Next Africa Why Africa’s Ultra Luxury Hotels Are Booming
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Aug 14, 2025 Prinesha Naidoo, a Bloomberg reporter specializing in Africa's luxury hospitality market, joins to discuss the ultra-luxury tourism boom. She highlights exclusive offerings like a $50,000-per-night private villa in Tanzania and the surge of elite safari experiences. Naidoo also examines the substantial investments fueling this growth, the economic benefits for local communities, and the delicate balance between profit and environmental concerns. The conversation navigates the challenges of infrastructure and the emerging demands from Africa's rising middle class.
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Range Of Ultra-Luxury Experiences
- Ultra-luxury African tourism ranges from private islands with catamarans and helicopters to vineyard stays and guerrilla trekking.
- These offerings target post-COVID demand for wellness, eco-friendly escapes, and bucket-list experiences.
Global Capital Drives Development
- Investment comes from global private capital, major hotel groups, royals and billionaires partnering with local stakeholders.
- Brands like Jumeirah, Virgin Limited Edition, Hilton and Marriott are expanding across Africa.
Why Investors See Opportunity Now
- Africa is seen as an underpenetrated travel market with unique nature-based assets that attract investors.
- Post-pandemic travelers prioritise wellness and nature, boosting investor interest in these experiences.