Wildlife and luxury don’t always intersect, but there are some options out there for the traveler who loves wildlife but also appreciates a luxury accommodation. We’ve hand-picked five options for your next wildlife adventure.
Giraffe Manor
Love giraffes? You will love this exclusive boutique hotel! With friendly faces peeking in the upper floor windows, Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, Kenya sits on 12 acres of private land with 140 acres of indigenous forest. The manor’s stately facade sets the tone for the lovely accommodations. Featuring 12 rooms – each with their own personality – Giraffe Manor is full of art deco features and elegant furnishings. Opt for a superior room or suite such as the Karen Blixen Suite and you’ll have room for your children, too. Our pro tip: Feeding Time or Giraffe Breakfast are not to be missed.
The Highlands Camp
Set up “camp” in one of The Highlands Camp’s eight elegant private guest suite domes. You will start your day with an amazing view in the breakfast room. You can also enjoy a cocktail with the other guests in the lounge followed by an amazing local dinner in the dining room. Our tip is to join in some of the adventure activities while you are there. Try the Olmoti climb, the Ngorongoro Crater descent, or even the Empakaai descent. You will also not want to miss the community and cultural visits offered. There’s no shortage of opportunities to experience the Tanzanian outdoors and wildlife in this luxurious glamping destination.
Saruni Rhino Camp
Open since February 2017, the Saruni Rhino Camp is one of the most exclusive experiences you can find. You’ll stay in one of their two small luxury bandas. These open, stone cottages are outfitted with king sized beds and have views of a rhino waterhole. Your rhino-tracking adventure will begin with the black rhinos that have been re-introduced to this part of Kenya after a 25-year absence. This camp is elegant rusticity at its best. A unique opportunity to view the black rhino in its natural habitat.
The Manta Resort
For a different wildlife experience, you’ll want to book The Underwater Room at The Manta Resort. While there are garden rooms available, if you’re going all the way to Tanzania, book the one and only Underwater Room. As the Manta Resort describes it, it is a “private floating island with your bedroom four meters below the surface. It is yours to enjoy while sunbathing and stargazing on the top deck, lounging and dining on the water deck and sleeping surrounded by a tropical marine environment.” In one word, stunning. Don’t miss your chance to sleep underwater surrounded by natural wonders.
Karkloof Safari Spa
As you’d expect with any lodge with safari in its name, the Karkloof Safari Spa features wildlife that you’ll see up close and personal with your own private guide and during game drives. However, what really makes the Karloff a must is its wellness spa. The spa has a full range of services including all day, unlimited hydrotherapy. Don’t get too caught up with the treatments, though, you’ll need to venture out to see the wildlife roaming around you including zebras, rhinos, hippos, and more. This adventure is so much more than your typical relaxing spa getaway.
So, tell us, which of these wildlife experiences would you choose? We don’t think you can go wrong with any of them. Whether you chase the black rhino or dine with giraffes, you are sure to come away amazed after one of these luxury retreats. After your wildlife adventure, try a visit to Bhutan to experience the one and only snow leopard!
