Marriott International is set to elevate the hospitality scene in Sub-Saharan Africa with a series of must-visit hotels anticipated to open in 2025.
From the breath taking landscapes of Tanzania’s Northern Circuit to the vibrant heart of Kampala, and the stunning coastal vistas of Cape Town, these new properties promise to offer unparalleled experiences for travellers.
Turaco Ngorongoro Valley, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Where: Karatu, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Why go? Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Turaco Ngorongoro Valley, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, will herald Marriott International’s debut safari lodge in Tanzania’s illustrious Northern Circuit. This region is known for its iconic parks such as the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, home to the Big Five. The lodge will boast 37 suites thoughtfully crafted from sustainable materials and designed to resemble traditional boma-shaped Maasai homes. Every suite will feature its own wood fireplace, blending authentic charm with modern comforts for an immersive experience.
Guests will be able to unwind in the lodge’s relaxed lounge areas, savour farm-to-table cuisine at Caldera, the all-day fine dining restaurant, and listen to traditional Masaai storytelling around the bonfire at Enkima. The lodge will also offer two bars, a swimming pool, jacuzzi, treatment rooms, a snooker table, and a fitness centre. Local excursions and safaris to nearby game parks will give guests the opportunity to relax, reconnect and soak up the tranquillity of their surroundings.
Morea House, Autograph Collection, South Africa
Where: Camps Bay, Cape Town
Why Go? Just steps from the iconic Camps Bay Beach, Morea House, Cape Town’s first Autograph Collection hotel, offers guests breathtaking views of both the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain. This elegant sanctuary features 90 meticulously designed guestrooms, each inspired by the natural beauty of the region with a colour palette reflecting the earth, sea, and vibrant local culture. On the third floor, a stunning terrace provides sweeping ocean views, paired with a chic tapas restaurant and bar—ideal for sunset gatherings. On the ground floor, guests can savour a delicious fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for a deeper dive into local flavours. Embracing Cape Town’s vibrant outdoor lifestyle, the hotel offers an array of activities, from invigorating cold ocean plunges and rock climbing to serene yoga sessions upon request. For a restorative experience, the Wellness Spa offers signature treatments like the Cocoa Bliss Ritual and Cape Malay Massage, merging traditional healing with contemporary wellness for the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation.
Lord Charles Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Where: Somerset West, Cape Town, South Africa
Why Go? Nestled in the foothills of the Helderberg Mountains in Somerset West, the Lord Charles Hotel, South Africa’s first Tribute Portfolio Hotel, seamlessly blends historic charm with modern comfort. This elegant retreat offers easy access to pristine beaches, world-renowned golf courses, and the famed wine estates of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. The hotel features 198 rooms, each adorned with a distinctive forest green colour scheme that reflects the natural surroundings. Built on land that was once part of an 18th-century farm, the property boasts resort-style amenities, including two outdoor pools, tennis courts, landscaped indigenous gardens, and a tranquil dam supporting local wildlife. Guests can savour a fusion of international and local cuisine at the Garden Terrace and La Vigna restaurants or enjoy a refreshing drink and tapas at St. Andrews Pub. With 10 versatile conference venues, the Lord Charles Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, is ideal for both leisure and business travellers.
Four Points by Sheraton São Vincent Laginha Beach
Where: São Vicente, Cape Verde
Why Go? The opening of Four Points by Sheraton São Vincent Laginha Beach will mark Marriott International’s entry into Cape Verde. Nestled in a crescent-shaped bay in Mindelo, a port city in Northern São Vicente Island known for its colourful and animated carnival celebrations, the resort will offer an authentic sense of place paired with breath taking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, Four Points by Sheraton’s genuine services, timeless comfort and style. Modern design encapsulates a relaxing summer feel throughout the resort’s public spaces and 128 spacious guestrooms and suites, which are adorned with wooden furniture, woven cane light fixtures, decorative wall plates and pattern cement tiled flooring. The resort offers direct access to the pristine water of Laginha beach via a skybridge on the first floor, which is also home to an infinity edge pool and pool bar. The resort will also feature two restaurants and bars, a fully equipped fitness centre and spa, a sky garden and retail shops, catering to all needs of modern travellers.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Antananarivo
Where: Antananarivo, Madagascar
Why go? The opening of Delta Hotels by Marriott Antananarivo will mark Marriott International’s entry into Madagascar. Nestled in an urban forest, the hotel will offer a serene retreat amidst the bustling backdrop of Antananarivo, with easy access to major corporate offices, government buildings, and landmarks such as the Queen’s Palace and the Antananarivo Pirate Museum, allowing guests to explore the rich cultural tapestry and unique natural beauty of Madagascar.
The sophisticated design blends contemporary elegance with elements inspired by Madagascar’s natural beauty. Guests will be able to unwind in 106 spacious rooms, savour international cuisine in one of its three restaurants, and bars and take in panoramic city views from the idyllic rooftop terrace. The Delta Pantry will offer Marriott Bonvoy Platinum, Titanium and Ambassador Elite Members a convenient, healthy, on-the-go continental breakfast, premium snacks and beverages while the brand’s signature Grab & Go serves up light bites and refreshments. The hotel will also feature a spa, a fitness centre, and the city’s only indoor heated lap pool, ensuring a seamless blend of productivity and relaxation. For business travellers, the hotel will offer five state-of-the-art conferencing and event rooms, providing 615m² of flexible meeting space.
Kampala Marriott Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments Kampala
Where: Kampala, Uganda
Why go? Marriott Hotels and Marriott Executive Apartments will make their brand debut in Uganda this year. Nestled in the heart of Kampala, these properties will cater to both business travellers and those seeking extended stays. The Kampala Marriott Hotel will feature 181 stylish guest rooms, including a presidential suite. Guests can anticipate a variety of dining experiences, from an all-day restaurant to a rooftop bar and chic sports bar, perfect for social gatherings. Additional amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness centre, a refreshing pool, and the Greatroom – a contemporary space in the lobby where guests can connect and relax. Marriott Bonvoy Elite members can access the M Club, an exclusive lounge for Marriott Bonvoy Elite members to retreat, recharge, and refocus. The hotel will also boast six versatile meeting spaces, including a grand ballroom. Marriott Executive Apartments Kampala will feature 96 fully sized and equipped apartments, ranging from one to three -bedroom units, offering a trusted home-away-from-home experience for long-stay travellers.