Africa may have an abundance of fabulous lodges and boltholes, but each new year brings new beauties to add to your bucket list. Whether it’s a familiar favourite with a new coat of paint or a freshly-minted arrival, ready to welcome its first guests, you might just find the place to complete your safari on our list of top new lodges in Africa.
Sungani Lodge
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
A smart new lodge to add to the South Luangwa’s list, Sungani sits in the deep south of the park where there isn’t a single lodge or tourist for miles. The lodge is hidden in the shelter of the trees with peaceful views over an oft-visited lagoon, which forms the perfect backdrop for sunny breakfasts, dips in the pool and G&Ts at dusk. Spaciously laid out on the banks, there are seven stylish suites, each decorated in warm, natural tones, locally-inspired finishes and luxury touches like the deep slipper bathtub and private plunge pool. Your days are seen to by expert guides, who will show you the wonders of the park on game drives, walking safaris and boat trips past harrumphing hippos.
Usangu Expedition Camp
Ruaha National Park, Tanzania
In the already remote Ruaha, you’ll find Usangu Wetlands, a tucked-away wilderness where herds of roan and sable antelope cross paths with great, marching elephant and lion prowl in pursuit. Under the shade of miombo trees, pint-sized Usangu Expedition Camp provides an idyllic way into the wild. Join researchers as they track big cats and endangered species, boat along the wetlands to discover a menagerie of birdlife and spy the most discreet animals on a night drive. Later, return to camp for a fire-cooked meal and piping-hot bucket shower.
Tembo Plains Camp
Mana Pools, Zimbabwe
In the protected surrounds of Sapi Reserve, Tembo Plains Camp is blissfully secluded and, with only five suites, you’ll feel like you have the place to yourself. Chic yet rustic, the bedrooms are inspired by the old Zimbabwe Ruins and feature special touches like weather-worn Zanzibari doors. Each has a private pool and dining space on the deck, handcrafted clawfoot bathtubs and a professional camera to use at your leisure – and there’s certainly much to capture, from elephant swimming across the river to elusive creatures darting by on a night drive.
Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira
Nampula, Mozambique
Making its grand entrance in December 2022, Banyan Tree is the epitome of sun-kissed island goodness. On a private isle off the coast of Mozambique, the resort will boast 40 villas, each with their own pool, enormous windows and a view to gaze at for hours. When you fancy a pamper, head to the award-winning and suitably divine spa, and when you can’t resist the water anymore, explore it via kayak, stand-up paddleboard or cruise, or discover the underwater delights with a spot of scuba diving. Perhaps, our favourite part is the resort’s commitment to being 100% solar-powered.
Sanctuary Tambarare
Laikipia, Kenya
Set amongst Kenya’s wildlife giants, Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a shining light for rhino conservation and the Sanctuary Tambarare is a prime spot from which to experience it all. Looking over acres of unspoilt grasslands, you’ll enjoy the striking vista from your veranda and, inside, a plush, prettily-decorated suite. Venture out on a game drive to see elephant, giraffe and antelope in their numbers, track prides of lion with an expert, and ride horseback in the company of endangered species. You’ll even have the chance to see the last pair of northern white rhinos on earth, offering poignant insight into the conservancy’s importance.
&Beyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge
Serengeti, Tanzania
Serengeti buffs may know this lodge as &Beyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp but a facelift has seen this old favourite rise to new heights. Nostalgically elegant, the 10 suites feature elements borrowed from across Tanzania, from the rich Kitenge fabrics to the vibrant colours of Lake Victoria’s fishing communities. Depending on when you visit, you could spy (through Swarovski binoculars, no less) the thunderous migration crossing the Grumeti and after a full day of wildlife-watching, there are nights in the boma with drinks from the artfully-done bar.
Mila Tented Camp
Serengeti, Tanzania
A tried and tested classic, Mila Tented Camp has moved its magic to Nyasirori in the Serengeti’s Western Corridor. A wonderfully remote and understated region, there is no bad time to visit and no limits to the wildlife you might see, including some of the largest crocodiles on earth and the thundering wildebeest when the Great Migration passes through in May and June. Back at base, you’ll enjoy the same stellar service and safari feel that Mila is known for, with the added bonus of glorious views of the golden grasses in its new home in the West.
The Homestead
KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields, South Africa
In South Africa’s undiscovered Nambiti Reserve, The Homestead is an eco-conscious yet luxury lodge surrounded by a diverse and incredible wilderness. There are 12 lovely suites, some with inventive roof gardens and others with a private pool, and the entire lodge is solar-powered. Leave your nature-inspired spot in search of the Big Five, for hikes into the mountains, or a visit to some of South Africa’s most famous battlefields. For a more restful afternoon, the infinity pool is a cooling place for a cocktail and some waterhole spying.
The Retreat at Giraffe Manor
Nairobi, Kenya
Its ‘mother’ property is one Africa’s most famous hotels, and now there’s good news for day visitors to Nairobi looking to experience some of the magic of Giraffe Manor. Newly-opened, The Retreat at Giraffe Manor, offers a taste of the elegant property to those with some time to spare during the day. In between flights, spend a few hours at the spa, enjoy lunch, and take a dip in the infinity pool where an endangered Rothschild Giraffe may just amble past.
And lastly…
An honourable mention goes to Wolwedans Starbeds, a new and exciting offering in the dark sky NamibRand Nature Reserve is arriving later this year. We’ll keep you posted!
