5 best safari destinations in Africa to watch out for in 2025

African safaris are always an experience and certainly when staying in the luxury of a luxury safari lodge. Beause, let’s be honest, we are there to see the wildlife but at the same time we enjoy the luxury that some of these luxury properties offer us. And in 2025 there are a few new kids on the block to consider for your next getaway! Here are 5 of them that you should put on your to-do list.

and Beyond Suyian Lodge, Kenya

It has been known for a long time, but the Laikipia region of Kenya has become a unique place for wildlife on the African continent. Located in its 44.000-acre conservancy, Suyian Lodge will be able to provide the most amazing private safari experience you can find as guests from its 14 suites will enjoy all of this amazing wilderness. We all know what’s more, you don’t do an imperfect job and by the looks of it, Suyian Lodge raises the bar even further.

Effortlessly blending into its surroundings, the lodge is an architectural wonder that combines modern touches with earthy materials and strong textures, allowing its visitor to take in views on environmental conservation due to its excellent location at an altitude. Inspiration was taken from the granite kopjes that dot the area. Of course all the suites come with a private pool and a large terrace, but for me it’s the interiors that exude an air of calm and relaxation that make them the perfect retreat after an amazing game drive or any other activity.

Speaking of activities, how about a camel safari in Samburu country? Or rather take to the skies in a heli plane to show you all the unique scenery this place has to offer? One of the things I would strongly suggest, is to go on a walking safari as it meets you sharpen your senses and feel in touch with your surroundings. Who knows, you might see the odd black tiger roaming the area. Melanistic tigers are rare but so are lodges like these at the moment and Besides it is clear that it happened again.

ENVI Sisini Mara, Tanzania

If you are looking for a dynamic escape, ENVI Sisini Mara is the one to go for next year. Located in the heart of Tanzania’s stunning Serengeti NP, this camp makes the perfect base to experience not only the great migration, but equally the open plains teeming with wildlife. You may not have heard of the brand yet, but keep an eye on it because with their focus on sustainability, well-being and responsible tourism, they will be among the top players in this specific niche.

Being one with nature is important to any ENVI property and Sisini Mara is no different. With large decks surrounding 10 luxury tents you’re drawn outside to take it all in and let the sights, smells and sounds control your heartbeat. An earth-colored soft palate that runs throughout the seating area creates the perfect safe haven between your game drives.

The spa is a delightful treat that will no doubt help you process all the things you’ve seen in the park, and along with the pool, lounge and bar it will make a great place to hang out while you’re in the lodge. Even though game drives are the highlight of any safari, having plenty of opportunities to rest and relax is a luxury that cannot be underestimated.

Chichele Presidential, Zambia

The fourth place under the Chiawa umbrella, the Chichele Presidential in South Luangwa national park is the result of a partnership between Chichele safaris and the famous Cumings family (owners of Chiawa safaris). The resort was built by the president of Zambia back in the 70’s, and later managed by Sanctuary Retreats and A&K. However in 2018 the current owners took over and now it is almost ready to be shown to the world.

Due to its original purpose, it is located in the best position in the South of Luangwa, it is a high point, it provides a wonderful 360 degree view of the whole park. And to match the ideas they have pulled out all the stops in terms of hard and soft product. It will also be a carbon-neutral lodge, ensuring that they continue the legacy of conservation that the Cummings family is known for.

Outstanding features are the stunning interior, large outdoor decks – with private plunge pool- and air conditioning. For many this is a luxury that has become as commonplace as running water and electricity, yet within the reserve it is still a huge success for many reasons. Add to this an infinity lap pool, a magnificent spa and plenty of other entertainment to keep you occupied between game drives, and you know this will soon be one of Zambia’s biggest success stories.

Lemala Osonjoi Lodge, Tanzania

Of course, the Lemala brand is not new to Tanzania as it already has several camps all over the country. However it will be their first overnight stay at the famous Ngorongoro Crater even though they already have an alert camp, but Osonjoi is undoubtedly playing in another league with a clear step up in terms of luxury and comfort. With its clean lines and black exterior it blends perfectly into the surroundings, while the light and earthy tones of the interior allow guests to relax and unwind after an exciting game drive.

Located near the Lemala gate (not coincidentally) it provides access to the national park from the east side, which is known to be the most populated. This is a really big advantage as you are likely to see it on your own – early in the morning or just before dusk – when entering or leaving the park on this side.

There are 20 suites and some of them are 2 family bedrooms to easily accommodate this class. And in the rooms you will immediately see why this is an improved version of the product. Slow-burning wood stoves and hot water bottles in your bed are just a few examples of how Osonjoi makes sure you spend a cool night in comfort. Of course they had to include my favorite feature, the outdoor shower, but the list is literally endless. If luxury is non-negotiable when visiting Ngorongoro Crater, then this property needs to be on your short list!

Natural Selection Mbamba, Botswana

As a brand with one of the largest portfolios in Botswana, Natural Selection is stepping up with its new venture Mbamba. Being a prime location in the northern part of the Okavango, it guarantees to offer spectacular wildlife viewing all year round. Especially predators like wild dogs and lions are known to roam this area regularly. Ideally situated in the shade of the giant leadwood trees that surround the camp, its site was carefully selected by safari legend Ralph Bousfield just outside the famous Moremi National Park.

The 12 canvas tents continue that vintage look and style that we know so well from the irreplaceable Jack’s Camp, and I’m glad they continue to use it as it adds that extra safari star to the overall experience. Inside you need to imagine four poster beds, Persian rugs and lots of mahogany to really take you back in time, but with all the modern additions you can think of. They even decided to add a pool pavilion like the one they have in the Kalahari.

The game drives are more intense each day and with the high density of predators and other wildlife in the area, it is important to take the time during that drive to fully take it in. But don’t forget the abundance of bird life, because with more than 350 recorded species, this is without a doubt the dream place of any ornithologist. Especially from a quiet mokoro that allows you to explore from a low angle, the perfect way to really get in, because the Okavango has so much to offer!

Of course there are many more lodges that will appear in 2025 and in 2026 there are already a few on the horizon, but these 5 are certainly among the ones that excite my curiosity the most. Which one would you like to hear?

Kristof Eyckmans

Kristof Eyckmans is a travel writer from Antwerp, Belgium. He has lived all over the world and while he loves wildlife and nature, he still enjoys the beautiful urban jungle.