Our Top Picks for 2022

If some inspiration is required for creating bucket-list safari itineraries in 2022, we’ve got you covered with our beautiful, hand-picked selection of boltholes hidden across the continent. Low-key yet highly luxurious, these are places that guests will want to return to again and again. Places where the G&Ts are always crisp, the pillows are plump, and the wildlife is truly outstanding.

If you’re ready to convert those enquiries, take note of these safari camps and lodges that truly raise the bar in 2022.

Restored Founders Railway Carriage at Mantis Founders Lodge

This exclusive-use lodge hits the sweet spot for small family or friend groups seeking a unique safari escape in the Eastern Cape. As the name suggests, this timeless accommodation consists of a restored railway carriage reminiscent of luxury train travel in its heyday.

Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira – Opening December 2022

If your clients are craving something special in Mozambique, look no further than Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira. Quietly nestled on the private Island of Ilha Caldeira, this is the epitome of barefoot luxury with 40 private villas (and private pools) affording guests a front-row seat to the most majestic sunrise and sunset views.

Kichaka Lodge

Situated in the malaria-free Lalibela Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape, Kichaka Lodge is the perfect safari add-on to a Cape Town or Garden Route holiday. Extensively re-built in 2020, it strikes the right balance between elegance and comfort, offering a modern five-star uptake of your more traditional colonial style safari lodge.

Sanctuary Tambarare Camp – Opening in June 2022

This year, a smart new addition to itineraries is Sanctuary Tambarare, opening in June this year. Based in Kenya within the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, this is just the spot for safari-goers to tick off more than a few wildlife species from their list. Guided game drives offer chance sightings of lions, leopards, buffalo, elephants, giraffes, and the last pair of northern white rhinos in the world.

&Beyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge – Reopening June 2022

A recent facelift has seen this fond favourite rise to new heights. Located in Tanzania’s famous Serengeti National Park. &Beyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge provides VIP access to the Great Migration as scores of wildebeest and zebra attempt to cross the Grumeti River. There’s also the resident hippo pod to spy from the most luxurious suites including a brand new space fit for families.

Lolebezi Safari Lodge – Opening June 2022

Set in the breathtaking wilds of the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia, Lolebezi by African Bush Camps is a super luxurious lodge opening in June 2022. Its design is centered around its one kilometer private riverfront – making it a hotspot for the thriving wildlife in the area, such as leopards, lions and elephants. Lolebezi is ideal for the eco-conscious traveler looking for an unforgettable safari experience.

Waterside at Royal Malewane

Waterside at Royal Malewane is the latest addition to The Royal Portfolio. The new lodge sits alongside the tranquil waters of a watering hole on the Western Border of The Greater Kruger National Park. It’s beautifully decorated in bold and breath-taking designs that draw on the timeless luxury Royal Malewane has become synonymous with. Waterside presents an immersive setting that will engage your senses, rest your mind and reawaken your soul. A place to relax and enjoy nature. It is perfect for couples or families who value memorable experiences, personalised service and unrivalled game viewing.

Angama Amboseli

Following Angama’s success in the Maasai Mara, they have announced that they are expanding with a second location in Kenya — Angama Amboseli. Angama will bring its signature blend of warm Kenyan service, intuitive guiding and contemporary African design to the region with this intimate new camp in the heart of the Sanctuary, where guests can enjoy exploring the diverse landscape and discovering the remarkable density of wildlife.