HOTTEST NEW SAFARI LODGES 2025

Here it is – our annual “Hottest New Safari Lodges” – 2025 edition!

We’ve personally selected only the finest, always in support of conservation and restoration, and would love for YOU to be one of our very first guests to experience these extraordinary new offerings.

Should you need any guidance in selecting your preferred lodge(s) from these new additions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. There are some excellent introductory offers to take advantage of!

As you earmark your calendars and dream of new experiences, know that we are here to seamlessly turn those dreams into unforgettable realities.

Warmest regards,
Jen, Simon, and the Bellingham Team xx

Originally built in the 1970s as a private retreat for President Kenneth Kaunda, Chichele Presidential has undergone a complete transformation, seamlessly blending its storied past with modern luxury and warm Zambian hospitality. Now part of the much beloved Chiawa Safaris portfolio—alongside Chiawa Lodge, Old Mondoro, and Puku Ridge— led by legendary conservationist Grant Cumings; Chichele is poised to reclaim its place as a flagship property in Zambia’s wilderness landscape.

With its relaunch, Chichele promises more than just legacy and luxury—though there is plenty of that! It offers purpose, inviting travelers to be part of an experience deeply rooted in conservation of the spectacular South Luangwa National Park.

South Luangwa has been a growing favourite of ours providing our guests with a sense that they are exploring a part of the world that remains much the same as ever. A sense of excitement grips you, from the moment you cross the hippo-filled Luangwa River into South Luangwa National Park; wildlife is abundant and beauty is everywhere. The lodge’s elevated position on a hilltop delivers sensational 360-degree views of South Luangwa’s wildlife-rich floodplains. Not only is this sensational position outstanding for game viewing but also the perfect place to envision the safari activity you have planned.

Opening: April 2025
Rates from US$ 1,400 per person per night sharing.
More about Zambia here

andBeyond is fulfilling a long-held vision to deepen their impact in Kenya, and we’re excited to announce their expansion into the northwest region of Laikipia on the magnificent Suyian Conservancy in partnership with global conservation charity Space for Giants. Framed by the majestic Ewaso Narok River on its eastern edge and the snow-capped silhouette of Mt Kenya as its backdrop, it is here that the new Suyian Lodge finds its perfect home. Nestled amidst 44,000 acres of private wilderness land, the lodge boasts just 14 suites, including a family suite, ensuring an unforgettable and intimate safari.

Named after the African Wild Dog in the local Maa language, the lodge lives up to its name and one can expect the unexpected, with possibilities of rare savanna species including African Wild Dog, Grevy’s Zebra, Gerenuk, Striped Hyena, Beisa Oryx, Aardwolf and Reticulated Giraffe. For the ultimate sighting, there’s a chance to witness the iconic Black Leopard, a true supermodel of African wildlife photography!

Opening: July 2025
Rates from US$ 1,500 per person per night sharing.
More about Kenya here

We are thrilled to have a fresh new offering in little-known, low trafficked but high impact, Akagera!

Modern luxury, cultural inspiration and pristine natural surrounds come together at this intimate camp, set on a private concession within Rwanda’s Akagera National Park. Near sister camp Wilderness Magashi, Magashi Peninsula overlooks Lake Rwanyakazinga and the stunning Mutumba Mountains.

Central Africa’s largest protected wetland and the country’s only refuge for savannah species, Akagera is home to a diverse array of wildlife, from lion and leopard to the rare Shoebill and Eastern Black Rhino.

Combine a stay at Akagera National Park with a visit to Volcans National Park for Mountain Gorilla trekking and Nyungwe Forest National Park to see Chimpanzee and you have a safari that is impossible to experience anywhere else on earth!

Opening: September 2025
Rates from US$ 1,020 per person per night sharing.
More about Rwanda here

We are thrilled this is finally happening after we were teased with its re-emergence just before Covid. Previously known as Marlin Lodge, the property has been reimagined after a 2012 fire, bringing a fresh and vibrant new option to Azura’s exceptional portfolio. Forget Mauritius (yes we’ve said it before!)—think remote, authentic, pristine, and meaningful. Azura Marlin Beach offers an exclusive escape with just ten gorgeous beach villas.

Savor ocean-view and ocean-fresh dining, starlit dinners, and the lively weekly Beach BBQ. Adventure abounds with a PADI 5-Star dive center and tag-and-release fishing. Or simply relax on the powder-white beaches and in the warm Indian Ocean waters.

Azura simply does “beach” like no one else with charming Mozambican hospitality in an unspoiled paradise that’s far beyond the ordinary.

Opening: May 2025
Rates from US$ 750 per person per night sharing.
More about Mozambique here

Natural Selection’s newest lodge is located in the northern Okavango Delta, Botswana. Nestled within a vast 220,000-acre private concession, the camp offers guests an exclusive safari experience. Designed by Ralph Bousfield (of Jack’s and San Camp), Mbamba features 12 luxurious canvas tents; in Ralph’s signature plush style.

Beyond its elegant accommodations, Mbamba Camp provides a range of exceptional wildlife experiences. Guests can embark on expertly guided game drives and serene mokoro boat excursions. A thrilling helicopter flight to the Tsodilo Hills reveals the most revered rock art site in Botswana – “The Louvre of the Desert” and a World Heritage Site. This private concession boasts excellent big game including one of the highest concentrations of lions in the Delta, and rare species including African Wild Dog and Sable antelope – all in a peaceful, crowd-free setting.

Opening: April 2025
Rates from US$ 1,265 per person per night sharing.
More about Botswana here

The restoration of Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique stands as one of the world’s most inspiring conservation success stories. Once devastated by civil war, the park’s ecosystem and wildlife were nearly wiped out. In 2004, philanthropist Greg Carr joined forces with the Mozambican government to transform Gorongosa into a sanctuary for biodiversity and sustainable development. Through the Gorongosa Restoration Project, millions have been invested in rehabilitating landscapes, reintroducing wildlife, and engaging local communities. Rewilding efforts have rejuvenated the park’s ecosystem, now teeming with over 100,000 large animals and a vast array of birds and other wildlife, solidifying its reputation as a global biodiversity hotspot.

Gorongosa Safaris, the project’s tourism arm, is set to unveil their brand-new Chicari Camp. The same tented camp architects who built Tawana, Liuwa, and Ngala Treehouse are now busy with construction of Chicari.

Opening: April 2025
Rates from US$ 715 per person per night sharing.
More about Mozambique here

The eagerly awaited Mpala Jena Private Villas offer privacy and exclusivity for families or small groups. Each 3-bedroom villa will include a private main area, a swimming pool, three gorgeous riverfront suites, and personalised butler and guide services. Adding to the exclusivity, each villa will have a dedicated open safari vehicle and a motorised boat included in the cost. Activities will be customised to each group’s preferences, including sunset or sunrise cruises aboard a historic dhow.

Anyone who has been to Victoria Falls will know that the Zimbabwean side of the falls offers the best viewing of the falls and while it is possible to cross the border from the Zambian side to the Zimbabwean side this can result in queues and delays which one would obviously want to avoid on holiday. With its prime location along the Zambezi River, these villas are ideally positioned to provide guests with easy access to Victoria Falls as well as unforgettable boating adventures and wildlife viewing (both on the river and within the Zambezi National Park).

Opening: August 2025
Rates from US$ 6,625 per Villa per night (3-bedrooms).
More about Zimbabwe here

Photo credits: Lodge photos by suppliers.