The best places to go in Africa in 2026

If three lodges are too many, head south to Moukalaba-DouDou National Parkwhere Accommodation in Nyangawhich opened in early 2025, enjoys sweet isolation as the only luxury safari property in what locals call “great ape national park.” Nyanga’s 2026 offerings include outdoor dining experiences, from a new treetop terrace to beach dining, the best for spotting one of the park’s many primate species or marine spectacles such as migrating humpback whales and nesting sea turtles. With the surrounding waters also rich in game fish such as tarpon, Nyanga will also launch the first full season of its unique international catch and release program. sport fishing in 2026.

For those looking for an even wilder experience, the opening in early 2026 of the Sette Cama Eco Camp in the remote southern tip of Loango National Park promises to be a game-changer. The first property in Safaris in Machaba‘ Machaba Wild Portfolio, this comfortable base camp will focus on adventures that favor immersion over indulgence. With activities like jungle walks (tracking chimpanzees, western lowland gorillas, forest elephants and red river pigs), longer coastal trails (the best way to see the same jungle creatures on the beach, as well as surfing hippos), and boat cruises and kayak trips (ideal for spotting dwarf crocodiles, incredible birds and the shy West African manatees), it’s all about active engagement with the extraordinary environments from Gabon. Perhaps the definitive and most intimate version of jungle immersion, Low level trails Co. will launch its first full season of multi-night primitive hiking trails in mid-to-late summer 2026, using Sette Cama Eco Camp as a base.

While Gabon’s wonders are unique and plentiful, tourism infrastructure remains rudimentary at best and wildlife sightings are not always easy. With Anderson Expeditionspioneer in conservation tourism in Gabon, which will resume its customized itineraries in 2026, private guides will help guests navigate the primeval forests and crystal-clear streams. —Lee Middleton