Shining Bright Like A Diamond

Shining Bright Like A Diamond

With the world’s second-largest diamond recently unearthed in Botswana, in this blog, we shine a light on all that is sparkling and new in Africa, as we highlight some of the continent’s most recent hotel openings, and look ahead to what lies in store in 2025.

Singita Milele, Serengeti

Singita are rightly renowned for their collection of superior safari lodges, which stretch from South Africa’s National Kruger Park right up-to Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, but Tanzania was the location of their newest property. A private five-suite villa, Singita Milele opened in the heart of the Serengeti, and has exceptional facilities which include a cinema room, fitness centre and no fewer than four swimming pools.

Mara Toto Tree Camp, Masai Mara

Across the border in neighbouring Kenya is the latest offering from Great Plains Conservation – the Mara Toto Tree Camp. Taking treehouse living to the next level, the sumptuous suites come complete with private lounge, outdoor verandah, deep copper bath & exercise bike, as well as the complimentary use of professional camera equipment, allowing the lucky few to properly record their once-in-a-lifetime stays.

LUX Marijani, Zanzibar

Heading across to Zanzibar, LUX Resorts unveiled their first property on the island - LUX Marijani. Located alongside unspoilt sands on the tranquil northeast coast, the rooms and suites are of an Arabic-meets-Swahii design; all white-washed walls & tiled terraces. Alongside the expected - superb cuisine, attentive service and enticing water sports, are the unexpected; sandbank yoga, forest bathing and lessons in how to craft a famous Zanzibar door.

Molori Mashuma, Mana Pools National Park

Further south in Zimbabwe, Molori Mashuma opened its doors in Mana Pools to boost the limited stock of luxury accommodation available in this untouched area of wilderness. The six stunning tented suites are set on the banks of the Mashuma Pan, with two villa-style suites each having their own private pool. Guests need never leave the main lodge area, which has a large outdoor deck and plunge pool overlooking the game-rich surrounds.

Atzaro Camp, Okavango Delta  

Finding a bed in Botswana’s Okavango Delta can be tricky in high season, so the opening of Atzaro Camp was welcomed by all. Adding to the stable of the renowned African Bush Camps organisation, this new permanent camp has superior tented accommodation with air-conditioning and private plunge pools. Year-round game-viewing and safari activities mean that this Delta delight can be enjoyed at all times of the year.

Fairmont Cape Grace, Cape Town

Right at the bottom of the continent we have a re-imagining of a long-time favourite. The Cape Grace has sat on Cape Town’s Waterfront Development for many years but it has recently had a serious makeover, and has been re-branded and re-opened as the Fairmont Cape Grace. The service remains exemplary, but the hotel’s fresh look includes an enhanced spa, fitness centre, and revamped restaurant.

What's Coming In 2025?

In the northern Okavango Delta, Natural Selection’s Mbamba Camp will feature 12 solar-powered, air-conditioned luxury tents which will be nestled among leadwood trees and will offer private game-viewing verandahs. The Tanzanian operator Lemala Camps are also due to unveil their latest beauty next year - Osonjoi Lodge. Set precariously on the edge of the iconic Ngorongoro Crater it will offer extraordinary views and game-viewing safaris to match. Finally an old favourite will be re-born when the Spier Hotel re-opens after a major makeover. Set in the Cape Winelands, it was one of the area’s first wine farm hotels, and much is anticipated when it welcomes guests once again.