New Safari Lodges Opening in 2025 and Beyond

Here are the latest luxury safari properties opening this year that you should consider for your next safari adventure. From conservation lodges to authentic safari camps, the developments in the world of luxury safari accommodation are exciting!

Honeyguide Launches New Conservation Lodge – Opening January 2025

This new lodge adds to the existing Honeyguide Ranger Camp within the Big Five Entabeni Game Reserve, with the complete Honeyguide Portfolio featuring four safari camps in South Africa and Tanzania. Honeyguide Conservation Lodge features 10 luxurious rooms, each with a spacious deck offering views of the adjacent dam, expansive bushlands, and surrounding Hanglip Mountain.

This lodge will be graded a five-star lodge, offering game drives and walks with plans to earn its name by “inviting guests to participate in ongoing conservation projects”. The lodge will be both child-friendly and wheelchair accessible. Upgraded amenities will include:

• A new overflow pool
• Dining conservancy
• Spa treatment room
• Lounge area

Chichele Presidential Lodge, Zambia – Opening Early 2025

Chichele Presidential Lodge in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia, is set to reopen in March 2025 after a complete transformation. Originally built in the 1970s as a retreat for Zambia’s first president, Kenneth Kaunda, the lodge has been reimagined through a partnership between Chichele Safaris, Chiawa Safaris, and Fox Browne Creative. Situated atop a hill with panoramic views of the park, the lodge offers a unique mix of heritage and modern amenities while adhering to sustainable practices.

The revitalised lodge will feature 10 luxurious Vista Suites once open. The property’s redesign is said to emphasise both luxury and environmental responsibility, incorporating recycled materials and clean energy systems. Original pieces and handcrafted Zambian artistry blend with timeless elegance and modern sophistication, all framed by sweeping views of the Luangwa Valley.

Guests can enjoy guided safaris, yoga sessions, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities, as well as gourmet dining with locally sourced ingredients. The lodge also supports local conservation and community initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to preserving Zambia’s natural beauty while offering a world-class travel experience.

Mbamba Camp, Okavango Delta – April 2025

Natural Selection‘s new Mbamba Camp, opening in April 2025 in the northern Okavango Delta, promises an authentic under-canvas experience with a touch of luxury. This 100% solar-powered camp features 12 air-conditioned tents, including double, twin, and family units. Each tent has an en-suite bathroom and a private verandah, offering guests secluded comfort and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. The camp’s central area includes two lounges, a dining area, a fire pit, and a swimming pool for relaxation between thrilling game drives and mokoro safaris.

Set within the expansive and wildlife-rich NG12 concession known for its year-round game viewing, guests can expect to see sought-after wildlife like African wild dogs, lions, and over 350 bird species. This camp provides both land- and water-based activities, including helicopter flights and cultural trips to the Tsodilo Hills, ensuring a well-rounded adventure.

The vast, untouched NG12 concession, which adjoins the Moremi Game Reserve, provides a private and exclusive safari experience. Ideal for families and larger groups, Mbamba Camp combines comfort with a deep connection to the natural world, making it a prime addition to Botswana’s luxury safari circuit.

Azura Marlin Beach, Mozambique – May 2025

After a devastating fire in 2012 and an extensive rebuild, Azura Marlin Beach, part of the boutique Mozambican hotel group Azura Retreats, is set to reopen its doors in May this year. This luxury accommodation will boast 10 villas, each complete with its own private deck. Villa Vista, the option with two bedrooms, will have its own private pool.

Azura Marlin is set on Benguerra Island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, a breathtaking beach paradise. Here, the pristine white sand and azure water provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing island holiday. Sail in a traditional dhow, go to remote islands for romantic picnics, and go snorkelling and diving to experience the magnificent Two-Mile Reef.

We’re keeping an eye out for lodges opening in 2026…

Erebero Hills – Early 2026

Asilia Africa is opening a new lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in early 2026. With the focus on sustainable luxury, the design takes inspiration from the rolling hills of the surrounding landscape and is crafted from local bamboo. Tucked in the hillside, the eight suites will offer sweeping views of the forest. The glass-fronted interiors will maximise the natural light for a more immersive experience in nature.

Due to its superb location, Erebero Hills will provide easy access to activities like gorilla trekking, Batwa community visits, nature walks, garden tours, and tea tastings.

Explore Discover Africa to plan your bucket list bush experience. Not sure when to go? Check this Seasonal Safari Calendar or try this handy Safari Cost Estimator.