The safari experience has remained a top demand for luxury travelers to Africa, with bookings having increased over 50% earlier this year. As travelers look ahead to 2026, few know the continent better than Shaun Stanley, founder of Stanley Safaris, a highly personalized safari operator based in Cape Town. Over the past 40 years, Shaun has continued to delve deeper into the “real Africa,” and now shares his top tips for 2026 travel to the continent:
Don’t Miss Kenya’s Remote Laikipia
While the Maasai Mara remains iconic, the challenges of over-tourism have paved the way for the remote northern region of Laikipia, a playground defined by wild beauty and exclusivity. Travelers can saddle up to ride alongside giraffe, set out on foot with expert Samburu trackers, fly-camp under starlit skies, or take in Africa’s dramatic scenery on a helicopter safari — all away from the crowds.
Indulge in Top Culinary Offerings
Food has become an integral part of today’s travel experiences, and safaris are no exception. Many lodges have transformed their culinary offerings, evolving from wholesome home cooking to refined, health-forward fine dining. Today, dining in Africa goes far beyond sustenance; it has become an immersive, sensory journey in its own right. To meet the demand, companies such as Stanley Safaris have even added a dedicated food and wine concierge to help guests secure sought-after reservations in Cape Town, the Winelands, Victoria Falls, Nairobi, Antananarivo, and Kigali.
Experience Africa’s Best Kept Secret: Zambia
Zambia is finally stepping into the spotlight. As the birthplace of the walking safari, it offers some of the most raw, untamed, and deeply authentic experiences on the continent. Most lodges are privately owned and often owner-run, which means service is personal, guiding is exceptional, and the experience feels refreshingly real.
Keep an Eye on New Openings in Botswana and Tanzania
The upcoming opening of Singita Elela in Botswana is one to watch as the property will combine exceptional service and dining with a wildlife-rich private corner of the Okavango Delta. Meanwhile, Manta Resort in Tanzania is preparing to launch its brand-new Underwater Room in early 2026. The new design will feature wrap-around windows and stairs leading down from the upper deck, enhancing the experience of its previous room.
Images of Stanley Safaris can be found here. More information on Stanley Safaris can be found here.
