Every year brings new properties and, often, new protected areas across Africa. We keep our thumbs on the pulse of what’s going on, in many cases visiting new camps and lodges that we think our travelers will like while excitedly anticipating the openings of others. Here is a sampling of what we’re excited about that is newly opened or soon to come.
Kibale Lodge is a new property from one of our trusted partners. It sits on a ridge with gorgeous views of Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains and is the perfect base for chimpanzee trekking in the Kibale area. With just eight bandas total (four are open now and four more will open by the end of the year), it’s a lovely, intimate lodge and affords guests a personalized experience.
Opening this summer, Suyian Lodge is the only property within a 44,000 acre private conservancy in Kenya’s Laikipia region. Lucky guests will enjoy safaris within a vital wildlife movement corridor which provides safe haven for 100+ mammal species including the black (melanistic) leopard. They can also interact with teams on the ground that assist in the protection of resident wildlife.
Laba Grumeti Art Lodge will open in July in an area of the Serengeti that we love. They have found artists from throughout Africa to produce 42 pieces of African art, which have informed the design of the 11-tent (plus one two-bedroom family tent) lodge. Beyond the incredible artwork, we are excited about Laba Grumeti’s commitment to sustainability that includes refurbished vintage Land Rovers developed in-house that have been adapted to run on three different fuels: diesel, for when it is cold to start the engine; ethanol, for general driving; and electric, for when animals are in close proximity and a silent approach is preferred.
The Mpala Jena Private Villas in Zambezi National Park sit upstream from Victoria Falls on the sandy banks of the Zambezi River. In August, the two new three-bedroom villas will be unveiled offering family, multigenerational and small group travelers total privacy, luxury and an exceptional safari experience. Each villa will feature a private main area, swimming pool, three luxurious riverfront suites, and the inclusive services of a private butler, safari vehicle and guide.
Chichele Presidential Lodge in Zambia’s stunning South Luangwa National Park was once a beautiful refuge for the country’s founding president. It reopened to travelers once again in April of 2025 and has delighted visitors. It was reimagined and rebuilt to the highest standards into what is one of Africa’s most luxurious safari lodges. Its location and history are incredible and is a great fit for guests who want contemporary and luxurious safari lodgings.
Contact one of our Journey Specialists to plan your own customized safari and subscribe to our newsletter below for more safari inspiration and information.
Photos courtesy Kibale Lodge, Suyian Lodge, Laba Grumeti Art Lodge, Mpala Jena Private Villa and Chichele Presidential Lodge