The New Year of Travel: What 2026 Will Look Like Across Africa

If there’s one thing on your list of 2026 New Year’s resolutions, make sure it’s travel – lots of it. Newmark Hotels & Reserves has new offerings opening in Zimbabwe, Namibia, Limpopo and Stellenbosch. They’re so enticing that two of our upcoming hotels, Thitaka Lodge and Bupenyu Lodge, were mentioned in Conde Nast Travel for places to visit in 2026. So get ready, because bookings are open.

Toro River at Toro River Lodges: Makalali Private Game Reserve, Limpopo

Toro River at Toro River Lodges, set along the banks of the Makhutswi River in Limpopo, has officially opened its doors to guests on 9 December, 2026. Guests will find a real African connection with its cosy comforts, refined hospitality and rustic atmosphere.

Each stay is inclusive of gourmet meals, all-day beverages, game drives and guided safari walks through the Big 5 territory. Safari tours often go off track, promising an unforgettable experience.

Bupenyu Luxury Boutique Lodge: Batoka, Zimbabwe

Our portfolio expands to Zimbabwe, the home of Victoria Falls, with the grand opening of Bupenyu Boutique Luxury Lodge on 1 March 2026. It’s the quintessential way to experience Zimbabwe’s raw beauty.

Set in Batoka Gorge overlooking the Zambezi River, the lodge blends into the surroundings with natural rock and woodland features, homegrown ingredients, solar power and helicopter rides over the Victoria Falls. Also on offer are day trips to Hwange National Park and a Zambezi river cruise.

“We are part of this landscape. Our guests are invited to become part of it, too,” says General Manager Razwilson Dube.

Thitaka Lodge: Bwabwata National Park, Namibia

Safari enthusiasts can look forward to Newmark’s debut in Namibia, with Thitaka Lodge opening its doors from May 2026. Set along a river in the Bwabwata National Park, guests are in for an African treat complete with forest ravines, elephant sightings and wetlands.

Accommodation will be offered in villas or luxury tents, with full board, beverages, bush and boma dinners, and daily game drives included.

Blaauwklippen Manor: Stellenbosch

Blaauwklippen Manor in Stellenbosch is revered for its understated beauty. Calm, tranquil and private, it is a welcome escape to look forward to in the new year. The property, set on historic winelands, has been beautifully restored after a devastating fire and is set to open on 1 February.

The interiors were designed by Francois Du Plessis of FDP Interiors, who also designed GINJA and Dash in the Newmark Hotels & Reserves portfolio. The Manor House and Jonkershuis offer a charming country house vibe with an elegant modern touch, making you feel instantly at home.

Highlights at the all-new Blaauwklippen:

• Manor House: 8 rooms with en-suites, 2 including private terraces
• Jonkershuis: elegant layout with spacious rooms each with a gas fireplace
• 3 rooms have private terraces

Shared pool for Manor House and Jonkershuis guests.

Witness the all-new safari and wineland destinations of the southern hemisphere with these exciting offerings from Newmark Hotels & Reserves.