It’s that time of year, Christmas has passed, the weather is miserable and we all need something to look forward to. For most of us, booking a holiday and having some time away with family or friends is the best remedy!

If you are seeking something adventurous, then Africa’s amazing diversity provides some unique experiences. From the wide open savannahs of Kenya and Tanzania to the wetlands of the Okavango Delta in Botswana and the wilderness in Zambia. Add to this Zimbabwe, an exceptional safari destination. There is also, of course, the outstanding natural beauty of the Namib Desert, the South African private game reserves and the tantalising Winelands. Africa has a lot to offer and will not disappoint.

The excellent range of luxurious camps and lodges offering amazing service and delicious cuisine along with experienced guides present you with outstanding game viewing experiences. After you have been in search of the ‘Big Five’ on safari, why not head to one of the many white sandy beaches of Zanzibar, Mauritius or the Seychelles for relaxation.

Our partners at Yellow Zebra Safaris are a luxury and adventure travel company specialising in ‘Safari Africa.’ They combine knowledge and experience to ensure exceptional service and are offering an exclusive 5% discount for all Surrey Hills Concierge referrals! Simply book a 5 night (or more) safari prior to 31st January 2017 for travel before December 2017. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer.

James the General Manager at Yellow Zebra has listed his top 5 new camps which he believes are worth a visit in 2017:

Safari Africa has become incredibly popular over the last couple of years and as the demand has gone up so has the number of new lodges. There have been a lot of changes in 2016 with new builds and renovations changing our stance of top camps in certain areas. With this growth across Africa, I thought I would highlight my personal favourites of the year and the ones that should be considered for trips in 2017!

1. Duba Expedition, Botswana from $975 (approx. £797*) per person per night

Duba Expeditions is one of the new additions to Botswana (replacing Duba Plains, which re-opens in early 2017) and is located in one of the country’s finest reserves, famous for its lion population. With just six tents, this intimate camp is a personal favourite of mine because not only is it in a game-rich area that offers game drives as well as water based activities but it also home to some of the best guides in the country! It should certainly be considered for the best of the Delta!

2. Little Rukomechi, Zimbabwe from $790 (approx. £646*) per person per night

Mana Pools is regarded by many as the safari park of all safari parks and was historically suited to the more adventurous traveller! However, the newly opened Little Ruckomechi offers high-end accommodation on a beautiful stretch of the park, set within the private Ruckomech Concession which opens up a range of activities. Guests at Little Ruckomechi have the option to game drive, walk, boat, canoe and fish, resulting in guests still having the adventure but with added luxury.

3. Ikuka Camp, Tanzania from $495 (approx. £405*) per person per night

Ikuka Camp is located in the heart of Ruaha, in big cat territory! It has a fabulous location on top of the Mwagusi escarpment, offering the best view in the park. It is owned and run by Mark and Chloe Sheridan Johnson (two of the most experienced guides/managers in the park) giving it an incredible atmosphere and making it a contender for best lodge in the park! It really is an incredible option for someone looking to explore one of the continent’s remotest and game rich parks!

4. Chiefs Camp, Botswana from $1,180 (approx.£964*) per person per night

 Chiefs Camp re-opened in June with a completely new look that now competes with any of Botswana’s premier camps. It is arguably the most luxurious addition of 2016 and it has had nothing but good feedback. Located in Botswana’s Moremi Game Reserve, Chiefs is located in Big 5 territory and perfect for someone focussing on game drives and big game. The service matches the quality of the game and the rooms are simply stunning, with them all having their own private plunge pool. It is certainly a contender for Botswana’s most luxurious camp!

5. Entamanu Camp, Tanzania from $690 (approx. £564*) per person per night

Properties located on the Ngorongoro Crater rim tend to be fairly large and commercial but this has now changed with the opening of The Highlands Ngorongoro Camp and Entamanu Ngongoro. The Highlands has an incredible design but my personal favourite has to be Entamanu with the activities it offers and its approach to experience the Ngorongoro Crater away from the crowds! With just six wooden bungalows, Entamanu is very personal, and their activities focus on game drives of the Crater itself, some of the country’s finest guided walks and the most authentic interaction with the local Maasai. It is simply the best camp located on the Ngorongoro Crater for someone who is focusing on experience away from the crowds.

If you would like more information on booking the perfect African Safari and benefiting from the exclusive 5% offer then please contact us and we will be happy to help.

*Based on an exchange rate of 1.22 USD. Please note that the exchange rate may fluctuate daily.