ROOM WITH A VIEW

ZANZIBAR WHITE SANDS

Located on the beachfront of Paje, Zanzibar White Sands looks out over the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean and pristine white sands of one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

The Relais and Chateaux property has 11 villas set across 4 hectares of lush, tropical gardens offering space and privacy. The villas each have two units connected by an exotic garden with a terrace, private swimming pool and outdoor bathtub all with views over the beach; a great option for families as well as romantic breaks.

The food is of an exceptional standard, using fruit, vegetables and herbs from their own organic garden and the freshest caught seafood daily. You can choose to dine in the main restaurant, the villa’s private dining space, or simply lunch in the beach bar which offers seafood and a meat barbecue, salads and healthy smoothies.

Situated in the gardens is a spa which has massage rooms, a steam room and sauna. While relaxation is a strong theme here, Zanzibar offers the opportunity to engage in a wide range of activities. Paje is considered one of the best kitesurfing beaches in the world and there is an opportunity to explore UNESCO world heritage site,

Stone Town, participate in spice tours, discover the Jozani Forest, paddle board or swim with dolphins.

Room rates start from $220 pp and villas start at $495 pp half board.

Nature meets culture at EMBURARA

FARM LODGE

Emburara is a high-end fully-fledged eco-cultural village promoting cultural tourism and conservation of flora and fauna in a fresh, serene and relaxed farm environment. It is surrounded by rolling hills, vast ranches and banana plantations.

Located in Mbarara District in Western Uganda, the lodge derives its name from a local tall grass called emburara (hyperemia ruffa), which the Ankole cattle keepers treasured and still revere as the best fodder for their cows because it boosts the fat content of milk thus enabling the production of high grade cow ghee.

Here, guests are introduced to the history and traditions of ancient Ankole Kingdom through music, dance, and the traditional food of this tribe of tall cattle keepers. Most importantly, at Emburara, they tell you the story and invite you to experience the life, culture and norms around the beautiful, gentle long horned Ankole cattle, so you too can know why they are so treasured!

During your stay, the staff, led by their warm, vivacious General Manager, Leslie Rabie, organise a complimentary farm tour on which guests get to partake in a number of herding activities like Okukama (milking), Okuriisa (herding cattle), and Okweshera (taking cows to the watering trough) among others. John, the seasoned herdsman, is supportive and patient. You will love the complementarity of his approach and teaching style, full of so much knowledge, humour and passion for the gentle animals.

As guests relax at the fireplace at night (located in the middle of a lush flower garden), they are treated to folklore and electrifying dances of the Ankole tribe. One such dance is Ekitaguriro, whose elegant choreography reflects the Banyankole’s strong admiration for their cattle.

As expected of a luxurious lodge, Emburara is spotless and boasts elegant decor, and the architectural design of its eco-friendly huts dates back to the 16th Century. They have a cozy interior and warm lighting, and crested cranes and white cattle egrets can be spotted from the comfort of your porch.

If you can’t endure the 9 hour drive from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to Kampala after your gorilla trek, Emburara offers a great break because it is located midway between Bwindi and the capital.

For more information on activities and rates, please visit

www.emburarafarmlodge.com