What's Hot in Africa: 10 unexpected places to visit that will delight and surprise

Here are Marcia’s choices for places that should be on your itinerary and why.

Serian Camp, Masai Mara Kenya.

Ex hunter Alex Walker has created the ultimate cozy chic headquarters for serious game viewing. His two camps straddle the Mara River in the very best corner of the Mara North Conservancy. Well designed vehicles, serious guides and opportunities to walk and explore put this in a class of its own.

Joy’s Camp, Masai Mara Kenya

Tiny lights throughout the walls and floor of your tent create absolute magic… competing only with the elephants that tend to congregate just outside. Fabulous managers, a wonderful hike along the Eyaso Nyeri River and sheer beauty of the desert make this a perpetual hit with our honeymooners.

Sindabezi Island, Livingstone, Zambia

What is more magical than a magnificent tent, with soft hurricane lights on an island in the middle of the Zambezi., just above Victoria Falls. The honeymoon tent, on a secluded sand bank has a claw footed bathtub for two.Go rafting, canoeing, absailing, bungy jump, horseback or elephant back ride … then fall asleep to the sound of water softly lapping against the shore

Zarafa, Botswana

This new and fabulous camp is 300,000 acres of pure wilderness. The copper bathtub lures them in and the wonderful scenery, wildlife and guides will keep them entranced. This is also part of a HUGE conservation project. Particularly interesting because of Selinda Canoe Trail.

Kensington Place, Cape Town, South Africa

This gem of a boutique hotel tucked into the exclusive suburb of Higgovale on the slopes of Table Mountain. One of the most sensuous hotels, studded with fine modern art, attentive service and high tech gadgets. Great price for the quality.

Serra Cafema, Namibia

This is the crowning glory above the Skeleton Coast - this camp combines it all. Enjoy the Kunene River, desert dunes, Himba village, waterfalls, all explored from self driven quad bikes. This is the most FUN experience to be had in Africa.

Sabora and Faru Faru Serengeti, Tanzania

Sabora is the ultimate in colonial elegance with modern conveniences such as air conditioning and internet access.

Faru Faru is quirky, fun, cutting edge design.

Together, they provide for a maximum of 74 guests (in three separate camps) to share 340,000 acres (over 500 square miles) of exclusive game viewing area. Think private dinners under the stars, gorgeous staff, and sophisticated cuisine.

Mombo, Okavango Delta

All time best game viewing combined with top of line luxury. Hands down THE BEST game viewing experience in southern Africa. Complemented by outstanding guides and accommodation that is the perfect interpretation of luxury in the bush.

Guludo, Mozambique

We love Guludo because this authentic, down to earth beach camp is lots of fun. It represents responsible tourism at its finest. Enjoy 12 km of deserted powder-white sand nestled between the dazzling azure Indian Ocean and wild African bush knowing that you are improving lives while swinging in your hammock. Snorkel or dive to explore magnificent coral reefs, watch humpback whales, visit neighboring islands and mingle in the local village. You'll have everything you need to be comfortable, and nothing you don't.