New Openings and Travel Trends for 2022 in Africa with Go2Africa

by Luxe Getaways

As so many travelers are looking for the next BIG adventure in the near future, (or in the distant future when they feel comfortable) an Africa escape is always intriguing. Go2Africa is pleased to share the new openings and private experiences that you can look forward to in 2022. With an entire team of African born and raised specialists, you know that you are in excellent hands. Whether it is your first trip to Africa, or you are planning to get further off the beaten path, you can start planning now with confidence that every detail from A to Z will be taken care of, including Covid-19 protocols, with 24/7 on-safari support.

Africa is filled with once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list experiences. Unique opportunities await from hot-air balloon flights over the vast herds of the Great Migration to trekking into the secret emerald world of the rainforests, to encountering gorillas and family-friendly whale-watching and world-class scuba diving. Go2Africa’s team of experts have been committed to building first-hand knowledge since 1998. 100% of the revenue stays in Africa to support local communities and conservation projects to protect these unique places for future generations.

“One of our core values at Go2Africa is resilience, and I’m proud to say we’ve dug deep over the past 18 months to come back stronger than ever. Since 1998 our ongoing passion and dedication to curating safe and exceptional African experiences has solidified us as trusted African safari experts, working in close collaboration on the ground with our many African partners,” shares Maija de Rijk-Uys, Managing Director of Go2Africa. She adds “Each week there are new domestic or regional flights being added within Africa, and the announcement of international routes reopening from the USA to both Kenya and South Africa has helped increase our US client base from 65% to 76%. We’re now seeing bookings from US clients at pre-COVID levels, and these clients are helping to keep safari lodges operating, aid in vital conservation and sustainability initiatives whilst traveling with purpose, all with the 24/7 support of Go2Africa. It’s so energizing to see the American market coming back to our home continent in full force, which in turn has a profound impact on the tourism industry across Africa.”

New Openings

Kenya: Sanctuary Tambarare

Nestled amongst fever trees in the shadow of Mount Kenya, Sanctuary Tambarare is opening June 2022. Sanctuary Tambarare looks out across the grassy plateau of the award-winning Ol Pejeta Conservancy.  90,000 acres of unspoiled African landscape where the Big Five roam – including the last two northern white rhinos on earth. After adventurous days tracking lions, riding horses alongside rhinos or spotting giraffes and elephants at this stunning wildlife retreat, guests can retire to the secluded tented camp for sundowners, relaxation, and attentive five-star service with 10 luxurious guest tents.

Guests who enjoy fitness activities can embark on a cycling safari, run a 3–4 mile trail through the conservancy, or join a one-hour coach-led class with a focus on functional fitness. Community interactions are perfect for those who want to learn more about the communities surrounding Ol Pejeta.

“Tambarare sets the benchmark for exclusive five-star luxury safaris at the world renowned Ol Pejeta conservancy. It’s an area where all of the big 5 are found, and lion tracking is an option, but is best known for its conservation efforts in saving the last northern white rhino,” says Go2Africa Safari Expert Lauren Johansson.

Mozambique: Banyan Tree Hotel & Resorts’ Ilha Caldeira

When Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts opens their new Ilha Caldeira property in Mozambique, activities will include whale-watching, kayaking, scuba-diving (shipwreck diving), and exploring the islands within the Archipelago. Forty private pool villas with uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean will allow guests to connect with unexplored lush tropical surroundings and white sandy beaches.

This previously uninhabited island is in the Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, which is Africa’s largest marine reserve. It is home to Mozambique’s intact living corals, green and hawksbill sea turtles. True to Banyan Tree’s commitment to the environment, the resort will be 100% solar-powered, and all water on the island is desalinated.

“Part of Primeiras and Segundas Archipelago, Africa’s largest marine reserve – this private island experience promises to deliver authentic Mozambique hospitality blended with ultra-luxury tropical surroundings.” says Go2Africa Safari Expert Mary Keet. 

Namibia: Wolwedans Star Bed Experience

Namibia is renowned for its ideal star-gazing conditions. Nowhere more so than NamibRand Nature Reserve, which is actually the only official Dark Sky Reserve on the entire African continent. The Wolwedans Collection of elegant safari camps is set against a backdrop of diverse and breathtaking desert scenery.

It provides the perfect base from which to embark on exciting and interpretative safari activities or simply relax and enjoy the grandeur of the pro-Namib landscape. The final part of the Wolwedans revamp sees the addition of 6 Star Beds units with a central dining area. These units are open to the sky for a dramatic Dark Sky experience, and an igloo for bad weather.

Go2Africa Travel Specialist Ramona Cilliers shares, “This is definitely one of the most unique and incredible experiences one can have on safari, spending the night under the starlit sky in the only African Dark Sky Reserve. The ultimate way to end the perfect day in Africa!”

South Africa: Leopard Sands River Lodge, Gate to Kruger National Park

Leopard Sands River Lodge by BON Hotels borders and overlooks the world-renowned Kruger National Park and is only minutes from the Kruger Gate entrance. The exquisitely designed lodge consists of 18 luxury units; all with private plunge pools overlooking the iconic river that is home to hippos, crocodiles and countless species of birds. The property boasts an elevated restaurant that gives guests a unique view of the park. Brought to life out of a love for nature, hospitality and sustainable tourism, Leopard Sands River Lodge cannot wait to welcome guests to experience the breathtaking scenes on offer right on its doorsteps.

“Leopard Sands River Lodge has a great location for guests wanting to visit the Kruger National Park; either on a self-drive basis or including game activities;  it’s close to airports as well as the Kruger Gate Entrance. With rooms overlooking the Sabi River guests can expect game viewing from the deck of their rooms!” says Go2Africa Safari Expert Anja Naude.

South Africa: The Homestead, Nambiti Private Game Reserve

The Homestead is set to launch in early 2022 on the Nambiti Private Game Reserve in South Africa regarded as one of South Africa’s most ambitious conservation initiatives and one of the few reserves where the majesty of the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, and rhino) can be experienced.From tailored excursions like visits to Africa’s most important battlefields to animal photography classes, world-class hiking through diverse habitats, mind-blowing stargazing and anti-poaching learning sessions, every excursion brings together culture, nature, community, history and stories to help guests reach a new level of understanding about themselves and their role in the world.

The Homestead will debut on Nambiti with 12 ultra-luxury lodges, six of which are designed for couples or solo travellers, featuring individual infinity pools, while the remaining six can be booked privately or connected to one another for groups traveling together. The property will also feature a world-class spa, fitness centre, infinity pool, multiple food and beverage outlets, and meetings and event spaces. Culinary and dining experiences will encompass organic, locally sourced, African-inspired dishes curated by world-class chefs. The luxury eco-lodge will also be available for private buyouts.With sustainability at its core, The Homestead is designed to become a complementary part of the natural landscape.

“Knowing Nambiti Game Reserve and their wildlife, history and sustainability ethos, this Luxury Eco Lodge certainly looks like a great add on to their portfolio!” says Africa Safari Expert Anja Naude. 

Serengeti, Tanzania: Ubuntu Migration Camp

This authentic semi-permanent safari camp is positioned to intercept the natural flow of animals through Tanzania’s Serengeti ecosystem during the annual Great Migration. This translates to optimal viewing of one of nature’s greatest spectacles. Ubuntu Camp is a traditional, intimate camp that offers a simple set-up with a raw wilderness feel. It delicately balances safari authenticity with guest comfort. This traditional tented camp is designed to leave no trace. They can quickly disassemble and move with the herds to new pastures for optimal sightings.

Days are spent out in the bush looking for wildlife such as lions or cheetahs attracted by the huge gatherings of prey. Over morning coffee, watch wildebeest males chasing each other or zebras tussling. For a sunrise to remember, start the day by gliding above the plains in a hot-air balloon. In the evening, look up as the stars reveal themselves in their thousands. 

“For those wanting a balance between authenticity and comfort, this tented camp provides the ideal base from which to view the migration during the ‘calving’ and ‘river crossing’ spectacles.” says Go2 Africa Safari Expert Mark Smith.

5 Africa Travel Trends for 2022

1. Private Experiences: With a focus on the outdoors, exclusive safari homes, personal chefs and private guides make Africa a desirable and safe destination for 2022. Go2Africa organizes exclusive and one-of-a-kind tailored trips that allow travelers a personalized and private experience, so you can avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Below is a sample of the most unique and new private offerings available for 2022.

“Enjoying a private experience when on an African safari adventure is an incomparable luxury. Exclusive accommodations, private charter flights and passionate staff give you the freedom to experience Africa at your own pace, with everything designed specifically around your desires. You may have the opportunity to drive the game vehicle yourself or join your personal chef in the kitchen, enjoy chocolate chip pancakes delivered to your room at 3 am if the craving hits or have your special brand of whiskey flown into the lodge, the options are endless!” says Go2Africa Safari Expert Maureen Stover.

2. Travel Bubbles at African Bush Camp: African Bush Camps have recently launched exclusive-use/private guided safaris for their camps across Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe known as ‘Travel Bubbles’. The ability to exclusively use any of their 16 bush camps and receive a personal experience allows guests to explore safely and avoid other travelers. It’s a safari home-away-from-home, – a true authentic novelty.

“Always at the forefront of delivering new ways to experience authentic safari adventures, Africa Bush Camps’ Travel Bubbles are a great way for families and small groups to explore some of the best game viewing safari reserves in Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia, all on a private basis.” says Go2Africa Safari Expert Mary Keet.

3. Private Helicopter Flights in the Serengeti: Ultra-private Mwiba Lodge is nestled discreetly among gigantic boulders overlooking a rocky gorge of the Arugusinyai River in a private 130,000-acre reserve in the southern Serengeti. This fertile landscape has over 30 freshwater springs passing through it, making it a favorite locale for elephant, kudu and lion. With the ideal blend of in-room spa treatments, fascinating cultural outings (e.g. walking with the Hadzabe or Datoga tribe interactions) and incredible wildlife experiences, Mwiba Lodge offers a premier safari destination that will appeal to discerning travelers. The incredible new scenic helicopter experience is a private flight over the reserve for up to three hours over remote locations offering spectacular birds-eye wildlife views (available June-August 2022). The Mwiba concession has a number of natural springs that attract an abundance of plains game and predators alike, especially during the calving season of the annual Wildebeest Migration from about January to March.

“Go where very few have ventured before, the private helicopter adventures at Mwiba will certainly set your safari experience apart from the rest. Explore areas inaccessible by vehicle and enjoy a private picnic or sundowner on the edge of the world, “ says Go2Africa Travel Specialist Ramona Cilliers.

4. A Remote Workcation Experience in the Seychelles: Trade in your home office for an exotic island escape where you can enjoy a blend of vacation and work on a daily basis. This new program is perfect for professionals who are interested in a nomadic lifestyle and allows them to work in the Seychelles for up to one year. The Seychelles offers travellers an amazing experience where safety is top priority. Pack your bags and your laptop and get more information here to plan your trip to Seychelles with Go2Africa. [Covid Protocols for Americans traveling to the Seychelles]

“If you’re looking to combine remote working with some oceanside R&R on some of the best beaches in the world, The Seychelles would be at the top of my list. The country is a must-see for beach lovers and easily allows for regional exploration, with convenient direct flights to South Africa and Kenya.”says Go2Africa Travel Specialist Ashley Gerrand.

5. Escape to The Galapagos of Africa: As the second smallest economy in Africa, São Tomé and Príncipe covers two islands and several mostly uninhabited islets in the Gulf of Guinea. It is a true escape from the modern world. This is a perfect destination for eco-tourists looking to explore ‘Lost Worlds’ with fantastic beaches, jungle exploration, snorkelling, fishing and bird watching. Read more about São Tomé and Príncipe, a brand new destination promoted by Go2Africa. [Covid Protocols for Americans traveling to São Tomé and Príncipe]

“If you love island adventures, hiking, snorkeling, relaxing and exploring different cultures and cuisines, these remote tropical islands off the West Coast of Africa should be on your bucket list” shares Liesel van Zyl, Go2Africa Product Manager

Tags