Every gorilla born is a reason to celebrate! And Rwanda takes this seriously with its Kwita Izina festival. Rwanda’s annual gorilla naming ceremony has become a symbol of the country’s landmark efforts to bring its mountain gorilla population back from the brink of extinction.
Since 2005, this event has been on the calendar to officially name new mountain gorillas in the country’s reserves. This has become a global celebration of nature and further highlights the importance of these incredible animals.
If you’re thinking about enjoying a gorilla trekking safari, there couldn’t be a more auspicious time to plan your trip than during Kwita Izina, the gorilla naming ceremony! Here are five interesting things you should know about this celebration:
1. A Tradition Rooted in Culture
Kwita Izina is inspired by an ancient Rwandan tradition where families name their children in the presence of loved ones. This modern adaptation honours baby gorillas born in the past year, making it both a cultural and conservation milestone.
2. Supporting Conservation Efforts and Communities
The cost of gorilla permits to see these creatures in their natural habitat, currently at $1,500 per person, is a strategic measure aimed at limiting visitor numbers while generating vital revenue. Funds raised are channelled into conservation initiatives and local community development, ensuring that the economic benefits of gorilla tourism are widely shared.
Gorillia trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda | Photo credit: Steve Conradie
3. A Ceremony with Global Recognition
Kwita Izina has grown into an internationally celebrated event. Conservationists, park rangers, researchers, and high-profile guests gather each year to take part in naming the new baby gorillas, highlighting the importance of protecting Rwanda’s endangered mountain gorillas. Over the past 19 years, 397 gorillas have been named during this ceremony.
4. Conservation Success Story
Thanks to Rwanda’s committed conservation efforts, including strict protection measures and sustainable tourism practices, the mountain gorilla population has grown from around 620 in 1989 to over 1,000 today. This makes them the only great ape species currently experiencing a population increase.
The gorilla naming ceremony is held annually between September and October at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park. The event brings together conservation champions and offers travellers a unique glimpse into Rwanda’s successful blend of culture, eco-tourism, and wildlife preservation. This is a fantastic time for your gorilla trekking safari.
For a long time, travellers have challenged the traditional definition of luxury – and 2025 will be no different. Luxury travellers will continue to break away from the familiar, instead pursuing meaningful experiences focusing on personal growth, sustainable practices, and authentic cultural engagement.
Rise of Sustainable Safari Tourism
A walking safari in Deadvlei, Namibia. Photo: Getty
This shift is particularly evident in luxury safari tourism, which has transformed into a $1.5 billion market projected to nearly double by 2032, driven by demand for eco-conscious and immersive journeys that support local communities and nature conservation.
Luxury safari destinations in Africa, such as the Wolwedans properties in Namibia, illustrate this trend. The company has evolved from a conservation-driven initiative into a holistic, sustainable luxury tourism model that balances profit with purpose.
Founded in 1995 to support the NamibRand Nature Reserve, Wolwedans began with minimal infrastructure and a deep respect for nature. Over the years, sustainability became a core value, leading Wolwedans to adopt the “4Cs” model: Conservation, Community, Culture, and Commerce. Later, a fifth “C”, Consciousness, was added to prioritise well-being and responsibility over profit.
“Wolwedans wants guests to go slow and disconnect to reconnect with themselves, with nature, and with humankind,” says Stephan Bruckner, Wolwedans Managing Director. “We endeavour to steer away from the passively consumptive tourism paradigm of the past, and rather strive towards a more engaged, active, and participative way of travel crafted by a wide range of experiences and activities which nurture the head, hand, and heart.”
Similarly, operators like Singita and Ker & Downey Botswana are focusing on sustainability, personalised itineraries, and conservation efforts. Travellers are encouraged to connect deeply with nature, with opportunities to support rewilding initiatives and local conservation projects, such as those safeguarding gorillas and raptors.
“From my perspective, the world of luxury can often be chaotic and disheartening,” explains Jo Bailes, Singita CEO. “However, at Singita, we proudly stand for Africa, its people, and all its beauty! Guests come to Singita to experience this, and we make them feel like they have never felt before – restored and whole, which generates a longing to return to Singita and Africa.”
Wellness and Personal Growth
Man watching the sunrise Photo: Unsplash
The luxury travel trends forecast for 2025 reflect an increased preference for spontaneous, wellness-centred, and multi-generational experiences. Wellness now includes life-extension programs for cognitive and physical health, while bucket lists encourage travellers to prioritise adventurous, memorable moments over material luxury. Women-led solo travel is also growing, spurring tailored experiences for “Wander Women”.
Emerging destinations, including Rwanda and Zambia, are attracting travellers with unique wildlife and cultural offerings beyond traditional hotspots. These regions appeal to those seeking exclusivity and untouched natural experiences.
For example, Rwanda and Singita Kwitonda offer a “profound way to appreciate nature, and contribute to the rewilding of landscapes, expanding natural habitat for mountain gorillas and other species,” according to Singita’s communications manager, Lisa Carey.
“It’s a deeply transformative experience,” she adds. “Created in response to its dramatic setting, the lodge and villa includes elements such as woven ceilings and hand-fired terracotta brickwork crafted by local artisans, a dedicated Conservation Room and on-site nursery, pottery studio, and a vegetable garden – which provides fresh produce for Kwitonda’s farm-to-table food journey. The spacious and comfortable suites offer guests a nurturing space within which to contemplate their gorilla trek and is a sanctuary of warmth, stillness, and lush nature.”
The Future of Luxury Travel
Personalisation and spontaneity continue to shape luxury travel as advisors create tailored safari experiences based on guests’ emotional aspirations. Additionally, advancements in technology, though nascent in the safari space, promise to enhance these customised journeys, from VR-enabled previews to AI-curated adventures.
Ultimately, the luxury travel of 2025 is a blend of elegance and purpose, reshaping indulgence through transformative and responsible travel experiences that offer lasting memories while giving back to the destinations visited.
As Africa emerges in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it’s redefining the concept of “social currency” in ways that go beyond mainstream tech advancements. For many travelers, digital detox means stepping away from screens and reconnecting with nature – a trend that Africa supports in unique ways.
But it doesn’t mean Africa is being left behind. In fact, the continent is carving out a niche as a leader in conservation technology, using wearables, AI, and tracking tech to safeguard endangered wildlife.
The Innovation of Staying Offline
In today’s world, connectivity is seen as a necessity, but for travellers seeking respite from digital demands, Africa offers a tech-free paradise with some of the world’s most secluded safari lodges and off-grid experiences. For instance, Kwandwe Game Reserve in South Africa provides a pristine, phone-signal-free experience, letting visitors immerse themselves fully in the wilderness. Yet, out of the public eye, Kwandwe is at the forefront of using digital wearables for conservation.
Conservation Tech: Rhinos on the Radar
A groundbreaking project at Kwandwe leverages wearable technology to track rhinos, helping rangers protect these endangered animals. By fitting rhinos with GPS-enabled sensors on their feet, the reserve monitors their movements in real-time.
This use of tech isn’t for tourists but for the safety of rhinos in regions notorious for poaching. With data analysed by AI, any suspicious patterns or risks alert rangers, enabling rapid responses to protect the rhino population.
Africa’s Social Currency: Ready for Wearables?
Rhino spotted on a game drive in Kwandwe. Photo: Kwandwe
While the global race for wearables is heavily consumer-driven, Africa is pioneering their use for conservation – a social currency in its own right. Travellers supporting these efforts invest in a movement that uses wearable tech to counteract human impact on wildlife.
Though African regions often face infrastructure challenges in terms of widespread mobile connectivity, they are succeeding where it matters most: conserving biodiversity.
A Revolution of Another Kind
Group of friends looking through binoculars during safari vacation in South Africa. Photo: Getty Images
Africa’s role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution may look different, but the continent’s adoption of smart technology in conservation proves that it’s more than ready for the future. For visitors, Africa offers an unparalleled digital detox, letting travellers experience the luxury of “offline” while supporting tech-driven conservation efforts.
Embracing both high-tech and low-tech, Africa stands as a testament to the powerful blend of tradition and innovation.
As global interest in astro-tourism rises, Africa is positioning itself as a prime destination for travellers eager to explore the cosmos.
This burgeoning trend taps into the innate human fascination with the night sky, offering unique experiences ranging from stargazing to astrophotography in some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the continent.
Nearly 10.4% of global GDP and 7% of Africa’s GDP is driven by the tourism sector, according to the 2019 report by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). Focusing investment on dark sky preservation and integrating astro-tourism into the mainstream tourism industry will be a creative effort to boost GDP as a new economic diversification.
With the International Astronomical Union predicting significant growth in astro-tourism by 2025, Africa’s pristine environments provide ideal settings for celestial observation, drawing in a new market of travellers eager to combine adventure with astronomical wonders.
The Potential Value of Astro-Tourism
South African night sky. Photo: Marcus Löfvenberg via Unsplash
Astro-tourism not only capitalises on the increasing interest in space exploration and astronomy, but also represents a sustainable tourism model. With a focus on rural and remote areas, astro-tourism can stimulate local economies by promoting conservation and creating jobs. It fosters educational opportunities about the universe and our place while encouraging travellers to appreciate the natural world.
A report by the International Dark-Sky Association highlights that light pollution, prevalent in urban areas, limits the visibility of stars and celestial events. Africa, with its expansive unpolluted skies, presents a stark contrast, making it an attractive destination for astro-tourists seeking an authentic experience.
As more travellers prioritise sustainable and unique experiences, Africa’s astro-tourism potential is poised to increase significantly in 2025.
Top Astro-Tourism Destinations in Africa
Trees in the desert of Namibia during night time. Photo: Canva
Namibia
Reasons to Visit: Namibia boasts some of the darkest skies in the world, especially in the Namib Desert. The NamibRand Nature Reserve is a certified International Dark Sky Reserve, providing optimal conditions for stargazing. Visitors can enjoy views of the Milky Way, Southern Cross, and various constellations. The surreal landscapes, including the towering dunes of Sossusvlei, enhance the experience, allowing travellers to combine both stunning vistas and celestial exploration.
Reasons to Visit:The Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater offer incredible opportunities for astro-tourism. The clear skies above these wildlife-rich areas allow for spectacular views of celestial events, including meteor showers and lunar eclipses. Visitors can partake in guided stargazing safaris that combine wildlife observation with cosmic exploration.
Reasons to Visit: The Karoo region in South Africa is renowned for its clear skies and minimal light pollution. The Sutherland Observatory, one of the country’s premier astronomy hubs, hosts various stargazing events and workshops. The nearby town of Ceres also offers excellent stargazing opportunities, making it an ideal base for astro-tourism enthusiasts near to Cape Town.
Reasons to Visit: Kenya’s remote areas, such as Masai Mara, provide excellent conditions for stargazing. The contrast of the dark sky against the expansive savannah landscape creates a magical atmosphere for visitors. Many lodges offer astronomy nights, allowing guests to learn about the stars and planets visible in the region.
Reasons to Visit:The Okavango Delta and Kalahari Desert are prime locations for observing the night sky. The absence of urban light and the natural beauty of the environment make Botswana a top destination for astro-tourism. Visitors can enjoy guided night drives to witness the stars and nocturnal wildlife. Source:Botswana Tourism Organisation
Egypt
Reasons to Visit: While often celebrated for its ancient history, Egypt’s deserts offer a stunning backdrop for astro-tourism. The Siwa Oasis and White Desert provide unique landscapes where travelers can engage in stargazing. The combination of history and celestial exploration can attract a diverse audience.
Overtourism, as a global issue, is forcing the need for a more mindful approach to travel. Destinations like Spain and Italy heaved under the crowds of tourists this past year.
This, as an estimated 790 million tourists travelled internationally in the first seven months of 2024 – 11% up from 2023 but 4% less than in 2019. The Middle East remains the strongest-growing region, with international arrivals climbing 26% above 2019 levels. Africa welcomed 7% more tourists than in the same months of 2019.
Overtourism backlash has also been seen in Kenya and Tanzania, specifically with the popularity of the annual Great Migration. Crowds of safari vehicles jostling during peak season to see one of the world’s most famous wildlife events has unintendedly diminished the experience in certain regions.
What is the Solution and Why is This Important for Travel in 2025?
A balloon safari of the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara in Kenya. Photo: Getty
Finding a new approach to seasonality and itinerary design will become vital in the year ahead, to achieve a more evenly spread tourism model that benefits residents and elevates the visitor experiences.
Industry research shared by luxury travel advisory Virtuoso shows that an estimated 47% of luxury travellers will look to avoid peak season travel, favouring less busy shoulder season trips. A recent survey of 2,000 UK adults further illustrates that Brits are increasingly trading beach holidays for safari adventures, with 45% favouring wildlife trips over traditional breaks.
Their choices are driven by a desire for unique encounters and “concerns that future generations may miss out on seeing endangered animals in the wild“.
“Our unique offering in Africa presents an incredible opportunity to lead the way in promoting slow-haul travel through sustainable safari experiences. It’s time to reconsider the check-list approach to over-saturated tourist destinations,” Adds Van Kets.
What Are Safari Lodges Doing to Protect Africa’s Wild Spaces?
Ancient rock art viewing at Singita Pamushana, Zimbabwe. Photo: Singita Pamushana
Travel companies like Governors’ Camp and Singita are heavily focused on educating travellers on Africa’s broader natural beauty and wildlife offerings beyond just the migration spectacle so famous in East Africa.
“East African countries will continue to shift towards a “fewer people, paying more” model to reduce environmental impact, believes Alisa Karstad, Governors’ Impact Manager.
Following Botswana and Rwanda’s footsteps, Kenya increased national park fees for the Masaai Mara to $200 per day in 2024, aiming to limit visitor numbers and generate revenue for conservation. Guests are also charged a $50 per person, per day community fee.
Many believe the high park fees will negatively impact tourism, as they aim to moderate visitor traffic and increase funds available for ecosystem preservation and community development.
While some have called it exclusionary, the stance has been to focus on a regenerative tourism offering opposed to overtourism.
“The recent fee increases aim to reduce visitor numbers while preserving income generation,” says Karstad. “With travellers already having booked holidays this year, the real impact will likely be seen next year.”
As a result, tour operators continue to rethink how they market and manage the Great Migration experience. By emphasising lesser-known natural attractions and promoting year-round wildlife experiences, these operators aim to reduce peak-season pressure on critical areas.
Governors has adjusted its approach to emphasise the Masai Mara’s wildlife richness throughout the year.
Singita as a luxury operator goes beyond traditional tourism by offering conservation education and active participation opportunities, according to Singita Communications Manager Lisa Carey.
Examples include Singita’s Conservation Rooms at properties like Pamushana, Kwitonda, and Ebony lodges immerse guests in the landscapes’ cultural and ecological histories, emphasising conservation.
These spaces provide detailed visual journeys with curated maps, archival materials, and artefacts. Interactive elements and accessible scientific information foster guest engagement, making conservation tangible while encouraging reflection and learning about the ecosystems guests are experiencing.
This approach actively involves guests in sustainable tourism, helping them connect deeply with nature while supporting Singita’s ongoing conservation missions beyond the Great Migration.
Alternative Destinations and Year-Round Experiences
Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda. Photo: Getty Images
Rwanda:Gorilla trekking is an immersive experience that contributes through tourism conservation to rewilding efforts to expand habitats for endangered species. This approach demonstrates how meaningful travel experiences can go hand-in-hand with conservation.
Diverse Experiences: Emphasising year-round travel opportunities and non-migration experiences enables travellers to discover unique aspects of Africa without overwhelming single locations. For instance, Kenya’s birding season, Tanzania’s calving season, and Uganda’s primate tours offer equally enchanting wildlife encounters throughout the year.
As the tourism industry evolves, Africa’s focus on high-quality, low-impact travel highlights a way forward that balances ecological responsibility with traveller satisfaction, offering a model that other destinations could follow in addressing the challenges of overtourism.
The global growth of film-inspired tourism is reframing destinations worldwide, with estimates suggesting the cinema and filming market could reach $110 billion by 2028.
Disney’s Mufasa is set to roar into theatres this December, with African tour operators bracing for a surge in bookings to echo well into 2025.
The anticipation follows the success model noted with Disney’s 2019 The Lion King, which tour operators say reignited interest in African safari destinations, especially in Kenya and Tanzania, where travellers sought to experience the film’s setting firsthand.
The spread of digital media, streaming services, and globalisation of film distribution continues to fuel the popularity of travel tied to movies and shows. Globally, destinations like Italy continue to teem with tourists after the filming of White Lotus’ second season. Thailand, as the latest filming location, is also anticipating a flurry of interest next year with the release of its third season.
This trend has the power to inspire global audiences, presenting an exciting opportunity to bring more visibility to the continent’s unique destinations, explains Discover Africa Co-Founder, Andre van Kets.
“For African travel companies, capitalising on this wave requires a proactive approach,” he says. “Londolozi’s cheeky play on the original Lion King remains memorable. But travel operators can take it step further and develop tailored tours that let travellers experience film locations firsthand, adding cultural narratives that connect the destination’s heritage with the film’s story.”
Furthermore, he explains, by prioritising partnerships with local communities, travel companies can help preserve the very landscapes that make Africa such a sought-after film destination.
“Together, we can foster not only increased tourism but also pride in African heritage and storytelling that will resonate for years to come,” he adds.
African Creative Hub for Global Filmmakers
Aerial view of Cape Town Studios where Netflix’s One Piece and many other projects were filmed. Photo: MyBroadband
Celebrate British Actor Idris Elba’s recent “Zollywood” initiative has seen a swathe of interest. The actor has secured land and government approval for his proposed plan to build filming studios in Tanzania and Ghana.
This highlights another emerging model that has the potential to share the appeal of Africa’s destinations through incredible storytelling. Elba’s blueprint envisions film studios built on Tanzania’s Zanzibar islands and in Ghana’s capital, Accra, to catalyse the growth of Africa’s film industry, turning it into a global powerhouse.
Combined with Tanzania’s natural beauty and cultural richness, this project further positions the East African nation as a compelling destination for tourists eager to explore African landscapes seen on screen.
Elba’s initiative aims to support local film talent, provide infrastructure, and draw in foreign investment, similar to South Africa’s film industry. For example, the South African government has supported several productions, establishing the country as a hub for global filmmakers.
Offering location subsidies and building the necessary post-production infrastructure has helped attract international projects like Mad Max: Fury Road and The Kissing Booth, and increased South Africa’s visibility and drove tourism to filming locations.
Nigeria’s film industry, commonly known as Nollywood, also cannot be overlooked, with an estimated contribution of around US $2.56 billion to Nigeria’s GDP in 2023 alone. Increased investment from streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime has further fueled this growth, with Netflix contributing over US $23 million over seven years, creating thousands of jobs and elevating the reach of Nigerian films internationally.
In Kenya, Mombasa is actively using film festivals to attract tourism, as seen in the inaugural Mombasa International Film Festival (MIFF), which drew attention to local talent and helped position the coastal city as a film destination. This approach not only boosts tourism but also creates opportunities for cultural exchange and local talent development.
For countries like Rwanda and Morocco, which have also opened doors to international productions, the benefits of hosting filmmakers are evident as tourism to these regions continues to rise. Morocco, for instance, saw tourism gains following the production of Game of Thrones in Ait Benhaddou and Gladiator in Ouarzazate.
Putting Africa’s Destinations on the Red Carpet
This trend of film tourism not only boosts local economies but fosters cultural pride and strengthens the continent’s global visibility. If supported with strategic partnerships and infrastructure, Africa could become a global leader in film-inspired travel, enriching local communities and offering immersive experiences for travellers worldwide.
It’s clear a combined and continued focus on film tourism in Africa holds promise, leveraging cinematic storytelling to promote diverse destinations across the continent.
Inspired to put Uganda on your travel vision board? The country is fast cementing its position as a destination for luxury safaris, with new lodges welcoming guests. If you’re looking for a unique and opulent African experience, a Uganda safari tour should definitely be on your list.
Adult female gorilla with baby in the lush foliage of the Bwindi Impenetrable forest, Uganda. Photo: Getty Images
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.
The eight suites are tucked in the hillside and afford sweeping views of the forest. Add to this the glass-fronted interiors to maximise natural light, and you’ll have an immersed experience in nature while simply relaxing in your luxury suite.
This lodge isn’t just about luxury but also about preserving the natural environment and assisting local communities.
Asilia Africa is undertaking an ambitious reforestation project that aims to create a forest buffer zone around the lodge. In the long term, this will eventually deliver an accessible forest for the Batwa people, who are no longer allowed in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This will assist in creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities for many years to come.
2. Gorilla Forest Lodge, Sanctuary
Aerial view of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda. Photo: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Lodge
Previously Gorilla Forest Camp, Sanctuary’s establishment in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is undergoing a revamp and will be ready to welcome guests again in May 2025.
The position of this lodge is unmatched – after just a five-minute walk, you’ll find yourself at the Uganda Wildlife Authority Centre, from which gorilla trekking excursions begin. These great apes have been known to visit the camp itself, so you may just catch a glimpse before your official trek!
Being immersed in nature here will not ask you to let go of any comforts. Sanctuary has comfortable communal areas along with a well-stocked bar, and dining is a sumptuous affair.
Our Luxury Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi safari includes a stay at Gorilla Forest Lodge, where you can go on nature hikes, visit local communities for cultural excursions, and, of course, gorilla trekking.
The lodge includes eight luxury bandas and all guests can enjoy personal butler service. Four-poster, mosquito net-wrapped beds and fire places further enhance these bandas into sanctuaries in the wilderness.
There is also a spa for relaxation treatments, as well as a pool to cool off from the tropical heat.
When you choose to safari in Uganda, you’re directly contributing to conservation efforts in the country. Kibale is in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute to organise community outreach programmes to build up women leaders in conservation.
In our Safari, Chimp and Gorilla Trekking in Uganda tour, you have the opportunity to stay at Kibale Lodge. Besides chimpanzee trekking, this safari includes birdwatching and a river cruise experience.
View of the bedroom inside the tent at The River Station, Uganda. Photo: The River Station
In Kyambura Game Reserve, part of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Wildplaces is constructing a new contender in the luxury safari market: The River Station.
This lodge will focus on sophisticated luxury, with unique extras that will take safari experience to another level. The River Station and its sister camp, Honey Bear Bush, are the only accommodation options in the reserve, meaning that your trip will be intimate with limited guests.
Each of the 10 rooms includes a plunge pool as well as an outdoor shower.
With the spa positioned over a waterhole, your treatment affords you the opportunity to see wildlife wander past.
Our Highlights of Uganda safari includes a stay at The River Station, where activities include an evening dhow cruise, game drives, nature walks, and chimp tracking.
A safari in Botswana is more opulent thanks to Savute Safari Lodge’s new look. With its focus on the natural beauty of the environment, while maintaining comfort and style, this refurbished lodge is the perfect sanctuary in the wilderness. Here’s what you can expect when on safari with Desert & Delta at their Savute Safari Lodge.
A Luxurious Wilderness Retreat
Swimming Pool at Savute Safari Lodge. Photo: Savute Safari Lodge
In the late 1990s, the well-known Lloyd’s Camp on the Savute Channel in Chobe National Park was brought into the fold by Desert & Delta, and Savute Safari Lodge was born.
Desert & Delta Safaris is a tour de force in the world of Botswana safaris. After being established in 1982, it became one of the most successful safari operators in the country.
Their safari properties – which are managed by local citizens – are located within Botswana’s prime wildlife destinations, famous for the diversity of experiences and incredible wildlife. Savute Safari Lodge is no exception.
Located on the Savute Channel, which runs a distance of 100 km from the Chobe River to the Mababe Depression, the lodge offers guests stunning wildlife encounters. See massive herds of elephants, spectacular bird life, and predators including lions and spotted hyenas.
Refurbishments at Savute Safari Lodge
Savute Safari Lodge recently underwent a complete rebuild to upgrade the space, further cementing it as a fantastic choice for travellers wanting a luxury safari experience in Botswana.
There are 11 standard rooms and one family room, with each featuring a combination of natural thatching and canvas. This not only surrounds guests in a beautiful natural environment but also acts as an efficient climate control measure during the hotter months. Earthy décor and colours create a calming atmosphere to fully relax in the wilderness.
The private outdoor showers further enhance the rooms – what’s better after a day of game drives and activities than taking a shower under a canopy of stars?
Guests will be blown away by the views. Rooms have been designed to afford spectacular views of the abundant wildlife that gathers around the waterholes to drink and play in the shallows.
Out of the rooms and into the communal areas, the awe-inspiring views are still prioritised. From here, guests can look out at one of Botswana’s most famous waterholes, which has been featured in wildlife documentaries, including National Geographic’s Savage Kingdom and the BBC’s Planet Earth series.
The campfire that overlooks the Savute Channel is the perfect place to share stories of the day’s wildlife sightings. On the edge of the channel is a pool offering guests the opportunity for refreshing dips overlooking the wilderness.
“The design and styles are distinctly different to other lodges in the Desert & Delta Safaris portfolio, ensuring each lodge exhibits its own individual character while upholding our commitment to local empowerment and warm, friendly and professional service,” says Desert & Delta Safaris managing director Matthew Johnson.
Activities at Savute Safari Lodge
Photographic safari at Savute Safari Lodge. Photo: Savute Safari Lodge
Botswana is one of the best safari destinations in Africa, with Chobe National Park famous for having the largest population of elephants on the continent. It’s also home to lions, leopards, buffaloes, and over 450 bird species. So, game drives in this region are thrilling!
Desert & Delta Safaris is passionate about preserving the natural environment they call home.
They’re active in raising awareness and funding for the Botswana Rhino Relocation and Reintroduction Programme, and introduced Africa’s first fleet of electric-powered CO2-emission-free vehicles and safari boats to the Chobe region to reduce their carbon footprint.
Solar projects, greywater treatment plants, careful waste management protocols, as well as the use of sustainable building materials wherever possible, further set Desert & Delta’s lodges and camps apart as sustainable accommodations.
This new look further entrenches Desert & Delta as a must-visit destination for a Botswana safari tour. Savute Safari Lodge is the perfect choice for safari goers who want to explore Chobe National Park and enjoy almost constant views of the incredible wilderness and the animals that call it home.
South Africa is one of the most sought-after destinations for travellers, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and incredible wildlife.
While the country offers a wide variety of experiences, from city adventures to world-class South African safaris, US travel and UK travel advisories to this top safari destination often warn their citizens about crime.
South Africa has taken significant steps to improve safety in tourism hotspots.
The Deputy Minister of Tourism, Maggie Sotyu, announced the training of 2,300 tourism monitors nationwide ahead of the summer season. This initiative is funded through the South African government’s Expanded Public Works Programme, with R174 million allocated for its implementation. It aims to enhance security in popular tourist areas and attractions.
Wilderness Beach at the Garden Route, South Africa
International tourism to South Africa continues to grow, and our expert travel advisors are able to put your mind at ease with first-hand insights on planning your vacation.
Here’s how to enjoy South Africa’s best while keeping safety in mind.
Essential Emergency Contacts and Resources for Tourists in South Africa
The key to a peaceful trip, no matter the destination, is being prepared for any unexpected situation. Have access to emergency contacts and resources that can provide guidance and assistance; also keep in mind we provide 24/7 support for our clients.
Always keep copies of your travel insurance on you. Make sure you can contact your insurance provider for guidance on what steps to take should an incident occur.
If you experience an issue, report it to the nearest police station.
Emergency Services
Save important numbers to your phone before your trip and keep a hard copy.
General Emergencies: 112
Ambulance Services: 10177
Police Services: 10111
National Sea Rescue Institute: +27 434 4011
Medical Assistance
Contact local medical facilities or your travel insurance provider for assistance in a medical emergency.
Known for its picturesque vineyards and gourmet food, the Cape Winelands is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Towns like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are beautiful and well worth exploring.
Enjoy wine tastings, fine dining, and scenic drives through the lush countryside.
The Garden Route is famed for its breathtaking coastal scenery and outdoor activities. This stretch from Mossel Bay to Storms River has a host of incredible gems to explore.
Popular spots like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay offer a mix of adventure and relaxation, with excellent infrastructure for travellers.
Kruger National Park
For those looking to experience South Africa’s wildlife, Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s most popular safari destinations.
Luxury lodges offer fantastic amenities as well as game drives with expertly trained guides to spot the Big Five and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Game Drive at Jabulani in the Greater Kruger | Image credit: Jabulani
South Africa is a top (and safe!) destination for travellers who want to experience world-class amenities, safari adventures to see the Big Five, and unspoilt natural environments.