes etc. Nighttime is just spectacular with its many lit up areas reflected back into the waters. All oozing character in bucket loads. Our 2nd time here in a few months. Double standard room spacious with long settee and big balcony area. Bath, shower, bathrobes, few toiletries and, disappointingly, no tea/coffee making facilities but we  knew this so brought our own. Food very good, salads wonderful. The only negative here is… a good cup of tea! Tea is only available at breakfast time. Tip: fill your cup from their lukewarm water urn and heat up in the microwave provided then add tea bag!! Saved! Jungle gardens and pool areas are delightful with nooks and crannies for lounging. Couple of pool bar areas with fruit available to help yourself throughout the day. Evening entertainment has some good shows but if music is your thing, then you're in for a treat with the brilliant 5 piece band called Rafiki, no ordinary band here but exceptional, providing excellent music for most tastes and  music contagious for dancing. By the end of the evening, there's an exciting party atmosphere. Well done Rafiki, you're a brilliant band. This is such a lovely resort - no-one seems to come here just the once. Staff too are very friendly and keen to please. Of course, we will be back!