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May 2025…//   With the ever growing popularity of African safari trips, as well as the continent increasing its reputation for relaxing beach holidays, discerning travellers are beginning to search for more off the beaten track options which compliment the unforgettable experiences offered by Africa's iconic destinations. To help those seeking more exclusive experiences with fewer people and a fresh perspective, luxury African safari experts Yellow Zebra Safaris have curated the best emerging and alternative destinations for safari and beach in 2025, proving that there are still undiscovered adventures to be had.

For a more affordable migration experience: Liuwa Plains, Zambia
The Great Migration - the world's largest terrestrial mammal migration - in East Africa is undeniably a bucket list experience. However, witnessing this event can increasingly mean sharing the experience with dozens of other vehicles and visitors. For those searching for a more exclusive adventure, Liuwa Plains National Park in Zambia plays host to Africa’s second largest wildebeest migration, with over 45,000 wildebeest crossing 3,500 square kilometers of vast plains, with almost no other tourists in sight.

The recently re-opened King Lewanika Lodge in Luiwa offers a Botswana-style luxury safari experience in a completely remote and untouched setting. Now operated by Ker & Downey Zambia, it allows for easy integration with Okavango Delta itineraries, offering an alternative migration experience without the long travel times between Botswana and Tanzania.

Yellow Zebra are offering 3 nights at King Lewanika Lodge in Liuwa and 3 nights at Palm River Hotel including all meals, safari activities at King Lewanika and B&B at Palm River, internal transfers, internal flights and international flights starting at £6,766 per person, based on 4 people travelling. To book, please visit https://yellowzebrasafaris.com/zambia/. 

For a beach add-on beyond the Seychelles or Mauritius: The Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
The islands of the Seychelles and Mauritius are well-known beach pairings for safaris, but for those looking for an alternative with a stronger safari connection, Mozambique offers a more intimate and exclusive experience. Properties in the Bazaruto Archipelago - a group of 6 islands off the coast of southern Mozambique - operate more similarly to safari camps than commercial resorts: small, exclusive and conservation-focused. Guests also save time on travelling further afield, as Vilanculos offers direct flights to Johannesburg and Kruger National Park.

Both Saudade and Azura Marlin Beach (opening next month) bring more affordable luxury options to Vilanculos and Benguerra Island, making Mozambique a more accessible pairing to a safari trip without sacrificing exclusivity. Owner-run Saudade offers just six suites, ocean-view decks and a focus on Mozambican culture, while Azura Marlin offers an island beach lodge experience with plenty of activities designed to fit all types of travellers. 

Yellow Zebra are offering 3 nights at Walkers Plains Camp, South Africa (Full board and safari activities) and 4 nights at Saudade (Full board, drinks and activities) starting at £5188 per person. To book, please visit https://yellowzebrasafaris.com/mozambique/. 

For a classic safari beyond the Sabi Sands: South Luangwa, Zambia
For those drawn to the Sabi Sands for its frequent predator sightings, but searching for a wilder experience, South Luangwa is an extraordinary alternative. Known as one of the best parks in Africa for leopard, South Luangwa delivers exceptional sightings day and night. Here visitors can also experience big game walking and driving safaris, led by some of the best guides you can find in Africa, with lion and wild dog encounters more than likely.

Newly opened this April by the team behind Chiawa Camp, Chichele Presidential Lodge brings a different level of luxury to Zambia, matching or even exceeding the most renowned South African safari lodges. With 360 degree panoramic views from its hilltop location, private plunge pools and expert guiding, Chichele opens up a door for guests who are after an authentic, remote experience without sacrificing on upscale comfort.

Yellow Zebra are offering 4 nights at Chiawa Camp in the Lower Zambezi and 3 nights at Chichele Presidential including all meals, safari activities, internal transfers, internal flights and international flights starting at £8,227 per person. To book, please visit https://yellowzebrasafaris.com/zambia/. 

For a blowout Big Five and gorilla trekking adventure: Akagera, Rwanda 
For travellers who want to combine gorilla trekking with a Big Five safari, Kenya’s Masai Mara and Laikipia are common top contenders. However, Akagera National Park in Rwanda offers an exciting alternative that saves travel time without compromising on the experience. 

Akagera is a conservation success story, with thriving black and white rhino populations, lions, elephants and buffalo. In addition to sighting the Big Five on game-drives, visitors can also experience wildlife viewing from the water, with sunset pontoon trips and boat cruises on the stunning Lake Ihema.

Wilderness Magashi Peninsula will open in September 2025 and offer Rwanda’s most luxurious safari and gorilla circuit, especially when paired with newly opened Bisate Reserve. Magashi Peninsula benefits from its own private concession with both off-road driving and access to the main national park. Guests are also invited to meet the park’s K9 anti-poaching unit, mirroring conservation experiences found in northern Kenya, for an eye-opening and educational experience. 

Yellow Zebra are offering 3 nights at Wilderness Magashi Peninsula in Akagera National Park and 3 nights at Bisate Reserve, located in the forests just outside Volcanoes National Park, including all meals, safari activities, internal transfers, internal flights and international flights starting at £14,869 per person.  To book, please visit https://yellowzebrasafaris.com/rwanda/. 

For more information and to talk to an expert, please visit https://yellowzebrasafaris.com/. 

For all press enquiries, please contact Lara Marwan Good at lara@mgrelations.com or on +44 796 434 770.

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About Yellow Zebra
Yellow Zebra was founded in 2012, specialising in luxury African safaris. Julian Carter-Manning is the sole Director, and boasts a team of experts all with personal experience in Africa. The company was created with conservation and sustainability at its heart, having supported numerous charities across Africa since inception.  In 2024, Julian was listed as one of Condé Nast Traveller’s Top Travel Specialists, and in 2025 Yellow Zebra were listed as one of Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Travel Specialists.