CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Cape Town’s most treasured hotel, Cape Grace begins a new chapter unveiling its design transformation under new management by Fairmont. Cape Town’s iconic V&A Waterfront property captures the spirit of South Africa through elegant design and authentic cuisine as it reopens its doors, unveiling a new era of hospitality
This May 2024, following nine months of renovations, Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel unveils its design transformation, reopening its doors once again with a new look inspired by South Africa’s heritage, culture and craftsmanship. Located on the iconic V&A Waterfront, Cape Town’s most treasured hotel has been gracefully redesigned by globally renowned interior and architecture firm, 1508 London who have paid homage to Cape Town’s evolution from a bustling trading port to a cosmopolitan hub. The interiors are a curated celebration of the country’s diverse narrative, from its array of landscapes and languages, vibrant art, and fascinating cultures. Handpicked artwork from local artists will be showcased throughout the new hotel and materials chosen for a contemporary, understated look that harmonises with Cape Town and its natural surroundings. The redesign includes a new look for each of the 112 rooms and suites which feature incredible views of either the Waterfront or the iconic Table Mountain, with the transformation extending to a new Fairmont Spa and culinary vision by the renowned Gregory Czarnecki. On the doorstep of the city’s finest cultural, culinary and historical landmarks, Cape Grace has quickly earned a reputation for being the best in town, since it’s original opening in 1996. In this new chapter, the hotel will build on its legacy of playing host to leading luminaries from the world of politics, film and business as it begins a new chapter of hospitality as the gateway to explore the very best of South Africa.
RWANDA – TANZANIA – ZIMBABWE – SOUTH AFRICA
A conservation and eco-tourism brand that has been preserving African wilderness for the past 30 years, offering guests exceptional safari experiences at 16 luxury, award-winning lodges and camps across six regions
For 30 years Singita has been a leading light in African tourism and conservation – a pioneering, family-owned business with the right motives of conservation and community at its core. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park and Sabi Sand, to Zimbabwe’s rugged sandstone ridges and Rwanda’s majestic Virunga Mountains – each of Singita’s 16 lodges and camps offer a natural space with the same wellness philosophy that allows guests to mentally unplug and turn moments of rest into meaningful journeys of renewal. From exceptional food created by chefs trained at Singita’s Community Culinary School, sophisticated wine pairings from the group’s handpicked selection to, infinity pools, iconic art collections and interior design by Cecile and Boyd, the Singita experience is truly unrivalled.
WHAT’S HOT:
- Re-opening – This month Singita relaunches its founding lodge, Singita Ebony, honouring its 30th anniversary and revealing an entirely new and bold design transformation: This April, Africa’s leading conservation brand, Singita, will unveil a brand-new incarnation to its founding lodge, Singita Ebony Honouring it’s 30th anniversary and unveiling a new design that breathes new life into the traditional safari setting. Set in the private 45,000-acre Sabi Sand Reserve and standing steadfast among giant trees alongside the Sand River, Singita’s latest project has been brought to life by renowned South African designers Cecile & Boyd to offer a fresh and contemporary safari style. Inspired by the curved flowing lines of Adobe architecture found in North and West Africa, the design incorporates antiques and heirlooms central to Ebony’s identity as well as modern artworks sourced from local artisans to create a blend of old and new that comes together to celebrate the creativity of the continent. Featuring 14 reimagined suites – each complete with a private plunge pool – the spacious, open-planned layout, coupled with earthy tones and a neutral colour palette, ingeniously pays homage to the lodges breath-taking surroundings at every turn, while materials such as glass and foldable canvas walls invite the African bush to flow from the outside in. Showcasing the genesis of the brand, Singita Ebony’s redesign provides sleek sophistication whilst maintaining the rustic essence of its origin story. At the heart of the lodge will be a new conservation room, added as an educative space where guests can learn about the local environment and the work that Singita does to protect it. The room will display a consciously curated collection of artefacts telling the tales of the living heritage of the region. The new design also adds its signature bar deli promoting a relaxed eating style where guests can pick at fresh food and drinks throughout the day, a relocated wine cellar, an additional lounge area and an expanded decking that wraps around the exterior of the lodge.
- New opening – Singita Milele, an expansive one-of-a-kind private hillside villa to open in the heart of Tanzania’s Serengeti, coming May 2024: The latest property to join Singita, comes the brand-new opening of Singita Milele; an expansive one-of-a-kind private hillside villa in the heart of Tanzania’s Serengeti, opening in May 2024. Three years in the making, South African based HK Studio has led this ambitious project, intentionally designed to minimise the barriers between guests and nature, visually, acoustically, and physically. Weaving a contemporary take on the iconic motifs of African safari into every aspect of the villa’s aesthetic, Singita Milele offers guests the epitome of spacious Serengeti luxury. Accommodating up to ten guests, five individually designed suites each capture a unique identity inspired by the collective nouns of the region’s most renowned species: giraffe, lion, cheetah, zebra and rhino (called Journey, Pride, Coalition, Dazzle and Crash). Just a 10-minute game drive from the villa’s private airstrip, Singita Milele and the dedicated villa team leave nothing to be desired, hosting unforgettable safari experiences from exploring the bush on foot or in an open-air vehicle, to indulging wellness treatments inspired by nature’s local ingredients, or for laid back days, a 10-person movie room. Private dining, fully stocked ‘bar-deli’ fridges with freshly made delicacies all day and tailor-made wine tastings remain true to Singita’s renowned food experience, while a private boma and firepit ensure enchanted starlit evenings to recount the adventures of the day.
- Coming this October, Singita launches its first-ever Wagora MTB, a three-day bike ride leading an exhilarating itinerary through Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park: This October, Singita and its NGO partner, the Grumeti Fund, will introduce Wagora MTB Ride, a new cycling adventure in the 350,000-acre Singita Grumeti Reserve, Tanzania. Over three days, 24 experienced riders will traverse 150 km through the reserve in the western corridor of the Serengeti National Park, taking in breath-taking views and unique animal encounters. Participants will spend 5-nights at Singita Explore, an exclusive-use camp offering a complete escape from modern-day distractions in one of the world’s most coveted wilderness settings without compromising on the comforts or luxuries that come with a signature Singita experience. From dining under the stars, sleeping under canvas, or cooling off in the camp’s plunge pool, guests will connect closely with the earth and African wildlife in a way that they have never done before. During downtime, participants can visit the Grumeti Fund’s Research and Innovation for the Serengeti Ecosystem Centre (RISE) to learn more about active projects as well as meet the watchkeepers, the canine unit, and their loving handlers. Named after anti-poaching scout Kitaboka Wagora, who was tragically killed by a poacher in 2008, all funds raised will go towards supporting the dedicated anti-poaching scouts and their dogs who work tirelessly to protect the wildlife here. The donations will help fund training, hiring more rangers to safeguard the land, the training and upkeep of the canine unit and the Mobile Patrol Unit, and purchasing the equipment needed to respond to poaching threats.
ZAMBIA – MADAGASCAR
The guides and guardians to sublime landscapes, Time + Tide’s family-owned properties are pioneers in luxury safaris in Zambia and an exclusive island escape in Madagascar
A collection of remote properties in Zambia, and a private island off of Madagascar, Time + Tide are the guides and guardians to sublime landscapes, extraordinary wildlife and rich cultures. The collection began with the legendary Norman Carr, founder of the walking safari, who paved the way for conservation tourism in Zambia. Meeting Norman decades later, Chris Liebenberg would be moved to continue his legacy of conservation, setting up a camp with his father on the banks of the Chongwe River in Zambia’s Lower Zambezi Valley. Inspired by these people and places and following a dream to preserve a place by the beach and one in the bush, Thierry Dalais and his family invested in Chris and Norman’s camps. Since then, Time + Tide has ventured to other remote parts of Africa, working with local communities to open up regions to modern-day explorers who share a desire to preserve them. With each destination comes the ultimate castaway escape into wilderness, perfect for travellers who want to escape into the wild, have adventures and connect with nature and new cultures without compromising on luxury comfort.
WHAT’S HOT:
- Time + Tide Chongwe opens its doors early this season: Set on the confluence of the Chongwe and the Zambezi Rivers, with the Great Escarpment in the background, and the Lower Zambezi National Park as a neighbour, Chongwe is sited on one of the most beautiful spots in Zambia. A circuit of three properties in this region, Time + Tide has created the perfect circuit for wildlife enthusiasts looking to escape into the wild, have adventures and connect with nature and new cultures. The wildlife here is prolific, from herds of giant-tusked elephants and black-maned lions to packs of wild dogs and big pods of hippo. Whilst activities range from immersive canoeing safaris, to walking safaris inspired by conservationist Norman car, to fireside dining in the wild and the bucket list sleep-outs under the stars. Time + Tide Chongwe House is one of Africa’s most glamorous and quirky exclusive-use safari houses, with a private raised deck and large pool and four open-sided, en-suite double bedrooms. With its sinuous, Gaudi-esque architecture, steep thatched roof and idiosyncratic stick-fringed terraces, the uniquely designed double-storey is a dreamy spot for a romantic retreat or digital detox, or a bush safari with family or a group of friends. Time + Tide Chongwe Suites a luxurious pair of one and two-bedroomed canvas-walled safari suites, each with a private dip pool, open lamplit dining area and romantic, open-walled outdoor bathroom. Time + Tide Chongwe Camp is an authentic safari tented bush camp with panoramic views of the Chongwe and Zambezi rivers, with nine thatch-shaded canvas tents set amid lawned gardens on the confluence of the Zambezi River, renowned for its prolific game and spectacular sunsets.
- Discover the dense forest of baobab trees from the heli-excursions at Miavana by Time + Tide: An ultra-exclusive private island off Madagascar’s northeast coast, Miavana by Time + Tide is a number-one luxury resort with 14 villas and 2,500 acres of wilderness, offering a 360-degree paradise for those seeking end-of-the earth adventure, cultural connection and a front row seat to some the greatest wildlife sightings on earth. Recently launched last year after discovering a remote cluster of more than 40 baobabs surrounded by dense forest on the island, this new Heli-experience invites modern-day explorers to be among the very first to soar above the vibrant green treetops before landing to walk amongst the 30ft wide tree trunks and dine with a gourmet picnic.
NAIROBI – SAMBURU – MASAI MARA – LAIKIPIA
A portfolio of East Africa’s finest destinations. the four camps and lodges operated by The Safari Collection offer an exceptional circuit, incorporating the country’s best topographical, wildlife and cultural experiences
Founded and run by fourth-generation Kenyans Tanya and Mikey Carr-Hartley, The Safari Collection owns and operates a collection of four properties in Kenya’s finest locations and specialises in bespoke East African itineraries. The Safari Collection is a portfolio of four boutique luxury lodges and one mobile camp, each selected for their individuality, and together, represent the best of what Kenya has to offer. From the ‘Out of Africa’ surroundings at Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, the rugged landscape housing a multitude of rhino at Solio Lodge, the breath-taking views across the arid land at Sasaab in the Samburu, the extraordinary array of wildlife and game at Siruai, to the Maasai culture and density of wildlife at Sala’s Camp in the Masai Mara; each lodge has its own unique environment and distinct features. The Safari Collection can also arrange stays with partner properties elsewhere in the region as part of a bespoke itinerary.
WHAT’S HOT:
- The Safari Collection partners with Giraffe Conservation Foundation to launch brand new itinerary: Join the two co-founders of the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF), Dr Julian and Stephanie Fennessy, alongside GCF’s East Africa Coordinator Dr Arthur Muneza, on a brand-new ten-night adventure to encounter three of the world’s four giraffe species. Visiting three of The Safari Collection’s stunning properties – Sala’s Camp, Sasaab and Giraffe Manor – guests will encounter the critically endangered Rothschild’s/Nubian giraffe (a subspecies of the Northern giraffe), the endangered Reticulated giraffe and the endangered Masai giraffe. Travelling with the Fennessys and Dr Muneza will present unique opportunities to see giraffes through the eyes of world experts and work alongside them in the field with hands-on activities. Guests will experience conservation in action as they discover giraffe surveying and identification methods and closely observe activities of GCF’s Twiga Tracker Initiative, the largest GPS tracking studies ever conducted on giraffes. So far, GCF has tracked over 450 giraffes across their range in Africa. As well as meeting with local community members who share their living space with the world’s tallest animal, there’s also the potential opportunity to witness a GCF giraffe tagging operation in which giraffes are fitted with a GPS satellite tag for tracking.
- Safari Collection in Kenya unveils expansion with new cultural learning hub at Sasaab, in the heart of Africa’s Samburu wilderness: The Safari Collection’s Sasaab, an extraordinary safari destination in the heart of northern Kenya, is thrilled to announce the opening of the 4C Centre, a celebration of Samburu culture and community partnerships. Stunningly positioned right next door to the main lodge with views across the Ewaso Nyiro River and Laikipia Plateau, the 4C Centre enables guests of Sasaab to gain an appreciation of local geology and culture, arriving with a deeper understanding of the extraordinary destination they have come to explore. Guests are now invited into a beautifully curated exhibition space showcasing artefacts, geological facets, maps, stunning imagery and digital displays. The name ‘4C Centre’ symbolises Sasaab’s commitment to Conservation, Community, Commerce and Culture – the four pillars of sustainability promoted by The Long Run. Situated just outside the Samburu National Reserve in Kenya’s Northern Frontier District, surrounded by mountains, wildlife and a rich cultural heritage, Sasaab is a place of abundant natural diversity and holds Global Ecosphere Retreat status, one of the highest sustainability standards in the world. Providing the perfect spot from which to explore Kenya’s untouched north, Sasaab is a spectacular luxury tented camp in the heart of the Samburu wilderness. From flying through the dramatic rocky gorges of the Suguta Valley, gliding alongside flamingos over Lake Logipi, across vast desert dune fields or visiting the top of a sacred Samburu Mountain for a pre-arrival breakfast with unimaginable views, this is the ultimate modern day safari retreat
- Solio Lodge now offers guests the opportunity to experience once in a lifetime moments with orphaned baby rhinos at Solio Rhino Orphanage. For the first time ever, guests of Solio Lodge, have the unique opportunity to interact with orphaned rhino at Solio Rhino Orphanage. There are currently two white rhino babies for guests to visit at the orphanage: Njamba and Zawadi. Solio Lodge, renowned for its unparalleled access to rhino sightings, is located on a private wildlife sanctuary, tucked in the valley between the lofty slopes of Mount Kenya and the peaks of the Aberdare Mountains, directly north of Nairobi. This intimate and luxurious lodge opened in August 2010 and remains the only guest accommodation on the incredible 45,000-acre Solio Game Reserve. The Solio Reserve is internationally recognised as the most successful private rhino breeding reserve in Kenya and visitors will find that sightings of up to 40 rhinoceros at a time are not uncommon.
SOUTH AFRICA
One of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, set at the foot of Simonsberg in the Franschhoek wine valley
Set at the heart of the Cape Winelands and surrounded by picturesque mountains, South Africa’s beloved Babylonstoren, a restored Cape Dutch farm dating back to 1692, is renowned for its magnificent eight-acre garden (one of two RHS-partnered gardens in Africa) and sweeping vineyards. The farm was skilfully brought back to life 10 years ago by its current owner, Karen Roos, who transformed the property into a unique country getaway. As well as the 28 charming guest cottages, there are eight Cape Dutch-style Fynbos Cottages with vineyard views and the elegant five-bedroom Fynbos Family House, an exclusive-use villa accommodating up to ten guests. Babylonstoren’s farm-to-fork philosophy is celebrated at their contemporary restaurants – Babel, the Bakery and the Greenhouse – serving seasonal produce freshly picked from the farm or sourced from the local area. Guests have full access to the wider estate – from a guided walk with the farm’s horticulturists or tours of the wine cellar and olive press, to the visits to the Coffee Roastery, Gelato Room and Garden Shop. Especially unmissable is Babylonstoren’s Hot Spa, complete with large indoor-outdoor pool, salt room, sauna, steam room and two vitality pools, in addition to an authentic hammam and traditional Rasul chamber.
WHAT’S HOT:
- New Fynbos Cottages: For 2024, the farm has unveiled two brand new Fynbos Cottages offering guests the ultimate farmstay retreat. Surrounded by fynbos on the foothills of the Simonsberg Mountain, and with serene views, these two cottages are designed in the distinct Cape Dutch-style, with contemporary interiors and farm-inspired features, aligning the senses with nature.
- Water Buffalo Experience: As one of a few farms in South Africa that keeps, breeds, and milks water buffalo, the latest experience will see guests have the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the 200-strong herd of Mediterranean Water Buffalo, each with their own name and personality. The new Water Buffalo Tour will be guided by farmer, Kobus Lambrechts and see guests witness the water buffalo grazing and bathing, observe the daily milking process and participate in feeding the calves. After the tour, for a truly immersive farm-to-fork experience, guests can sample mozzarella, yoghurt and butter made from buffalo milk at the estate’s restaurant, Babel or the Farm Shop, or treat themselves to a scoop of gelato made from buffalo milk in the playful Gelato Room. Guests can also join the ‘Water Buffalo Whisperer’, Leonie Botha, for a feeding session with the water buffalo babies – a delight for all the family.
