(Posted 10th November 2023)
One of the most prominent trends in our industry today is the demand for exclusive, intimate, and curated experiences. People value quality time with family and friends particularly since Covid-19 and so, seek private and memorable adventures shared with close friends and family. Not only this, but the principals behind exclusive use travel are also increasingly aligning with sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Thus, travellers are beginning to seek an experience that aligns with the principals of responsible tourism and slow travel, visiting destinations in which they are directly contributing to the conservation and environmental care of that area.
Keep reading to find out how our clients tick all the boxes when it comes to exclusive use travel.
MORUKURU FAMILY
Morukuru Family have gained the reputation as the leading specialist in exclusive use travel in South Africa, having pioneered the Morukuru Freedom Concept, allowing guests to do “whatever they want, whenever they want”.
Boasting three exclusive properties in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, Owner’s House, River House and Farm House & Ocean House in the De Hoop, Morukuru Family have mastered the concept of exclusive use travel, which is evident in the figures they have seen so far this year. September alone saw an occupancy level of 97% and this trend is expected to continue until the end of the year. With high-end exclusivity and unwavering flexibility at the core of their ethos, Morukuru Family recognise the trends in the consumer market – guests are looking for space, privacy and seclusion combined with unparalleled wildlife experiences.
From price: $1,689 per night
KER & DOWNEY BOTSWANA
Ker & Downey Botswana has a safari pedigree dating over half a century and it uniquely combines time-honoured safari with up-to-the minute luxury, hospitality and eco-credentials. The latest for Ker & Downey Botswana however is the launch of the intimate Shinde Footsteps, an adventure camp located in the Shine Private Concession. Accommodating only six guests in a choice of twin, double or family tent, this classic adventure camp will retain its delicate footprint and charm as an explorers experience, offering an intimate and exclusive Okavango Delta experience.
From price: $583 per person, per night
NAIBOR CAMPS
Naibor Wilderness is tucked away amidst a dense grove of woodland on the banks of the Talek River and offers guests the most charmed and authentic of bush experiences. Hosting six guests at any one time, Naibor Wilderness is small, private and personal. Whilst maintaining privacy from its neighbouring sister camps – Naibor and Little Naibor, Wilderness enjoys the best of both worlds – luxury canvas tents with en-suite bathrooms but with luxuries and comfort at close quarters. The lure of the Mara is, and always has been, its abundance of game all year round. Naibor Wilderness is surprisingly affordable, despite the beauty of the setting, the luxury living, the privacy and the service.
From price: $563 per person, per night
GREEN SAFARIS, ZAMBIA & MALAWI
Green Safaris is a collection of camps throughout Zambia and Malawi. As the name suggests, the company has a strong and committed focus on sustainability throughout their properties and the locations in which they operate. Building on this, such locations make up the perfect Zambia & Malawi adventure for families or groups of friends wanting to explore this pristine destination. Begin your adventure at the iconic Tongabezi Lodge in the exclusive use Tangala House, an ideal location to explore the Victoria Falls, one of World’s Natural Wonders. Shawa Luangwa Camp an intimate, 4 tent camp can be booked exclusively to explore the South Luangwa as can Potato Bush Camp in the Lower Zambezi National Park & Chisa Busanga in the Kafue. Twin your exclusive safari with a beach add on at Kaya Mawa, in their exclusive use Ndomo House.
From price: $510 per night, minimum 3 nights
SANTORINI MOZAMBIQUE
Nestled among the red cliffs of Kingfisher Bay overlooking the Bazaruto Archipelago sits Santorini, Mozambique. An ode to the Cycladic islands of Greece, in the heart of the raw African landscape, this magical combination is guaranteed to inspire peace and serenity in all who visit. Consisting of two exclusive use options, The Chapel and Villa da Praia, each villa is complete with luxurious rooms, services from a private butler and a private pool, offering an intimate beach add on for some R&R after a thrilling safari experience.
From price: $780 per person, per night
ZANZIBAR WHITE SAND LUXURY VILLAS & SPA
Zanzibar White Sand is set around lush gardens, overlooking the pristine white sand beaches and crystalline waters of Paje Beach, where privacy and intimacy are defining qualities. The presidential five bedroom garden villa offers families or groups of friends the perfect beach retreat following safari. With 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, the Presidential Garden villa offers privacy and space for up to 11 Adults.
From price: $4,300 per night
BOSCHENDAL, SOUTH AFRICA
One of the oldest wine estates in the Western Cape, Boschendal’s heritage and dramatic natural beauty is celebrated in the myriad of activities on offer, excellent farm-to-table cuisine and beautifully renovated cottages. Such an offering makes Boschendal the ultimate Winelands’ retreat with a range of exclusive use options to take advantage of including three intimate exclusive use cottages and the glorious Mountain Villa.
From price: $273 per cottage, minimum 2 nights
THORNYBUSH, SOUTH AFRICA
Thornybush is a collection of luxury lodges in the world-renowned wilderness areas of Sabi Sand and Thornybush Nature Reserve in Kruger Park. Launched just this year is Kamara House, a relaxed and elegant family villa that sits within Thornybush Game Lodge. Kamara House is an exciting new option for families looking for an exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime safari experience in the world-renowned Thornybush Nature Reserve in Kruger Park.
From price: $3,450 per night, 4 pax any age
