Tag: zambia

The Best Luxury Rail Safari Routes and Destinations in Africa

A luxury train journey on Rovos Rail or the Blue Train in Africa is invariably included on a list of the world’s best luxury rail safari destinations. These journeys are inestimably more than just transport – they’re an exploration of Africa in style, sumptuous comfort, and sheer indulgence. Olde-world charm permeates the elegant lounge carriages and defines each of the lavish, comfortable suites. 

Gourmet cuisine is impeccably served in elegant, wood-panelled dining cars, as you relax and absorb Africa’s magnificent landscapes gliding by outside the large windows. You may stop enroute for a Big Five safari or enjoy a superb overnight stay in a luxury game lodge or hotel. Throughout your trip, the emphasis will be on luxury travel that, once experienced, is never forgotten. So, switch off your phone, laptop or tablet and stash it deep and out-of-mind in your suitcase! 

The railway line in Cape Town.
Train tracks in Cape Town. Photo: Getty

Luxury Rail Safari Destinations in Africa

So, where can you go on a rail safari? In Africa, you can choose from the captivating beauty of Cape Town, the bustle of Dar Es Salaam, the breathtaking spectacle of Victoria Falls, unspoilt Zambia, historic Durban and Pretoria, the vast desert vistas of Walvis Bay, and the coastal charm of Lobito. Let’s take a closer look.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a premier destination for luxury rail safaris in Africa, offering travellers an exceptional blend of scenery, culture, and history. The city, cradled by iconic Table Mountain and bordered by the Atlantic ocean, serves as the starting or end point of several luxury train routes. 

Among these, the route from Pretoria to Cape Town is particularly notable. It allows passengers to traverse the expansive Highveld, the arid Great Karoo, and the Cape Winelands to reach the picturesque Mother City.

Highlights include stops at the historic village of Matjiesfontein, a perfectly preserved Victorian-era outpost, and Kimberley, where visitors can explore the Diamond Mine Museum and the Big Hole. Near Cape Town, the luxury trip includes off-train excursions to experience the region’s vineyards, best restaurants, and natural wonders. The combination of opulent onboard amenities on the train and the opportunity to see some of South Africa’s diverse attractions make this route a standout choice for visitors. 

Dar Es Salaam from above.
The railway running through Dar Es Salaam. Photo: Getty

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania 

Colourful and bustling Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s political and business centre. It also serves as the destination and gateway to some of the most exquisite luxury rail safari experiences in Africa. This coastal city not only immerses travellers in its unique blend of Swahili, colonial, and contemporary cultures, but is also the destination for an epic 15-night Rovos Rail journey from Cape Town that showcases the continent’s dramatic geography, wildlife, and historical sites. 

The trip includes the Selous Game Reserve, renowned for its elephant, cheetah, rhinoceros, and hippopotamus populations. The route also passes through the unspoilt landscapes of Zambia and Zimbabwe to see the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. Sumptuous levels of comfort and elegance, with opulent suites, gourmet dining, and elegant lounges, typify this luxury train safari. 

Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls, famously known as “the smoke that thunders”, is a spectacular destination for luxury rail safaris in Africa. It serves as both an awe-inspiring natural wonder and a pivotal stop on several luxury train routes. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers an unforgettable backdrop for luxury train journeys that combine outstanding natural beauty with the elegance of bygone travel eras. 

Rovos Rail and the Shongololo Express also offer routes that include Victoria Falls and all its adrenaline-fuelled activities and attractions. This luxury immersive experience takes visitors through South Africa’s bushveld, the arid plains of Botswana, and culminates in the lush surroundings of the falls themselves. Special excursions are arranged for passengers, such as guided tours, sunset cruises on the Zambezi River, and game drives in nearby wildlife parks like Mosi oa Tunya. The journey to Victoria Falls isn’t just a safari, but a lavish expedition through the very heart of southern Africa.

Train tracks pass over a waterfall in Zambia.
Train tracks pass over a waterfall in Zambia. Photo: Getty

Zambia

Zambia, with its stunning landscapes and rich wildlife, is a key highlight for travellers on sought-after luxury rail safaris in Africa. Luxury train routes through Zambia typically include journeys that span several countries, connecting South Africa’s vast landscapes with the east coast of Tanzania. The routes offered by Rovos Rail include a wide variety of options, and allow passengers to witness Zambia’s varied ecosystems, including vast savannahs, wetlands, and forests, all home to an incredible diversity of wildlife.

The luxury train journeys also often include a traverse through the Kapiri Mposhi area on the TAZARA railway, offering unique insights into Zambia’s culture and heritage. Stops enroute include game drives in the country’s national parks and visits to local communities. 

Durban, South Africa

Durban, named after Sir Benjamin D’Urban and affectionately referred to as “Durbs” by many, is one of South Africa’s best known coastal port cities. Famed for its golden beaches, multicultural atmosphere, and bustling harbour, Durban serves as the departure or conclusion for several luxury train itineraries. 

The Rovos Durban Safari trip (also available in reverse from Durban to Pretoria) is one of the most notable. It takes travellers from Pretoria to Durban, weaving through some spectacular scenery, including the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands and the famous Valley of a Thousand Hills.

The Durban Safari route is also celebrated for its rich programme of off-train excursions, including game drives in the Nambiti Conservancy. Passengers also learn about the local battlefields, and visit Ardmore Ceramics, which captures the vibrant spirit of Zulu culture. Onboard the train passengers revel in luxury accommodations, gourmet dining, and impeccable service. Durban‘s unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance and cultural richness make it a standout luxury rail destination.

Pretoria, South Africa

Pretoria, South Africa’s administrative capital, is a notable start or endpoint for some of the best luxury rail safaris in Africa. Rich in history and adorned with jacaranda-lined avenues, magnificent buildings, and lush gardens, Pretoria offers an impressive backdrop for a luxury rail journey. 

Pretoria serves as the central hub for luxury trains such as Rovos Rail and the Blue Train to several destinations. Routes from Pretoria showcase the diversity of Africa’s terrain, from the Highveld’s grasslands to the dramatic vistas of the Drakensberg Mountains, the wildlife-rich savannahs, and the stark beauty of the Karoo. Rovos Rail has their own private station in the city. 

Walvis Bay, Namibia

Situated in the Kuiseb River delta in Namibia, Walvis Bay, or Walvisbaai as it’s more commonly known, is a lively, cosmopolitan port city on the west coast of Namibia. It’s also a hub for activities and attractions, ranging from dune riding experiences to birding and encountering Cape fur seals. It’s famed for its rich marine life, including flamingos and pelicans that flock to its lagoon, and is a gateway to the dramatic landscapes of the Namib Desert. 

It’s also the destination for one of Rovos Rail’s outstanding luxury rail journeys, the sought-after 10-day Namibia Safari. This journey takes passengers from Pretoria through the heart of South Africa, the first stop being Kimberley, focus of one of the world’s most famous diamond rushes, and site of the famous Big Hole. 

In Namibia, natural wonders include the Fish River Canyon, Garas Park with its indigenous quiver-tree forest, and the vast and mind-blowing Namib Desert. A flight and overnight stay at Sossusvlei and the game-rich Etosha National Park are also included. On the final morning of the trip, the train travels to Walvis Bay and Swakopmund, both known for their German colonial-era architecture, excellent accommodations, restaurants and numerous attractions. This luxury rail experience is also available in reverse.

Lobito, Angola

Rovos Rail’s 15-day, 4,300 km Trail of Two Oceans luxury rail trip literally traverses the African Continent from east and west. It runs between the two cities of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Lobito in Angola. It was a brand new route pioneered after long negotiations by Rovos Rail in 2019 as the first passenger rail trip on the copper trail from Dar es Salaam to Lobito. It proved a great success and now runs both ways. 

High points of the luxury train’s itinerary include the Selous Game Reserve in Tanzania, a visit to the Kolwezi copper mine, a two-night safari in the renowned South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, and a tour of Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

Previously an uncharted destination for luxury rail safaris in Africa, this trip offers a unique blend of Angolan and Tanzanian culture, history, and widely diverse African scenery from coastal plains to rugged interior mountainscapes. It offers a truly immersive experience of travelling through one of Africa’s less-visited countries in unparalleled comfort and style. 

A train in Zambia.
A stunning scene along a railway in Zambia. Photo: Getty

A luxury train safari is a shamelessly indulgent experience that unapologetically insists on treating you like royalty! At Discover Africa we know that both Rovos Rail and the Blue Train will offer you a totally unforgettable safari experience. And don’t forget, we can tailor-make a safari just for you that will incorporate a luxury train trip. Book your dream adventure with us today!

UPDATED: New Flight Routes – FlySafair Adds Regional Route between Namibia and Cape Town

Travellers wanting to explore Africa’s top safari destinations can access several new flight route connections. 

FlySafair has just launched added connectivity to Kruger National Park between Johannesburg and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, starting 2 August. Easier access between Africa’s cities adds to the appeal of planning safari itineraries across multiple countries instead of a single-country trip, as travellers can now pair different experiences with traditional safari itineraries. It also means reduced travel time, with more quality holiday time in destination.

New Routes and Codeshare Partnerships to Top Safari Destinations

Aerial view of hikers on Dune 45 in Sossusvlei, Namibia.
Aerial view of hikers on Dune 45 in Sossusvlei, Namibia.

FlySafair Expands into Namibia – October 2024

FlySafair has announced the launch of its first regional route from Cape Town to Windhoek, Namibia, starting on October 22nd.

Ticket prices start at R1,800*. The route, operating twice weekly on Tuesdays and Saturdays, is expected to boost travel between the two cities, particularly for those seeking affordable access to Namibia’s renowned natural attractions.

This new route sees the airline now able to addresses growing demand, to this capital city of the Southern African destination, according to FlySafair spokesperson Kirby Gordan who states that typically, a ticket from Cape Town to Windhoek starts at R5 000 and can cost as much as R9 000 (about $500 @R18/$).

READ: Africa’s First Quiet Park: How Namibia is Redefining Solitude-Driven Luxury Travel

“We have been wanting to break into the Windhoek market for a while, but the barrier, until now, has been aircraft availability. Having an additional aircraft that we are basing in Cape Town is now enabling us to expand into the market with a competitive fare,” explains Gordon.

Norse Atlantic Adds New Direct Flight to Cape Town – October 2024

Norse Atlantic Airways
Norse Atlantic Airways launches seasonal flight between Cape Town International Airport and London Gatwick Airport. Image: Supplied

UK travellers now have more direct routes to Cape Town to choose from, with the launch of the Norse Atlantic Airways flight between Cape Town International Airport and London Gatwick Airport.

The service will operate seasonally with three weekly flights, starting on 28 October. The flight will arrive in Cape Town at 09:30 (SAST) on a Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday before departing for London Gatwick (LGW) at 11:45 (SAST). Norse Atlantic Airways will operate the service on a Boeing 787-9. 

READ: The Best Time to Visit Botswana: A Seasonal Guide to the Okavango Delta  

Egrets perched on hippos in the Okavango Delta Botswana. Photo: Getty Images
Egrets perched on hippos in the Okavango Delta Botswana. Photo: Getty Images

Air Botswana Expands its Route Network Across Southern Africa – November 2024 

More travellers can take advantage of the beautiful safari destination of Botswana and combining it with a visit to some of Southern Africa’s top destinations, including Cape Town and Windhoek.

Air Botswana is expanding its operations with new routes across Namibia and South Africa, enhancing connectivity in phases from September 1 to November 1, 2024.

The new routes include flights between Gaborone and Durban (1 October), Gaborone and Windhoek (1 October), Maun and Cape Town (starting 1 November), Maun and Windhoek (starting 1 November), Kasane and Mpumalanga (starting 1 November), and Kasane and Cape Town (starting 1 November), each operating three times weekly. Air Botswana is also increasing frequencies on routes such as Gaborone to Cape Town, Harare, and Lusaka from November.

Additionally, the airline is reinstating key routes suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, including Johannesburg to Maun (1 September), Kasane (1 September), and Francistown (15 September).

Delta Expands Service to Nigeria, Upgrades South Africa, Ghana Fleet – December 2024

Delta A330-900neo aircraft
All A330-900neo aircraft includes Delta One, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+ and Main Cabin.

Starting 1 December, Delta Airlines will revive its daily service from New York-JFK to Lagos, Nigeria, complementing its existing daily flights from Atlanta. This expansion will see Delta offer up to 14 weekly flights to Nigeria during early winter and maintain ten weekly flights for the remainder of the season. The New York-JFK to Lagos, Nigeria route will shift from a daily to three times per week on 16 January next year. 

Tourism between the U.S. and Africa will see improved service and flight connectivity from U.S. carrier Delta Airlines. The carrier announced plans to restart its service to Nigeria from New York-JFK, and fleet upgrades for its Ghana and South Africa service have been confirmed. 

New Flight Routes added in 2024:

FlySafair Launches Joburg to Kruger Route – August 2024

FlySafair has launched a new route from OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) in Nelspruit, with twice-weekly services starting on August 2.

Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) is situated just a 50-minute drive from Kruger National Park’s Numbi Gate and is also serviced by Airlink and Cemair.   The introduction of FlySafair’s new route complements the existing direct flights to Kruger National Park from Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, facilitating greater access to one of South Africa’s most beloved wildlife reserves.

FlySafair New Aircraft
Enhanced connectivity for both local travelers and international tourists is making it easier to reach prime South African destinations such as the Kruger National Park. Source: FlySafair

Airlink reconnects Mozambique’s Vilanculos with SA’s Kruger  – July 2024

In July, Airlink will return to its seasonal beach-and-bush route between South Africa’s Kruger National Park and Mozambique. The flight will link Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport with Vilanculos on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Ticket booking is live, with the seasonal route set to run until January 2025.  

The Panorama Route in Mpumalanga is a popular add-on to a Kruger safari. Highlights include God’s Window in the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes in Graskop, and the Three Rondavels rock formation. Mozambique’s Vilanculos is the launchpad to the Bazaruto Archipelago, renowned for its spectacular beaches, marine life, and vibrant island lifestyle.   

Ethiopia Airlines adds Botswana Connection – June 2024

Ethiopian Airlines will connect its capital city of Addis Ababa to Zambia’s Ndola and Botswana’s Maun starting 10 June. The flight will add three weekly connections on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. 

Maun serves as a gateway to northern Botswana. Situated on the banks of the Thamalakane River in the Southeastern part of the Delta, it offers seamless connectivity for fly-in safaris from the airport to central parts of the Okavango Delta.  

An aerial view of the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Source: Wynand Uys, Unsplash
An aerial view of the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Source: Wynand Uys, Unsplash

 

Qatar adds New Africa Gateway to DRC – June 2023

Qatar Airways has opened up a new gateway in Africa, connecting the DRC with Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The inaugural flight from Doha to Kinshasa landed at N’djili International Airport on 1 June, bringing the total number of African destinations served by the airline to 29.

The four weekly services will also increase capacity to Angola, raising the number of flights to Luanda from one to four. The addition of Kinshasa also complements the airline’s over 170 weekly flights across Africa, emphasising Qatar Airways’ commitment to enhancing connectivity throughout the continent.

Lufthansa Ups Direct Flights to South Africa – June 2024

Lufthansa is set to launch a direct flight between Munich and Johannesburg, improving access for travellers wanting to visit South Africa. The increased direct flights to South Africa bodes well for European travellers looking to visit South Africa. Some 245,259 German travellers visited South Africa in 2023, showing 42% growth compared to 2022.   

Proflight Zambia connects Lusaka and Cape Town – February 2024

Proflight Zambia launched a new direct route between South Africa’s Cape Town International and Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka in February. The thrice-weekly flights will operate on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.   

This connection suits travellers looking to maximise their safari bucket list experience with a visit to Cape Town’s world-class beaches and historically rich Cape Winelands. This year, Zambia is celebrating 60 years of independence, with visitors set for a rich showcase of its history and culture.

Camps Bay Beach in Cape Town.
Camps Bay Beach in Cape Town, one of Tripadvisor’s Top 10 Sustainable Beaches for 2024. Source: Niklas Eichler, Unsplash.

Virgin Atlantic and Kenya Airways improve connectivity to Kenya – March 2024

Connectivity between the UK and East Africa has been improved with the latest partnership between SkyTeam alliance partners Virgin Atlantic and Kenya Airways.

Kenya is one of East Africa’s prime safari destinations. It is popular with North American and UK travellers who travel to the continent to experience the Great Wildebeest Migration between Tanzania and Kenya.

The codeshare allows Virgin Atlantic customers to book flights directly on Kenya Airways’ route between London Heathrow and Nairobi.

It simplifies travel to Kenya for international visitors, including those from the UK, who can now enter with online authorization instead of a traditional visa.

Virgin Atlantic Kenya Airways codeshare
Virgin Atlantic and Kenya Airways codeshare improves flight access between UK and East Africa.

Federal Airlines to Connect Marakele and Madikwe Game Reserve – March 2024

South African charter flight provider Federal Airlines will introduce a new shuttle route connecting Marakele National Park to Madikwe Game Reserve.  The route started operating on 23 March, with departure and landing times at Thabazimbi Airport for Marataba Luxury Lodges, part of MORE collections.

Federal Air offers daily shuttles connecting South Africa’s most popular Big Five game reserves and luxury safari lodges, along with private charters direct to flight strips of luxury safari locations across Africa.  

The Marataba Rhino Conservation team in the Marakele National Park.
The Marataba Rhino Conservation team in the Marakele National Park. Source: MORE Collection.

FlySafair connects Cape Town to Kruger – April 2024

South African low-cost carrier FlySafair will launch a new route between Cape Town International Airport and Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport from 2 April. The flight will operate twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays.  

This connection also puts the popular appeal of Cape Town within reach of travellers to South Africa’s flagship national park, Kruger.

A herd of buffalo seen on a game drive in Kruger National Park.
A herd of buffalo seen on a game drive in Kruger National Park. Source: SA Tourism.

FlyNamibia Adds New Route Between Windhoek and Vic Falls  – April 2024

FlyNamibia will operate new flights between Windhoek’s Hosea Kutako International Airport and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe from 4 April. As an Airlink affiliate partner, this new scheduled flight will allow travelers to fly directly between Cape Town, central Namibia, Victoria Falls, and Kruger Park, all booked on a single ticket.

Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Ian Mackey, Unsplash.
A view of Victoria Falls, which sits between the Southern African countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Source: Ian Mackey, Unsplash.

Air Traffic Recovery Across Africa 

Passenger demand is a key driver for new route connections, adding to the availability of affordable flights, with air travel for African airlines inching towards 2019 pre-pandemic demand. International Air Transport Association (IATA) data shows that air travel for Africa rose 9.5% in December last year compared to December 2022.  

African destinations are seeing increased interest from international travellers, with independent travellers driving leisure flight route recovery in Central and West Africa, according to travel analytics firm ForwardKeys. 

Its air ticketing data painted a healthy picture for international arrivals in popular safari destinations towards the end of 2023, with double-digit growth for Tanzania (+15%), Rwanda (+15%), and Namibia (+10%).   

Connectivity to the continent is receiving a positive outlook, said Julia Simpson, President and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), who emphasized the growing desire for African destinations, noting that search trends reveal “an undeniable appetite for travel to destinations across Africa.”

Zambia’s Diamond Jubilee: Celebrating 60 Years of Independence Amidst Wildlife Splendour

Zambia, one of Africa’s best-kept safari secrets, will celebrate 60 years of independence nationwide in October.

Lusaka, Zambia’s capital city, is usually the epicenter for Independence Day Celebrations, which are held annually on October 24.

Safari operators across this unspoiled wildlife destination also plan special offers to mark the anniversary. It is an exciting time in Southern Africa when Zambia’s culture and history will be tangibly showcased for locals and visitors alike.

A Timeline of Zambia’s Road to Independence

Skyline of Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia
Skyline of Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia

Zambia’s independence is a significant chapter in Africa’s history.

It involved a complex interplay of local nationalist movements, international geopolitics, and the gradual dismantling of colonial structures to achieve independence.

Late 1800s: British Colonial Rule

Zambia was known as Northern Rhodesia under British colonial rule in the late 19th century.

Online Encyclopedia Britannica explains that the discovery of large copper deposits in the early 20th century increased British interest in this African country – already surrounded by existing British territories, such as Zimbabwe (formerly Southern Rhodesia) and Malawi (formerly Nyasaland).

1940s-1950: African Nationalism and Political Awakening

A surge in African nationalism marked the post-World War II era in Zambia.

Political movements such as the Northern Rhodesian African Congress (NRAC) took shape, later evolving into the United National Independence Party (UNIP) led by Zambia’s former president, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda.

Kaunda and other prominent freedom activists, Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula and Simon Zukas shaped these movements to pave the way for the Zambia we know today.

1953 – 1963: Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland

In 1953, the British government established the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, combining Northern Rhodesia (Zambia), Southern Rhodesia (Zimbabwe), and Nyasaland (Malawi).

The federation faced increasing resistance from Zambia.

Late 1950s and early 1960s: Independence Movements and International Pressure

Between the 50s and early 60s, the UNIP and other nationalist groups intensified their demands for independence.

Their resistance saw numerous political campaigns, civil disobedience, and negotiations.

The Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland was eventually dissolved in 1963.

October 24, 1964: Independence Achieved

After negotiations between the British government, UNIP, and other stakeholders, Zambia achieved independence on October 24, 1964.

Kaunda became the nation’s first president, and the country adopted a new flag and national anthem, marking the end of colonial rule and a new era of independence.

Zambia Remains Africa’s Best-Kept Safari Secret

Walking safari observing elephants in Zambia | Photo credit: Tena Tena
Walking safari observing elephants in Zambia | Photo credit: Tena Tena

While Zambia is one of the world’s largest producers of copper, its global tourism appeal remains its wildlife attractions. Zambia is particularly sought-after for walking, photographic, and birding safaris.

Celebrating Zambia’s Independent Wildlife Conservation
Leopard in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia.
Leopard in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia.

Sustainable tourism is pivotal to Zambia’s identity and economy.

The country’s extensive national parks like Kafue, South Luangwa, and Lower Zambezi, known for their wildlife conservation initiatives, will all look to highlight their efforts during this milestone celebration of the country’s independence.

For example, game Rangers International (GRI) focuses on wildlife conservation, particularly elephants.

Chipembele Wildlife Education Trust (CWET), named after the local word for rhino, educates South Luangwa communities on wildlife conservation. Past CWET students now hold key conservation roles within the trust, highlighting the program’s grassroots impact.

Premier Safari Circuit, including Victoria Falls
Aerial view of Victoria Falls, Zambia | Photo credit: Chundukwa River Lodge
Aerial view of Victoria Falls, Zambia | Photo credit: Chundukwa River Lodge

The magical Victoria Falls in Zambia is known as one of the world’s premier safari circuits.

While Zimbabwe might have more viewpoints of Victoria Falls, Zambia allows visitors to experience the falls more intimately: Walk across the Knife-Edge Bridge into the mist, swim in Devil’s Pool on the waterfall’s edge, as well as hike to Boiling Pot for a swim under Vic Fall’s spray.

At Discover Africa, we’ve long considered Zambia one of Africa’s untouched safari destinations. Its 60th Independence Year is an auspicious time to plan your bucket list safari experience. Let us tailor the perfect Zambia safari tour for you to experience this extraordinary country and all it has to offer.

New Safari Lodges Opening in 2025: Natural Selection to Launch Mbamba in Okavango Delta

The latest luxury safari property openings for next year that you should consider for your next safari adventure.

This year alone saw luxury safari accommodation added to Botswana’s Okavango Delta, South Africa’s Wild Coast and Namibia’s Damaraland. We’ll keep updating this list so you can keep tabs on new destinations to experience in Africa. 

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, fire pit, and a swimming pool for relaxation between thrilling game drives and mokoro safaris.

Mbamba means ‘hello’ in Botswana Bukakhwe San Bushman dialect and the new name of Natural Selections new tented Camp. Photo | Supplied

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.

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 revitalized lodge will feature ten luxurious Vista Suites once open.

The property’s redesign is said to emphasize 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.

New Lodges To Experience that have already opened in 2024:

Wilderness Desert Rhino Camp, Damaraland, Namibia –  July 2024 

Wilderness was recently rebranded from Wilderness Safaris, with conservation tourism continuing to drive its focus. The hospitality brand rebuilt its Desert Rhino Camp, which  reopened in the Namib Desert in July. This camp has eight Meru-style tents with viewing decks to make the most of the stark, beautiful, rocky wilderness.

The hospitality brand’s impactful tourism initiatives stem back to 1983, and this camp is a vital base for its partner Save the Rhino Trust. The conservation trust’s tracking teams collect data from here for one of the region’s largest, longest-running black rhino databases in the world.

Guests can follow free-ranging populations of critically endangered desert-adapted black rhinos and lions across the Damaraland plains as they learn about their unique survival skills in this harshly beautiful environment.

READ: New Botswana Safari Lodge Set to Boost Okavango Delta Appeal

Wilderness render of the Desert Rhino Rebuild in Damaraland, Namibia.
An artist’s render of the Desert Rhino Rebuild in Damaraland, Namibia. Source: Wilderness.

Great Plains Conservation Mara Toto Tree Camp, Masai Mara, Kenya –  July 2024  

Founded by National Geographic wildlife filmmakers Dereck and Beverly Joubert, Great Plains Conservation focuses on eco-tourism as part of its conservation mission.

Mara Toto Tree Camp in Kenya is a seasonal camp located a few kilometres from its sister camps – Mara Plains Camp and Mara Expedition Camp. After its recent refurbishment, it reopened in July, catering to eight guests.

The camp consists of four tents constructed from canvas and wood, set on elevated decks in the treetops, complete with ensuite bathrooms.

Guests can make the most of wildlife viewing in the Maasai Mara, which peaks with the 50,000-strong wildebeest migration as far as the eye can see across the 28,000-hectare Mara North Conservancy.  The green season migration, which usually runs between December to March from Loita Planes, can see more than 100,000 zebras adding to the dazzling spectacle.

Great Plains Mara Toto Tree Camp.
Great Plains Mara Toto Tree Camp in Kenya’s Maasai Mara. Source: Great Plains.

Natural Selection Tawana, Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana – May 2024

As the second opening in 2024 from Natural Selection, Tawana adds to the hospitality brand’s portfolio in Botswana, which includes Jack’s Camp, Tuludi, and North Island Okavango across Northern Botswana.

Founded on the region’s rich cultural heritage, Tawana is a partnership between Natural Selection and the Batawana tribe and its Chief, Tawana Moremi. The partnership looks to preserve the pristine ecosystem for future generations, while providing much-needed opportunities for the community.

The unfenced lodge, with eight suites, is designed to offer an immersive escape into the Moremi Game Reserve. The suites, including three family rooms, are set across approximately 100 square metres (130 square metres for family units) and have a separate lounge area, private terrace, and plunge pool.

Natural Selection Tawana Guest Suite Botswana.
An artist’s impression of Natural Selection’s Tawana Guest Suite overlooking the Gomoti River, Botswana. Source: Natural Selection.  

Singita Milele, Serengeti, Tanzania – May 2024

Renowned hospitality brand Singita, operators of lodges in Sabi Sand close to South Africa’s Kruger, Grumeti in the Serengeti, added Milele to its Tanzanian offering in May.

With five suites able to accommodate ten guests, the lodge’s design aims to capture the raw energy and visual appeal of the region’s wildlife. Suites include large terraces and decks, dressing rooms, outdoor showers, and views of the savannas below.

Experiences on offer include Anti-Poaching Observation Post visits and a focus on the Grumeti Fund Community Outreach Program, involving residents of the 21 villages bordering Singita Grumeti.

Miele hospitality experiences include Singita’s award-winning selection of wines, managed by its wine team in Stellenbosch, which is responsible for the selection, purchase, storage, and service of all the wines across the brand’s lodges.

Singita Game Ranger Milele, Serengeti, Tanzania.
Singita Game Ranger Milele, Serengeti, Tanzania. Source: Singita.

Nxamaseri Island Lodge, Okavango Delta – April 2024

This refurbished Desert and Delta Safaris camp is one of the longest-standing offerings in the Okavango Panhandle. Nxamaseri promises an intimate connection with nature and luxurious accommodations. The lodge has 7 double chalets and 2 family chalets. A standout feature of the newly reopened lodge is the over-water Nxamaseri Spa, with a complimentary treatment available for all guests, in addition to optional treatments available to book. 

Accessibility is streamlined through consistent air travel arrangements, with all flights arriving at and departing from the nearby Shakawe airstrip.  Culinary offerings at Nxamaseri focus on sustainably sourced, local ingredients, bringing to life the traditional practices and histories of the area’s fishermen and farmers. 

The lodge’s proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Tsodilo Hills offers unique cultural excursions, allowing guests to explore ancient San Bushman rock art and learn about the region’s heritage.  

Desert and Delta reopened Nxamaseri Island Lodge.  Source: Desert and Delta Collection.

Daunara Safari Camp, Okavango Delta, Botswana – April 2024

This owner-run camp offers an intimate experience in the heart of the Okavango Delta with a maximum of 10 guests. The camp has three couple suites and one family suite. Daunara also offers guests the opportunity to experience the Southern part of Botswana’s Delta from the air, with a 25-minute helicopter flight transfer from Maun available as an alternative to its two-hour road transfer.

Farm-to-table style dining includes a private chef able to accommodate guests’ dietary requirements. There is also a strong focus on community partnership and conservation outreach programs.

Zebras Daunara Camp Okavango Delta Botswana
Zebras seen at Daunara Camp, in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Source: Daunara.

Natural Selection GweGwe Beach Lodge, Wild Coast, South Africa –  April 2024

GweGwe is one of two new lodge offerings from Natural Selection, an established group of owner-operated safari lodges across Southern Africa.

GweGwe beach lodge, set along South Africa’s Wild Coast,  opened in April. The facilities includes nine ensuite rooms (seven twin deluxe suites and two family suites), each with a private deck and plunge pool offering ocean views.

Set within the 7,500-hectare Mkambati Nature Reserve, this lodge appeals to outdoor adventurers and eco-travellers looking to connect with nature. Activities include shore-based whale watching or snorkeling with the marine life found on this protected coastline.

A seasonal highlight is the annual Sardine Run, which is expected to run from 16 June to 10 July 2025.

Gwe Gwe Beach Lodge Wild Coast
A view of Gwe Gwe Beach Lodge, along the Wild Coast, South Africa. Source: Natural Selection. 

Atzaro Camp, Okavango Delta, Botswana – March 2024

Atzaro opened in the second quarter of 2024, immersing guests in one of the continent’s last great natural sanctuaries, Botswana’s Okavango Delta. 

With eight luxury suites and two double luxury family suites, it incorporates eco-conscious design, with the camp built chiefly with recycled materials. The main area of the lodge overlooks a lagoon. Private plunge pools come standard, with amenities including access to sky beds for candle-lit dinners and stargazing, an Ancestral Boma, and a wine bar. 

Expert  African Bush Camp guides take guests on wildlife adventures. Added experiences to look forward to are helicopter safaris and mokoro (traditional canoe) expeditions. 

Atzaro Lodge, Okavango Delta, Botswana.
Suite design at Atzaro Lodge, Okavango Delta, Botswana. Source: Atzaro.

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.