This Iconic Okavango Lodge Just Reopened its Doors

December 1, 2025

Baines’ Lodge has reopened after a complete rebuild, with just six suites and front-row access to Botswana’s most spectacular wetland.

Botswana’s Okavango Delta has no shortage of remarkable safari stays, but one of its most intimate lodges has just re-entered the scene with a striking new identity. Baines’ Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary property, has reopened following a complete rebuild, taking inspiration from 19th-century explorer and artist Thomas Baines, whose watercolours first introduced the region’s landscapes to the world.

Perched on the floodplains of the Boro River at the edge of the Moremi Game Reserve, the redesigned lodge feels like an open-air gallery. Soft greens and papyrus tones echo the reeds outside; sand-washed neutrals mirror the Delta’s islands; and rich timbers ground each space in its setting. Instead of walls, columns frame the views, so the watery landscape becomes the artwork.

With only six suites and a maximum of four guests per vehicle, the emphasis is on slow, deeply personal safari experiences. The private concession allows activities you won’t find in the main park — walking safaris, night drives, and, when water levels permit, mokoro canoe excursions through the channels. Seasonal floods transform the area from May to September, drawing elephants, lions, leopards, wild dogs, and extraordinary birdlife into the surrounding mosaic of waterways.

Thoughtful touches nod to both exploration and craftsmanship: the Explorer’s Lounge comes kitted with microscopes and maps, woven ceilings created by South African artisans mimic the patterns of termite mounds, and reclaimed timber from the original lodge has been reimagined throughout the property. Private decks feature “star baths” — open-air tubs positioned for long soaks under the night sky — making the lodge especially appealing for honeymooners and romantics. 

For travellers drawn to the Delta’s quieter corners, this rebuilt retreat offers something increasingly rare: a place where the landscapes take centre stage and the days unfold at nature’s pace.

Four Seasons Hotel Rabat opens in Morocco’s capital

November 1, 2024

Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr is officially open in Rabat, Morocco.

Located in the capital city’s historic Quartier l’Océan on the shores of the Atlantic, Four Seasons Hotel Rabat is the ideal base from which to explore the city’s fascinating mix of cultures, architecture, cuisine and the arts. Much of the modern capital and historic city was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012, thanks in part to its “fertile exchange between the Arabo-Muslim past and Western modernism,” with its notable green spaces part of one of the continent’s most successful urban development plans.

From the 12th century Kasbah des Oudaias with its boutiques and bistros to the colourful shops that line the medina’s alleyways nearby, the magnificent Andalusian Gardens, and the ultra-modern Grand Theatre of Rabat designed by Zaha Hadid, the Hotel’s concierge team can plan an itinerary to suit every interest. 

The hotel’s 200 rooms and suites are spread across several modern and historic buildings featuring ocean or garden views, with most including either a furnished balcony or terrace, and some also offering a private plunge pool.

Guests are spoiled for choice among the hotel’s accommodations, with standouts including the Turquoise Ocean View Suite with its large living room, full dining suite and furnished balcony to enjoy the sweeping views from the top floor of the Hotel. The three-bedroom Moulay Slimane Presidential Suite – named for the Moroccan king who led the original construction of the “Palace by the Sea” two centuries ago – include residential-style features such as a fitness room, office, media room and kitchenette. The hotel’s crowning glory is the stunning two-storey Sultan’s Riad, offering 950 square metres (more than 10,000 square feet) of lavish living, including a rooftop ocean-view infinity pool.

For more information, visit fourseasons.com/rabat/

andBeyond Ngala tented Camp reopens after six-month closure

October 30, 2024

After a 6-month closure for an extensive refurbishment, andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp has now welcomed guests back to its iconic location on the banks of the Timbavati River.

During this time, the camp’s design has been reimagined; elevating the intimate and exclusive tented experience, while still retaining its classical tented feel and aura of bush romance. Known and loved for its ample wildlife experiences, which include rarities such as African wild dog and the area’s famous white lions, the camp is situated in andBeyond Ngala Private Game Reserve, which shares unfenced borders with the Kruger National Park. 

A revamped layout

A new layout and an extended outdoor deck ensure that guest tents are even more spacious and luxurious, with the addition of secluded outdoor spaces to while away the afternoon. Redesigned bathrooms will feature both an indoor and outdoor shower, in addition to an al fresco bathtub. Discrete butler hatches, outdoor screens and redirected pathways will add an extra element of tranquility and privacy.     

Similarly, the guest area underwent an extensive transformation to make the most of its spectacular setting above the riverbed, which remains dry through much of the year. Expanded decks with reticulated awnings now provide ample choice for dining options, while the lounge offers the ideal vantage point for guests wishing to spend some leisure time gazing out onto the shaded riverbed.  

Much loved by both guests and thirsty wildlife visitors, the camp’s swimming pool, as well as the surrounding deck, have been expanded. Shady guest salas provide an ideal space for sunbathing or informal poolside dining. The camp’s existing spa has been expanded, and a well-equipped gym has been built to round off the wellness offering. 

Retaining the camp’s elegant balance between traditional and contemporary, the new interiors combine local Shangaan-inspired mid-century silhouettes with regional embroidered designs and textiles, all against the backdrop of its signature granite stone and canvas. Tranquil and gracious, Ngala Tented Camp will continue to welcome children over the age of twelve, providing a romantic and private alternative to the more family-oriented Ngala Safari Lodge, situated in the north of the reserve.  

andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp officially reopened for guests in October 2024.     

This luxury tour operator just added Africa to its travel portfolio

March 25, 2024

Classic Vacations, a global luxury travel company, is expanding its portfolio to include luxury offerings on a new continent: Africa.

Classic’s Africa portfolio launches with a range of carefully crafted itineraries designed to highlight southern Africa’s most iconic destinations and hidden gems. Whether travellers are seeking adventure in the wilderness, cultural immersion in vibrant cities, or just relaxation, there will be a tour to suit every taste and interest.

“Our diverse product offerings now span from city experiences in iconic destinations such as Cape Town, Johannesburg, Livingstone, and Victoria Falls to unforgettable safari adventures in Kruger National Park, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. At Classic, we pride ourselves on curating exceptional experiences, and our newest additions promise to deliver even more to immerse travelers in the beauty and excitement that this magnificent region offers,” said Joelle Apilado, vice-president of product, Classic Vacations.

“Africa offers a wealth of unique experiences that our customers are asking for. Add that to our preferred luxury accommodations and curated VIP service, and travelers are guaranteed to create memories that last a lifetime,” she concluded.

To learn more about Classic Vacations and its new Africa trips, visit www.classicvacations.com.

Park Hyatt has opened a luxury hotel close to Marrakech’s famed medina

January 3, 2024

Park Hyatt Marrakech is now open, marking the debut of the Park Hyatt brand in Morocco and growing the brand’s presence in Africa, joining Park Hyatt Zanzibar and the forthcoming Park Hyatt Johannesburg, slated for 2025.

Uniquely located 15 kilometres from Marrakech’s historic Medina district, the 19-acre resort is situated in an exquisite, off-the-beaten path location at the base of the Atlas Mountains. Surrounded by palm trees, olive trees and jacaranda trees, Park Hyatt Marrakech sits adjacent to the magnificent Al Maaden Golf resort, exclusively offering guests convenient access to the 18-hole course.

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About Park Hyatt Marrakech

Park Hyatt Marrakech stands apart from other luxury hotels in the market through a distinctly residential, modern, and stylish take on Arab-Berber heritage.

Composed of 16 pavilions arranged around a central, zeolite patio, Park Hyatt Marrakech encapsulates the personalized, understated luxury of the global brand with unexpected, hyperlocal experiences for guests – from breakfast in a hot-air balloon in the Three Atlas Valleys, to dinner in a Bedouin tent in the Agafay desert, to airport transfers in luxury electric cars, and more.

Renowned Marrakech-based architect Imaad Rahmouni drew inspiration from Arab-Berber traditions to create a luxurious contemporary design for Park Hyatt Marrakech.

 

The 130 residentially inspired guestrooms and suites are among the most spacious in Marrakech, and promise privacy and tranquility, with Moroccan touches throughout.

Each guestroom features traditionally woven Berber carpets in pure wool and headboards representing the Tataoui motif (a local roofing technique made of laurel branches) alongside modern works of art sourced via Ifitry Artists’ Residence.

Ammenities & more

In addition to convenient golf access, the hotel’s vast, 23,000+-square-foot spa is an ode to Morocco’s culture of hammam rituals and holistic therapies. Featuring products from Sodashi, a brand hand-crafted in Australia and Nectarome, a complete range of high-quality natural products derived from Moroccan traditions, the professional spa team can recommend personalized treatments.

Guests can stay on track of their fitness goals in the 2,153-square-foot fitness centre and yoga studio.

 

The expansive resort also includes an outdoor heated pool, a family-friendly outdoor pool, and an indoor heated pool beneath a vaulted ceiling, each offering unique valley and mountain vistas.

Get up close with wildlife on any of these exciting Africa trips

September 22, 2023

Africal Travel Inc., a luxury safari outfitter has launched a new 2024 brochure offering authentic wildlife and cultural encounters across 16 destinations in Africa from Cape Town to Cairo and their newest destination, Morocco.

With their continued sustainable travel efforts, African Travel Inc. is now incorporating a conscious travel experience across all of their itineraries from their newest journeys to the most popular itineraries that benefit wildlife conservation or local communities.

Each conscious travel experience is carefully chosen for the positive social or environmental impact they have for the communities ATI explores as well as for their guests who experience them. These experiences directly advance the Sustainability Development Goals set by the United Nations. 

New Morocco adventures

Guests are invited to discover Morocco’s cultural treasures, centuries-old traditions and culinary delights. On the new 10-day Discover Morocco  and 12-day Flavors of Morocco sensory journeys, they will enjoy a meaningful experience with a visit to the Marjana Argan Co-operative in the southwest region of the country which is owned by more than 80 local women.

Clients will learn more about the life of these Berber women who use only traditional methods of making argan oil. They will have the opportunity to purchase the women’s quality products and make a positive economic impact. In Marrakech, both itineraries offer an interactive cooking class, conducted by talented local chefs. Guests will follow the chef’s demonstration and prepare their own savoury meal using traditional cooking tools with aromatic herbs and spices.

Wildlife wonders

Adventure seekers will discover extraordinary wildlife experiences on ATI”s new 10-day Delta, Rivers and Falls safari through the heart of Botswana’s and Zambia’s staggeringly beautiful landscapes.

They will witness a stunning aerial view of the Okavango Delta as they arrive at their sustainable luxury lodge, Atzaro Okavango via a scenic helicopter flight. The camp’s knowledgeable guides offer guests unparalleled sightings of leopards, cheetahs, lions, elephants, hippos, gazelles, and buffalo. Clients will enjoy staying at camps which support conservation, education of local children and community empowerment.

In Livingstone, they will have an opportunity to tour the Maunga clinic, visit a school and participate in a lunch program serving local kids. This experience includes a donation to support the local community.



Family-friendly safari company adds exciting new trips

August 21, 2023

Extraordinary Journeys, a tour operator and safari specialist, has unveiled a diverse array of new family-forward safari experiences tailored for all age groups across its African destinations.

While Extraordinary Journeys recommends South Africa, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Zambia, and Botswana as wonderful family safari destinations, as of recently, Kenya and Tanzania have become more accessible to families thanks to new and improved accommodations and experiences by top safari camps and lodges that are tailored to little ones.

Extraordinary Journeys has the insider intelligence and expertise to know precisely which camps are best for the type of family adventure travellers want to experience.

Explore Tanzania & Kenya

In Tanzania and Kenya specifically, Extraordinary Journeys’ family itineraries feature new safari sites that have moved on from the old standard of tents with extra beds and now give families exclusive use of their own “camp within the camp.”

The private sites sport amenities such as private guides, dining spaces, fire pits, and a private or additional shared pool, giving families a larger area to spread out, breathe, and connect. Whether roasting marshmallows and stargazing with the kids or enjoying a drink on the deck while the kids are safely asleep nearby, these new luxury suites offer families increased options and ease.

In addition to game drives, family safaris offer many other experiences for children to enjoy including bush walks to look for tracks, horseback or camel riding, local village visits, cooking with the camp’s Chef, hanging out near a waterhole (where the wildlife comes to you!), helicopter safaris, young explorers programs, and more.

For more information and to book your own safari, visit extraordinaryjourneys.com.

Luxury hotel with French flair and authentic Hammam spa opens in Morocco

November 30, 2022

Fairmont Hotels and Resorts, a brand of Accor, has announced an opening date for its newest flagship hotel, Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé.

Nestled at the confluence of the Bouregreg and the Atlantic Ocean in Morroco’s capital, the property, which is set to welcome guests as of November 28th, 2022, offers breath taking views of the region’s landmark sites.

Designed as a majestic cruise liner dropping anchor on the estuary, Fairmont La Marina Rabat-Salé embarks guests on an unparalleled experience of luxury. By revealing the Rabat-Salé area through a new perspective, the hotel captures the life and soul of modern Morocco highlighting its ancestral traditions.

Located near the Rabat-Salé international airport, a short 10-minute drive from the capital’s city centre, this new Fairmont flagship property features 186 rooms, including 27 opulent suites, and 88 timelessly elegant residences. Combining authentic Moroccan craftsmanship with modern design elements, each room pays homage to the different influences that have marked the Kingdom over the centuries.

Embodying the Fairmont brand’s heartfelt service and the best of Moroccan hospitality, the property offers a wide range of culinary experiences to delight the senses. Guests can enjoy a selection of three restaurants as well as a bar overlooking a green Orangerie, reinterpreting the outdoor gardens of antique Moroccan dwellings.

Moroccan & Meditteranean influences 

The French brasserie, “L’Ecume” is a culinary journey from farm and ocean to table, where local ingredients are showcased by Executive Chef Nicolas Warot. Whereas “Le Dahlia”, helmed by Chef Mohammed Amine Idbounite, is the promise of an exhilarating immersion in the heart of authentic Moroccan cuisine. With Mediterranean influences, modern dressings and cooking techniques, Le Dahlia provides guests with a new perspective on this traditional cuisine. Furthermore, “Le Deck”, a travelling cuisine inspired by Nikkei influences, awaits the connoisseur. Offering a 360° panoramic view of the estuary and the region’s most outstanding landmarks, this restaurant is equipped with an avant-garde bar and a year-round heated swimming pool. The venue is a suspended urban oasis where the ambiance evolves throughout the day, becoming more vibrant as the sun dips towards the horizon.

“La Verrière” completes this palette of culinary journeys. This lobby lounge and tearoom is the vibrant heart of the hotel. Bustling from the early morning hours, this contemporary version of the light-drenched patios of the Moroccan ancestral riads is a place to socialise and savour cocktails and is the most exquisite tea-time in the region, with refined pastries, freshly baked by the chef Hicham Khabata.

Leisure & luxury

The VIP Spa suite features an authentic Hammam room and the exclusive product ranges from “Natura Bissé” and “Maison d’Asa”, with rituals using ingredients drawn from the richness of Moroccan terroir.

Acting in perfect synergy with the Spa, Fairmont Fit fulfills a guest’s quest for wellness while travelling and offers a moment of freedom and relaxation for both mind and body. Featuring state-of-the-art fitness facilities, this area offers a holistic experience of well-being through invigorating activities such as cardio-training sessions combined with aqua gym in the heated pool or more resorative activities such as yoga and guided meditation along the beach.

For leisure travellers, Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé is the ultimate reference for luxury, where the most memorable experiences are created and the most cherished memories are made. From DIY workshops with the artisans of the Oulja to fishing trips aboard a luxury yacht and pedestrian tours through the maze of the old medina, this address offers an exciting immersion in the local culture.

Business travellers are not to be outdone. The hotel offers nine meeting rooms, including a VIP Majliss, a majestic Ballroom and and seven board rooms. Thanks to the diversity of modular spaces equipped with leading-edge technology and an intuitive and passionate event planning service, the Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé conference centre sets the stage for the community’s most anticipated events.