Chem Chem Safari Lodge, nestled between Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks in Tanzania’s Manyara Region, has been crowned Africa’s Leading Luxury Safari Lodge and Tanzania’s Leading Luxury Safari Lodge at the prestigious 2025 World Travel Awards a milestone that underscores the country’s rising global profile in high-end tourism.
The ceremony, held in Dar es Salaam for the first time since the awards’ inception in 1993, brought together key players from across the tourism spectrum including national parks, global investors, and public institutions marking a historic moment for Tanzania’s hospitality industry.
Speaking shortly after the announcement, Babati District Commissioner Emmanuela Kaganda Mtatifikolo and Chem Chem Hospitality Manager Jorg Weytjens attributed the lodge’s success to a fusion of world-class service, professionalism, teamwork, and a deep commitment to sustainable tourism.
“This victory is rooted in the values of love, discipline, and tireless dedication displayed by the staff. But more importantly, it reflects the enabling environment established by President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration, which continues to champion Tanzania as a premier global destination,” said Mtatifikolo.
Strategically located within the Burunge Wildlife Management Area (WMA), Chem Chem Safari Lodge offers an intimate and immersive experience where wildlife roams freely within sight of guests.
The lodge blends environmental preservation with exclusive hospitality, making it a standout among Africa’s luxury safari experiences.
“The lodge’s location and architectural harmony with nature allow guests to encounter wildlife in an untouched setting. This, combined with the government’s strong conservation agenda, makes Babati a beacon for eco-luxury tourism,” added Mtatifikolo.
According to Weytjens, the lodge’s exceptional guest experience favoured by celebrities and high-profile travellers is built on consistent excellence in service delivery.
“Our team is driven by passion. There is a deep spirit of collaboration among our staff, the surrounding community, the Tanzanian government, and tourism stakeholders. That synergy is our biggest strength,” he said.
Elizabeth Wambui, the lodge’s general manager, described the twin awards as the culmination of a long-standing vision by founders Fabia Bausch and Nicolaus Negre, who have invested heavily in creating one of Africa’s most refined safari destinations.
“These recognitions affirm our founders’ dream to deliver Africa’s finest safari experience. Their dedication, alongside the collective effort of our staff and the Burunge community, has made this possible,” she noted.
The lodge also prides itself on its award-winning cuisine, with Head Chef Jimmy Ngira highlighting the role of gastronomy in elevating the guest experience.
“Last year, we received the award for Africa’s Best Safari Cuisine. The current win continues that legacy founded on authentic flavours, locally sourced ingredients, and attention to detail. It’s a significant draw for our international clientele,” Ngira said.
He added that the culture of teamwork, passion, and professionalism among staff across all departments continues to position Chem Chem as a world-class brand in African tourism.
At this year’s World Travel Awards, Tanzania claimed a record 27 accolades, including 11 won by the public sector.
These included awards for Africa’s Leading Safari Destination, Best Tourism Board, and Best National Parks Infrastructure, showcasing the country’s commitment to quality and innovation in tourism development.
Meanwhile, the private sector walked away with 16 awards, with honours ranging from top-performing lodges and tour companies to beach resorts offering unmatched experiences to global travellers.
The triumph of Chem Chem Safari Lodge is emblematic of a broader shift: Tanzania’s transformation into a luxury safari powerhouse, driven by strategic investments, community engagement, and a shared vision to offer the very best of Africa to the world.