Taj Hotels announces major expansion across Sub-Saharan Africa, elevating luxury safari experiences

AFRICA – Taj Hotels, part of Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), has announced a significant expansion strategy that will strengthen its luxury footprint across sub-Saharan Africa.

This move supports IHCL’s broader vision to reach 700 hotels globally by 2030, reinforcing its status as one of the world’s premier hospitality groups.

Mark Wernich, Cluster General Manager: Africa and Business Development Africa for Taj, stated: “It’s an honour to be at the helm as the brand evolves to offer travellers everything from sophisticated city stays to unforgettable bush and beach experiences.”

The expansion follows IHCL’s recognition as the World’s Strongest Hotel Brand for 2025 by Brand Finance, its fourth such accolade.

Taj has acquired three lodges in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park: the Taj Lion Kings Bush Lodge, currently undergoing renovations; the Taj Lion Kings River Lodge, set to open in early 2026; and the 30-key Taj Lion Kings Hilltop Tented Camp, launching later that year.

Additional properties are planned for 2027, forming a luxury safari circuit under the Taj brand.

Each lodge will deliver the brand’s signature “Tajness” exquisite décor, exceptional cuisine, and authentic hospitality with a safari twist.

The lodges are designed to offer immersive wilderness experiences while integrating conservation and community engagement.

The brand’s ambitions extend to East and Southern Africa, with plans for properties in Kenya’s Maasai Mara, Tanzania’s Serengeti, Botswana, and Zambia, among the continent’s most sought-after destinations.

Taj aims to build a robust infrastructure across the region, enabling seamless exploration of Africa’s top wildlife and cultural sites.

Taj Cape Town has also completed a comprehensive refurbishment of its rooms and suites, enhancing the guest experience in the Mother City.

The brand’s portfolio now spans 12 countries, including India, the UK, the Maldives, and the Middle East.

IHCL operates over 250 hotels, with 150 in the development pipeline as already announced. The African expansion reflects strong investor confidence in luxury tourism’s growth potential.

Wernich added: “We’re committed to blending conservation, community, and world-class hospitality to shape the future of luxury travel on the continent.”

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