Seemingly quiet recalibration is evolving in the world of high-end travel. And Increasingly, our choices are dictated not by a desire for grand statements, but by a craving for complete spatial freedom and the notion of a genuine pause. The true marker of exclusivity has shifted away from predictable, manufactured opulence toward something far more understated: unhurried days, immersive environments, and an uncompromised connection to a destination’s raw terrain.

In brief: Preferred Hotels & Resorts has added eleven independent properties in Africa, taking its portfolio there to 37 hotels across nine countries. The headline openings are ENVI Paje, a 22-villa oceanfront retreat in Zanzibar, and Last Word Makanyane, an eight-suite safari lodge in malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve. Stays can earn I Prefer Hotel Rewards.

It is this exact appetite for distinct, character-driven environments that makes Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ recent African expansion so compelling. Marking a notable period of regional growth, the independent hotel brand has integrated eleven new properties into its portfolio. For those of us who consistently champion the independence of boutique hospitality, these additions signify more than just a growing footprint; they represent a curated map to some of the continent’s most awe-inspiring, low-density sanctuaries.

At the forefront of this new chapter are two highly anticipated openings this year that redefine what it means to truly disconnect.

ENVI Paje, Zanzibar

On the southeast coast of Zanzibar, tucked away from the island’s more frantic pockets, ENVI Paje introduces a stellar example of coastal minimalism. Positioned along the pristine sands of Paje Beach, this intimate oceanfront property features just 22 villas, eschewing the sprawling footprint of traditional resorts for the discretion of a private estate.

The experience here is anchored by a structured yet fluid approach to physical and mental restoration. Rather than prescriptive itineraries, the property invites guests to engage with the environment through local cultural immersion ranging from traditional crafts to regional culinary practices. And naturally, dedicated wellness sessions will be a big part of what’s on offer for guests.

The property’s cornerstone is The Sanctuary spa, which operates under ENVI’s Signature African Wellbeing Philosophy. By pairing long-standing regional traditions with contemporary wellness science, it offers a sophisticated space where time is governed entirely by the rhythm of the tides.

Last Word Makanyane, Madikwe Game Reserve

Further south, cradled within the rugged, malaria-free wilderness of South Africa’s Madikwe Game Reserve, lies a retreat that redefines safari seclusion. Last Word Makanyane is set on an exclusive stretch of private, family-owned land, offering an exceptionally rare level of intimacy with just eight river-facing suites.

The design architecture here cleverly blurs the lines between indoor comfort and the wild beyond. Expansive glass windows ensure that the bush is an ever-present backdrop, allowing you to observe the passing wildlife from the comfort of interiors that celebrate rich, natural textures and contemporary warmth.

While twice-daily game drives promise thrilling encounters with the Big Five, it is the guided bush walks and quiet birdwatching sessions that truly ground you in Madikwe’s unique ecosystem. Between adventures, the rhythm of the day slows significantly. Whether spending an afternoon lounging by the pool or savouring a beautifully prepared meal under a canopy of stars, Makanyane reminds us of the true luxury found in isolation.

A Growing Footprint of Distinction

Beyond the shores of Zanzibar and the wilderness of Madikwe, Preferred’s African narrative continues to unfold with remarkable diversity. The brand’s footprint now spans 37 independent properties across nine countries—including Kenya, Morocco, Egypt, and Mauritius—with each property personally vetted to ensure it meets rigorous standards of hospitality.

Among the newest gems to discover are Owloon Manor House, an elegant eight-bedroom private estate designed for exclusive group gatherings in the heart of the Cape Winelands, and Yellowwood Cottage, a beautifully curated, off-grid coastal retreat tucked away within the West Coast National Park. For those drawn to ancient histories, five new Encora Collection Nile River cruise experiences now offer exquisitely tailored journeys between Luxor and Aswan.

The Independent Advantage

What makes this expansion particularly exciting for travellers is the seamless bridge Preferred builds between independent charm and effortless travel. Historically, choosing a boutique, standalone property meant sacrificing the structured rewards of global loyalty programs.

Through programs like I Prefer Hotel Rewards, travellers can lean into their passion for unique, independently owned gems while enjoying the assurance of a trusted quality framework. It allows travellers to explore the continent’s most authentic, character-rich spaces, from remote safari decks to coastal wellness sanctuaries, while unlocking exclusive benefits that make the journey all the more rewarding.

Need to Know

• ENVI Paje, Zanzibar: 22 villas on Paje Beach on Zanzibar’s south-east coast, with The Sanctuary spa.
• Last Word Makanyane, South Africa: Eight river-facing suites on private, family-owned land in malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve.
• Also new: Owloon Manor House, an eight-bedroom estate in the Cape Winelands; Yellowwood Cottage, an off-grid retreat in West Coast National Park; and five Encora Collection Nile River cruises between Luxor and Aswan.
• Portfolio: 37 independent properties across nine African countries, including Kenya, Morocco, Egypt and Mauritius.
• Loyalty: Stays can earn benefits through I Prefer Hotel Rewards.

Frequently Asked Questions

To explore the full African portfolio and plan your next intentional escape, visit www.PreferredHotels.com.

Related reading on Travel Essence:

• Legacy in the Sand: A Family’s Love Letter to Zanzibar
• The Morukuru Family Invitation to Madikwe Game Reserve
• The Rise of Boutique Luxury: 5 Reasons Travelers are Choosing Bespoke Camps, Hotels and Lodges in 2026