ANDBEYOND LAUNCHES EXPEDITION YACHT IN GALAPAGOS

February 13th, 2024

Conservation-led luxury travel company andBeyond has announced the extension of its South America portfolio with the launch of an expedition yacht in the Galapagos Islands. Named the andBeyond Galapagos Explorer, the 38 m (124 ft) yacht will operate on two 7-night routes in the east and west of the famed Galapagos Islands. Boasting just six suites and cabins, the yacht will cater for a maximum of 12 guests, with two expert guides present on each departure.

“A uniquely biodiverse environment with the highest number of endemic species in the world, the Galapagos is a natural choice for the further expansion of our portfolio in South America. We are absolutely thrilled to finally have the opportunity to bring our brand of responsible tourism to this precious part of the world, which the Ecuadorian government has protected from over-tourism by strictly limiting the number of operating licenses issued,” says andBeyond Executive Chairman & CEO, Joss Kent.

“We have long believed that the best way to encourage our guests to help protect the world’s wild places is for our skilled guides to help travelers not only fall in love with those places, but also to gain an understanding of the threats that they are facing. This is what we are aiming to do through the introduction of our luxury yacht, where two knowledgeable guides will host just twelve guests, showcasing the wonder and mystery of this exceptional destination.”

With only 12 guests on board, the elevated guest-to-staff ratio makes the Galapagos Explorer the most exclusive yacht operating in the islands. In addition to the highest level of guiding, the vessel will also offer beautifully appointed spacious indoor and outdoor guest areas, as well as four exquisite cabins and two luxury suites. Currently undergoing an extensive refurbishment of its interiors, the andBeyond Galapagos Explorer will set sail on its first departure on June 17, 2024.

Situated on the equator, the Galapagos consists of 18 main islands, three smaller islands, and 107 rocks and islets. Designated a World Heritage Site in 1878, the islands are home to a remarkable variety of flora and fauna, with many species found nowhere else on earth. Notable species include the Galapagos giant tortoise, marine iguana, and blue-footed booby. The islands also feature unique geographical features, and each has created a distinct ecosystem of its own, with strict conservation measures in place to preserve the delicate balance. The Charles Darwin Research Centre, located on Santa Cruz Island, focuses on conservation efforts and conducts scientific research to protect the rare biodiversity of the islands.

Operating on two different 7-night itineraries, the andBeyond Galapagos Explorer will offer the choice of discovering the east or the west of the main cluster of islands, while including the highlights of the destination in both. Highlights of the eastern itinerary include the magnificent formation of Kicker Rock, located just off San Cristóbal Island, as well as sightings of the critically endangered waved albatross in Gardner Bay on Española Island. The western Itinerary features highlights that include exploring the geographical center of the Galapagos Islands, Sombrero Chino Island as well as close encounters with the rare Santa Fe land iguana on Santa Fe Island.

Both itineraries present plenty of opportunities for land and sea adventures such as snorkeling, hiking and birdwatching, as well as a plethora of unique and interesting land, air and marine species. Rates for both itineraries begin from $10,950 per person sharing per 7-night cruise.

In keeping with its stated mission to leave our world a better place, andBeyond will apply its ethos of Care of Land, People and Wildlife to its new base of operations. The company plans to extend its Oceans Without Border initiative into the area and hopes to be able to review and implement projects that support the Galapagos’ incredible land and wildlife. Furthermore, in line with its dedication to community development, it also aims to train and upskill local residents, as well as to highlight local procurement opportunities.

For more information or to book, log on to andbeyond.com or contact your preferred travel provider.

ISSUED BY: media@andBeyond.com

T +27 11 809 4300 | F +27 11 809 4511

www.andBeyond.com

ABOUT ANDBEYOND

Established in 1991, andBeyond strives to leave our world a better place through the delivery of extraordinary travel experiences and our care of the land, wildlife and people. We are bespoke tour operators for sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, South America and Antarctica. We also own and manage 29 extraordinary lodges and camps across three continents. We positively impact 75 communities and directly conserve our primary footprint of 1 million acres. Our 2030 vision is to scale our impact through partnerships to support the conservation of an associated 40 million acres of key biospheres and to double our 2020 impact investment, while offering discerning travelers a rare and exclusive experience of the world as it should be.

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ANDBEYOND AND QUARK EXPEDITIONS LAUNCH A TASTE OF THE WILD LIFE: A MASTERCLASS WITH KRIS TOMPKINS

December 20th, 2023

December 2023

Conservation-led luxury travel company andBeyond has partnered with Quark Expeditions to expand their operations to a fourth continent. Together, the partners have created A Taste of the Wild Life; A Masterclass with Kris Tompkins. Brought to you by andBeyond and Quark Expeditions, with Kris Tompkins, the 18-night land and sea adventure gives travelers an intimate glimpse into what is being done to protect the exceptional landscapes and wildlife inhabitants of Chile and Argentina, as well as the Antarctic Circle. The trip also offers an opportunity to gain first-person insight into the events described in the documentary A Wild Life, which tells the story of Kris and Douglas Tompkins and the contributions that they have made towards nature conservation in South America.

The trip will be accompanied by Kristine (Kris) McDivitt Tompkins, president and co-founder of Tompkins Conservation, an American conservationist, and former CEO of Patagonia, Inc. Kris and her late husband Douglas Tompkins have protected approximately 14.8 million acres of parklands in Chile and Argentina through Tompkins Conservation and its partners, making them among the most successful national park-orientated philanthropists in history. Throughout the trip, Kris will share personal stories of the work that has gone into protecting and rewilding large swathes of the Patagonian wilderness. These will include a presentation on the efforts involved in the creation of a national park. There will also be a screening of the Wild Life documentary, followed by a Q&A session with Kris on her story.

“We are thrilled to be working closely with other organizations that reflect our own values,” says Pedro Barraza, andBeyond Managing Director South America. “andBeyond has a long-standing relationship with Kris Tompkins and her teams, with our conservation experts from Africa having provided advice and support to both Rewilding Chile and Rewilding Argentina in preparation for their wildlife reintroduction projects. We also relish the opportunity to partner with Quark Expeditions, whose Polar Promise principles reflect our own motto of Care of Land, Wildlife and People.”

“This new partnership aligns perfectly with our commitment to go responsibly in all that we do,” says Thomas Lennartz, Vice President of Sales and Client Experience at Quark Expeditions. “We look forward to working with andBeyond to deliver awe-inspiring guest experiences in Patagonia and Antarctica, and Kris Tompkins’ expertise will be an incredible complement to the best expedition team in the industry.”

The Masterclass itinerary kicks off in Chilean Patagonia at the Torres del Paine National Park, where travelers will immerse themselves in the work being done by the Cerro Guido Foundation to reintroduce and protect Chile’s most endangered species. Staying at the historic Estancia Cerra Guido, guests can not only learn the way of the land from local gaucho, who care for the farm’s livestock, but will have the unique opportunity for a first-hand glimpse of the conservation work being done to preserve the area’s rich flora and fauna. Accompanied by expert puma researchers and trackers, they will immerse themselves in activities that form part of this groundbreaking project.

Those keen to learn more about the surrounding landscapes can also opt for a scenic overland excursion through Torres del Paine. Those in search of more physical activity can explore the region on horseback or spend the day fishing, while history buffs will enjoy the opportunity to tour an authentic Patagonian ranch, discovering ways of life and traditions that go back hundreds of years.

Leaving Patagonia, the itinerary continues to Cabo Froward (Cape Froward), where travelers can explore the mountains, glaciers and forest of this exceptional landscape, as well as enjoy a taste of the rich and vibrant culture of Punta Arenas. Travelling on to Ushuaia, the erstwhile explorers are introduced to the Ultramarine, a vessel specifically built for exploration of the polar regions. Departing via the Beagle Channel, travelers will have the opportunity to photograph the area’s beautiful landscapes and sea birds before heading into the vastness of the Southern Ocean. Over the next three days there is plenty of opportunity to enjoy the facilities offered by the ship and join in captivating presentations on photography, wildlife, glaciology, and history. Explorers can while away the time by planning which of the included activities they would prefer to try first, from sightseeing from a scenic flight above the vessel to Zodiac cruises, hiking among some of the world’s most untouched landscapes, sea kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and more.

As guests finally come close to landfall on the Antarctic Peninsula, Zodiac boats will whisk them away to explore majestic bays and channels, exploring penguin rookeries, scanning the horizon for humpback and minke whale, or keeping an eye out for leopard seals. Travelers can select from a vast array of additional adventures, all under the oversight of the dedicated Expedition Team, and drink in the magic that surrounds them, from crackling iceberg and glaciers to isolated research stations and vast, pristine expanses. Should conditions be conducive, the group will cross the Antarctic Circle and witness the midnight sun casting its ethereal glow on the icy landscape.

Heading back across the Drake Passage, guests will enjoy some time to reflect on their once-in-a-lifetime experiences and on the new understanding of this largely unknown and unexplored region. There will also be plenty of opportunity to listen to more enthralling stories shared by Kris and the Expedition Team on board the vessel.

A Taste of the Wild Life: A Masterclass with Kris Tompkins runs from 25 February to 15 March 2025, and is available at a cost of USD 34,400 per person sharing with a minimum of eight guests and with a maximum of 14 guests. The itinerary cost includes a group contribution of USD 10,000 made in support of the Tompkins Conservation Project Fund at Re:Wild. For more information visit andBeyond.com or speak to your preferred travel provider.

ISSUED BY: media@andBeyond.com

T +27 11 809 4300 | F +27 11 809 4511

www.andBeyond.com

ABOUT andBEYOND

Established in 1991, andBeyond strives to leave our world a better place through the delivery of extraordinary travel experiences and our care of the land, wildlife and people. We are bespoke tour operators for sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, South America and Antarctica. We also own and manage 29 extraordinary lodges and camps across three continents. We positively impact 75 communities and directly conserve our primary footprint of 1 million acres. Our 2030 vision is to scale our impact through partnerships to support the conservation of an associated 40 million acres of key biospheres and to double our 2020 impact investment, while offering discerning travelers a rare and exclusive experience of the world as it should be.

ABOUT QUARK EXPEDITIONS

The global leader in polar adventures for more than 30 years. The most passionate and seasoned team in the industry, taking explorers to the ends of the earth. Going where few ever dream, and walking where few ever will. Delivering extraordinary experiences and enriching lives through travel, Quark Expeditions is a Travelopia specialist company.

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ANDBEYOND PHINDA FOREST LODGE REOPENS IN THE HEART OF THE SANDFOREST IN NORTHERN KWAZULU NATAL

December 12th, 2023

December 2023

Conservation-focused luxury travel company andBeyond has reopened one of its most iconic lodges, Phinda Forest Lodge, situated in andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa, after an extensive and exciting rebuild. The property, which was lauded as one of the first true eco-lodges at the time of its original construction, has now been reimagined within the context of the contemporary luxury safari, while retaining subtle references to its original ‘Zulu-zen’ décor with a new elegant and minimalist interior design.

“andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge was originally built in the early 1990s,” recalls Kevin Pretorius, andBeyond Managing Director for South Africa Lodges. “Back then, the lodge’s innovative and progressive design made a huge statement on sustainability, as it was sensitively constructed within the ancient sand forest with minimum impact at the heart of the project – and this rebuild has followed those same founding sustainable principles.”

Pretorius continues, “Phinda, which started as an amalgamation of denuded farmlands in 1991, has grown into an extensive conservancy at the cutting edge of conservation, a modern example of Care of the Land, Wildlife and People. What was only our second owned and operated lodge following the birth of the company at andBeyond Phinda has now been reborn.”

Interior designers Fox Browne Creative, who have previously worked on the refurbishments of the other five lodges on the reserve, partnered with architectural designer Jack Alexander to reimagine and bring to life the new Phinda Forest Lodge in a design that will offer past guests the comfort and familiarity of one of their most loved lodges while also providing exciting improvements in room flow and functionality. Nestled inside 2,471 acres of Africa’s last remaining dry sand forest in thenorth of andBeyond Phinda, the lodge embodies a commitment to minimize the impact on the environment. Its iconic rooms were built in perfect harmony with the existing flow of the forest and their design has stood the test of time. As such, the existing room structures have been used to redefine the new lodge in a way that will continue the legacy with which it was originally built.

“The sand forest is one of Phinda’s most distinctive and delicate habitats. It occurs on deep sands, the leftover fossilized dunes of an earlier coastline,” explains Pretorius. Many of the plant species encountered in sand forest can be found nowhere else on Earth. Normally shy mammals such as the red duiker, suni and Tonga red squirrel are often encountered in sand forest, and the area is also rich in birds, with several species restricted solely to this habitat.

Due to the sensitivity of the habitat, the lodge refurbishment has utilized existing lodge and room structures to minimize impact associated with an entire rebuild, while also updating the architectural design and taking care not to detract from the essence of the lodge design and its original ‘Zulu-zen’ concept. Throughout the rooms and main guest areas, the interiors have been reimagined with new fixtures and finishes drawing inspiration from the surrounding sand forest, blending aspects of Japanese minimalism with an ode to local culture.

Elements of the natural forest and Zulu culture have been brought into the room through the use of tactile textures and natural materials such as woven matting, textured grass cloth wallpaper, and hardwood floors, with natural stone tiling in the bathrooms. The rooms have been reconfigured within the existing structures, creating a more comfortable layout that better utilizes the existing space, while maximizing the connection to the forest through wide open views.

Phinda Forest Lodge has always provided andBeyond guests with an exclusive, private experience immersed in the sand forest, and this has now been further enhanced through the redirection and reduction of pathways to and from the rooms. In order to assist with the rehabilitation of the old pathways, we established a nursery which cultivates sand forest tree species that have been planted along the trails.

Major structural additions include a family suite, a library and lounge, a walkway with central fire pit linking the main area to the library, a newly reshaped and tiered pool, and significant upgrades to the main dining and bar areas. In keeping with the other lodges in andBeyond’s portfolio, the family suite now comprises a contemporary designed and decorated standard suite linked to a newly built second bedroom, which can be accessed privately or through an additional linked passageway.

A new purpose-built building contains the library and sitting room, centered around a reading table and double-sided fireplace with surrounding areas for guests to relax. Timber sliding doors lead to an outdoor deck with its own shaded spaces, nestled among the trees with views of patches of forest and the wetland areas. The interior of the library and sitting room combine elements of traditional Zulu culture with cozy minimalist elegance. A wooden walkway seamlessly connects the library to the new pool area, which includes a reshaped and tiered swimming pool designed to maximize the scenic setting and timeless beauty of the sand forest. An all-new massage sala has also been constructed next to the pool.

Other innovative additions include a central fire pit that is located between the library and main area, cast out toward the wetland, and offering guests the opportunity to indulge in a fireside chat before and after dinner.

“We are excited about the reopening of one of our most loved lodges, and we are thrilled to be welcoming guests back to Phinda Forest Lodge,” says Pretorius.

“Phinda was where andBeyond’s vision and impact model were born,” he recalls. “Over the years, we have curated a set of unique, immersive experiences born out of this ethos, which guests at Phinda Forest Lodge will continue to have access to. These include experiences focused on the conservation of species such as white and black rhinoceros, as well as Temminck’s ground pangolin, and a unique Zulu Village Tour which allows guests to ethically immerse themselves in traditional Zulu culture.”

Phinda is also uniquely positioned to offer other extraordinary adventure activities like diving or ocean safaris at nearby Sodwana Bay. Depending on the season, guests may also be able to enjoy expeditions to admire turtles nesting along the Indian Ocean coastline.

With such a wealth and diversity of unique offerings, combined with the newly refurbished and reopened Phinda Forest Lodge, andBeyond are excited to continue bringing their guests experiences that go beyond the expectation of average luxury to leave our world a better place.

ISSUED BY: media@andBeyond.com

T +27 11 809 4300 | F +27 11 809 4511

www.andBeyond.com

ABOUT ANDBEYOND

Established in 1991, andBeyond strives to leave our world a better place through the delivery of extraordinary travel experiences and our care of the land, wildlife and people. We are bespoke tour operators for sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, South America and Antarctica. We also own and manage 29 extraordinary lodges and camps across three continents. We positively impact 75 communities and directly conserve our footprint of 1 million acres. Our 2030 vision is to scale our impact through partnerships to support the conservation of an associated 40 million acres of key biospheres and to double our 2020 impact investment, while offering discerning travelers a rare and exclusive experience of the world as it should be.

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Black Friday + Cyber Monday Travel Offers

October 31st, 2023

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Unique Perks of the Suite Life – From Private Speed Boats to Unlimited Champagne

August 19th, 2022

Extra-Special Suites

Many travelers, especially those traveling with their families or for business, opt to splurge on a suite for extra room to spread out. But added space isn’t the only reason to upgrade your digs. In some cases, reserving a suite unlocks special perks like private guides, access to your own speedboat, free-flowing champagne, and VIP dining experiences—not to mention bragging rights. From a designer suite on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express to the world’s largest overwater villa, here are 5 suites worth the expense.

andBeyond Phinda Mountain lodge Family Suite

Designed to provide the right balance of privacy and together-time, the Family Suite at andBeyond Phinda Mountain Lodge is cleverly laid out to help you make the most of your group safari getaway. A central living room connects the two wings of the suite, each of which have bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms and outdoor showers, and interleading children’s rooms. A private veranda off the shared lounge offers panoramic views of the surrounding bush (keep your eyes peeled for the Big Five) and connects directly to the lodge pool.  But that’s not all — book the Family Suite and you’ll get your own dedicated private guide and vehicle for exploring the lodge’s 70,560 acres of protected wildlife land, where wildlife like cheetah, black rhino, and nyala roam.

Images Courtesy of andBeyond: https://we.tl/t-cBqthjvYwU

The Marylebone

Get the royal treatment in London by booking the lavish Marylebone Suite. Offering 860 square feet of living space, it’s like owning your own stylish pied-a-terre in the heart of the city, steps from Hyde Park and Manchester Square. The best place to take in the views is the suite’s Scandi-style terrace, complete with a retractable roof and blinds, plush sofas, a fireplace and TV. Or relax inside, where a Julian Chichester dining table, a marble bathroom and whirlpool bath, freshly cut flowers, and complimentary selection of alcoholic and soft drinks will make you feel right at home. Other perks of booking the chic suite include VIP airport pick-up (London City & Heathrow only, one way), in-suite check-in, and access to a dedicated guest liaison who can hook you up with dinner reservations, in-room meals, or anything else you should need.

Images Courtesy of The Doyle Collection: https://we.tl/t-TjR2QQfRr0

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train

In June 2023, eight new suites will be unveiled aboard the legendary Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train. Two original 1920s and 30s carriages, accommodating just four suites on each car, will be carefully restored, their design inspired by pastoral European landscapes and featuring plush fabrics and furnishings from renowned brands and makers like Majorelle, Dufrene, Leleu, Rousseau, and Lalique.  The La Forêt Suites will evoke Germany’s Black Forest, while the La Campagne Suites will be adorned with rich velvet greens and intricate flower marquetry in homage to Northern Italy’s rolling pastures and vineyards. Les Montagnes Suites will mirror the mountainous peaks of Austria’s Arblerg massig, and Les Lacs Suites will reflect the serene beauty of the likes of Lake Zug in Switzerland and Lake Como in Italy. The suites are portals to the golden day of train travel, with luxuries like private marble ensuite bathrooms and lounging areas that transform into either double or twin beds by night. Additional amenities might include personal 24-hour cabin stewards, complimentary kimonos and slippers, and free-flowing champagne. Cheers!

Images Courtesy of Belmond: https://we.tl/t-XGDz3pabSI

Gili Private Reserve

A Robinson Crusoe fantasy come to life, the Private Reserve at Gili Lankanfushi is the world’s largest overwater villa, stretching across the Indian Ocean in multi-level tiers. Guests spend their days lounging by the infinity-edge pool and in the overwater catamaran nets; working out in the air-conditioned gym; pampering themselves with treatments at the private couples’ spa (complete with a steam room and indoor/outdoor treatment rooms); and sliding down the top-deck waterslide into turquoise waters. Running late on dinner reservations? Luckily guests of Gili Private Reserve have access to their own speed boat, which they can use to travel around the resort or farther afield. By night, enjoy movie screenings at the private cinema, and retire in the guestrooms (of which there are two en suite master bedrooms and a guest suite), which have doors that open to the breathtaking scenery. Other perks of the Private Reserve include a fully equipped kitchen and the option to curate your own wine selection from the 400-label cellar.

Images Courtesy of Gili Lankanfushi: https://we.tl/t-yvZQxT8FTJ

Master Casita at Paradero Todos Santos

Guests of Paradero’s indulgent Master Casita can do as much (or as little) as they want, enjoying access to all the resort’s immersive experience from energizing morning yoga, and taco tours, to farming tutorials, cliffside champagne tastings, and sunset walks. No matter what activities they partake in, guests will come back to the ultimate hideaway in Todos Santos: spread over three floors and designed to feel like a luxurious home away from home, the Master Casita comes with a kitchenette, a spacious dining room, and a plunge pool and suspended “star net” with 360-degree views of the mountains, the Las Palmas Beach, and the La Mesa farming fields. Like all of Paradero’s suites, the Master Casita embraces triangular geometries—a sacred symbol of the Mayan culture–to promote a sense of balance and wellbeing.

Images Courtesy of Paradero Todos Santos: https://we.tl/t-8k9RYFxaLW

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5 Favorite Indulgent Accommodations Around the Globe

August 2nd, 2022

A room with a view is always nice. But the world’s most indulgent accommodations go beyond sweeping vistas to offer sumptuous interiors, next-level service, and a dash of the unexpected—from a romantic open-air treehouse in Kruger National Park to a butler-serviced private riad in Marrakech complete with lavish rooftop terrace and home cinema. Take a peek inside:

Grand Riad at Royal Mansour

A four-bedroom oasis spread across three floors, this “medina within a medina” offers palatial-style design, private butler service, and a terracotta roof terrace inlaid with mosaics and offering sweeping views of the Atlas Mountain. Interiors are a vision of stucco lace, heavy drapery, Murano chandeliers, and a riotous mix of colorful wallpaper and precious stones. The ground floor opens onto a private garden with a retractable roof, while a cast iron elevator whisks you to the floors above, where each of the bedrooms has dressing rooms and private bathrooms. Other spaces include a dining room with billiards, a library for artful lounging, a neoclassical-style dining room, and the roof terrace with a plunge pool, Bedouin tent, and hammam.

Private Reserve at Gili Lankanfushi

A Robinson Crusoe fantasy come to life, the Private Reserve at Gili Lankanfushi is the world’s largest overwater villa, stretching across the Indian Ocean in multi-level tiers. Guests spend their days lounging by the infinity-edge pool and in the overwater catamaran nets; working out in the air-conditioned gym; pampering themselves with treatments at the private couples’ spa (complete with a steam room and indoor/outdoor treatment rooms); and sliding down the top-deck waterslide into turquoise waters. By night, enjoy movie screenings at the private cinema, and retire in the guestrooms (of which there are two en suite master bedrooms and a guest suite), which have doors that open to the breathtaking scenery. Other perks of the Private Reserve include a fully-equipped kitchen and the option to curate your own wine selection from the 400-label cellar.

Ian Fleming Villa at GoldenEye

Situated within the GoldenEye resort, this villa is tucked away in a private garden, where it’s hidden by tall trees and tropical foliage. It’s here that acclaimed British novelist Ian Fleming wrote all 14 James Bond books, inspired by the lush scenery and the three-bedroom villa he designed to his own specifications. A dedicated butler is on hand to make your every wish a reality, while a chef can whip up Jamaican specialties and martinis (shaken, never stirred) to be enjoyed in outdoor settings like a sunken garden or on the private beach, where there’s a grill built into the side of a rocky cliff. Each of the villa’s three bedrooms has its own tropical garden area with a clawfoot tub and a garden shower, setting the scene for relaxation en plein air. There are also two private stand-alone one-bedroom cottages on site for larger groups or families.

Producer Suite at The Chatwal New York

Guests of the Producer Suite will feel they’ve traveled back in time to New York’s heyday. Designed by French architect Thierry Despont, the expansive suite harks back to the city’s Art Deco past with its bold colors, geometric shapes, and a spiral staircase that spans two floors, leading to a panoramic roof terrace with views spanning over west 44th street and Manhattan’s skyline. Stretch out on a lounger enjoying the vistas of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and order room service for the ultimate New York power lunch. Butler services ensures you won’t have to lift a finger.

andBeyond Ngala Treehouse

It’s impossible not to feel a sense of child-like wonder as you sleep under the stars at the Ngala Treehouse, surrounded by the wilds of Kruger National Park. The four-floor treehouse offers the ultimate thrill—of being one with nature—while drifting off to the sights and sounds of the forest, far from the distraction of civilization. Enjoy sundowner drinks and a starlit dinner picnic on the upper deck, then retire to the elevated sleep-out platform for sleeping outdoors under a retractable screen (there’s also a covered and weatherproof space should you want to move indoors). And just because you’re off the grid doesn’t mean you have to go without the conveniences of a hot shower or a flushing toilet. Talk about the best of both worlds!

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Where to Learn About Sustainability While Traveling – Our Top 9 Picks

July 27th, 2022

There’s infinite wisdom to be gained from the world of travel. One area where travel can be particularly impactful is sustainability. By integrating travelers into communities, instilling a deep reverence toward natural landscapes, and opening minds through fun, educational programming, travel has the capacity to effect lasting change long after a trip has ended. Here are nine hotels, tour operators, and destinations that are combining impact and inspiration in game-changing ways.

andBeyond

When it comes to conservation tourism, andBeyond is in a league of its own. Since its founding in 1991, the brand has secured some of the tourism industry’s conservation firsts: the reintroduction of cheetah to andBeyond Phinda, the groundbreaking translocation of 19 guar at India’s Bandhavgarh National Park, and the Rhinos Without Borders initiative that saw the relocation of 100+ rhinos from the highest poaching zones in South Africa. By staying at andBeyond’s 33 lodges and camps and opting for its tailor made tours and small group journeys, travelers are not only supporting these crucial initiatives across three continents, but also making history. Participate in the pioneering Pangolin conservation experience in a region where the species has been locally extinct for decades. Listen to legendary conservation leaders like Les Carlisle tell you about his decades of experience rewilding destinations around the world. Inspire a younger generation of conservationists by enrolling young visitors in the WILDchild Eco-Guide Challenge, which might include learning bushman skills like catch-and-release fishing, animal tracking, and identifying species of plants and animals.

Le Commandant Charcot

PONANT’s latest addition to its fleet is the world’s first luxury hybrid electric polar exploration ship that’s powered by electric battery and liquified natural gas, a non-toxic source that has the best safety records of all fuel types. With eight departures for the summer 2022 and 2023 Arctic season, Le Commandant Charcot offers guests the chance to venture to the farthest reaches of the globe, where they can participate in citizen science experiments, learn about the conservation initiatives, and tour remote landscapes with a team of naturalist-guides. For example, on a 16-day itinerary to the Geographic North Pole, the most northern point of the Earth’s axis of rotation, one activity is setting up a research station on an ice floe and deploying an Argos transmitter (a satellite-based system that collects and disseminates environmental data). Meanwhile, in Antarctica, on the 30-day journey Unexplored Antarctica Between Two Continents—an all-new and unrivaled half-circumnavigation between the far south of the American continent to New Zealand—guests will deepen their knowledge of the world’s most remote locales through expert-led lectures and excursions guided by naturalists, like observing isolated colonies of emperor penguins on coastal areas along the Bellingshausen Sea. When in battery mode, Le Commandant Charcot can sail for up to eight hours at a time without producing any emissions and with very low noise levels, so as to not disrupt aquatic life.

Paradero

Hands-on sustainable farming tutorials. Cooking classes with ingredients grown in the garden. A hike through the UNESCO-protected biosphere reserves along the Baja California Peninsula. At Paradero Todos Santos, an 80 percent landscape project and hospitality concept developed by Mexican entrepreneurs Pablo Carmona and Josh Kremer, education has never been so fun—or scenic. The property is spread across five acres in the unspoiled La Mesa farming community, an agricultural area comprising 160 acres of family-owned farms, and located at the doorstop of five distinct ecosystems, including the Sierra de La Laguna Mountain range, and a 200-year-old cordon cacti forest. Every activity at Paradero is designed to immerse guests in these spectacular landscapes and promote a deeper, more authentic connection to the land and the local community. Ultimately, these skills will generate greater self-awareness—encouraging guests to embody the values of Paradero long after a trip has ended.

Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town

Situated at the base of Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain and spread across nine acres of lush gardens, Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel offers the rare experience of being amid nature in one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. The reverence toward the natural world is reflected in the property’s range of unique activities and experiences, like the Fynbos Sunset Walk, a hike that begins just steps from the hotel and winds through one of the most biologically diverse regions on earth with over 9,000 plant species, nearly 70 percent are native to the Western Cape. Belmond guests also enjoy private access to shark scientist Justin Blake for a private ocean boating and snorkeling expedition to explore the underwater world that surrounds Cape Town’s coast.  During the half-day excursion, swim through the Cape kelp forests, recently listed as a new Seven Wonder of the World, and the octopus gardens of Oscar-award winning documentary “My Octopus Teacher,” offering to gain a greater understanding of the importance of sharks in maintaining the delicately balanced marine ecosystems. Back on boat, dine on a sustainable seafood-inspired picnic created by Mount Nelson’s Chef Rudi Liebenberg, featuring delicacies sourced from ABALOBI, a South African-based social enterprise supporting small-scale fishing communities globally.

UXUA Casa Hotel

Built by local artisans over a two-year period using traditional building methods and reclaimed materials (nothing is sourced beyond a five-mile radius of Trancoso), UXUA Casa Hotel and Spa is literally built on a sustainable foundation. The property’s influence goes beyond the hotel’s walls, though. At VIDA Lab, the on-site nutritional laboratory and medical kitchen, medical director Dr. Jullian Hamamoto transforms local plants and botanicals—from the on-site garden, the nearby Itaporoca beach, and the 50-acre UXUA ROÇA farm—into healing elixirs and beautifying therapies. Guests can go foraging with Dr. Jullian to learn about the significance of these ingredients, many of which are sacred to Brazil’s Indigeous Pataxó people. At the on-site atelier, guests can interact with local craftspeople and give input into products they’d like made, like kaftans and kimonos made by local weavers. Another notable activity is a capoeira lesson by a professor at the local Capoeira Sul Da Bahia school, which is dedicated to the preservation and study of the centuries-old martial art. One hundred percent of the proceeds for each lesson is donated to the school, and guests can also join in public class sessions with local youth.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is at the forefront of sustainability in wine—the region is home to 40 percent of all certified sustainable wineries in California. Established in 1976, the Land Trust of Napa County protects more than 55,000 acres, roughly 10 percent of Napa County, ensuring the preservation of the land. No other wine region in the world has something like it. Local vintners work with more than 20 industry and environmental stakeholder groups to promote responsible business development and environmental stewardship.  What this means for visitors? Plenty of wide-open vistas and sustainably made wine, for one. There’s also an extensive range of activities that promote deeper engagement with Napa’s landscapes. The Napa Valley Bike Trail, for example, is a walking/cycling trail system that will connect the entire region, offering 47 continuous miles of level, paved, dog-friendly trail. Another way to see the sights: motoring around the region with Green Dream Tours, a carbon-neutral business that whisks visitors to sustainable wineries in the region, like Starmont Wines in St. Helena, where they’ll learn about their sustainable processes and techniques.

Nayara Resorts

The five properties that make up Naya Resorts’ portfolio are each located in a spectacular corner of Latin American—from the green valley in the Atacama Desert; Easter Island, one of the most remote places on earth; and the three Costa Rican properties, which are spread over a mountainside facing the majestic Arenal Volcano. With these sublime natural locations comes ample opportunity to learn about these precious ecosystems and the wildlife therein. In Costa Rica, for example, where Nayara planted over 1,000 Cecropia trees—the sloth’s made food source—guests can visit the sloth sanctuary to watch and learn about these creatures and various conservation efforts. While in Atacama, guests can discover the Salar of Atacama with a naturalist guide, navigating its rock formations and watching flamingos fly across the open sky.

Gili Lankanfushi

​​Located in the Maldives’ North Malé Atoll, one of the world’s most spectacular and fragile natural environments, Gili Lankanfushi takes great strides to protect its rich marine diversity and safeguard its surroundings for generations to come. Later this year, the resort will unveil a new Marine Biology Center, with a cutting-edge research space and the expansion of the coral nursery. The resort’s primary marine research facility, the lab is where guests can learn from Gili’s team of marine biologists, participating in coral reef cleaning and collecting vital information that benefits organizations like the Marina Research Center. Guests can even help rehabilitate damaged coral by nursing coral on ropes (lines) and transplanting them onto degraded reef areas—an initiative that Gili launched way before it was popular in the Maldives.

La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, St. Martin

While a beach vacation conjures up visions of sunbathing on velvety shores, guests of La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel can combine seaside bliss and sustainable education. The Escape to Tintamarre experience entails a boat ride to the uninhabited Tintamarre island, in the Saint Martin Nature Reserve, home to rare hawksbill turtles and stingrays. A local marine conservationist will educate guests about the rich marine fauna and local sustainability efforts. Or visitors can venture up the St. Martin’s tallest peaks with a local nature guide, pausing to soak up sweeping island views and admire colorful plants and animals.

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New Hotel Openings and Renovations

January 28th, 2022

From the Catskills to Tanzania, here is a look ahead at the most exciting new destinations and renovation plans for 2022.

Chatwal Lodge, The Catskills | Bethel, NY | April 1, 2022

90 minutes from Manhattan, Chatwal Lodge is located at The Chapin Estate, a 2,500-acre gated residential community. Architect and designer Steve Dubrovsky specializes in 19th-century Adirondack style, and he is also a four-time circuit champion of the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association. 10 suites spread among three buildings will feature private patios overlooking the 1,000-acre Toronto Reservoir Lake. Activities will range from fly fishing in the on-property trout stream and kayaking with a to-go picnic to Ayurvedic treatments in-suite.

(Photo credit: The Chapin Estate or Tim Williams, as noted in the file name)

andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge | Tanzania | June 6, 2022

Conservation-led luxury travel company andBeyond has announced that andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp in Tanzania’s Western Corridor will reemerge from an extensive rebuild, following a flood in April 2020, with a brand-new identity as andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge. As part of andBeyond’s ethos, sustainability will be key in the rebuild. With interiors by long-time andBeyond collaborator Fox Browne Creative, the rebuild will use the existing footprint of the former structure to redefine the classical tented camp look in a form that will least impact the natural landscape. Guest suites will double in size and feature deep baths and indoor showers, as well as extensive outdoor decks with private plunge pools. The rebuild will also bring a new family suite featuring an additional attached bedroom. An extended selection of experiences is also being developed in time for the reopening. These will combine with the rich resident wildlife of this remote corner of the Serengeti, as well as the lodge’s ideal location for experiencing the thrilling river crossing and vast herds of the Great Migration.

(Photo credit: andBeyond)

Nayara Tented Camp | Costa Rica | June 2022

Nayara Tented Camp opened at the end of 2019 as one of the first luxury camps in Central America. This June, they are putting the finishing touches on a big phase two which will see the addition of a main building, reception area, bar, lounge, restaurant, swimming pool, and fire pit. There will also be several new accommodations, including: two four-bedroom villas with a living area, dining area, and main deck and pool (with the option to add a third tented bedroom); six two-bedroom tented suites (perfect for families); and two more tented suites. Nayara Tented Camp will then have a total of 38 accommodations altogether, and the new two-bedroom villas will be perfect for larger families and groups and those seeking extra privacy.

(Images to come.)

Opening for the Summer Season

US

Nantucket

• Jared Coffin House – Opening April 6

The Jared Coffin House, a three-story brick mansion, was built by and named for one of Nantucket’s original shipping merchants. Dating from the mid-19th century, it oozes historic charm and graceful service. As a nod to the island’s history-making females, each of the four suites are named after influential women, including abolitionist Anna Gardner and women’s rights activist Lucretia Coffin Mott.

• Cottages at Nantucket Boat Basin – Opening April 7

The Cottages at the Boat Basin evoke the mood of a quaint New England fishing village, and are the closest guests will get to staying on the water without being on a boat. Most cottages have decks and patios where guests can enjoy al fresco clambakes and picnics. For those traveling with pets, The Woof Cottages welcome pups with Draper Canine beds, a basket of treats and toys, food and water bowls, dog-walking services, and personalized pet tags.

• White Elephant – Opening April 14

The White Elephant has been a favorite Nantucket retreat since the 1920s. The height of preppy New England elegance with grey shingles and white trim. A stone’s throw from the center of town, the property has accommodations for every traveler including suites on the harbor, garden cottages and two in-town Lofts, Easy Street and the Loft at 32 Main and multi-bedroom Residences with kitchenettes. The White Elephant’s Brant Point Grill is a staple restaurant on island and known for their famed Sunday Brunch and Lobster Bloody Mary.

• Wauwinet – Opening April 14

Situated on the northeast end of Nantucket bordering the peaceful Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge, the 32-room Wauwinet is the island’s only Relais & Chateaux property. An adults-only escape, the hotel offers an ambiance of storybook romance. The location is a standout – with access to two private beaches – one on the ocean and one on the Bay. The on-property restaurant TOPPER’S, a don’t-miss dining spot on island, features a seasonally inspired menu with local produce and seafood.

Europe

Greece

• Kalesma, Mykonos, Greece – Opening April 21, 2022

Kalesma opened in the summer of 2021 and stands apart from other hotels on the island with its amazing service (the owners are bringing in their trusted staff from their three hotspot restaurants in Athens to get it started). They are one of the earliest seasonal openings this year to coincide with their festive Greek Easter celebration. This year there will be new one-bedroom villas with an option to connect for a two-bedroom villa. They are moving and creating a new bar to optimize the views of the water looking both East and West. More information on what’s new for 2022 coming soon!

Italy

• Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice – Opening March 10

Giuseppe Cipriani — also the founder of Harry’s Bar, the birthplace of the Bellini that was inspired by the pinky golden hues over St. Mark’s Square — opened Cipriani in 1956 as a haven for jet-setting travelers. Belmond guests can enjoy the only Olympic-sized swimming pool in the city and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of the city’s libraries and archives.

• Grand Hotel Timeo, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina – Opening March 15

Grand Hotel Timeo was formerly a private home and converted into a hotel in 1873. The property is adjacent to the Greek theater, stretched along six acres of tropical gardens, with views on the Naxos Bay and Mount Etna.

• Splendido Mare, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino – Opening March 25

One year following its complete restoration by Paris-based FESTEN Architecture, Splendido Mare reopens for the 2022 season. Inspired by its history in a fishing village, the 14-room property is a chic seaside guesthouse with fresh seafood and Italian fare at the onproperty restaurant, DaV Mare, and offers a trip along the Italian Riviera aboard a gozzo, a traditional Ligurian fishing boat.

• Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence – Opening March 27

Nestled on a hilltop amid lush trees and terraced gardens, the 15th-century facade is attributed to Michelangelo. Guests are invited to experience the delicate beauty and solitude of a monastery that is as much a part of Italy’s culture as the country’s greatest cathedrals and galleries. A colorful highlight is a 400-year-old wisteria, the only one in Florence to bloom twice a year.

• Castelo did Casole, A Belmond Hotel, Tuscany – Opening April 1

The 4,200-acre property is one of the largest private estates in Italy, nestled in Tuscany’s geographical center between Siena and Florence. A former castle dating back to the 10th century, it has changed hands from Italian aristocratic family to acclaimed cinematographer Luchino Visconti before joining the Belmond portfolio.

• Caruso, A Belmond Hotel, Ravello – April 1

Perched atop the highest point of the charming town of Ravello, at 1,000 ft above sea level, the 11^th-century palace adorns Instagram feeds with its heated infinity pool. The historic property features 18^th-century Neapolitan paintings, lush grounds with lemon and olive trees, and a two-suite Villa Margherita for those seeking extra privacy.

• Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino – April 1

Splendido Mare’s sister property – just a quick, complimentary shuttle ride away, is a restored 16th-century monastery. Splendido is nestled up in the hills overlooking Portofino with a heated saltwater pool and Instagram-worthy views from La Terrazza restaurant.

• Villa Sant’Andrea, A Belmond Hotel, Taormina – April 14

Built in 1919 among subtropical gardens, the property enjoys its own stretch on the secluded Bay of Mazzaro, where private cabanas for up to four guests can be reserved. Hop onboard the historic Circumetnea steam train to Mount Etna for private vineyard tours to taste rare vintages and local delicacies, available only to guests of Belmond.

Spain

• La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel, Mallorca – Opening March 18

Located in a hillside village located on the northwest coast of Mallorca, La Residencia was the first to attract artists and connoisseurs who put Deia on the map. Book the one-bedroom Suite 67 for added privacy – completely redesigned by British fashion designer Matthew Williamson, balancing his signature botanicals and lively colors while honoring the hotel’s traditional Mallorcan heritage.

France

• La Réserve Ramatuelle, Côte d’Azur – Opening May 2022

Nestled within a Mediterranean jardin overlooking the Cote d’Azur is the cliffside retreat, La Réserve Ramatuelle. Last summer the Palace hotel lifted the veil on a refreshed lobby, two Michelin-starred restaurant, and terrace helmed by none other than Jacques Garcia who took inspiration from the 1950s and 1960s when Cocteau, Picasso and Picault brought their creativity to the French Riviera.

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andBeyond’s New Limited-Edition Itineraries

September 28th, 2021

From tiger conservation in India to walking safaris in Tanzania to exploring the ecosystem of the Okavango Delta

Conservation-led luxury travel company andBeyond continues to celebrate its 30^th anniversary by releasing a fresh batch of limited-edition itineraries designed to highlight its commitment not only to the preservation of wildlife and the environment, but also to educating travelers on the role of sustainable travel in conservation.

Following the launch of the first set of experiences in June, andBeyond has designed three more exclusive itineraries that range from an in-depth look at tiger conservation in India to discovering the origins of Botswana’s famed Okavango Delta and learning the art of guiding andBeyond-style while exploring the Serengeti on foot. Led by the top experts in their field, each of the itineraries is scheduled to take place in 2022.

A Project Tiger Expedition

Hosted by award-winning naturalist, conservationist and wildlife photographer Aditya Panda, the 50 Year Anniversary of Project Tiger expedition celebrates half a century of tiger conservation in India. Travelers will explore three of India’s most thriving national parks, from the famous tiger sanctuary of Ranthambore to Kanha, one of India’s largest conservation areas, and the diverse Kaziranga National Park. Guests will enjoy the unique opportunity to set out in search of eight of the most endangered wildlife species in India, from the magnificent tiger to the Asian elephant, one-horned rhino and Asiatic lion as well as the wild dog, blackbuck, barasingha and wild buffalo. Along the way, they will meet Dr. Raghu Chundawat, one of India’s best known tiger experts, who will share fascinating insights from his decades of wildlife research. A visit to the Centre for Wildlife Rehabilitation and Conservation will provide a first-hand glimpse into the rescue and rehabilitation of wild animals.

The itinerary has two departure dates, December 1 to 15, 2022 and January 12 to 26, 2023, with a maximum of six to eight guests. The cost begins from $9,919 per person sharing and includes a donation towards conservation projects in India.

Walking in the Footsteps of a Tanzanian Guide

Walking in the Footsteps of a Tanzanian Guide is a nine-day adventure that provides the opportunity to explore parts of Tanzania’s renowned Serengeti National Park on foot while learning some of the skills taught at andBeyond’s guiding schools. Accompanied by an andBeyond Ranger Trainer and a Maasai guide, guests will explore diverse terrain, encounter iconic wildlife, enjoy unforgettable community interactions and traverse the Serengeti on foot in an educational, informative and entertaining way. They will learn some of the tips and tricks of the guiding trade, from plant and animal identification to tracking, bird and bird call identification, how to use camera traps for research and much more. Setting off from Arusha, the itinerary begins at andBeyond Klein’s Camp, where travelers will learn about the daily lives of Maasai villagers, as well as spend some time at andBeyond’s Mwewe Ranger Training School. After experiencing a series of daily walks, guests move to andBeyond Serengeti Under Canvas, where they will enjoy a classical safari experience, complete with hot air balloon flights over the vast plains. Moving on, they will stay at the freshly rebuilt and reopened andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge. Here they will assist the researchers studying the annual migration of topi antelope, a phenomenon far less known than that of the Great Migration of zebras and wildebeest, but no less fascinating.

Designed for a maximum of six guests, this itinerary travels from November 8 to 16, 2022 and costs $11,250 per person sharing, which includes a donation to Africa Foundations Community Leaders Education Fund, a program that provides tertiary education bursaries to students from rural communities.

Care of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, its Wildlife and People

From wildlife conservation to the preservation of one of the world’s key watershed areas, the Care of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, its Wildlife and People expedition examines the miracle of water in the desert. It begins along the banks of the Chobe River with the opportunity to explore the thriving wildlife that rely on the river for their lifeline. Accompanied throughout by one of andBeyond’s Regional Guide Trainers, go off the beaten path and disconnect from the world at a rustic semi-permanent camp and get to know the animals of the Chobe by road and by boat. Then travel to the unexpected oasis of the Okavango Delta, the world’s only inland delta, a marvel of lush waterways amongst the dry sands of the Kalahari. Delve into the Delta in the company of Map Ives, one of the first professional guides to begin unravelling the secrets of this unique ecosystem decades ago. Travel by traditional canoe along the twisting waterways and explore even deeper in the company of a local Bushman who will introduce you to the long-lost lore of the wild. Venture out with the research teams studying wild dogs in the dense heart of the Delta and find out about the elephant herds that inhabit it. Meet some of the local communities and learn about the delicate balance between their needs and the preservation of this magical environment.

This itinerary is run for a maximum of four guests and has three set departure dates in June, July and September 2022. The eight-night experience starts from $19,838 per person sharing (depending on season), which includes a donation to the Africa Foundation, andBeyond’s community development partner of choice.

For more on any of andBeyond’s 30 year limited edition experiences, log on to andBeyond.com or speak to your preferred travel specialist.

About andBeyond

andBeyond designs personalized high-end tours in 13 countries in Africa, five in Asia and four in South America, offering discerning travelers a rare and exclusive experience of the world as it should be. We own and operate 29 extraordinary lodges and camps in iconic safari, scenic and island destinations in Africa and South America. This enables us to positively impact more than nine million acres of wildlife land and over 1,200 miles of coastline. Established in 1991, andBeyond strives to leave our world a better place than we found it through our care of the land, wildlife and people, and the delivery of extraordinary  guest experiences.

Please note: andBeyond is legally required to use the font ‘trebuchet’ when printing the ampersand in ‘&Beyond’. If this is not possible, please write it out in full, i.e. ‘andBeyond’. The referring website should be  www.andBeyond.com.

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andBeyond announces new Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge

September 22nd, 2021

Opening June 6, 2022

Conservation-led luxury travel company andBeyond has announced that one of its all-time favorite lodges in Tanzania’s Western Corridor, andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp, is to undergo an extensive rebuild that will result in it emerging with a brand-new identity as andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge.

andBeyond Grumeti was originally built in the early 1990 and after the Grumeti River burst its banks and the lodge was flooded in April 2020, andBeyond decided that it was time for a comprehensive rebuild.

As with all andBeyond projects, sustainability will be key in the rebuild and the new lodge will include a 130kWh solar system, which will allow it to run on 80% renewable energy. All hot water systems will also be replaced with brand new, energy efficient ones. Wastewater from the laundry will be recycled for other use and rainwater will be harvested for the swimming pools, while brand new technology will be installed to monitor underground water levels and ensure borehole capacity is not exceeded.

An extended selection of experiences is also being developed in time for the launch of the lodge, which will reopen on June 6, 2022. These will combine with the rich resident wildlife of this remote corner of the Serengeti, as well as the lodge’s ideal location for experiencing the thrilling river crossing and vast herds of the Great Migration.

With interior design by long-time andBeyond collaborator Fox Browne Creative and architectural design by Jack Alexander, the rebuild will use the existing footprint of the former structure to redefine the classical tented camp look in a form that will least impact the natural landscape. Reinventing the traditional safari tent, the new lodge will be even more stylish and contemporary, while retaining the rustic and tactile nature of the original camp. The design team was tasked with creating spaces that would bring guests closer to the incredible location – on a tributary of the Grumeti River – while ensuring a sense of understated luxury. The proximity to the river draws a constant flow of nearby wildlife, including a pool particularly popular with resident hippos.

Drawing inspiration from the natural setting, the main guest areas will form a single sweeping arc that will follow the contours of the river, creating a series of sitting and dining areas that will flow naturally together. The design cleverly will provide shelter from the environment while retaining a wide open and natural feel.

More than doubled in size, the guest suites will feature raised ceilings and taller doors, allowing for an abundance of natural light. Canvas, banana fiber and hardwood cladding will add a layer of richness and call to mind the design of the original camp. Guest suites will now also feature deep baths and indoor showers, as well as extensive outdoor decks with private plunge pools. The rebuild will also bring a new family suite featuring an additional attached bedroom.

All buildings will be constructed from lightweight steel frames clad in canvas and sustainably sourced local hardwood. This will allow them to float over the landscape without the need for heavy concrete foundations and slabs, in keeping with andBeyond’s ethos of touching the earth lightly.

While the form of the buildings will draw upon the manyattas, or circular homesteads, of the nomadic Maasai, which can be found across the plains of the Western Serengeti, the color palette for the interiors will take inspiration from the tribe’s vibrant beaded necklaces and the kitenge fabrics found throughout Tanzania’s Great Lakes region. The lively purple tones of the original lodge will be pared down to a more subtle tone reminiscent of hippo hide and accented with bright fabrics and hand-blown glass.

Guest favorites such as the boma and lodge pool will remain almost untouched, while a state-of-the-art gym will be a welcome addition.

ABOUT ANDBEYOND

andBeyond designs personalized high-end tours in 13 countries in Africa, five in Asia and four in South America, offering discerning travelers a rare and exclusive experience of the world as it should be. andBeyond owns and operates 29 extraordinary lodges and camps in iconic safari, scenic and island destinations in Africa and South America. This enables them to positively impact more than 9 million acres of wildlife land and over 1,800 miles of coastline. Established in 1991, andBeyond strives to leave our world a better place than we found it through their ethos of care of the land, wildlife and people, and the delivery of extraordinary guest experiences.

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