Imagine yourself in the middle of the Serengeti National Park, surrounded by endless savannahs with no one else in sight. Or in the middle of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans, where time seems to stand still as you gaze up at the star-lit, inky night sky. Africa is a magical place! But where you stay matters, as choosing the right lodge can make all the difference. And with that, we're excited to share some brand-new luxury safari lodges across Africa opening in 2024 that our Travel Experts highly recommend. Each of these lodges holds and shares something special and should definitely be on your African safari bucket list!
The new year brings a host of new luxury safari lodges to enjoy, Image Credit: Singita
New Luxury Safari Lodges Opening This Year
Marataba Residence by MORE Family Collection – Opened Early March 2024
In the heart of the malaria-free Marakele National Park, Marataba Residence stands as a serene exclusive-use retreat against the Waterberg mountains. Situated beside the Matalaba River in South Africa, this newly opened safari lodge offers incredible wildlife sightings right on your doorstep.
At Marataba Residence, you're promised an intimate bush experience, with four elegant tents accommodating eight adults and two children. Enjoy twice-daily private game drives, lead by a knowledgeable guide, and indulge in unique experiences like the Thabametsi Treehouse. A dedicated Residence butler and chef ensure your stay is comfortable and personalised, capturing the essence of luxury safari living.
As far as new lodges go, Marataba Residence is definitely not one to miss, Image Credit: MORE Family Collection
Atzaro Okavango Camp by African Bush Camp – Opening Late March 2024
This 100% solar-powered new luxury safari lodge, incorporates various natural textures and floor-to-ceiling windows to provide guests with unobstructed views of the Okavango Delta. It's accessible by helicopter, and the remote location is ideal for an exclusive experience in the heart of Botswana.
Guests can connect with nature during morning and evening game drives, venture out on mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) rides on the waterways, and embark on walking safaris. In between these adventures, opt for pamper treatments at the spa or unwind in the yoga studio, gym, or twenty-metre-long pool. This one-of-a-kind lodge is ideal for families with children (all ages are welcome) and groups of friends.
A beautiful render of Atzaro Okavango, Image Credit: African Bush Camps
Singita Milele by Singita – Opening May 2024
Singita is a personal favourite among our Travel Experts and guests alike. And Singita Milele will be no different! This ultra-exclusive, high-end villa is surrounded by the vast plains of the Serengeti wilderness. It's ideal for families or groups of friends looking for a private, luxury safari in Tanzania.
Enjoy enchanted evenings around the firepit boma, admire the views from the infinity pool and savour tailor-made wine tastings from a selection of award-winning wines. With a front-row seat to the Great Wildebeest Migration as the herds move through the Grumeti Reserve, and activities include bird watching, walking safaris, community visits, and a private movie room, what more could you possibly hope for?
A first look at Singita Miele will look like, Image Credit: Singita
Tawana Camp by Natural Selection - Opening May 2024
Relax in complete privacy as you immerse yourself in uninterrupted views of the Gomoti River. Because of its location, new luxury safari lodge will offer a magical perspective of the Okavango Delta, where the waterways are hugged by lush forests and grasslands. You will be in awe of the high concentration of game and wildlife... you might even spot something roaming through the unfenced camp!
Twice-daily game drives will allow you to see the Okavango Delta in all of its glory, whether from above via helicopter flights, mokoro, game drives or on foot. It's a magnificent experience to see the veins of the Delta from a new perspective.
A render of what the new luxury safari lodge, Twana Camp, will look like, Image Credit: Natural Selection
Jack’s Private Camp by Natural Selection – Opening March 2024
Jack's Private Camp redefines luxury safari with a perfect blend of exclusivity and personalisation. Catering to families and small groups, the camp offers a harmonious mix of private and communal spaces, enhanced by a dedicated team including a chef, host, and guide for a bespoke wilderness experience. Enjoy diverse activities, from engaging with habituated meerkats and exploring the Makgadikgadi Pans with local tribesmen to quad biking and helicopter rides. Dining options vary from elegant wine-paired dinners to relaxed, family-friendly meals tailored to your preferences.
The camp's adventures include thrilling game drives, bush walks, horseback safaris, and unique sundowners overlooking the stunning landscape. Each experience at Jack's Private Camp is crafted to offer an intimate, unforgettable journey that balances adventure with tranquility.
Jack's Private Camp is one new luxury safari lodge that's not to be missed! Image Credit: Natural Selection
GweGwe Beach Lodge by Natural Selection – Opening March 2024
Tucked between Port Edward and Port St. Johns on the Wild Coast of South Africa's Eastern Cape, GweGwe Beach Lodge is a remarkable retreat set in a stunning landscape of pristine rivers, waterfalls, and secluded beaches. The lodge's enchanting setting is complemented by suites with private pools and gardens, providing a serene escape amidst natural beauty.
GweGwe Beach Lodge caters to both adventure seekers and those seeking relaxation. It offers a variety of activities ranging from guided nature drives and kayaking to self-guided snorkelling and stand-up paddleboarding. The lodge also has a curiosity centre to learn about local culture, a kiddies corner for your little ones, and a deck at Riverside for outdoor dining, ensuring a delightful experience for families, couples, and nature enthusiasts.
Enjoy views of the beach from your suite at GweGwe Beach Lodge, Image Credit: Natural Selection
Karangoma by Wild Expeditions Africa – Opening 1 May 2024
In the lush Okavango Delta, Karangoma stands as a testament to cultural harmony and natural connection, formed through a partnership with local elder Olatotse Sarefo and rooted in Bukakhwe San and Hambukushu traditions. Its name, resonating with healing and prosperity, mirrors the camp's intent to reconnect guests with nature and ancient cultures. Karangoma's six tented suites on a shaded peninsula offer stunning views of the Okavango Delta's floodplains and an intimate wildlife experience.
This new luxury safari lodge offers a unique blend of activities. Guests can enjoy day and night game drives, guided walks, bird watching, and seasonal mokoro rides through waterways. The fully solar-powered camp supports eco-friendly practices and welcomes children over eight, providing a perfect blend of adventure and sustainability.
Karangoma will offer a plethora of incredible activities for you to enjoy, Image Credit: Wild Expeditions Africa
Kokoko Camp by Asilia Africa – Opening 1 July 2024
Kokoko Camp offers a unique safari experience, centred around exploratory walking safaris, game drives, and night drives led by one of Asilia's top guides. This intimate camp, accommodating up to six guests, takes you into the heart of the wilderness, inviting you to connect with nature and the dedicated camp crew. With its prime location in Southern Tanzania, Kokoko Camp is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Focused on delivering an authentic and personal safari experience, Kokoko Camp provides an opportunity to engage deeply with the wild. Enjoy evenings under the stars and dine by lantern light in the riverbed, encapsulating the essence of a true safari adventure. This camp, suitable for children aged 12 and above, promises a memorable journey filled with discovery, exploration, and unforgettable memories.
Enjoy the experience of a lifetime at Kokoko Camp, Image Credit: Asilia Africa
Mara Toto Tree Camp by Great Plains Conservation – Opening 1 July 2024
Nestled under a canopy of African ebony trees, this new luxury safari lodge is a serene oasis offering an out-of-this-world safari experience. Four elegantly designed tents provide an escape, hidden from the world's hustle and noise. It's a perfect choice for those seeking a personal connection with nature.
The camp, welcoming a maximum of eight adult guests and children over six, is equipped for an immersive safari experience. Each suite boasts a professional camera set and high-quality binoculars, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, including day and night game drives, with the option of private vehicle tours and the unique comfort of in-suite spa treatments. Mara Toto Tree Camp is an exceptional destination for an intimate African adventure.
A render of what we can expect Mara Toto Tree Camp to look like, Image Credit: Great Plains Conservation
Time to Embark on an Extravagant Adventure!
We're in the business of making dreams come true, no matter how wild they are. And on our continent, they can get pretty wild!
However, that certainly does not mean that you have to rough it. You can explore the untamed wilderness of Africa without compromising on luxury with your loved one, family, and friends.
Let's start planning your grand luxury safari at these exciting new luxury safari lodges to stay at in 2024.
Featured Image Credit: Angama
