We are always excited to learn about new camps opening in Africa and this year there are a number of excellent new additions which have either opened recently or are due to open in 2025. We have rounded up those which we are most excited about.
Kutandala, North Luangwa National Park, Zambia
The North Luangwa National Park in Zambia has always been eclipsed by the more well-known South Luangwa National Park, with fewer access options and camps. However, this pretty national park is every bit as rewarding to visit as its counterpart, with great wildlife viewing with the key species including elephant, lion, zebra, giraffe and leopard all resident. Supported by the Frankfurt Zoological Society, it the only place in Zambia you have the chance of seeing black rhino after they were reintroduced a number of years ago.
A true safari connoisseurs park, with few camps, few roads and even fewer vehicles. A couple of camps have operated in this park for a number of years and this year Kutandala, an old-time favourite camp, is re-opening. With new owners it is being reimagined, keeping the original – very pretty – site which overlooks the Mwaleshi River in the heart of the national park. Keeping true to the original, the camp will offer immersive walking safaris, with the addition of game drives and hide-based wildlife viewing, with one particular focus being on viewing the elusive black rhino.
The camp will open with just three tents, taking a maximum of six people on safari and we are expecting that like Classic Zambia’s other camps, these tents will offer an authentic and immersive experience whilst also offering the comforts of hot water and en suite bathrooms.
Tanyati Private Villa, Livingstone, Zambia
Zambia has always offered an enviable selection of exclusive use houses for those wishing to travel with friends or as a multi-generational family. With the opening of Tanyati Private Villa in Livingstone, another luxurious option is added to this portfolio. Located adjacent to, and sister property of, the renowned Mukwa River Lodge, this villa is set to open its doors on April 1st this year. Beautifully positioned on the banks of the Zambezi River, the villa can accommodate up to 10 guests (8 adults and 2 children), for a private stay for families and groups wanting more privacy.
Livingstone is home to the Victoria Falls in Zambia and is one of the original natural wonders of the world. It is a World Heritage Site which offers an array of activities and experiences. A few days here is an ideal way to start or finish a safari in Zimbabwe, Zambia or Botswana with boat trips on the Zambezi River, tiger fishing and island picnics. The area is often considered to be the adrenalin capital of Southern Africa with numerous exciting activities on offer including helicopter flights over the Falls, gorge swings, bungee jumping and White Water Rafting, often considered to be the best commercial rafting in the world.
Chichele Presidential Lodge, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
With 360-degree views of the wildlife rich floodplains of the South Luangwa in Zambia from its elevated position on a hilltop, Chichele Presidential Lodge is due to re-open in April 2025. Originally built in 1972 as the private retreat for Dr Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia’s first president, the lodge has undergone an extensive re-build and refurbishment and will offer an elevated level of comfort and style, whilst including a nod to its heritage. Each suite will now have its own private plunge pool and large decks which offer amazing views of the surrounding park.
The South Luangwa National Park is known to many for the quality of the wildlife viewing, and activities available. Also known as the ‘valley of the leopards’ this elusive spotted cat is frequently seen, in addition to wonderful herds of elephant and buffalo, large lion prides and plenty of plains game besides. Walking safaris are also a feature of safaris here, with day and night game drives also offered. Chichele Presidential Lodge will be offering all of these activities when it opens its doors.
Zambia is renowned for its authentic and rustic bush camps with only a handful of safari properties offering a more luxurious lodge / non-tented safari accommodation option. With the opening of Chichele Presidential Lodge, in the heart of the South Luangwa National Park, a new and different option is available. Being developed by the Cumings Family who have other first-rate properties in Zambia, we expect Chichele to be every bit as good – for guiding standards, hospitality and food all whilst embracing the areas rich wildlife and adding to the conservation work which is ongoing in the area.
Spier Hotel, Stellenbosch, South Africa
Located on a family owned and working wine farm, the newly renovated Spier Hotel in the heart of South Africa’s Winelands, will re-open its doors in 2025. The hotel will offer 80 luxury rooms in a village style layout and with two restaurants and three bars at the hotel itself. Further options are available across the farm. Each of the luxury rooms and suites have been decorated in a contemporary and light style, and offer views of the indigenous Cape gardens.
The farm, conveniently located just 30km from Cape Town International Airport, is perfectly positioned to explore all that the Winelands, from beautiful landscapes, excellent and varied vineyards to sample the different wines, and enjoy the galleries and shopping in the area. In addition, activities on the farm include the wellness spa complete with bath house, steam room, sauna, gym and treatment rooms, explore the farm by segway, learn about winemaking and contemporary South African art, enjoy walking, running or cycling trails or simply relax by the hotels heated pool.
Azura Marlin, Benguerra Island, Mozambique
A barefoot luxury, boutique, hotel, Azura Marlin on Benguerra Island, Mozambique, opens its doors in May this year. A favourite property, the original Marlin Lodge, burnt down in 2012 and Azura Marlin has been reborn under the Azura Retreats collection. The warm, clear, waters of the Indian Ocean lap gently on the shore of the 1km untouched beachfront that the property enjoys. There are just 10 stylish villas at Azura Marlin, including one two bedroom villa with its own private pool, and each offers incredible views of the Indian Ocean.
Located within the pristine Bazaruto Archipelago Marine National Park, Benguerra Island is an idyllic destination which offers crystal-clear turquoise waters, endless white sandy beaches and healthy reefs offering excellent marine life. Enjoy island life with snorkelling and diving excursions, dhow trips, island drives and fishing all on offer. Kayaking, SUPing, beach dinners and use of Peri Peri Beach Club (accessible by vehicle), which has a swimming pool and views of the ocean, are also all available.
This is the perfect retreat on the shores of the Indian Ocean which honeymooners, couples and families will love.
One to watch out for in 2026
Erebero Hills, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
Taking inspiration from the surrounding landscape of rolling hills, Erebero Hills – which means ‘a place where you can see far – is due to open in June 2026. Located on the northern edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda, the property will provide the ideal base from which to enjoy all that the area has to offer – including tracking gorillas in the area. The property is due to have eight forest-view suites tucked into the hillside and each will offer a viewing deck with wonderful views of the forest.
With only a limited number available each day, gorilla tracking permits book up well in advance and therefore it is worth planning well-ahead for a trip which will take in gorilla tracking. There is currently an offer (valid until 28th February 2025), whereby any booking of Erebero Hills will get one free gorilla tracking permit per person (value $800 per permit).
If you would like to start planning your holiday to Africa or the Indian Ocean, taking in one of these new properties, or elsewhere, please do get in touch with Lucinda and she would be delighted to help.