New luxury lodges in Africa opening in 2021

Sussurro, Southern Mozambique

Spacious private bungalows, stylishly designed and furnished with sustainable pieces created onsite or collected from sub-Saharan African, complement the natural light and changing colours of the landscape, creating a real sanctuary where guests are aligned with nature. The thoughtful design of the space allows guests to feel at one with the surroundings of the peninsula, ultimately creating a more meaningful travel experience. Intimate tailored bush experiences into the national Parks of Gorongosa and Zinave are on offer at Sussurro, where guests can opt to spend a night sleeping under the inky African skies. Guests can also enjoy morning or afternoon ocean safaris aboard lateen rigged Mozambican dhows, where they can dine on fresh seafood on deserted islands – a luxury castaway experience like no other.

Kruger Shalati, Kruger National Park

One of the most anticipated new additions to the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa is quite literally elevating the luxury safari experience to a whole new level. Elevated high above the Sabie River in Skukuza, is Kruger Shalati, built on the historical Selati Bridge in the form of a re-envisioned train, reminiscent of the explorers of the park over a century ago.

The exciting new offering comprises 31 train carriage rooms, with large glass walls and epic views of the majestic Sabie River and the abundance of wildlife that roam its banks. The thoughtful design is a true representation of the region with local art and craftsmanship adorning each room in a true celebration of Africa. This one-of-a-kind concept is an extraordinary break away from the traditional safari experience, offering a unique and thrilling way of discovering the magic of the African bushveld. Take a dive into the train’s bespoke pool deck, high above the likes of hippos and crocodiles lurking in the waters below.

Amani Boutique Hotel, Paje Zanzibar

Amani Boutique Hotel in Zanzibar, situated on Paje Beach – one of the island’s most pristine stretches of white sand, is a self-proclaimed ‘tropical state of mind’. And for excellent reason. The name itself means peace in Swahili and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more luxurious laid-back island style retreat where the days and nights simply melt into each other.

The hotel is engulfed by softly swaying palms and tropical flowers, with the long stretch of white sandy beach and blue waters playing centre-stage to this island paradise. For those that want to kick up the adventure notch a bit, Paje is renowned for its excellent kitesurfing, scuba diving, snorkelling and dolphin spotting, all of which can be arranged at the hotel. The rooms at Amani complement the tranquil ambiance, offering guests a spacious and lavish place to rest with unparalleled views of the horizon.

Jack’s Camp, Makgadikgadi Salt Pans: another of luxury lodges in Africa

There are few places on Earth as desolate as the lunar-landscapes of the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans that make it onto the radar of international travelers. Jack’s Camp, first set up by legendary adventurer, Jack Bousfield, in the 1960s during an exciting expedition through the heart of his otherworldly desert region, has been totally refurbished and is ready to welcome guests to experience the landscape for themselves. Paying homage to the bygone era of the 1940s, with iconic interiors embellished with striking textiles from around the world, the camp exudes luxury, while still retaining a sense of authenticity and adventure. Think showers under the stars, hot water in gleaming copper jugs, and no electricity. The allure of the camp matches the allure of the landscape which bursts into life at the slightest provocation. What a great addition to our luxury lodges in Africa.

Embark on safaris – whether on foot, in custom-built 4x4s, quad bikes or even horseback – with professional guides who will reveal the splendors of this seemingly deserted landscape. Elusive species like aardwolves, honey badgers, bat-eared foxes, brown hyenas, and black-maned Kalahari lions call this region home, as well as the loveable habituated meerkats. Scenic daytime vistas extend into the evenings with some of the best stargazing on the planet at this oasis of luxury in the desert. You will find nothing like it anywhere else in the world.

See Exploring Makgadikgadi Salt Pans with Natural Selection

Mango House, South Mahé Seychelles

Opening its doors on the 1 July 2021 for guests, Mango House Seychelles is the latest hotel to join Hilton’s exclusive luxury brand, LXR Hotels & Resorts. This ultra-lux Seychelles property is situated deep in the south of Mahé, along the edge of the Anse aux Poules Bleues – a pristine bay with clear, glistening blue waters, ideal for kayaking, or snorkeling to discover the colourful, rich marine life paradise that exists under the clearest of waters.

The hotel comprises 41 villas and suites, all of which have been thoughtfully designed with the natural flora in mind, and handcrafted contemporary touches that ensure utmost comfort and luxury. Guests can enjoy any one of the three sun-kissed pools at the resort, and if that wasn’t enough to whet your appetite, Mango House is also home to number of restaurants and bars, all serving up authentic, delicious treats ranging from Mediterranean or Japanese-inspired cuisine, to Indo-Seychellois cocktails. Welcome to paradise…