LUXE Travel Magazine - Wild Africa

LUXE TRAVEL

MAGAZINE

Provided by Jemma Wild

MAKUMU PRIVATE GAME LODGE

SOUTH AFRICA

Nestled within the untamed wilderness of South Africa’s Limpopo Province, Makumu Private Game Lodge stands as a tranquil sanctuary where luxury meets the rugged beauty of the African bushveld. Surrounded by the vast expanse of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve and sharing an unfenced border with the renowned Kruger National Park, Makumu offers a premier safari experience in an exclusive and intimate setting.

In the Xitsonga language, the word “Makumu” refers to an intangible explanation of an open space, an uncluttered lookout over distant horizons, or endless views. The breathtaking views and location of the lodge complement a deeply inspiring sense of space and place, leaving visitors rejuvenated with the ancient spirit of African wilderness.

The reserve itself is one of the largest privately owned nature reserves in South Africa, covering some 60,000 hectares and home to Africa’s ‘Big Five’ as well as Makumu Private Game. With six luxurious and beautifully appointed suites, accommodating a maximum of twelve guests, this lodge ensures an exclusive blend of absolute comfort, style and privacy.

Provided by Makumu Private Game Lodge

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SAFARI EXPERIENCE A PREMIER

EXPERIENCE

NGORONGORO LODGEMEMBER OF THE MELIA COLLECTION TANZANIA

Ngorongoro Lodge, a distinguished member of The Meliá Collection, emerges as a meticulously refurbished classic African sanctuary nestled within the expansive embrace of the world’s largest volcanic caldera.

Situated in the northern reaches of Tanzania within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, this extraordinary lodge is a testament to meticulous design and environmental stewardship, paying homage to its extraordinary surroundings. Positioned within a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its awe-inspiring 26,247 square feet natural oasis and the iconic 1,969 feet deep crater, Ngorongoro Lodge epitomizes

luxury amidst untamed wilderness.

As the fourth jewel in The Meliá Collection’s African crown, this iconic bush safari retreat marries heritage with contemporary elegance. Originally the inaugural lodge constructed within the crater, its recent transformation embodies the essence of African Modernism, preserving its timeless allure through original fireplaces and wooden ceilings, while introducing state-of-the-art amenities and services.

Each of the lodge’s 60 rooms offers an exclusive vista of the crater, with 24 suites, 35 standard accommodations, and an opulent independent villa

featuring a dedicated chef and butler service. Delight awaits at three distinct dining venues, including a specialty outlet showcasing supreme grilled meat cuts from around the world. The pièce de résistance is the crater’s first heated outdoor infinity pool, inviting guests to indulge in unparalleled relaxation amidst nature’s grandeur. From rejuvenating spa experiences to bespoke safari adventures such as bush lunches and rim walking safaris, Ngorongoro Lodge promises a wealth of leisure pursuits for the discerning traveler.

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AFRICAN SANCTUARY A CLASSIC

SANCTUARY

NGORONGORO LODGEMEMBER OF THE MELIA COLLECTION

CESAR MARTINEZ TORRECILLAS

General

Manager

Welcome to an exclusive interview with Cesar Martinez Torrecillas, the General Manager of Ngorongoro Lodge, situated in the heart of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania. With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Mr Martinez shares insights into the journey that led to managing this prestigious lodge, its recent renovations, sustainable practices, community engagement, unique guest experiences, culinary delights, and personal reflections on living amidst Tanzania’s natural wonders.

Could you share with us your journey in the hospitality industry and how it led you to become the General Manager of Ngorongoro Lodge?

It is a pleasure to say that this year I can proudly say that I have been a part of Melia Hotels International for 30 years. From the exotic Dominican Republic to the wild bush as General Manager with Melia Serengeti Lodge and now in a Cluster position with our newest lodge, Ngorongoro Lodge Member of The Melia Collection.

I started in the Food & Beverage department and worked my way to where I am now. For some people when they reach a certain position, they “relax”, but that’s not me. I like to be 120%, every day. I am sure my team can testify to it. Ha-ha.

The lodge underwent a full renovation to become an example of the African Modernism architectural movement. What were the inspirations behind this renovation, and how does it enhance the guest experience?

We were presented with a unique challenge: refurbish the first-ever built lodge at the rim of the crater, maintain

the structure, of course, and achieve the standards of a 5-star property like The Melia Collection, always seeking the highest levels of sustainability. There was a stage where we were around 500 people focused on the pre-opening of the lodge. Record time to open a property in the history of Melia.

One of the key points during the renovation was to ensure all rooms had a wide and direct view of the crater. We offer the possibility to wake up and feel immersed in a “painting”. Now, that’s luxury.

Another important focus was to ensure the building was less disruptive to nature, integrating the lodge and the materials into the environment as an important part of our building storytelling.

For me, another very important part is the staff areas. As an anecdote, we rebuilt the staff accommodations rooms to ensure they all had the necessary space to feel “like home” at 2000 feet in the wild.

Ngorongoro Lodge is situated in the heart of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. How does the lodge contribute to preserving the natural environment while providing luxury accommodation?

As a recognized brand within the country, there are many measures we can take to contribute to preserving the natural environment and cultural history of Ngorongoro. To start with, we have a very strict no-plastic policy which is achieved by producing our own still and sparkling water in-house, achieving water quality standards higher than the top water brands in the country. We have a waste management procedure in which all our organic waste is composted and reused as natural resources.

A very important measure to keep our crater unique is making sure no plants, that are not originally from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, are introduced into the crater. The unique fauna & flora of the crater is one of the long-term goals.

Apart from the in-house measures, we are open to collaborating with many local organizations that seek sponsorship to fight different natural environment issues.

Managing a property like Ngorongoro Lodge requires a deep understanding of the local community and its needs. How does the lodge engage with and support the surrounding communities?

Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of the very few natural protected areas where human settlement is allowed: The Masais.

In our experiences, we offer our guests the opportunity to visit a local Boma, a typical Masai village, and learn all about their culture firsthand. Also, part of our staff is Masai, and as a measure to maintain and promote their heritage, we encourage them to participate in the lodge’s daily life and with the guests.

With its exclusive view of the crater, what unique experiences can guests expect during their stay at Ngorongoro Lodge?

Now this is the part where we stand out. The Melia Collection defines itself as “Handpicked hotels with charm” and I think that is a great claim to explain what we do. We offer our guests all the luxury facilities of a 5-star lodge but also add all the warmth and flexibility of a Spanish brand.

Apart from the tailor-made experiences that we can prepare, with a bit of time of course, haha, guests can enjoy a private bush lunch in the middle of the crater surrounded by nature with the best taste, a Balloon Safari ride across the Ndutu Area, Rim walking safari accompanied by our professional nature guide, romantic dinner with the most exclusive views to the crater and fire ambience, couples massage with the ultimate natural products, an infinity swim in our heated pool with views to the crater, and much more!

The lodge offers a variety of dining options, including a restaurant specialized in worldwide supreme grilled meat cuts. Could you tell us more about the culinary experience guests can enjoy at the lodge?

We have three F&B Outlets at Ngorongoro Lodge: The Crater Bar, Crater Lounge and The Crater Grill. All of them under our unique culinary concept: The Crater: An Extraordinary journey.

With a carefully designed menu, we cover all local and international needs with a special touch and modern presentation: At The Crater Bar guests can travel through an exclusive sip from our local cocktails selection Boma Boost, to the most premium selection of South African Wines. The Crater Lounge where our guests can enjoy a full breakfast before starting their safari experience!

The Crater Grill, our A la carte restaurant, is the perfect option for guests looking to make the most

out of their stay: Lobster Carpaccio, Tomahawk Steak 1,5 KG, or our famous white chocolate cheesecake is only the start to an unforgettable culinary journey.

And the most important ingredient: all of them with views of the crater.

As exclusive news to LUXE, we are currently finalizing our Crater View Point, our newest 180° terrace with views to the crater where we expect outside guests to come and enjoy lunch in our location.

Living in Tanzania must offer a unique perspective. What aspects of Tanzanian culture or daily life do you find most inspiring or interesting?

The balance. It’s a country that can take you to the deepest levels of empathy while giving you the courage to overcome almost anything.

From being really stuck in traffic surrounded by tuktuks and Dala Dala’s, to feeling like the only human in the world while observing the migration in the bush.

For us, it’s also very important to see what the client sees. New eyes always offer us the chance to see our home in many different ways, and the learnings that come from it.

Tanzania is known for its wildlife and natural beauty. Can you share a memorable wildlife encounter or a favourite spot in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area that you personally enjoy?

Linked to what I was saying about feeling “alone” in the middle of the bush, many of my best memories happened there, especially at the start when I had more time to be adventurous, but I still get some anecdotes from time to time. A few weeks ago we had a big male elephant that “visited” us at the lodge. He walked around the outside areas for a few days giving us his best looks haha. After many years in hospitality, I assure you that this is a type of guest I never expected!

What do you enjoy most about being the General Manager of Ngorongoro Lodge, and what keeps you motivated in your role?

The challenge and everything that comes with it. Staying creative, aiming higher, keeping the people motivated, or learning new things about the area and the country.

It’s a combined feeling you don’t get everywhere. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers that the interview didn’t cover?

Well, I hope you come to visit us one day and make lifetime memories with us.

As we say in Tanzania, Karibu!

JAMALA MADIKWE SOUTH AFRICA

Welcome to Jamala Madikwe, where the essence of luxury safari living is defined by personalized service and meticulous attention to detail. This owner-managed gem, nestled within the pristine 75,000-hectare malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, offers an intimate bush experience that seamlessly blends colonial elegance with African flair.

Reflecting a timeless sense of style harmoniously juxtaposed with the untamed beauty of the wilderness, Jamala Madikwe stands as an oasis of indulgence. Conveniently accessible by air or road, this haven in the North West Province of Southern Africa promises the ultimate safari adventure.

The lodge’s main facilities cater to every aspect of refined living in the bush. From the cozy lounge and library with a crackling fireplace to gourmet dining experiences under the starlit sky on the Boma or Star deck, guests are enveloped in luxury at every turn. Complimentary WIFI access ensures connectivity amidst nature’s embrace, while the “Sofa Safari” offers a front-row seat to wildlife sightings at the private waterhole. For souvenirs of this unforgettable journey, the Curio Shop awaits, while the Jamala Madikwe watchtower provides panoramic views of the savannah plains and waterhole. An open-air bar and a large lap pool invite moments of relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the wilderness.

Provided by Jamala Madikwe

At Jamala Madikwe, luxury finds its zenith in the form of five freestanding, lavishly appointed villas. Each villa, exuding colonial charm, is a sanctuary of opulence and privacy. From air-conditioned interiors to extravagant outdoor amenities such as individual rim-flow pools, salas, expansive wooden decks, and private outdoor showers, every aspect of comfort and indulgence is meticulously curated.

Villa facilities elevate the safari experience to unparalleled heights. With views overlooking the waterhole and open savannah, each villa boasts a lounge with a fireplace, a dining area, a walkin dressing room, and complimentary minibar and coffee/tea facilities. The epitome of luxury awaits with private rim flow pools and salas, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the serenity of the African bush.

AFRICAN FLAIR BOUTIQUE SAFARI LODGE

SOUTH AFRICA

Nestled within the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate, a pristine enclave of the Lowveld’s bushveld and the Gateway to Kruger National Park, African Flair Boutique Safari Lodge stands as a beacon of opulence and natural splendor.

With an aura of Distinctive Elegance and Timeless Style, this sanctuary welcomes guests to immerse themselves in the Aroma of Nature. Whether seeking an immersive African safari experience, a romantic escape, or a special celebration, African Flair offers bespoke luxury tailored to discerning travelers.

At every turn, the lodge exudes the Essence of Africa, adorned with elements that reflect the continent’s innate connection to nature. Comfort, indulgence, and romance intertwine seamlessly, inviting guests to unwind in an atmosphere of Intimate Luxury and Tranquility, where safety is assured from dusk till dawn.

Attention to detail elevates the experience to new heights of Panache. The supremely comfortable Super King suites, adorned with crisp white 100% cotton linen and 100% Bamboo Satin Feel sheets, offer a haven of relaxation. Anti-allergic and anti-bacterial duvets, king-size pillows, and gracious mosquito netting ensure a restful night’s sleep. Each suite boasts a spacious lounge area with a daybed, exuding warmth and vibrancy.

For an unforgettable night under the African sky, guests can indulge in the Star Bed experience, embracing the Luxury of an outdoor living area amidst the untamed wilderness. With African Flair Boutique Safari Lodge, every moment is an invitation to savor the essence of Africa in utmost comfort and style.

Provided by African Flair Boutique Safari Lodge

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OF AFRICA THE ESSENCE

HITGEHEIM COUNTRY LODGE

SOUTH AFRICA

Situated near the majestic Addo Elephant National Park in South Africa, Hitgeheim Country Lodge stands as a serene haven crafted by a family’s dedication to hospitality. This exquisite retreat offers discerning travelers a sanctuary of tranquility amidst the Eastern Cape’s picturesque mountains and valleys, promising awe-inspiring views that redefine luxury.

The lodge’s stunning suites are adorned with private balconies, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the surrounding beauty. Each suite boasts a fireplace, ensuring cozy evenings spent in utter comfort and relaxation.

Just a short drive away lies the renowned Addo Elephant National Park, a wildlife sanctuary teeming with natural wonders. Home to over 600 elephants, as well as lions, buffaloes, and an array of other wildlife, the park beckons adventurers to embark

on guided game drives, curated by Hitgeheim Country Lodge.

Beyond its natural splendor, Hitgeheim Country Lodge offers a culinary journey like no other. Themed dinners, hosted in the lodge’s restaurant, showcase the finest locally-sourced ingredients transformed into innovative dishes. From traditional South African delicacies to international flavors, guests are treated to a gastronomic exploration that tantalizes the senses and elevates the dining experience to new heights.

In every aspect, Hitgeheim Country Lodge epitomizes the epitome of luxury and relaxation amidst nature’s embrace. Whether venturing into the wilds of the Addo Elephant National Park or savoring the culinary delights crafted with care and creativity, guests are guaranteed an unforgettable escape into the heart of South Africa’s Eastern Cape.

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CAPTURING SAFARI LUXURY WITH JEMMA WILD

PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER AND CONTENT PRODUCER

In this exclusive interview, we delve into the fascinating journey of Jemma Wild, a seasoned professional who transitioned from the world of fashion and beauty to becoming a sought-after safari-travel content producer and photographer. From her early days experimenting with photography in her father’s darkroom to her current role in capturing the essence of luxury safari lodges, Jemma shares insights into her creative process, the significance of visual storytelling in conservation efforts, and her passion for showcasing Africa’s wild beauty.

Please share a bit of your story with us. What inspired your transition from a Fashion and Beauty Editor to a safaritravel content producer and photographer, and how did you navigate this journey to where you are today?

I guess my love of photography started when I was in my early teens. My dad had a dark room and collected Hasselblad cameras as a hobby. As a kid, I was encouraged to be creative and learned a lot by developing my photos. This then stemmed into photography clubs and collecting millions of Kodak moments. Not really thinking of Photography as a career, I knew I had an eye for style and putting scenes together so went to study fashion and landed my first job as a Fashion and Beauty Editor for Saltwater Girl Magazine. This catapulted my love for this medium as I spent years in studios and on shoots styling fashion looks and

learning from photographers. Sadly, when publications started to close their glossy pages and move online I took the jump and moved to agency life where I became a content strategist. My love for understanding words, matched with brilliant imagery and how people connected to products became my jam - the psychology around emotional buying really stuck with me and made me want to take what I did and use it in an industry that matched my ethos. It wasn’t until 2019, that I really needed a change. I saw a gap in the market in the safari industry that lodges weren’t showing HOW their beautiful places felt, and that their imagery wasn’t showing those magical moments that stick with you the most when you’re in the bush… so I reached for my camera, emailed the client, and offered myself as a trade exchange to show what I could do. It worked, and four years later I am still capturing one of the most romantic industries in the world.

How do you approach creating emotive content that truly reflects the essence of a Luxury safari experience?

I am lucky enough that I have reached a point where I get to choose my clients. Space, landscape, and hospitality really are the foundations to what I do. My clients work hard to create their own magic in their lodges, to show off their unique story - as a photographer I seek out clients that have that unique story to tell. Having started out as a photographer for all safari lodges - as a portfolio build - I realised that my niche is between ultra-luxury and eco-luxury; owner run, detailed driven, environmentally aware, and driven by passion. These types of clients allow me to step in and let my camera move as there are so many stories in the spaces, the light, and the people that drive an emotional connection. One thing I think is important to say is that I shoot the natural experience. Often clients want to do elaborate set-ups for a photography experience. My rule of thumb is “If you don’t do it for your guests, don’t do it for me.”

These clients have worked hard to tell this story to their guests, and my job is to capture that, so it translates to future guests.

In your opinion, what sets luxury safari lodges apart in terms of visual storytelling Potential?

A unique story and attention to detail. The best lodges I’ve photographed are ones that know how to show off their spaces in a personal way. You can immediately get a sense of a lodge by what they choose to show off, especially in their marketing material. Lodges that aren’t afraid to show you inside, rather than just the wildlife outside. A lodge group that does this so well is Singita & Tswalu (they’re on my bucket list to photograph for!) They have a way of drawing you in emotionally; their interior architects design with consciousnessmerging guests’ luxury experiences with the surrounding spaces - their aim is to connect you to all the elements - water, air, earth & fire. I’ve shot a lot of lodges that have been designed this way, and honestly, it’s pure magic as you immediately feel how your inner energy connects visually. (A bit woo-woo I know, but that’s the core of emotion, right?)

Can you walk us through your creative process when tasked with visually representing a luxury safari lodge?

Firstly, the client and I will chat about their focus. What areas they want to concentrate on, what activities, and I ask them to share their story and inspiration being the lodge. I then go online and look at what they do have in terms of marketing collateral and choose spaces that I connect with and create a mood board. I pick four core complimentary colours that represent their spaces and then set about designing my wardrobe to complement areas that I may be adding a “human element” to. The idea with adding human elements is never to distract, but to complement. Show off “living beings” in the spaces. So, I choose hats, and accessories that can be built into “the set” to add dimensions to the imagery. The other idea for choosing colours is to get a sense of what time of day the lodges shoot better in. A lodge with richer, earth tones requires early morning light - a lodge that’s lighter and more airy can be mid-morning to late afternoon. I also always find the cardinal direction of the lodge and rooms so I can manage my light expectation and plan where to start during the day. Saying that, I always request an east facing room so I can maximise the golden hour light. There is obviously a whole lot more that goes into it, camera wise, but I can’t give everything away :)

What role do you think visual storytelling plays in shaping perceptions of conservation efforts within luxury safari destinations?

A huge one! Every lodge is built with the aim to have a positive impact on the conservation of the area it’s built - this visual storytelling is imperative to educate guests on this. For example, there is a lodge in the Zambezi National Park called Mpala Jena (an absolute favourite of mine). This lodge (like others in the area) makes sure to educate guests (on the ground, and in their marketing material) on what it’s done to assist the Zambezi National Park and bring wildlife back to the park that has historically been pillaged by poachers and neglect. Personally, I always make sure that in my storytelling there is a message that links to conservation - even though it may seem a boring topic to photograph, travellers are seeking more meaningful experiences, so this type of educational storytelling is becoming bigger and bigger with luxury safari destinations.

You have captured some amazing footage and images as a professional photographer and videographer. Is there a specific photo that holds a special place in your heart? And can you share the story behind it?

Oh wow, that’s like asking me to choose a favourite hat (and if you saw my hat collection, you would understand!). My favourite images often come with big feelings, the location I am in, the entire experience we had and then the light just playing ball. I can’t give you one, but I can give you three. They’re all at my favourite places. On the banks of the Zambezi River and on the Makgadikgadi Pans.

Water shares so much life into the places it co-exists with, at Malachite Tented Suites in Victoria Falls I just had one of those co-existing moments. This is image one. It was a crazy last minute job for a trade show, with a super tight deadline and everything just aligned. I often like to shoot in a way of “stealing moments” - in this case I saw my husband (who is a big part of what I do) in this space and I had to shoot it. It shows off everything that this lodge is about, relaxation, modern interiors, and proximity to water. This image just told a whole story of feeling.

The second image is also on the Zambezi, at Tsowa Safari Island, an island camp in the middle of the river. It had rained the whole night and when we woke, we were an audience to the most insane birdsong. Watching the sun rise, coffee in hand, river below. Magic. Setting up the tripod I caught myself framed in this moment to translate this feeling.

The third image is of the Makgadikgadi Pans, San Camp - surrounded by salt pans and absolute nothingness, your afternoon tea, barefoot on the floor staring at a very unique landscape with the afternoon light shining in - I look at this image and remember how much this lodge impacted me. It’s dubbed “The most romantic lodge in Africa” for a reason.

What advice would you give to aspiring photographers and videographers looking to specialize in luxury safari lodge content?

Find your niche. Practise. Start an Instagram page and get out into the field (self-drives is how I started), and work hard. Specifically, in this industry, it’s already so saturated with photographers that standing out requires persistence. I get this question every day. Honestly, it does come down to what you offer and how you market yourself. And don’t rely on properties to pay you (because it will take years before they do, honestly). Use the digital landscape to push your passion. Sell your prints online, create e-books, and push yourself into online content, as that’s where you’ll be able to make a career out of your hobby.

Can you share any upcoming projects or destinations you’re particularly excited to capture?

We have such a full schedule over the next 3-months and I can’t share too much but one destination I can share is Mana Pools, Zimbabwe. We have been trying to get there for years and we’re finally going. I have no idea what to expect, and that for me is the most excitingwe’re working with an incredible lodge group who I love shooting for and their lodges really make my lenses happy. As for projects, I have a massive project that’s been in the pipeline for the last year that I hope is going to add a whole new dimension to how people experience safari

travel… watch this space!

Are there any luxury safari destinations still on your bucket list?

So many! I have been so lucky to have had so many clients in the Southern African region, but hopefully, in the next year or so I can start working more with East & West African clients. Uganda, Rwanda, Congo, Zambia, and Malawi are all on the list. There are honestly so many safari destinations, in and outside of Africa that will take a lifetime to explore - I cannot wait!

Lastly, what do you hope viewers and clients take away from your photographs and storytelling about luxury safari lodges in Africa?

For viewers, I hope that it tugs at inspiration to come to Africa and get bitten by its wild and wonderful charm. And for clients, to have an opportunity to see their property in a different light, to show them how much feeling they’ve created. Luxury means different things to different people, and I find that in the safari industry the word “luxury” and “Africa” can only be translated by the raw emotion you feel when you first meet her - and my job is to find that luxury in every safari moment.

Jemma Wild www.jemmawild.com

IG: https://www.instagram.com/ jemmawildsafaristyled/

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INTO SERENITY

Indulge in unparalleled relaxation and rejuvenation in our nest issue as we unveil the world’s most luxurious spas, each offering an oasis of serenity amidst breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled opulence.

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