{"id":8145,"date":"2018-12-10T11:57:24","date_gmt":"2018-12-10T11:57:24","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/blog\/?p=8145"},"modified":"2025-04-30T12:37:21","modified_gmt":"2025-04-30T12:37:21","slug":"best-new-lodges-opening-in-2019","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/blog\/best-new-lodges-opening-in-2019","title":{"rendered":"Best new lodges opening in 2019"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>There\u2019s nothing like a new year to inspire you to travel, especially when the year looks as good as 2019 for new safari lodges across Africa. From beach retreats with a twist in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/south-africa-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">South Africa<\/a> to all-singing, all-dancing lodges in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/okavango-delta-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Okavango Delta<\/a> and several new and very exciting openings in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/zimbabwe-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Zimbabwe<\/a>, there\u2019s plenty here to top your 2019 travel list. Read on for our pick of the best new lodges opening in 2019 \u2013 and then start planning that dream trip, pronto!<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/lekkerwater-beach-lodge-at-de-hoop\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-8147\" src=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1439,height=960,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/1-Lekkerwater-Beach-Lodge-at-De-Hoop-timbuktu-travel.jpg\" alt=\"Best new lodges opening in 2019 - Lekkerwater beach lodge\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=900,height=600,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/1-Lekkerwater-Beach-Lodge-at-De-Hoop-timbuktu-travel.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1439,height=960,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/1-Lekkerwater-Beach-Lodge-at-De-Hoop-timbuktu-travel.jpg 1439w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=375,height=250,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/1-Lekkerwater-Beach-Lodge-at-De-Hoop-timbuktu-travel.jpg 375w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=450,height=300,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/1-Lekkerwater-Beach-Lodge-at-De-Hoop-timbuktu-travel.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=768,height=512,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/1-Lekkerwater-Beach-Lodge-at-De-Hoop-timbuktu-travel.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>1. Lekkerwater Beach Lodge at De Hoop<\/h2>\n<p><em>Garden Route, South Africa<\/em><\/p>\n<p>If there\u2019s one thing we like more than the best new lodges opening in 2019, it\u2019s a new area to discover. Although South Africa\u2019s De Hoop Nature Reserve isn\u2019t exactly \u2018new\u2019, it\u2019s still a secret to most international visitors \u2013 and most South Africans too! Currently, accommodation options include boutique eco-lodge <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/morukuru-beach-lodge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Morukuru Beach Lodge<\/a> and the rustic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/de-hoop-collection\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">De Hoop Collection<\/a>, but from April 2019, there\u2019s a new player on the scene \u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/lekkerwater-beach-lodge-at-de-hoop\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Lekkerwater Beach Lodge<\/a>. Built on the site of FW de Klerk\u2019s Camp David, the location was chosen for its extraordinary beauty and seclusion and as soon as you set foot in the area you\u2019ll see why. Visit for outstanding whale-watching from July to November and a fascinating dive into the history of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/south-africa-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">South Africa<\/a>, followed by dinner on the beach, toes-in-the-sand style\u2026<\/p>\n<p>De Hoop Coastal Reserve is a good stop on any South African <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/garden-route-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Garden Route<\/a> itinerary. Have a look at our route\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/a-self-drive-garden-route-expedition\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">A self- drive Garden Route expedition<\/a> as a starting point and simply add a stop at Lekkerwater Beach Lodge to complete your dream trip.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Opening April 2019:\u00a0<\/strong>Read more about this lodge <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/lekkerwater-beach-lodge-at-de-hoop\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/tuludi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-8148\" src=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1345,height=960,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/2-tuludi-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg\" alt=\"Best new lodges opening in 2019 - tuludi lodge\" width=\"900\" height=\"643\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=840,height=600,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/2-tuludi-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg 840w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1345,height=960,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/2-tuludi-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg 1345w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=375,height=268,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/2-tuludi-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg 375w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=450,height=321,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/2-tuludi-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=768,height=548,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/2-tuludi-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/2-tuludi-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>2. Tuludi<\/h2>\n<p><em>Okavango Delta, Botswana<\/em><\/p>\n<p>It might be another lodge in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/okavango-delta-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Okavango Delta<\/a>, but <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/tuludi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tuludi<\/a> isn\u2019t any old camp, we can tell you that. Located on the northern fringes of the beautiful Delta, the intimate tented camp is actually in the exclusive Khwai Private Reserve, far from any madding crowds. There are currently only two other properties in the entire, half-a-million-acre reserve (and both are owned by the same company as Tuludi, Natural Selection Safaris) so peace and quiet really is the name of the game here \u2013 but certainly not in terms of wildlife sightings! Back at base camp, it\u2019s all-out luxury and each tented room is a whopping 100 square-metres in size, with a private plunge pool, sunken seating areas and hanging basket chairs to aid relaxation. Safe to say, it\u2019s one of our favourites on the list of nest new lodges opening in 2019\u2026<\/p>\n<p>Tuludi is a luxurious sort of place that will take your Okavango Delta safari to the next level. Use the route <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/a-classic-journey-through-botswana\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">A classic journey through Botswana<\/a> to start your planning, and combine a spot of adventure with some serious luxury!<\/p>\n<p><strong>Opening July 2019:\u00a0<\/strong>Read more about this lodge <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/tuludi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/nyamatusi-camp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-8153\" src=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1360,height=960,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/nyamatusi-camp-mana-pools-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg\" alt=\"Best new lodges opening in 2019 - Nyamatusi\" width=\"900\" height=\"635\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=850,height=600,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/nyamatusi-camp-mana-pools-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg 850w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1360,height=960,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/nyamatusi-camp-mana-pools-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg 1360w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=375,height=265,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/nyamatusi-camp-mana-pools-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg 375w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=450,height=318,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/nyamatusi-camp-mana-pools-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=768,height=542,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/nyamatusi-camp-mana-pools-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/nyamatusi-camp-mana-pools-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>3. Nyamatusi<\/h2>\n<p><em>Mana Pools, Zimbabwe<\/em><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/zimbabwe-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Zimbabwe<\/a> had a bit of a moment in 2018 and that looks set to continue in 2019 with a host of new camps and lodges opening all over the safari hotspots and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/nyamatusi-camp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Nyamatusi<\/a> is the first in the country on our list of best new lodge openings in 2019. First up is its location, deep in the wilds of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/mana-pools-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mana Pools National Park<\/a> (we know we shouldn\u2019t have favourites, but Mana really is up there on our list) and right on the banks of one of the oldest rivers in the world, making for stunning views and adventure by the bucket-load. Secondly, the guides most certainly deserve a mention. African Bush Camps are renowned for having some of the best guides in Zim and those based at Nyamatusi are passionate and knowledgeable and will take you closer than you ever thought possible to the big game of Mana. And the third? You\u2019ll just have to visit to find out\u2026<\/p>\n<p>The beauty of Nyamatusi is that it will slot perfectly into just about any Zimbabwe itinerary. Take a look at our routes <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/ultimate-zimbabwe\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ultimate Zimbabwe<\/a>, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/walking-safaris-canoe-expeditions-in-zimbabwe\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Walking safaris and canoe expeditions<\/a>, both of which include stops in Mana Pools.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Opening April 2019:\u00a0<\/strong>Read more about this lodge <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/nyamatusi-camp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"timbuktu-wp\"><link rel=\"stylesheet\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css?family=Merriweather:700|Open+Sans:300,600\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/mana-pools-safari?action=DesignATrip&wId=001&regionName=Mana%20Pools&regionId=87\" class=\"no_underline timbuktu-test-class\" target=\"_blank\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_container image-included\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner \" data-entity-type=\"region\" data-country-id=\"7\" data-region-id=\"87\">\n                    <figure><img src=https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/regions\/kodak_images\/000\/000\/087\/original\/ruckomechi-elephant-mana-pools-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.JPG?w=500&h=634&auto=format&fit=min&dpr=2&q=50&crop=center center data-country-id=\"7\" data-region-id=\"87\" class=\"timbuktu_desktop_image\" alt=\"Mana Pools Image\"><img src=https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/regions\/kodak_images\/000\/000\/087\/original\/ruckomechi-elephant-mana-pools-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.JPG?w=768&h=309&auto=format&fit=min&dpr=1&q=50&crop=center center data-country-id=\"7\" data-region-id=\"87\" class=\"timbuktu_mobile_image\" alt=\"Mana Pools Image\"><\/figure><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_copy\"><span class=\"timbuktu_destination\" style=\"color:#128d8d\">Mana Pools<\/span><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_heading\">Design your own trip<\/div>\n                        <span class=\"timbuktu_works\">Choose a destination, pick your properties and we'll do the rest<\/span>\n                        <div class=\"timbuktu_button\" style=\"background-color:#128d8d\">Design a trip<\/div>\n                        \n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div><\/a><\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/beyond-tengile-river-lodge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-8149\" src=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1440,height=960,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/4-Beyond-tengile-river-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg\" alt=\"Best new lodges opening in 2019 - beyond tengile\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=900,height=600,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/4-Beyond-tengile-river-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1440,height=960,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/4-Beyond-tengile-river-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg 1440w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=375,height=250,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/4-Beyond-tengile-river-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg 375w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=450,height=300,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/4-Beyond-tengile-river-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=768,height=512,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/4-Beyond-tengile-river-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/4-Beyond-tengile-river-lodge-timbuktu-travel.jpg 1620w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>4. Tengile River Lodge<\/h2>\n<p><em>Kruger, South Africa<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Number 4 on our list of best new lodge openings in 2019 is &amp;Beyond\u2019s latest uber-luxury retreat, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/beyond-tengile-river-lodge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tengile<\/a>. If somewhere plush to put your feet up in between game drives is just as important as phenomenal wildlife viewing and an incredible location, then make a beeline for this place. Perched above the Sand River in the famous Sabi Sands Reserve just outside South Africa\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/kruger-national-park-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kruger National Park<\/a>, each room has been designed to \u2018float\u2019 above the wilderness, creating a perfect haven of rest and relaxation. The views across the river are as a phenomenal as the lodge itself, and when you can drag your eyes away from the wildlife happenings right in front of your nose, head to the spa for a heavenly massage, take a dip in your private plunge pool or even pop to the gym.<\/p>\n<p>We think a few days of wildlife-watching in Tengile would combine perfectly with some time at the beach \u2013 and our trip route\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/south-africa-s-classic-bush-beach-city-escape\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">South Africa\u2019s classic bush, beach and city escape<\/a> does exactly that!<\/p>\n<p><strong>Opening December 2018:\u00a0<\/strong>Read more about this lodge <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/beyond-tengile-river-lodge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/mpala-jena-camp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-8150\" src=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1440,height=952,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/5-Mpala-Jena-Camp-vic-falls-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg\" alt=\"Best new lodges opening in 2019 - mpala jena\" width=\"900\" height=\"595\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=900,height=595,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/5-Mpala-Jena-Camp-vic-falls-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1440,height=952,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/5-Mpala-Jena-Camp-vic-falls-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg 1440w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=375,height=248,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/5-Mpala-Jena-Camp-vic-falls-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg 375w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=450,height=298,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/5-Mpala-Jena-Camp-vic-falls-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=768,height=508,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/5-Mpala-Jena-Camp-vic-falls-zimbabwe-timbuktu-travel.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2>5. Mpala Jena Camp<\/h2>\n<p><em>Vic Falls, Zimbabwe<\/em><\/p>\n<p>We\u2019re back in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/country\/zimbabwe-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Zimbabwe<\/a> for number 5 on our list of best new lodge openings in 2019, this time at the country\u2019s crown jewel, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/victoria-falls-zimbabwe-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Victoria Falls<\/a>. But we do have a small confession to make: the lodge has actually been up and running since August 2018, but it was simply too good not to include! As well as being the most environmentally-innovative camp within the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/lower-zambezi-national-park-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Zambezi National Park<\/a> (every single material used in construction was recycled), <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/mpala-jena-camp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Mpala Jena<\/a> is also one of the most exclusive and intimate with only 4, beautiful tents to choose from. It\u2019s location in a private concession of the park is also pretty special, allowing you quick and easy access to the magnificent waterfall but also to relax and enjoy the sights and surrounds of the bush in blissful peace and quiet.<\/p>\n<p>Victoria Falls is a great place to begin a trip \u2013 all you need to do is add in Mpala Jena to make it yours. Try <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/the-highlights-of-southern-africa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The highlights of Southern Africa<\/a>\u00a0for a real exploration of the south of the continent, or stick to Zimbabwe with the route <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/an-exploration-of-southern-zimbabwe\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">An exploration of southern Zimbabwe\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong>Opened August 2018:\u00a0<\/strong>Read more about this lodge <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/mpala-jena-camp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/cheetah-plains\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8370 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1440,height=959,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/MAIN-HOUSE-EXTERIOR-1.jpg\" alt=\"Best new lodges opening in 2019 - cheetah plains\" width=\"900\" height=\"599\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=900,height=599,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/MAIN-HOUSE-EXTERIOR-1.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1440,height=959,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/MAIN-HOUSE-EXTERIOR-1.jpg 1440w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=375,height=250,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/MAIN-HOUSE-EXTERIOR-1.jpg 375w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=450,height=300,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/MAIN-HOUSE-EXTERIOR-1.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=768,height=512,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/MAIN-HOUSE-EXTERIOR-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/MAIN-HOUSE-EXTERIOR-1.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2>6. Cheetah Plains<\/h2>\n<p><em>Kruger, South Africa<\/em><\/p>\n<p>If the name <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/cheetah-plains\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cheetah Plains<\/a> sounds familiar, you haven\u2019t gone crazy &#8211; you\u2019re probably thinking of the old lodge that used to occupy this prime concession in South Africa\u2019s Sabi Sands. Well, forget everything you thought you knew and start from scratch, for the new Cheetah Plains is one of the most modern, glamorous of lodges out there. Gone are the old ronadavels and in their place will be three sparkling, exclusive-use houses that are contemporary, modern, and filled with art from Africa\u2019s leading and up-and-coming artists. With four rooms in each, the houses are best suited to a family or group getaway and the access to a private vehicle, guide and chef means there\u2019s absolutely nothing to worry about, apart from what you might see as you game drive (clue: anything and everything \u2013 Cheetah Plains really is that good!).<\/p>\n<p>Have a look at our trip <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/all-in-one-vic-falls-bush-beach\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">All In One<\/a> and combine a stay at Cheetah Plains with the iconic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/victoria-falls-zimbabwe-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Victoria Falls<\/a> (from either <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/victoria-falls-zambia-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Zambia<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/victoria-falls-zimbabwe-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Zimbabwe<\/a> \u2013 the choice is yours) and some time on the beach at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/reunion-island-holiday\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Reunion Island<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Opening December 2018:\u00a0<\/strong>Read more about this lodge <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/cheetah-plains\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-large wp-image-8170\" src=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1440,height=959,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/sketch-2.jpg\" alt=\"Best new lodges opening in 2019 - farmstead\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=900,height=600,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/sketch-2.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=1440,height=959,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/sketch-2.jpg 1440w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=375,height=250,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/sketch-2.jpg 375w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/width=450,height=300,fit=crop,quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/sketch-2.jpg 450w, https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/cdn-cgi\/image\/quality=50,format=auto\/https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/2018\/12\/sketch-2.jpg 767w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2>7. The Farmstead at Royal Malewane<\/h2>\n<p><em>Kruger, South Africa<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Ending our list of best new lodge openings in 2019 is a goody. Owned by the same group responsible for the glitzy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/the-silo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Silo<\/a> hotel in<a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/cape-town-holiday\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Cape Town<\/a> and the even ritzier <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/la-residence\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">La Residence<\/a> in Franschhoek, The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/the-farmstead-at-royal-malewane\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Farmstead at Royal Malewane<\/a> promises to be just as creative and breathtakingly beautiful. Located just 12 minutes south of the existing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/royal-malewane-lodge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Royal Malewane lodge<\/a> in the Greater Kruger (a favourite amongst those in the know!), the new country-style retreat consists of three Farm Suites and the Farmstead itself, a private villa with all the bells and whistles that you might expect. Light oak, tin roofs, wrought iron and gentle hues of blue and white will define the interiors, along with plenty of design-maven Liz Biden\u2019s eccentric finishing touches, cool swimming pools and splashy bathrooms. We can\u2019t wait to see the finished result!<\/p>\n<p>The Farmstead is somewhere that deserves more than just a two-night stay. Add it to an itinerary like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/trip\/the-highlights-of-southern-africa\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The highlights of Southern Africa<\/a> and spend some time exploring Cape Town before zooming off to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/region\/kruger-national-park-safari\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kruger<\/a> for four or even five nights of game drives (and some R&amp;R!).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Opening June 2019:\u00a0<\/strong>Read more about this lodge <a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/lodge\/the-farmstead-at-royal-malewane\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here.<\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"timbuktu_shortcode\" class=\"alternate is-active\"><div id=\"timbuktu-wp\"><link rel=\"stylesheet\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css?family=Merriweather:700|Open+Sans:300,600\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/wizard\/start?action=StartTheWizard&wId=001\" class=\"no_underline timbuktu-test-class\" target=\"_blank\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_container image-included\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner \" data-entity-type=\"country\" data-country-id=\"10000001\">\n                    <figure><img src=https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/images\/affiliate\/start-africa-safari-wizard-timbuktu-travel.jpg?w=500&h=634&auto=format&fit=min&dpr=2&q=50&crop=center center data-country-id=\"10000001\" class=\"timbuktu_desktop_image\" alt=\"Wizard Image\"><img src=https:\/\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\/images\/affiliate\/start-africa-safari-wizard-timbuktu-travel.jpg?w=768&h=309&auto=format&fit=min&dpr=1&q=50&crop=center center data-country-id=\"10000001\" class=\"timbuktu_mobile_image\" alt=\"Wizard Image\"><\/figure><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_copy\"><div class=\"timbuktu_banner_heading\">Not sure where to go?<\/div>\n                        <span class=\"timbuktu_works\">Answer a few simple questions to get instant trip recommendations<\/span>\n                        <div class=\"timbuktu_button\" style=\"background-color:#128d8d\">Start the wizard<\/div>\n                        \n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <\/div><\/a><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Top up your travel bucket list<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":8146,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[175,112],"tags":[2139,4258,42,3214,3295,4502,53,134,3336,4254,4256,2319,1344,4264,536,3298,3322,537,4263,4253,3088,3981,4261,4255,3302,4259,79,2762,4265,3290,3284,93,4260,4262,4257,2580,2270,107,1430],"class_list":["post-8145","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-outabout","category-guides","tag-adventure","tag-african-bush-camps","tag-african-safari","tag-african-wildlife","tag-april","tag-beaches","tag-botswana","tag-cape-town","tag-cheetah-plains","tag-de-hoop","tag-de-hoop-collection","tag-december","tag-family","tag-franschoek","tag-garden-route","tag-july","tag-khwai-private-reserve","tag-kruger-national-park","tag-la-residence","tag-lekkerwater-beach-lodge","tag-lower-zambezi-national-park","tag-morukuru-beach-lodge","tag-mpala-jena-camp","tag-new-lodges","tag-november","tag-nyamatusi","tag-okavango-delta-2","tag-reunion-island","tag-royal-malewane-lodge","tag-sabi-sands","tag-silo-hotel","tag-south-africa","tag-tengile","tag-the-farmstead-at-royal-malewane","tag-tuludi","tag-vic-falls","tag-when-to-go","tag-zambia","tag-zimbabwe"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Best New Lodges Opening in 2019 - Timbuktu<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Trying to decide on where to stay next? 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We&#039;ve compiled a comprehensive list of the best new lodges opening in 2019 to help you plan your next trip.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.timbuktutravel.com\/blog\/best-new-lodges-opening-in-2019\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Timbuktu\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/timbuktutravel\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2018-12-10T11:57:24+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-04-30T12:37:21+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/timbuktutravel.imgix.net\/2018\/12\/0-Beyond-tengile-river-lodge-timbuktu-travel-2.jpg?fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1620\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1080\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Katie Jacholke\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@timbuktu_travel\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@timbuktu_travel\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Katie Jacholke\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Estimated reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"8 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/blog\\\/best-new-lodges-opening-in-2019#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/blog\\\/best-new-lodges-opening-in-2019\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Katie Jacholke\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/cd85523c29f813c05c03532d439e22c9\"},\"headline\":\"Best new lodges opening in 2019\",\"datePublished\":\"2018-12-10T11:57:24+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-04-30T12:37:21+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/blog\\\/best-new-lodges-opening-in-2019\"},\"wordCount\":1571,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/blog\\\/best-new-lodges-opening-in-2019#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/cdn-cgi\\\/image\\\/quality=50,format=auto\\\/https:\\\/\\\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\\\/2018\\\/12\\\/0-Beyond-tengile-river-lodge-timbuktu-travel-2.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"adventure\",\"African bush camps\",\"african safari\",\"African Wildlife\",\"April\",\"Beaches\",\"Botswana\",\"cape town\",\"Cheetah Plains\",\"De Hoop\",\"De Hoop Collection\",\"december\",\"family\",\"Franschoek\",\"Garden Route\",\"July\",\"Khwai Private Reserve\",\"Kruger National Park\",\"La Residence\",\"Lekkerwater Beach Lodge\",\"Lower Zambezi National Park\",\"Morukuru Beach Lodge\",\"Mpala Jena Camp\",\"New Lodges\",\"November\",\"Nyamatusi\",\"okavango delta\",\"reunion island\",\"Royal Malewane Lodge\",\"Sabi Sands\",\"Silo Hotel\",\"South Africa\",\"Tengile\",\"The Farmstead at Royal Malewane\",\"Tuludi\",\"Vic Falls\",\"When to go\",\"Zambia\",\"Zimbabwe\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Out &amp; About\",\"Planning Guides\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/blog\\\/best-new-lodges-opening-in-2019\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/blog\\\/best-new-lodges-opening-in-2019\",\"name\":\"Best New Lodges Opening in 2019 - Timbuktu\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/blog\\\/best-new-lodges-opening-in-2019#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/blog\\\/best-new-lodges-opening-in-2019#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.timbuktutravel.com\\\/cdn-cgi\\\/image\\\/quality=50,format=auto\\\/https:\\\/\\\/assets.timbuktutravel.com\\\/2018\\\/12\\\/0-Beyond-tengile-river-lodge-timbuktu-travel-2.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2018-12-10T11:57:24+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-04-30T12:37:21+00:00\",\"description\":\"Trying to decide on where to stay next? 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