A new safari adventure in South Africa is underway. Sabi Sabi, a name synonymous with elite safaris, is setting a new benchmark for luxury travel with a landmark expansion. Welcoming Sandringham Private Game Reserve into its portfolio and unveiling two exquisite South Africa safari lodges for 2026, Sabi Sabi is extending its legacy.
But the journey doesn’t end in the bush – a magnificent, historic five-star hotel in an exclusive Cape Town suburb completes this vision, seamlessly blending the thrill of a safari with the sophisticated charm of the Mother City. This is an invitation to experience the very best of South Africa.
Sabi Sabi: Excellence Since 1979
The next chapter of Sabi Sabi began with the luxurious Selati Camp | Photo: Selati Camp
Over 45 years ago, the story of Sabi Sabi began. Taking its name from the Sabie River which winds through the land, Sabi Sabi – in the Great Kruger Area – was bought by Hilton and Jacqui Loon, a husband and wife team who wanted to create a luxury home in the bush.
This vision snowballed in the years to come, with the next chapter of Sabi Sabi being the acquisition of a non-commercial homestead which the Loons refurbished in the 1990s to become the luxurious Selati Camp.
The removal of the fence between Kruger National Park and Sabi Game Reserve was a pivotal moment, allowing for the natural flow of wildlife – a testament to Sabi Sabi’s dedication to authentic wilderness encounters, providing guests with unparalleled game viewing opportunities.
Sabi Sabi expanded over the years with new land and properties, with the early 2000s coming to a close with four Sabi Sabi South Africa safari lodges.
Sabi Sabi Conservation Success
A huge part of the Sabi Sabi story is conservation | Photo: Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge
A huge part of the Sabi Sabi story is conservation. The Loons began this adventure with the mindset that the reserve wasn’t about ownership but instead about being custodians of the land and protecting the wilderness for the animals that call it home and for future generations to be inspired by it.
Ecotourism at Sabi Sabi is linked to conservation and community. From dedicated anti-poaching units protecting iconic species like the rhino to meticulous habitat management that ensures a vibrant environment for the Big Five, every aspect of Sabi Sabi’s operation is designed to minimise human impact and maximise wildlife well-being. You’re not just on safari; you’re part of a vital conservation journey.
Sabi Sabi has come a long way since rehabilitating and rewilding former agricultural land into premier Big Five safari destinations complete with luxurious accommodations. Now, the next chapter of their story is being written with the addition of a new game reserve, two safari lodges, and a historic hotel.
Two New Lodges in Sandringham Private Game Reserve
Once hunting grounds, Sandringham has been transformed into a wildlife sanctuary | Photo: Sabi Sabi
Sabi Sabi has incorporated Sandringham Private Game Reserve into its stunning collection of protected spaces. Located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, the focus of this 4,500-hectare reserve is on regenerative tourism and ecotourism to create an environment where wildlife can thrive and travellers can have memorable safaris.
Once hunting grounds, Sandringham has been transformed into a wildlife sanctuary thanks to the efforts of Sabi Sabi. Animals are taking to the new protected environment, becoming more habituated to safari vehicles and people in their presence.
The anticipation is palpable for the 2026 opening of N’Weti Camp and Shisaka Camp | Photo credit: Sabi Sabi.
Imagine encountering elusive leopards, tracking majestic lions (including rare white lions), and marvelling at herds of elephants and buffalo. Birdwatchers too will delight in the sightings of iconic species like fish eagles and southern ground hornbills.
The anticipation is palpable for the 2026 opening of N’Weti Camp and Shisaka Camp. While details are still emerging, expect the signature Sabi Sabi blend of unparalleled luxury, intimate ambiance, and prime wildlife viewing that has defined their existing collection.
“We are excited to be entering a phase of exploration and growth… Our journey begins with the inclusion of Sandringham Private Game Reserve, where our focus remains the rehabilitation of a magnificent piece of wilderness to the level, we believe would be best suited for a wildlife and an eco-tourism offering we pride ourselves in,” said Jacques Smit, Marketing Director at the Sabi Sabi Collection.
Sabi Sabi Acquires the Andros Hotel in Cape Town
The Andros Hotel, one of the top luxury hotels in the Mother City, has joined the Sabi Sabi family | Photo: The Andros Hotel
What better complement to the wild majesty of a South African safari than the cosmopolitan charm of Cape Town? Sabi Sabi makes this ultimate combination effortlessly luxurious with the acquisition of the iconic Andros Hotel, soon to be reborn as The Claremont.
The Andros Hotel, one of the top luxury hotels in the Mother City, has joined the Sabi Sabi family. Currently under refurbishment to bring it into the brand, The Claremont will be open for bookings later in the year.
Magdalene Sauer, the architect of the hotel, was the first female architect appointed to design such a building. Within the hotel’s refurbishment, Sabi Sabi will highlight and celebrate her legacy with Cape Dutch elements and historic antiques blended with contemporary flair.
The Andros, now The Claremont, is currently undergoing renovations and will be opening later this year | Photo: The Andros Hotel
The Claremont will have four Classic Rooms, 10 Deluxe Suites, and the Sauer Villa. Boutique wines as well as vintages from famed Constantia wineries will grace the menu at the craft wine bar. Unique craft beers, gins, and proudly South African produce will also be on offer.
A Farm to Fork experience can be had at the Vine & Veld Bistro, highlighting local farmers and producers. The on-site café will feature local coffees and an all-day high tea.
From a home in the South African wilderness to four (soon to be six) safari lodges and a luxury hotel, Sabi Sabi has become one of the best success stories in the world of African safaris. Discover Africa is excited to see Sabi Sabi continue to grow and have a positive impact on the environments they call home.
Travellers wanting to explore Africa’s top safari destinations can access several new flight route connections. International carriers have expanded their connectivity to key destinations across the continent. Easier access between Africa’s cities adds to the appeal of planning safari itineraries across multiple countries instead of a single-country trip, as travellers can now pair different experiences with traditional safari itineraries. It also means reduced travel time, with more quality holiday time at the destination. Take a look at this comprehensive list of the new flights and increased capacity to help you plan your next African adventure.
New Flight Option for Perth to Johannesburg Route – December 2025
Qantas will open a new non-stop route from Perth, Australia, to Johannesburg, South Africa, in December 2025 | Photo credit: Qantas
Qantas will give travellers a new flight option from Australia to South Africa at the end of the year. Starting in December 2025, the Perth to Johannesburg non-stop route will operate on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday with an approximate flight time of 11 hours and 15 minutes. This new flight will give people travelling from Australia more freedom when it comes to booking their safari holiday in South Africa (with numerous premier safari destinations close to OR Tambo International Airport) or their trip to Cape Town.
New Direct Flights to Londolozi with FedAir – 1 June 2025
Safari-goers can enjoy direct access to Londolozi from OR Tambo thanks to FedAir | Photo credit: federal Airlines
Starting on 1 June 2025, Federal Airlines will offer a daily direct flight from Johannesburg to the world-renowned Londolozi Private Game Reserve. Departing OR Tambo International Airport at 11h30, the flight will arrive in Londolozi at 12h30; departing Londolozi at 12h45, the flight will arrive at OR Tambo at 13h50.
“With FedAir’s new direct Londolozi service, guests will enjoy an effortless transition from city to safari, allowing them to maximise their time in the wilderness while indulging in world-class hospitality every step of the way,” said Nicole Schickerling, FedAir Commercial GM – Shuttle.
Gulf Air to Launch Direct Flight to Nairobi, Kenya – 2 June 2025
Starting from June 2025, travellers can enjoy direct flights between Bahrain and Nairobi, Kenya | Photo credit: Gulf Air
The national carrier of Bahrain, Gulf Air, will offer direct flights to Nairobi, Kenya, from 2 June 2025. Travellers can choose between five weekly flights between Bahrain International Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays with two additional flights on Fridays.
New Fly-in Zambezi Service Launched by the Gondwana Collection and Westair Aviation
Fly-in Zambezi will make safari travel within southern Africa even easier | Photo credit: Westair Aviation
Gondwana Collection Namibia, in partnership with Westair Aviation, has launched a new scheduled flight service to make safari travel in southern Africa easier. Fly-in Zambezi, a boutique air service, was unveiled at Eros Airport, Windhoek, in March 2025 and now offers safari travellers direct lodge-to-lodge connections across key safari destinations. This service will link Namibia’s Zambezi Region with Victoria Falls, Maun, Kasane, and surrounding wilderness areas. Travellers can choose from scheduled flights three times a week or opt for private charters to maximise their time exploring breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.
Uganda Airlines Launches Non-Stop London to Uganda Route – 18 May 2025
From May, Uganda Airlines will be operating a non-stop flight route between Uganda and London | Photo credit: Uganda Airlines / Daily Southern & East African Tourism Update
An exciting new route has launched between East Africa and Europe! Uganda Airlines will start operating non-stop flights between Entebbe International Airport in Uganda and London Gatwick from 18 May 2025. There will be four flights a week, operating on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The flight schedule has also been designed to allow connections via Entebbe to other key safari destinations, including Johannesburg in South Africa and Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. This is a fantastic way to experience a multi-destination, multi-experience safari trip, combining a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and a Big Five safari.
Airlink to Begin Direct Cape Town to Gaborone Route – 1 April 2025
Baobab trees in Botswana | Photo: hbieser via pixabay
Travelling between South Africa and Botswana just got easier! South African regional carrier, Airlink, will start a direct route between Cape Town International Airport and Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone in April 2025. The flight will leave Cape Town at 10h50 and arrive in Gaborone at 13h00; the return flight will leave Gaborone at 13h45 and land in Cape Town at 16h00. This new route will make multi-destination safaris much more accessible for travellers.
Etihad Airways Increases Flights to South Africa – 30 March
Etihad Airways has increased its Abu Dhabi-Johannesburg route to four flights a week | Photo credit: Etihad Airways
The national airline of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Airways, has decided to increase its flights between Abu Dhabi and Johannesburg, South Africa, by the end of March 2025. Etihad will operate four flights a week between the two cities on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with daily flights set to commence on 1 August 2025. The flight departs Johannesburg at 09h55 and arrives in Abu Dhabi at 19h50; the return flight departs Abu Dhabi at 02h20 and arrives in Johannesburg at 08h35.
Airlink Increases Flights for Johannesburg to Lusaka Route – 30 March
Airlink Fleet. Source: Airlink.
Airlink, a regional airline based in South Africa, will boost the number of flights between Jo’burg and Lusaka by the end of March. There will be 21 flights a week, an increase from 13. This is a fantastic update for the African tourism sector, as now travellers have more options for combining South African safaris with wilderness adventures in Zambia. A daily flight leaves Jo’burg for Lusaka at 11h30; Lusaka’s daily flight leaves at 14h15. Extra morning and afternoon flights have been added throughout the week.
Condor to Increase Flights from Frankfurt to South Africa – 1 November 2025
German carrier, Condor, will increase flights to Cape Town and Johannesburg from 1 November 2025 | Photo credit: Condor
German airline Condor is set to increase flights from Frankfurt to Cape Town and Johannesburg from 1 November in time for the festive season. Travellers from the German city will enjoy the flexibility of an extra two flights to the Mother City (going from five to seven) and one extra flight to Jo’burg (going from two to three).
ITA Airways to Offer Direct Flights from Rome to Mauritius – November 2025 to March 2026
Baladirou Beach, Rodrigues Island in Mauritius | Photo credit: Ricardo Stephan
Beginning on 7 November 2025, ITA Airways will give travellers from Italy the opportunity to fly directly to one of the most popular island destinations in the world!
Mauritius, just off the southeastern coast of Africa, has long been an iconic destination among luxury travellers, popular for its pristine beaches, vibrant cultures, and excellent diving and snorkelling conditions. It’s also a romance capital, as it’s been voted the World’s Best Honeymoon Destination in TripAdvisor’s esteemed Travellers’ Choice Awards 2025.
The route will be operated twice a week on Fridays and Sundays with an Airbus A330neo, and will run until 27 March 2026.
Proflight Zambia to Double Flights for Livingstone to Lusaka Route – 1 April 2025
Proflight Zambia set to increase flights in time for safari season | Photo credit: Proflight Zambia
Proflight Zambia will increase the frequency of its Livingstone and Lusaka flight route from 1 April 2025 to accommodate more safari goers during the high season. The route will now operate twice a day; early afternoon and evening services will help improve links for travellers coming from Cape Town and Johannesburg in South Africa.
The increase in flights will reduce transit times and provide more flexibility for safari goers wanting to visit Victoria Falls and explore Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.
Singapore Airlines to Increase Flights to Johannesburg – April and June 2025
Aerial view of the City of Johannesburg
Singapore Airlines will increase its weekly flights to Johannesburg from seven to 10 in April and then to 12 in June. Operated with an Airbus A350-900, flights will depart from Singapore daily at 01h30 and arrive in Johannesburg at 06h10, and depart from Johannesburg at 13h45 and arrive in Singapore at 06h10 the next day. Extra flights will take off on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
New Flight From Johannesburg to Dar es Salaam with SAA – January 2025
SAA has relaunched their Johannesburg to Dar es Salaam route | Photo credit: South African Airways
South African Airways (SAA) has announced a new flight route from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This route will be operated daily, with flights departing Johannesburg at 22h00 and arriving in Dar es Salaam at 02h30 the following day. The return flight leaves Dar es Salaam at 05h10 and arrives in Johannesburg at 07h55. This relaunch is part of the airline’s plan to have a stronger presence on the African continent. Welcome news for safari goers, this will give travellers more options to combine visiting South Africa with a Tanzania safari.
Increased Flights to Tanzania from Turkish Airlines – June 2025
Boats on the beach in Kizimkazi Village, Zanzibar | Photo credit: Getty Images
Travellers wanting to visit Tanzania will have more flight options come June 2025 thanks to Turkish Airlines. The Istanbul-based airline has announced a huge expansion of its flight services to the East African nation, with 14 weekly flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport, 14 weekly flights to Zanzibar, and 10 weekly flights to Dar es Salaam. These increased flights (twice daily to Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar!) is in response to Tanzania’s growing tourism sector, with more and more international travellers wanting to visit iconic destinations including the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the island paradise of Zanzibar.
New Flight Options for Harare and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – Last Quarter of 2025
View of Victoria Falls | Photo credit: Mbano Manor Hotel
Transvaal Africa, a new Zimbabwean start-up airline, plans to take to the skies to connect more people to Harare and Victoria Falls in the last quarter of 2025 with three leased Boeing aircraft. Regional routes will include Harare to Johannesburg, South Africa; Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; and Lagos, Nigeria. Safari travellers will be delighted to know that Transvaal Africa aims to land at Victoria Falls Airport, too. Charter flights between Victoria Falls and South African cities, Johannesburg and Cape Town, are in the airline’s plans. International travellers can benefit from flights to the falls from Berlin, Shanghai, and the Middle East.
Safari Skies to Launch Cape Town to Madikwe Route – May 2025
Madikwe Game Reserve
Wish you could skip the Joburg layover when travelling from Cape Town to Madikwe? Private charter flights company, Safari Skies, has announced the launch of direct flights from Cape Town to the Madikwe Game Reserve. Set to begin in May 2025, this will make combining a Cape Town beach vacation with an African safari so much simpler. Located in the North West Province of South Africa, Madikwe is home to the Big Five as well as luxurious safari lodges and camps.
The Togo-based airline, ASKY, is working to make regional travel on the continent more accessible with additional non-stop regional routes, which is great news for travellers wanting to have multi-destination African safaris. With the African travel market continuing to grow, ASKY is another airline that has decided to capitalise on this expansion. To accommodate the extra flights, the airline is adding its first Boeing 787s to its fleet in 2026. ASKY is also looking to add new destinations to their network in eastern and southern Africa, including Kigali, Rwanda; Zanzibar, Tanzania; and Lusaka, Zambia.
Air Traffic Recovery Across Africa
Passenger demand is a key driver for new route connections, adding to the availability of affordable flights, with air travel for African airlines inching towards 2019 pre-pandemic demand. International Air Transport Association (IATA) data shows that air travel for Africa rose 9.5% in December 2023 compared to December 2022.
African destinations are seeing increased interest from international travellers, with independent travellers driving leisure flight route recovery in Central and West Africa, according to travel analytics firm ForwardKeys. Its air ticketing data painted a healthy picture for international arrivals in popular safari destinations towards the end of 2023, with double-digit growth for Tanzania (+15%), Rwanda (+15%), and Namibia (+10%).
Connectivity to the continent is receiving a positive outlook, said Julia Simpson, President and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), who emphasized the growing desire for African destinations, noting that search trends reveal “an undeniable appetite for travel to destinations across Africa.”
Cape Town’s Table Mountain experienced yet another wildfire on 25 and 26 February 2025, plunging the iconic City Bowl into a smoky haze and kickstarting the city’s fire services into action.
The fire broke out in Newlands Ravine on the “back” of the mountain in the early hours of 25 February before being contained. However, the respite was only momentary, as typically strong winds reignited the blaze and pushed it over the “saddle” between Table Mountain and Devil’s Peak and towards the city’s Central Business District.
For travellers from around the world, a fire on Table Mountain, one of the world’s most iconic geographical features, is an utter disaster. However, Capetonians are well-weathered in the nature of wildfires in the Cape. In fact, major fires burned large tracts of Table Mountain National Park in 2000, 2006, 2009, 2015, and 2021.
Despite what you might think, this isn’t a case of locals becoming desensitised to natural disasters. Instead, Cape Town has a remarkable secret: much of its fynbos vegetation, part of the Cape Floral Region, depends on fire to survive.
But how can something so destructive also bring life? Read on to find out.
A Brief History of Fires on Table Mountain
According to South African historians, humans have been contributing to fires on and around Table Mountain for as long as 12,000 years. Botanists speculate that indigenous Khoekhoe peoples intentionally burned sections of the mountain to stimulate the regrowth of edible plants and to create grazing areas for their livestock.
In fact, when Vasco da Gama first sighted the Cape coastline in 1495, he named it “Terra de Fume” (Land of Smoke) because of the large plumes he could see from his ship. Sadly, today, while most fires are indeed caused by human activity, wildfires are unplanned and uncontrolled.
In 2000, thousands of hectares of Table Mountain National Park went up in flames, resulting in the destruction of dozens of hundreds of homes. Six years later, a fire started on the front side of the mountain, quickly spreading to the edges of several residential areas. The blaze spread over the course of three days, claiming one life and destroying nearly half of the remaining population of the endemic silver leaf protea tree.
Table Mountain Fire 2025 | Photo: John Murray via Volunteer Wildfire Services
A less damaging fire burned in March 2009, again fuelled by strong winds and dry summer conditions. In 2015, an immense fire spared Table Mountain itself but ravaged over 6,900 hectares of the Cape Peninsula, and forensic experts blamed arsonists for the disaster. Finally, in 2021, a wildfire destroyed the famous Rhodes Memorial restaurant and the Mostert’s Mill windmill, along with sections of the University of Cape Town’s Upper Campus. The university lost its Special Collections Library, which had contained over 1,300 collections, 85,000 books, and precious works of indigenous peoples. Again, the cause was deemed to be arson.
But despite all this destruction and the tragic loss of life, Table Mountain quickly returned to full bloom. Why?
Fynbos and Fire
Fynbos growing from the ash | Photo: luca via pexels
Table Mountain falls within the Cape Floral Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Despite being the smallest of the world’s six floristic kingdoms – by a large margin – it boasts the highest concentration of non-tropical plant species on the planet. Much of this vegetation is fynbos, a type of scrubland that thrives on the Cape’s Mediterranean climate.
Examples of fynbos include the king protea, South Africa’s national flower, as well as several species that have become popular in gardens around the world, like watsonias, geraniums, and pincushion proteas. There are an estimated 2,285 plant species in Table Mountain National Park – and most are found nowhere else on Earth.
In contrast to much of the rest of South Africa, Cape Town experiences dry, hot summers complicated by intense winds. These conditions enable fires to spread rapidly, but endemic fynbos species actually depend on fire for their survival. Botanists assert that regular fires drive fynbos diversity, and since humans began causing fires here 12,000 years ago, the species that remain are totally reliant on fire.
Some species produce seeds that will only disperse during fires, while others have evolutionary adaptations that enable them to survive the extreme temperatures. In fact, after fires, hikers are likely to see all kinds of new growth shooting up from Table Mountain’s sandstone slopes, and quickly, the char and ash is replaced by resplendent greenery.
Speaking to The Daily Maverick, plant ecologist Dr. Jasper Slingsby explains that most fynbos species “require fire to complete their life cycle.” However, the frequency of intense fires is key.
Are Cape Fires Happening Too Frequently?
Newlands Ravine Fire 24/02/2025 | Photo: South African National Parks
Dr. Slingsby adds that it takes six to eight years for fynbos on Table Mountain to reach maturity, at which point fire will continue the reproductive cycle. Sadly, the frequency of these wildfires is increasing at an alarming rate.
Some researchers believe that climate change is increasing the frequency of wildfires worldwide, but in Cape Town, there are other factors at play, too. Reckless, criminal arsonists cause widespread devastation before fynbos can reach maturity, while invasive plant species complicate the issue. Unlike indigenous species, pine trees and other alien plants burn readily, exacerbating fires that would otherwise remain under control.
Also speaking to The Daily Maverick, ecologist Professor Brian van Wilgen explains that as human populations grow around Table Mountain National Park, more human-caused fires occur. “Many plants that need more time to mature are being eliminated from the landscape as a result of increased fire frequencies,” he notes. “When this happens, other species are also affected. For example, Cape sugarbirds require lots of mature proteas for food and nesting.”
What’s Being Done to Mitigate Cape Fires?
Local community organisations like Friends of Table Mountain regularly conduct “hackathons” in Table Mountain National Park, recruiting volunteers to cut down invasive species. Not only does this encourage endemic biodiversity, but it also removes much of the fuel that enables wildfires to rage beyond useful limits.
Since the 2021 fire that gutted parts of the University of Cape Town, there has also been a concerted effort to fell many of the pine trees on the slopes of Table Mountain that once supplied timber to Dutch and British colonists. For ecologists, the solution to the problem involves three approaches:
Creating more nature reserves to protect remaining fynbos.
Clearing invasive species and preventing them from spreading.
Conducting prescribed (controlled) burns to facilitate fires at the correct intervals.
“We really need to manage both invasive species and fire better,” Slingsby adds. “Unfortunately, this is more a social problem than a scientific one. We have the science to guide what needs to be done, or at least where to start – we must always continue to reassess and refine. It is more about navigating the social, political, legal, and financial hurdles to be able to put this knowledge into practice.”
King protea | Photo: Tanya Paquet via Unsplash
While Cape Town’s latest Table Mountain fire is now under control, Table Mountain National Park and its remarkable flora and fauna remain under threat. The same epic concentration of species that makes this national park such an incredible place also makes it incredibly vulnerable to change, whether in the form of human development, climate change, or simply arson.
The fact remains: Table Mountain National Park is one of Cape Town’s best tourist attractions and will continue to offer stunning hikes and views for generations to come. In the meantime, however, South African National Parks warns hikers to avoid areas affected by fires until authorities give them the all-clear.
So, when you visit Cape Town – Africa’s best city to visit – on your South African safari, make sure you take a moment to appreciate Table Mountain and its biodiversity. After all, nature is fragile, and we must conserve it if we want to keep enjoying it.
Have you been dreaming of an African safari? Do you want to explore the wilderness and tick seeing the Big Five off your bucket list? This is your opportunity to win with Discover Africa! In collaboration with our valued partners Sabi Sabi and federal Airlines, Discover Africa is thrilled to announce our Instagram holiday competition: Win Your Dream Safari! This is your chance to experience the magic of the African wilderness with a luxury safari escape.
The Discover Africa Competition: What You Can Win
The grand prize (valued at over ZAR 136,000) includes:
A two-night stay for two adults at the luxurious Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge.
Federal Airlines return flights for two adults.
Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge: What’s Included
Bush Lodge Pool Deck | Photo: Sabi Sabi
Located in the Sabi Sabi private game reserve in South Africa, Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge mixes luxury with authentic safari traditions. The stay includes three superb meals daily, all drinks (except French Champagne and Private Collection wines), morning and evening open vehicle safaris, walking safaris, and sundowners.
Federal Air: What’s Included
View of FAL Caravan Angle Nose Blade | Photo: federal Airlines
The competition prize includes your flights from Johannesburg to the doorstep of the lodge. Your journey to this safari paradise will be seamless and comfortable with return flights for two to and from the Sabi Sabi Airstrip, courtesy of federal Airlines.
What’s Excluded
Any extras such as boutique purchases, spa treatments, and laundry are not included in the prize. The winner will need to cover the Sabie Game Reserve (SGR) Conservation Levy of R350 per person per night themselves. Additional travel expenses beyond the federal Airline’s flights are also not included.
‘Like’ the competition post on Discover Africa’s profile (pinned first post on the grid) and tag the person you’d like to share this adventure with in the post’s comments.
For an extra entry, share your favourite safari memory (photo or video) on your Instagram feed, tagging Discover Africa, Sabi Sabi, and federal Airlines. (Only one additional entry can be gained this way)
Important Dates and Competition Rules
Encountering a lion while on a Game Drive | Photo: Sabi Sabi
The competition will run from the 17th of February 2025 to the 14th of April 2025 at 23:59 SAST. The winner will be announced on Thursday, 17th of April 2025.
This competition is open to individuals aged 18 and above. Employees of Discover Africa, Sabi Sabi, and federal Airlines, and their immediate families, are not eligible to participate.
The prize is valid for 12 months from winner announcement and excludes travel during peak season dates from the 20th of December 2025 to the 5th of January 2026 and the Easter weekend.
The Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge stay is transferable but cannot be sold, exchanged for cash, or altered.
Federal Airline’s blockout dates and operational schedule will also apply, subject to availability. The flights are not transferable, may not be converted to cash and, if lost, will not be reissued by federal Airlines.
Why You Should Enter the Discover Africa Competition
Imagine waking up to the sounds of the African bush, going on exciting game drives where you encounter majestic wildlife in their natural habitat, and relaxing while marvelling at the vivid sunset.
Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge offers an unparalleled safari experience, combining luxury and adventure. Federal Airlines, South Africa’s premier air shuttle and private charter service, will ensure your journey to and from this wilderness paradise is smooth and comfortable.
Discover Africa, experts in crafting unforgettable safari holidays, is excited to make this dream a reality for one lucky winner and their plus one. Ready to win an African safari? This is your chance to embark on the adventure trip of your dreams! Enter now and good luck!
International tourist arrivals to Africa have exceeded pre-pandemic levels for the first time in the first quarter of 2024. The latest UN Tourism Barometer data shows that while the continent was one of the hardest hit during the pandemic, its tourism sector has seen a stronger-than-anticipated recovery, overshadowing the rate of recovery for international markets.
Visitors to Africa exceeded pre-pandemic levels by 5% in the first quarter of 2024, compared to quarter one in 2019, with a 13% growth more than in Q1 2023. Long-haul travel to North Africa’s Egypt and Morocco and safari hotspots like Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa safari continue to pique the interest of international travellers.
Several African destinations reported growth in international tourism receipts in the first quarter of 2024 compared to 2019. Tanzania saw a 62% increase, Mauritius 46%, and Morocco 44%, highlighting the continent’s significant contribution to global tourism recovery.
South Africa’s Tourism Confidence Spotlighted
South Africa has further top African country rankings in the 2024 Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) by the World Economic Forum. In 2023, South Africa welcomed close to 8.5 million international visitors, of whom 6.4 million were from the African continent. This represents a significant increase of 48.9% compared to 2022 arrivals. During the first quarter of 2024 – January to March – South Africa welcomed 2.4 million visitors from the rest of the world, a 15.4% increase compared with the same period in 2023.
Africa continues to lead as the key inbound market with 1.8 million tourist arrivals from the rest of the African continent between January and March 2024, representing 74.5% of all arrivals. South Africa’s rise in the 2024 Travel and Tourism Development Index, moving up seven places, weighed the country’s strengths in price competitiveness, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) readiness, natural resources, and the socio-economic impact. Tourism Minister Patricia De Lille commenting in a statement about the Index ranking said, “We remain committed to significantly increasing arrival numbers and enhancing the tourism sector’s performance. While the sector already contributes substantially to our GDP and job creation, there is much more potential to unlock.”
Confidence in the growth of international tourists to South Africa remains high, according to Discover Africa Safaris co-founder Andre Van Kets. “Safari operators are seeing serious intent from key international markets to book and plan transformational travel experiences. Following Africa’s recent Travel Indaba word from suppliers is that rate increases for 2025 are averaging at 10%, and while this is in line with inflationary adjustments currently at 7%, it shows further confidence that the luxury safari sector remains bullish for future bookings.”
The head of product at the online travel planning company, Murielle Vegezzi, underscored the continued changes to seasonality and how that will drive growing tourism numbers across the continent and the world. “Seasonality is changing, and we’re definitely seeing that. Bookings are no longer concentrated in the peak periods, which further shows the intent to travel is high, even during the off-peak or shoulder seasons,” said Vegezzi.
Growth in International Markets for South Africa
Americas tourist arrivals grew by 12.4% compared to the same period in 2023: 118,194 (January to March 2024)
Europe tourist arrivals grew by 8.6% compared to the same period in 2023: 420,727 (January to March 2024):
– United Kingdom: 125,420 tourists (+5.3% growth)
– Germany: 98,954 tourists (+9.9% growth)
– Netherlands: 37,548 tourists (+9.9% growth)
– Russia: 9,329 tourists (+9.6% growth)
Asia Tourist arrivals grew by 25.4% compared to the same period in 2023: 49,741 (January to March 2024):
Here are the latest luxury safari properties opening this year that you should consider for your next safari adventure. From conservation lodges to authentic safari camps, the developments in the world of luxury safari accommodation are exciting!
Honeyguide Launches New Conservation Lodge – Opening January 2025
This new lodge adds to the existing Honeyguide Ranger Camp within the Big Five Entabeni Game Reserve, with the complete Honeyguide Portfolio featuring four safari camps in South Africa and Tanzania. Honeyguide Conservation Lodge features 10 luxurious rooms, each with a spacious deck offering views of the adjacent dam, expansive bushlands, and surrounding Hanglip Mountain.
Honeyguide Conservation Lodge is situated in Entabeni Game Reserve, South Africa | Photo credit: Honeyguide Portfolio.
This lodge will be graded a five-star lodge, offering game drives and walks with plans to earn its name by “inviting guests to participate in ongoing conservation projects”. The lodge will be both child-friendly and wheelchair accessible. Upgraded amenities will include:
A new overflow pool
Dining conservancy
Spa treatment room
Lounge area
Chichele Presidential Lodge, Zambia – Opening Early 2025
Chichele Presidential Lodge in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia, is set to reopen in March 2025 after a complete transformation. Originally built in the 1970s as a retreat for Zambia’s first president, Kenneth Kaunda, the lodge has been reimagined through a partnership between Chichele Safaris, Chiawa Safaris, and Fox Browne Creative. Situated atop a hill with panoramic views of the park, the lodge offers a unique mix of heritage and modern amenities while adhering to sustainable practices.
The revitalised lodge will feature 10 luxurious Vista Suites once open. The property’s redesign is said to emphasise both luxury and environmental responsibility, incorporating recycled materials and clean energy systems. Original pieces and handcrafted Zambian artistry blend with timeless elegance and modern sophistication, all framed by sweeping views of the Luangwa Valley.
Guests can enjoy guided safaris, yoga sessions, and state-of-the-art fitness facilities, as well as gourmet dining with locally sourced ingredients. The lodge also supports local conservation and community initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to preserving Zambia’s natural beauty while offering a world-class travel experience.
Mbamba Camp, Okavango Delta – April 2025
Natural Selection‘s new Mbamba Camp, opening in April 2025 in the northern Okavango Delta, promises an authentic under-canvas experience with a touch of luxury. This 100% solar-powered camp features 12 air-conditioned tents, including double, twin, and family units. Each tent has an en-suite bathroom and a private verandah, offering guests secluded comfort and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. The camp’s central area includes two lounges, a dining area, a fire pit, and a swimming pool for relaxation between thrilling game drives and mokoro safaris.
Mbamba means ‘hello’ in Botswana Bukakhwe San Bushman dialect and the new name of Natural Selections new tented Camp | Photo credit: Supplied
Set within the expansive and wildlife-rich NG12 concession known for its year-round game viewing, guests can expect to see sought-after wildlife like African wild dogs, lions, and over 350 bird species. This camp provides both land- and water-based activities, including helicopter flights and cultural trips to the Tsodilo Hills, ensuring a well-rounded adventure.
The vast, untouched NG12 concession, which adjoins the Moremi Game Reserve, provides a private and exclusive safari experience. Ideal for families and larger groups, Mbamba Camp combines comfort with a deep connection to the natural world, making it a prime addition to Botswana’s luxury safari circuit.
Azura Marlin Beach, Mozambique – May 2025
View of boat and beach villas | Photo: Azura Marlin Beach
After a devastating fire in 2012 and an extensive rebuild, Azura Marlin Beach, part of the boutique Mozambican hotel group Azura Retreats, is set to reopen its doors in May this year. This luxury accommodation will boast 10 villas, each complete with its own private deck. Villa Vista, the option with two bedrooms, will have its own private pool.
Azura Marlin is set on Benguerra Island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, a breathtaking beach paradise. Here, the pristine white sand and azure water provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing island holiday. Sail in a traditional dhow, go to remote islands for romantic picnics, and go snorkelling and diving to experience the magnificent Two-Mile Reef.
We’re keeping an eye out for lodges opening in 2026…
Erebero Hills is set to offer superb luxury accommodations close to gorilla trekking experiences | Photo credit: Asilia Africa
Erebero Hills – Early 2026
Asilia Africa is opening a new lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in early 2026. With the focus on sustainable luxury, the design takes inspiration from the rolling hills of the surrounding landscape and is crafted from local bamboo. Tucked in the hillside, the eight suites will offer sweeping views of the forest. The glass-fronted interiors will maximise the natural light for a more immersive experience in nature.
Due to its superb location, Erebero Hills will provide easy access to activities like gorilla trekking, Batwa community visits, nature walks, garden tours, and tea tastings.
The conservation of Africa’s endangered rhinos, specifically those found in South Africa’s Greater Kruger region, is being boosted through Rhino Disharmony’s latest conservation campaign, Saviours’ Army.
The campaign, launched in Cape Town in February, calls on tourists and travel businesses alike to “rise up against rhino poaching”. The Western Cape’s Premier Alan Winde and Grammy-winning music composer Harold Faltermeyer joined to support the cause.
Artists and activists rally together in the latest Rhino Disharmony campaign for rhino conservation in the Greater Kruger region. Source: Rhino Disharmony
Reshaping Perceptions Through Educational Art
The event, a fusion of art, music, fashion, and conservation, showcased the budding talent of children enrolled in the educational arts programme Lalela through intricately painted rhino scarves. The youth-driven educational community project involves “thousands of children from low-income communities in Sub-Saharan Africa,” according to Rhino Disharmony’s conservation partner, Newmark Motswari.
The hospitality brand is well-known for its wildlife conservation experiences across southern Africa, including the Motswari Private Game Reserve, close to Kruger National Park. “Art has the power to overcome language barriers, supersede cultural boundaries, and communicate in a way words can only dream of. We aim to reshape perceptions about rhino horn use. We collaborate with creatives and companies to speak on behalf of our rhinos and protect them,” said Rhino Disharmony Founder Marion Geiger-Orengo.
Having witnessed the brutal killing of an innocent rhino on their doorstep in the Motswari Private Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger in 2014, Geiger-Orengo and co-founder Fabrice Orengo de Lamazière created Rhino Disharmony as a means to protect rhinos from the onslaught of poachers.
Annual Rise in Rhino Killings
The latest population numbers show that there were 561 rhinos killed in Africa during 2022, a rise from 501 in 2021 and 503 in 2020, according to the international conservation body African Rhino Specialist Group (AfRSG). The year-on-year increase is a concern despite a marked decline from the peak of the crisis in 2015 when 1,349 African rhinos were poached.
The Kruger Park rhino population has declined by 77%, from 8 929 in 2014 to only 2 061 in 2022. “The situation is particularly serious when one considers that South Africa, which is home to 80% of the world’s rhinos, is one of the last strongholds of these magnificent animals,” said AfRSG.
Raising Rhino Conservation Awareness
The Greater Kruger Environmental Protection Foundation (GKEPF), also a Rhino Disharmony partner, believes the survival of the rhino “…is a visual reminder that the actions and influence of humanity today have a lasting impact on the evolution or extinction of a species for future generations.”
Rhino Disharmony has, in turn, looked to use “creative mediums” and “influential ambassadors” like mixed media artist Barend De Wet, international pianist Tian Jiang, cartoonist Zapiro, and Freshly Ground lead singer Zolani to help educate communities in South Africa and abroad about the poaching crisis. The efforts of the world’s first all-female anti-poaching unit, the Black Mambas, and the Umbabat Counter-Poaching Unit, showcased in a Saviours’ Army Campaign video, also premiered at the launch.
WATCH: Rhino Disharmony Saviours’ Army
“The outcome was a powerful synergy for social impact through a shared passion for creativity, community, and conservation, culminating in the Saviours’ Army,” said Rhino Disharmony.
South Africa’s Camp’s Bay Beach has landed on travel review site Tripadvisor’s newest ranking list: Top Sustainable Beaches of the World. The new ranking of sustainable beaches follows Tripadvisor’s addition of a Sustainable Destinations category in January 2024, as 55% of global Tripadvisor users surveyed said “helping the environment is important to them”.
Africa’s Most Sustainable Beach
Camps Bay, a world-famous beach holiday destination in Cape Town, secured 10th position. The Mother City’s sunseekers’ haven ranks amongst Sandbanks Beach in the UK’s Poole, which took the top spot. This was followed by Radhanagar Beach in Havelock Island, India, and the UK’s Saundersfoot Beach, in second and third position.
Top 10 Sustainable Beaches in the World
1. Sandbanks Beach – Poole, United Kingdom
2. Radhanagar Beach – Havelock Island, India
3. Saundersfoot Beach – Saundersfoot, United Kingdom
4. Corniche Beach – Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
5. Galissas Beach – Galissas, Greece
6. Nissi Beach – Ayia Napa, Cyprus
7. Mellieha Beach – Mellieha, Malta
8. Myrtos Beach – Kefalonia, Greece
9. Playa Blanca – Playa Blanca, Spain
10. Camp’s Bay Beach – Cape Town, South Africa
Tripadvisor’s newest ranking saw BeCause, a sustainable data management company, analyse eligible beaches awarded a Blue Flag from 1 May 2023 to 23 April 2024. It also combined Tripadvisor reviews rated four or higher and referenced terms such as “environmentally friendly”, “eco-tourism”, and “clean water” over a 12-month period.
Cape Town Tourism CEO Enver Duminy said he believes the recognition of Camps Bay as one of the world’s most sustainable beaches in 2024 represents the “unwavering commitment of Cape Town Tourism, alongside the city, to uphold the highest sustainability standards.
“Sustainability is at the heart of everything Cape Town Tourism does, and we remain committed to preserving our region’s natural wonders for future generations. This award celebrates not only the scenic splendour of Camps Bay but also our collective efforts to maintain it through sustainable practices.”
Push for More Sustainable Travel Choices
Tripadvisor’s focus on sustainability forms part of a global trend of travellers looking for meaningful ways to make sustainable travel choices. Discover Africa has noted similar trends amongst its guests looking for activities that allow them to contribute to eco-friendly efforts and participate more meaningfully beyond typical safari tours, according to Head of Product Murielle Vegezzi.
Vegezzi stated it has led to the development of “positive impact” experiences that are more focused on the environment and are rooted in community and conservation-driven projects.
Africa’s Best Beaches
According to Tripadvisor’s rankings, the ever-popular beach holiday spot of the Seychelles is rated number one. Top beach and bush destinations of Tanzania and Zanzibar dominate the list, with Kenya and Mauritius also given a nod.
Top 10 Beaches in Africa
Anse Lazio beach – Praslin Island, Seychelles
Nungwi Beach -Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
Praia de Santa Maria – Ilha do Sal, Cape Verde
Nakupenda Beach Nature Reserve – Zanzibar Island, Tanzania
Anse Source D’Argent – La Digue Island, Seychelles
Zambia, one of Africa’s best-kept safari secrets, will celebrate 60 years of independence nationwide in October. Lusaka, Zambia’s capital city, is usually the epicenter for Independence Day Celebrations, which are held annually on October 24. Safari operators across this unspoiled wildlife destination also plan special offers to mark the anniversary. It is an exciting time in Southern Africa when Zambia’s culture and history will be tangibly showcased for locals and visitors alike.
A Timeline of Zambia’s Road to Independence
Skyline of Lusaka, the capital city of Zambia
Zambia’s independence is a significant chapter in Africa’s history. It involved a complex interplay of local nationalist movements, international geopolitics, and the gradual dismantling of colonial structures to achieve independence.
Late 1800s: British Colonial Rule
Zambia was known as Northern Rhodesia under British colonial rule in the late 19th century. Online Encyclopedia Britannica explains that the discovery of large copper deposits in the early 20th century increased British interest in this African country – already surrounded by existing British territories, such as Zimbabwe (formerly Southern Rhodesia) and Malawi (formerly Nyasaland).
1940s-1950: African Nationalism and Political Awakening
A surge in African nationalism marked the post-World War II era in Zambia. Political movements such as the Northern Rhodesian African Congress (NRAC) took shape, later evolving into the United National Independence Party (UNIP) led by Zambia’s former president, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda. Kaunda and other prominent freedom activists, Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula and Simon Zukas shaped these movements to pave the way for the Zambia we know today.
1953 – 1963: Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland
In 1953, the British government established the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, combining Northern Rhodesia (Zambia), Southern Rhodesia (Zimbabwe), and Nyasaland (Malawi). The federation faced increasing resistance from Zambia.
Late 1950s and early 1960s: Independence Movements and International Pressure
Between the 1950s and early 1960s, the UNIP and other nationalist groups intensified their demands for independence. Their resistance included numerous political campaigns, civil disobedience, and negotiations. The Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland was eventually dissolved in 1963.
October 24, 1964: Independence Achieved
After negotiations between the British government, UNIP, and other stakeholders, Zambia achieved independence on October 24, 1964. Kaunda became the nation’s first president, and the country adopted a new flag and national anthem, marking the end of colonial rule and a new era of independence.
Zambia Remains Africa’s Best-Kept Safari Secret
Walking safari observing elephants in Zambia | Photo credit: Tena Tena
While Zambia is one of the world’s largest producers of copper, its global tourism appeal remains its wildlife attractions. Zambia is particularly sought-after for walking, photographic, and birding safaris.
Sustainable tourism is pivotal to Zambia’s identity and economy. The country’s extensive national parks like Kafue, South Luangwa, and Lower Zambezi, known for their wildlife conservation initiatives, will all look to highlight their efforts during this milestone celebration of the country’s independence.
For example, game Rangers International (GRI) focuses on wildlife conservation, particularly elephants. Chipembele Wildlife Education Trust (CWET), named after the local word for rhino, educates South Luangwa communities on wildlife conservation. Past CWET students now hold key conservation roles within the trust, highlighting the program’s grassroots impact.
Premier Safari Circuit, Including Victoria Falls
Aerial view of Victoria Falls, Zambia | Photo credit: Chundukwa River Lodge
The magical Victoria Falls in Zambia is known as one of the world’s premier safari circuits. While Zimbabwe might have more viewpoints of Victoria Falls, Zambia allows visitors to experience the falls more intimately. Walk across the Knife-Edge Bridge into the mist, swim in Devil’s Pool on the waterfall’s edge, as well as hike to Boiling Pot for a swim under Vic Fall’s spray.
At Discover Africa, we’ve long considered Zambia one of Africa’s untouched safari destinations. Its 60th Independence Year is an auspicious time to plan your bucket list safari experience. Let us tailor the perfect Zambia safari tour for you to experience this extraordinary country and all it has to offer.
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