AFRICA'S BEST_Mock Up

Featuring a Selection of the Most Spectacular and Sustainable Stays in Africa

Contents Botswana 15

Mauritius 185

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andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge Duba Plains Camp - Great Plains Conservation Duke’s Camp - Natural Selection Jack’s Camp - Natural Selection Khwai Leadwood - African Bush Camps San Camp - Natural Selection Sanctuary Baines’ Camp Sanctuary Chief’s Camp Selinda Camp - Great Plains Conservation Tuludi Camp - Natural Selection Xigera Safari Lodge & The Baobab Treehouse Zarafa Camp - Great Plains Conservation

Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita Le Jadis Beach Resort & Wellness - Banyan Tree The Oberoi Beach Resort, Mauritius

Morocco 199 • • • • • •

Banyan Tree Tamouda Bay Kasbah Tamadot La Sultana Marrakech La Sultana Oualidia Hotel Royal Mansour Marrakech The Oberoi, Marrakech

Egypt 91

Mozambique

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• •

Adrère Amellal La Maison Bleue El Gouna Nour El Nil

Kenya 111 • • • • • • • • • •

andBeyond Bateleur Camp Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp Elewana Elsa’s Kopje Meru Elewana Loisaba Lodo Springs Governors’ Mugie Mahali Mzuri Mara Plains Camp - Great Plains Conservation Mara Nyika Camp - Great Plains Conservation ol Donyo Lodge - Great Plains Conservation Sanctuary Olonana - The Geoffrey Kent Suite

Madagascar 175 •

Miavana by Time + Tide

237

andBeyond Benguerra Island Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira

Namibia 249 • • • •

andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge Hoanib Valley Camp - Natural Selection Wolwedans Dune Camp Zannier Hotels Sonop

Rwanda 275 • • • • •

One&Only Gorilla’s Nest One&Only Nyungwe House Singita Kataza House Singita Kwitonda Lodge Virunga Lodge - Volcanoes Safaris

AFRICA’S BEST

30

Tunisia

Morrocco 33

35

34

32

31 Algeria

Western Sahara

13

Egypt

Libya

14 15

Mauritania Mali Niger Senegal

Eritrea

Sudan Chad

GuineaBissau

Burkina Faso

Guinea

Djibouti Benin

Sierra Leone

Cote d’Ivore Liberia

Nigeria

Togo

Ethiopia

Ghana

South Sudan

Central African Republic Cameroon

South Atlantic Ocean

Uganda

Equatorial Guinea Gabon

Somalia

Kenya

Republic of the Congo

Rwanda Burundi

Nor th Atlantic Ocean

Tanzania

Democratic Republic of the Congo

74 72 Angola

68 73

77

42

43

71

69

45 70

44

46 25

22

83

81

88 5

39

10

38

12

9

7

3

2

11

37

Zimbabwe 8

1

93 6

4

Namibia

47

86

89

90

91

26

87

59

41

South Africa

Lesotho

65

60

52

54

64

57

63

75

79

50

48

Indian Ocean

29

92 62

18

80

Madagascar

Botswana

Eswatini

40

85

94

17

16

49

Malawi

Zambia 82

24

78

20 19

Seychelles

Mozambique 84

21

23

76

27

28

36

51

67

66 61 56 53 58 55

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andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge Duba Plains Camp - Great Plains Conservation Duke’s Camp - Natural Selection Jack’s Camp - Natural Selection Khwai Leadwood - African Bush Camps San Camp - Natural Selection Sanctuary Baines’ Camp Sanctuary Chief’s Camp Selinda Camp - Great Plains Conservation Tuludi Camp - Natural Selection Xigera Safari Lodge & The Baobab Treehouse Zarafa Camp - Great Plains Conservation Adrère Amellal La Maison Bleue El Gouna Nour El Nil andBeyond Bateleur Camp Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp Elewana Elsa’s Kopje Meru Elewana Loisaba Lodo Springs Governors’ Mugie Mahali Mzuri Mara Plains Camp - Great Plains Conservation Mara Nyika Camp - Great Plains Conservation ol Donyo Lodge - Great Plains Conservation

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Sanctuary Olonana - The Geoffrey Kent Suite Miavana by Time + Tide Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita Le Jadis Beach Resort & Wellness - Banyan Tree The Oberoi Beach Resort, Mauritius Banyan Tree Tamouda Bay Kasbah Tamadot La Sultana Marrakech La Sultana Oualidia Hotel Royal Mansour Marrakech The Oberoi, Marrakech andBeyond Benguerra Island Banyan Tree Ilha Caldeira andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge Hoanib Valley Camp - Natural Selection Wolwedans Dune Camp Zannier Hotels Sonop One&Only Gorilla’s Nest One&Only Nyungwe House Singita Kataza House Singita Kwitonda Lodge Virunga Lodge - Volcanoes Safaris Alphonse Island Lodge Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

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Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island North Island andBeyond Phinda Homestead andBeyond Tengile River Lodge Babylonstoren Cheetah Plains Delaire Graff Estate Ellerman House Kapama Karula Lekkerwater Beach Lodge - Natural Selection Lion Sands Ivory Lodge Molori Safari Lodge - Rora Private Collection One&Only Cape Town Signature Suites Royal Malewane -The Royal Portfolio Singita Boulders Lodge Singita Lebombo Lodge The Oyster Box Hotel The Silo Hotel - The Royal Portfolio Tswalu andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge andBeyond Mnemba Island andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge Elewana Kilindi Zanzibar Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

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Jabali Ridge - Asilia Africa Namiri Plains Camp - Asilia Africa Singita Faru Faru Lodge Singita Sabora Tented Camp Thanda Island The Highlands - Asilia Africa Bwindi Lodge - Volcanoes Safaris Mount Gahinga Lodge - Volcanoes Safaris Chisa Busanga Camp - Green Safaris Ila Safari Lodge - Green Safaris Lolebezi - African Bush Camps Royal Zambezi Lodge Sindabezi Island Camp - Green Safaris Thorntree River Lodge - African Bush Camps Time + Tide Chinzombo Time + Tide King Lewanika Tongabezi Lodge - Green Safaris Matetsi River House Private Villa Nyamatusi Camp - African Bush Camps Singita Pamushana Lodge Somalisa Camp - African Bush Camps Tembo Plains Camp - Great Plains Conservation

Madagascar

With over 30 different species, ranging from the tiny mouse lemurs

The fourth largest island in the world, Madagascar is an

to the charismatic ring-tailed lemurs, these primates are endemic to

extraordinary country of rich diversity. It is a land of unparalleled and untouched beauty and provides an escape from the commercial tourist hotspots with beautiful cities, fascinating people, lush

Madagascar and are a sight to behold.

No visit to Madagascar is complete without a visit to the iconic

rainforests and tropical beaches. Experience exhilarating

Avenue of the Baobabs. Located near Morondava, this enchanting

encounters with its unique wildlife and discover lost worlds

stretch of dirt road is flanked by majestic baobab trees, some of

by exploring the mysterious Tsingy formations, where ancient limestone spires create an otherworldly landscape.

which are over 800 years old. The view of these ancient giants

Dive into an aquatic wonderland and glide through crystal-clear

beautiful place to take photographs or simply soak in the magical

towering against the sunset sky is truly awe-inspiring. This is a ambience of this unique natural wonder.

waters, surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life and prepare to be immersed in emerald-green splendour and

There are also plenty of activities for those who want to explore

trek through dense jungles where cascading waterfalls and rare

underwater. The tropical islands off the coast of Madagascar offer

plant species create an atmosphere of untamed beauty. Discover

incredible diving and snorkelling opportunities.

bizarre creatures that exist nowhere else on Earth, making each encounter a thrilling moment of scientific discovery. Immerse

Another Madagascan must-do is the adventurous hike through the

yourself in the rhythm of life on the island and dance to the beat of

indescribable beauty of Tsingy de Bemaraha which will leave you

traditional Malagasy music, participate in local festivities and learn

in awe of nature’s sculptural prowess. Prepare to be transported

about the ancient customs that have shaped this vibrant culture.

to a surreal landscape as you wander through this UNESCO World

Roam through expansive national parks, where wildlife roams free,

Heritage Site that is characterized by its unique karst formations,

offering you captivating encounters with majestic creatures, like

composed of limestone pinnacles, deep canyons and razor-sharp

playful lemurs leaping from tree to tree, and unwind on postcard-

peaks. Navigate suspended rope bridges and witness panoramic

perfect beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see.

views from the summit.

Bucket List Experiences

Finally, for an extra dose of natural wonder, venture to the Tsingy More than anything else, Madagascar is famous for its unique and

Rouge in the northwest of Madagascar. These impressive rock

diverse wildlife, and at the top of any visitor’s bucket list should be a

formations get their distinctive red colour from iron oxide, creating

chance to encounter lemurs in their natural habitat. Explore the lush

a striking contrast against the surrounding greenery. Explore the

rainforests of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park or the spiny forests

labyrinth of canyons and experience the undeniable beauty of this

of Ifaty to witness these captivating creatures up close.

lesser-known gem.

175

COASTAL, BEACH & ISLAND GETAWAYS

Miavana by Time + Tide How They Dazzle Us An exhilarating helicopter ride from the Madagascan mainland over

views of the magnificent coastline mere meters away. There is a

mountains, baobabs and shipwrecks dotting the wild coastline ends

selection of villas, each offering ample space (minimum 620sqm) with

in a gentle landing on the spectacular private island of Miavana.

an effortless flow between indoor and outdoor living areas, ocean-front

This is the largest of five islands in this remote archipelago and is

verandas and private pools immersing guests into the island setting.

the ultimate destination for modern-day explorers. This exquisite,

Elements of sea, sand and air meet through inspired interiors featuring

secluded sanctuary combines ultimate luxury in a world of rare

hand-dyed textiles in shades of turquoise teamed with Malagasy wood

wildlife and extraordinary landscapes. Resident lemurs, nesting sea

and local hand-hewn stone. Undoubtedly, one of the most delightful

turtles, dolphins and migrating humpback whales are the stars of the

and unique features of the villas are their distinctive turreted showers,

show, and sprawling coral reefs create an underwater haven teeming

open at the top, and where one has the feeling of being engulfed in

with impressive marine life.

a cosy cocoon of local, hand-cut stones conjuring notions of true castaway luxury. Each villa comes with a personal butler available 24/7,

Raw and refined, Miavana brings together exclusivity, adventure and

cruiser bicycles and an electric buggy.

conservation, offering guests a wide range of exciting activities and experiences. Discover the surrounding islands on a private yacht

The Piazza offers an array of spaces to suit your every need. Whether it’s

or helicopter, snorkel and dive in the vibrant, pristine underwater

a romantic ambience or “on the beach” elegance that you crave, a wide

world and explore the treasure trove of turquoise bays and white

variety of options is available. Sunset cocktails in the rooftop lounge,

sugar sand beaches. Reset your body, mind and soul with blissful

stargazing from the beachfront firepit or relaxing around the shimmering

spa treatments that can be enjoyed in the privacy of your villa, or

infinity pool are just a few of the experiences on offer. The island’s

anywhere on Miavana with the sound of the ocean, faint sea breeze

incredible culinary team creates exquisite food and wine pairings using

and smells of Madagascan botanicals surrounding you.

the finest local ingredients and offers refined island specialities.

Whether it’s a guided wildlife excursion to the mainland to explore

Their Sustainable Superpower

national parks, an exhilarating fishing expedition beyond the reef; kiteboarding, wakeboarding, quad biking, kayaking, or even a soothing

Miavana has been designed to tread lightly on the island which the

stand-up paddle yoga session, there is no shortage of adventure and

community has inhabited for well over a century. For example, villas

exploration. Guests can relax in the barefoot ease of Miavana, where

rely on fans and natural ventilation in place of air-conditioning (though

life is measured in the rise and fall of the tides.

beds are equipped with a smart air-circulation system to keep you cool at night), while water and waste management limit the resort’s eco-

Why We Love Them

footprint. Solar panels deliver most of the electricity and both food and

The property, designed by award-winning architects, was built by

the Time + Tide Foundation, Miavana’s in-house marine biologist and

more than 500 local workers over a period of four years. This triumph

sustainability team run a range of environmental conservation projects

of design means that the architecture blends seamlessly into the

on and around the island, including daily beach patrols to monitor the

environment of this Indian Ocean Island paradise. The 14 spacious,

local turtles, translocation of endangered lemurs and the maintenance

ocean-front villas are strung out along the western side of the island,

of coral nurseries to replenish damaged reefs.

each with floor-to-ceiling retractable glass windows offering panoramic

building materials are procured locally whenever possible. As part of

WILDLIFE SAFARIS & NATURE HIDEAWAYS

Jack’s Camp - Natural Selection

How They Dazzle Us One of Africa’s most famous camps, Jack’s Camp rises like an oasis of luxury from 16,000 square kilometres of flat, white, lunar-like salt pans that stretch as far as the eye can see. The camp is pitched on a low grassland knoll amongst a grove of dignified desert palms and Kalahari acacia. Elegantly styled to capture the sense of adventure of the original explorers without compromising on comfort, Jack’s Camp is unique in style and experience and is truly the benchmark for desert luxury. Jack’s Camp underwent a full rebuild and reopened to widespread acclaim in 2021.The brand-new Jack’s Camp pays homage to the property’s enduring and much-loved 1940s campaign style. The guest tents, with extra length beds, are a spacious 270 square metres in size. Whilst the iconic green canvas and muslin-draped walls remain, each tent is embellished with Natural History Museum cabinets, Persian and North African rugs, paraffin lamps, brass fittings, luxuriant textiles, and mahogany campaign furniture. There is a comfortable living area with a sofa and day bed for expansive views of the Kalahari, an overhead bed cooling system and an en-suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers. Outside, each veranda has a private deck with a sparkling plunge pool as well as several velvet-clad chairs overlooking the glittering ancient landscape. The new, larger mess tent still houses the renowned Natural History Museum, library, vintage 36-seater dining table that served as an officer’s mess table in the 1820s, well-stocked drinks cabinet and antique pool table. The iconic, nomadic Persian tea tent remains, and the swimming pool pavilion is still the only one of its

with each passing year. When the rains start to fall in November, the Makgadikgadi Pans are transformed and the shimmering whiteness of the salt flats is turned into watery grasslands. A layer of emeraldgreen grass stretches out in every direction, pink clouds of flamingo and flocks of migratory birds arrive to nest, and Africa’s second-largest migration of wildebeest and zebra flood the plains. Adventures include walking with a group of Zu/’hoasi Bushmen, game drives and night drives to spot the unique desert wildlife like the elusive brown hyena or Kalahari lion. Guests can also get up close and personal with habituated meerkats, enjoy a visit to the site of the historic Chapman’s Baobab, embark on an adventurous horseback ride or exhilarating quad bike ride across the salt-crusted pans and hunt for stone tools in the enormous Sowa Pan. After an afternoon exploring the Kalahari Desert, enjoy a refreshing sundowner and lie out before nightfall to watch the planetarium of stars unfold above you.

Their Sustainable Superpower This Landing creates an experience that is authentic, genuine, and environmentally friendly. It is sustainably operated with solar power, steaming water in gleaming, copper jugs and showers under the stars. The camp is deeply rooted both in the desert and in ethical conservation. The goal, as with all Natural Selection properties, is to be a force for good in the protection of natural habitats and make

kind in Africa.

a difference in wildlife conservation and the lives of people living

Why We Love Them

in several remarkable initiatives such as Pack for a Purpose and

This Landing is something of a legend in the Kalahari Desert and has

to expand migration routes between Northern Botswana and the

been setting the standard for luxury and attention to detail for decades.

The key to this Landing is its location. It came into existence in the 1960s, when crocodile catcher and hunter Jack Bousfield set out on a trapping expedition and soon stumbled upon a site that so captured his imagination that he set up a camp in that very spot, with the unshakeable expectation that others would feel the same. From those beginnings grew this Landing, an escape that has grown more magical

sustainably alongside wildlife areas. Jack’s Camp is actively involved the Makgadikgadi Large Mammal Migration Project, which works Makgadikgadi National Park through informed land use planning and human-wildlife co-existence. They are benefactors and advocates of the Botswana Community and Conservation Initiative and collaborate in providing support for rural communities by teaching them to develop sustainable land-use practices to promote conservation-based economic opportunities, facilitate landscape-scale wildlife movements and provide for climate change resilience.

Egypt

Egypt’s unparalleled historical treasures, diverse cultural influences

Do not miss the opportunity to gaze upon the enigmatic Sphinx,

and distinctive landscapes create an unforgettable experience that

a mystical guardian that has watched over the pyramids for

sets it apart from other destinations in Africa, making it a must-visit

millennia. A visit to Luxor offers an unparalleled opportunity to

for travellers seeking an extraordinary blend of history, culture and

wonder at the splendour and magnificence of one of the world’s

adventure. With its ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and warm

earliest civilizations. This city, on the east bank of the Nile

hospitality, Egypt will leave you in awe of its remarkable heritage

River, is situated on the site of ancient Thebes, the pharaohs’

and timeless allure.

capital at the height of their power. It is home to some of the most impressive archaeological discoveries in the world.

There is the tranquillity of the expansive desert, the timeless

From the grand temples of Karnak and Luxor to the hauntingly

meander of the impressive Nile River or the exciting chaos of

beautiful Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs were laid to rest

Cairo, a bustling metropolis where ancient traditions meet modern

in elaborately decorated tombs, every step immerses you in the

life. And for something completely different, there is also the

brilliance of ancient Egyptian civilization. The towering statues of

option to enjoy a relaxing escape and head to the beautiful Red

the Colossi of Memnon, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut and

Sea coast, where pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters await.

the well-preserved hieroglyphics on temple walls leave visitors

Dive or snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, or simply unwind in

in awe of the rich cultural heritage that still echoes through the

luxurious beach resorts. bin

city’s monuments.

Bucket List Experiences

For a change of pace, consider sailing down the legendary Nile River on a beautiful Dahabiya, which offers a unique perspective

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza is an awe-inspiring experience like

on the country’s history and captivating views of lush

no other. As you approach the vast desert plateau, the colossal

landscapes and timeless villages that dot its shores. Explore the

size and imposing presence of the pyramids will take your breath

temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo, marvel at the beauty of Philae

away. Standing in the shadow of these ancient wonders will fill

Temple in Aswan and immerse yourself in the Nubian culture.

you with a profound sense of admiration for the architectural

Along the way, witness the everyday life of local communities

ingenuity and engineering prowess of the ancient Egyptians. The

and soak in the serene beauty that has inspired travellers for

sheer magnitude and mystique surrounding the pyramids create

centuries. Embarking on a cruise is a quintessential bucket list

an unforgettable and humbling encounter with human history

experience in Egypt.

and the marvels of antiquity.

91

D E S E R T, S E A & C U LT U R A L E S C A P E S

Adrère Amellal How They Dazzle Us This Landing, located in the heart of the Western Desert of Egypt in the Siwa Oasis, is a truly magical place that easily captures the hearts of its guests.

Adrère Amellal dazzles with its exquisite simplicity. The labyrinth-like structure is built into the side of a hill, which not only provides guests with stunning views of the surrounding desert, mountains and spectacular salt lake, but also allows for natural ventilation, which keeps the rooms cool during the

With no electricity, the rooms are softly lit with a dozen beeswax candles and the starry desert sky. Like a sand palace from Aladdin, this is a Landing that is quite stunning in its uniqueness, luxurious simplicity and authenticity.

Their Sustainable Superpower Built entirely of natural materials and powered by solar energy, this Landing is a triumph of sustainable practices. Adrère

scorching summer months.

Amellal employs local staff and uses traditional building

This means that despite being in the middle of the desert, there

efficiency, also help preserve the local culture and heritage.

is no need for air-conditioning as the traditional architecture ensures a constant cool breeze. One of the most dazzling features of a stay here is a nocturnal experience on the rooftop terrace, where one can stargaze at the magnificent night skies

techniques and materials, which, aside from their environmental Doors and furniture are made from olive wood and pay tribute to nature and talented local artisanship.

The team at Adrère Amellal is committed to using authentic

which are crystal clear due to the lack of light pollution.

ingredients, so all the fruit and vegetables come from their own

The lodge also organizes desert safaris, which allow guests to

poultry are sourced from local farmers (which helps support the

experience the unique culture and traditions of the Siwan people and explore the rolling dunes of the Great Sand Sea, the Siwa Oasis, lakes, tombs, springs, fortresses, temples and mountain

gardens (grown with loving care and no pesticides), meat and local economy) and all the bread and cakes are home-baked.

And, of course, there is also a strong commitment to

burials created by Siwa’s earliest civilizations.

environmental conservation as they work closely with the local

Why We Love Them

There is also a recycling program in place, and biodegradable

It is a fairy-tale castle made of clay, sand and salt and is a sanctuary within a sanctuary. It has been said that at night it is so quiet you begin to hear the stars. Not only can you escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but this magnificent destination offers guests a window into another era and an invitation to step into another world - a world that is not dependent on air-conditioning or room service but instead preserves the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

community to protect the natural resources of the Siwa Oasis. products are used to reduce their environmental impact.

COASTAL, BEACH & ISLAND GETAWAYS

andBeyond Benguerra Island How They Dazzle Us Off the coast of Mozambique, andBeyond Benguerra Island is a

thatched sunshade and wooden beach loungers.The marine life

place that offers guests a beach holiday at the ultimate paradise

is teeming with a carnival of colourful tropical fish, and you can

destination on the Bazaruto Archipelago. This magical lodge is

spend your days floating in the water with a snorkel or diving

located on one of six islands off southern Mozambique’s coastline

off some of the neighbouring reefs. Catch-and-release deep sea

just inside the borders of the Bazaruto National Park, a protected

fishing or fly fishing are activities worth signing up for even if you

marine conservation area.

are not a regular fisherman. And if you are an animal lover and prefer spending time on solid ground, you may take an explorative

Benguerra Island is the second largest of these pristine islands,

horse ride through inland sand dunes and past freshwater lakes

with andBeyond lying sheltered within the canopy of an indigenous

or ride bareback into the warm ocean - it is both an unusual and

forest and swaying palm trees. The welcoming guest areas offer

an incredible horseback experience. The traditional dhow sailing

views of the lush tropical garden and the ocean beyond. Under the

boats or catamarans will carry you to the neighbouring islands

shade of straw-covered wooden awnings, inviting, comfortable

and remote beaches, where you can arrange to have a lavish and

loungers are set up around the lodge’s rim flow swimming pool.

romantic castaway picnic waiting for you.

A colourfully decorated traditional wooden dhow has been converted into a picturesque beach bar, while the cool surrounds

Their Sustainable Superpower

of the massage sala hold the promise of deep relaxation. The deep lagoon is unaffected by tides and provides gentle lapping

The care-trilogy is the philosophy behind andBeyond’s sustainable

waves on bone-white unspoilt beaches. The abundance of coral

superpower. As the name implies, the trilogy encompasses three

reefs surrounding the islands provide a safe haven for rare marine

elements: Care of the land and oceans. Care of the wildlife. And

species, such as the dugong, while the land offers wetlands,

last, but not least, Care of the people. Their partnership with both

forests and grasslands and is every birder’s dream. With around

Africa Foundation and Oceans Without Borders serves to ensure

140 species of birds, from kingfishers to flamingos, and some of

the longevity of these three pillars. Benguerra Island Lodge lives

the best snorkelling and diving in the world, it is hard to beat this

out the andBeyond philosophy by ensuring their impact has high

Landing as a natural retreat where time stands still.

positive yield and low negative effect.

Why We Love Them

The lodge supports large tracts of land, which are protected

The intimate Casinhas and Cabanas are slightly raised on wooden

research and conservation activities. Local people and

platforms and have large colonial Portuguese-era styled rooms

communities remain essential to both the success of the lodge

which exude a restrained and elegant luxury epitomised by the

and the ongoing provision of wildlife sanctuaries. As such,

king-sized beds shrouded with muslin nets. The open plan ensuite

education programmes, agriculture and provision of infrastructure

bathrooms feature baths and outdoor showers, and each Casinha

support the conservation of the land and its animals. Benguerra

boasts its own private plunge pool and extended wooden deck,

Island’s solar lamp initiative is a wonderful and safe option to

furnished with a shaded table, chairs, two wooden loungers and

candle use and is transforming the lives of island communities

irresistible hanging daybeds. From here, you can step directly onto

without electricity. Guests can support this project by purchasing

the sandy beach, where thick towels are provided for your private

a solar lamp for distribution from the lodge’s shop.

through the income generated from tourism as well as through

WILDLIFE SAFARIS, DESERT & NATURE HIDEAWAYS

Zannier Hotels Sonop How They Dazzle Us Set within 13,800 private acres of untouched Namibian desert

excursions include horse-riding from their own stables, private

wilderness, this Landing with ten tented suites is constructed

dining atop the sand dunes, electric fat-bike or walking trails,

on top of granite boulders in authentic 1920s British colonial

hot air balloon safaris and private sunset safaris. The magic

style. Stretching from horizon to horizon, captivating beauty and

continues after dark with a nightly gala-style dinner, open-air

boundless freedom surround you, and you can adventure from

cinema and stargazing under the endless African skies.

sunrise to sunset. On arrival, you immediately step back in time, transported to an old-world safari. It is utterly charming.

While the lodgings and amenities at Sonop are exquisite, perhaps the true appeal lies in the amazing location and wildlife. The

Every object and antique in each of the ten spacious tents has been

property plays host to leopards, hyenas, jackals and more.

carefully selected – be it binoculars and maps, travellers’ tales,

Exploring can be done from the comfort of a game vehicle, on

telescopes, antique desks, or handmade stationery – every item

horseback or on foot.

that is there is designed to ensure that each moment enhances the unique experience the team at Sonop is looking to create.

Their Sustainable Superpower

From the reception room to the partially walled bathroom

The designer behind this beautiful Landing is Arnaud Zannier,

with vintage bathtubs, through to each unit’s private terrace,

who leads Zannier Hotels Interiors and believes that sustainability

everything focuses on the richness of the desert and awe-

needs to come from the heart.

inspiring views and is executed with opulence and finesse. And to keep matters fresh and different, this is also a wonderful place

He says that when he started designing this Landing, he focused

from which to encounter a wide array of Africa’s desert animals,

on seeing the blanket of stars beneath which the first colonials set

including oryx, brown hyenas, rabbits, bat-eared foxes, jackals,

foot upon the Namibian boulders, and from this came the desire

and leopards.

and knowledge to recreate, preserve and sustain this privilege for future visitors.

Why We Love Them

There are solar panels on-site and plans in place to source and

With ten spacious tents furnished with antiques, colourful

save water. Additionally, they employ staff from the community,

carpets and precious wood, these lavish accommodations

helping them develop their unique talents to recreate the local

capture the look and feel of a bygone era. Panoramic views look

atmosphere that guests seek.

out onto otherworldly desert landscapes, while in-tent telescopes invite dreamy stargazing moments.

The lodge captures the restorative essence of the desert landscape with a spectacular open-air infinity pool, spa, fitness centre and daily yoga to truly integrate their guest’s wellbeing with the natural world. When desert adventure calls, their guided

D E S E R T, S E A & C U LT U R A L E S C A P E S

The Oberoi, Marrakech How They Dazzle Us Ranked the number one resort in the whole of North Africa and

inclined to never leave their rooms. The exoticness of this

the Middle East at the 2022 Travel and Leisure Awards, The Oberoi

hotel is enhanced by offers of sunrise yoga, vintage side-car

Marrakech is a sublime place to spend time. Located amidst

adventures, personalised cooking courses, hot air balloon rides

113,312 square metres of Mediterranean orchards boasting

and helicopter flips over the spectacular Sahara Desert.

fragrant citrus trees and centuries-old olive groves, this Landing features beautifully landscaped gardens punctuated by impressive

Their Sustainable Superpower

water features. Its authentic architecture is inspired by the palaces of ancient Morocco, and you cannot help but feel like royalty as

On a local level, the ancient orchards and exquisite gardens are

you stroll through the magnificent grounds. The courtyard of the

lovingly tended and preserved by the smart use of water.

main building incorporates the design of the historic Medersa Ben

On a group level, one of the primary principles of their CSR

Youssef, built in the 14th century, one of Marrakech’s most famous

(corporate social responsibility) policy is caring for parentless

historical monuments.

children from around the world.

All of this is capped with picturesque views of the majestic snow-

The Oberoi Group has partnered with SOS Children’s Villages

topped Atlas Mountains. This spectacular hotel is the perfect place

and together, they provide for the upbringing and education

to use as a base from which to explore the extraordinary city of

of 210 parentless, homeless, or abandoned children living in

Marrakech. From its beautiful gardens to the ancient Andalusian

Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Cochin, Jaipur

architecture and traditional souks, it features art galleries, mountain

and Kolkata. The Oberoi Group provides funding for 61 youths

vistas and plenty of opportunity for adventure and relaxation.

to attend bachelor’s programs at various higher education institutions. A highlight of the partnership between The Oberoi

Why We Love Them

Group and SOS Children’s Village is the enthusiastic participation

This Landing is thoughtfully laid out to offer privacy and the

with the children and help drive several initiatives centered around

spacious and luxurious rooms and villas, most with large private

learning, fun and games. This project is a cornerstone of the

pools and gardens, incorporate authentic Andalusian design and

group’s efforts to do good in the world.

incredible views. With beautiful hand-painted traditional zellige tiles and hand-sculpted wall panels, these villas with 72 square metre interiors harmonise traditional Moroccan design. The Spa is an oasis of peace that spans 2000 square meters and is located on a body of water surrounded by orchards. At the heart of the palace is a magnificent central courtyard clothed in glossy green-and-blue tiles and mesmerising handcrafted stuccowork which took five years to complete.

If it was not for the city’s fashionable nightlife and its spiritual mystique or the wonderful choices of restaurants, guests may be

and involvement of the company’s employees who actively engage