New Safari Lodges and Camps to Watch in 2025

Where to Stay Next: East Africa’s Most Exciting New Safari Escapes

2025 is shaping up to be a spectacular year for safari lovers. Across East Africa, a new generation of lodges and camps is opening its doors offering guests more than just a bed in the wild. Think stargazing decks in Samburu, luxury tents beside the Mara River, forest suites surrounded by mountain gorillas, and sunrise drives into the Ngorongoro Crater.

At Traford Safaris, we’ve handpicked the most thrilling new openings for 2025. Whether you’re after opulence, sustainability, or an off the grid experience, these are the camps that will define safari travel this year.

Tanzania’s Trailblazing New Camps

Simbavati Musabi Plains  ( Central Serengeti)

Opened ; January 2025
Imagine waking up to the sound of wildebeests crossing the Grumeti River. This sleek new 6-tent camp is perfectly placed for Big Five sightings and the dramatic Great Migration. With expert guiding and intimate size, it’s ideal for couples or seasoned wildlife lovers who want front-row seats to nature’s greatest performance.

ENVI Sisini Mara ( Northern Serengeti)

Opened: February 2025
Just 15 minutes from the famous river crossings, Sisini Mara is where barefoot luxury meets the wilderness. It features 10 stylish tents (including a 2-bedroom villa with private pool), yoga decks, and an eco-conscious design. If you love safaris but want wellness too this one’s for you.

Lemala Osonjoi Lodge (Ngorongoro Crater Rim)

Opened: July 2025
This 20-suite lodge hugs the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, offering breathtaking views and direct access to sunrise game drives via the quieter Lemala Gate. It’s a photographer’s dream and a peaceful retreat for those wanting to beat the crowds.

Nimali House (Tarangire)

Opened: June 2025
Looking for a private safari with your loved ones? Nimali House is a full villa escape built for families or small groups. Think private chefs, poolside sundowners, and elephants wandering nearby. The walking safaris here are a true highlight.

TAASA Migration Camp ( Mobile Across Serengeti)

Opened July 2025
This isn’t your typical luxury camp it moves with the migration. Expect campfires under the stars, family friendly tented suites, and flexible routing so you’re always in the heart of the action. If you’ve dreamed of tracking the wildebeest on their journey this is your chance.

Kenya’s Must Watch 2025 Lodge Openings

andBeyond Suyian Lodge ( Laikipia)

Opens: July 2025
Set on 44,000 acres of rugged wilderness, this new lodge blends refined luxury with wild adventure. Ride camels to sundowner spots, walk with Samburu warriors, or watch elephants roam beneath Mount Kenya. The 14 suites include a plunge pool and plenty of personal touches.

Little Elephant Pepper Camp (Mara North Conservancy)

Opened: Early 2025
This new camp from the Elewana Collection features just four tents perfect for families or friends seeking exclusivity in the Masai Mara. Expect incredible wildlife sightings right from your private deck.

Basecamp Samburu ( Kalama Conservancy)

Opened: January 2025
One of the most eco forward camps in northern Kenya, this solar powered escape features a star bed platform, cultural exchanges with the Samburu, and a front row seat to rhino conservation efforts. You’ll leave with both beautiful photos and a changed perspective.

Uganda’s Hidden Forest Gems

Gorilla Forest Lodge (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest)

Opened: May 2025
Tucked at the edge of the misty Bwindi Forest, this lodge is a dream for trekkers. Each stylish suite is built for post gorilla trek relaxation, with forest views, warm showers, and cozy luxury. And yes the gorillas may even walk by.

Asilia Erebero Hills Lodge  (Bwindi Foothills)

Opens: Late 2025
Asilia is known for its beautiful lodges across Tanzania. Now they bring their signature touch to Uganda. Think glass fronted forest villas with open decks, perfect for spotting birds, monkeys, and the distant peaks of the Virungas.

Rwanda’s New Luxury in the Wild

Wilderness Magashi Peninsula ( Akagera National Park)

Opens: September 2025
Set on a private peninsula, this eight-bed lodge offers uninterrupted lake views, water safaris, and game drives through Akagera’s savannah. Here, you’ll track black rhinos in the morning and sip wine by the water in the evening.

 Why These New Lodges Matter

These lodges aren’t just new they’re setting the tone for the future of safari travel in East Africa:

• Sustainable by design: From solar power to zero waste systems and local employment.

• Boutique and exclusive: Smaller camp sizes mean more privacy and personalized service.

• Immersive locations: No crowds just you, the bush, and the wild rhythms of nature.

• Perfect for families, couples, and adventurers alike.

Your Next Safari Starts Here

These aren’t just places to stay. They’re experiences you’ll remember for a lifetime. If you’re dreaming of a 2025 safari in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, or Rwanda now’s the time to plan it.

At Traford Safaris, we don’t just book lodges we design journeys. From the best dates for the migration to private gorilla treks or custom honeymoon safaris, we’ll tailor every detail.

📩 Contact us today and be one of the first to sleep under the stars in East Africa’s most exciting new safari