WHATS NEW FOR 2024?

Whilst we do not believe “new” means “better”, we naturally keep an eye on the movers and shakers in The Exceptional Travel world.

We are delighted to see a number of exclusive use properties opening up in some of our key destinations as well as seeing recently opened, or soon to be open, places that are getting us hot under the collar.

We hope this provides a few minutes of travel dreaming and, if you want to make it a reality, let us know.

KIPELEO | KENYA

Opening July 2024

This highly anticipated new opening in Kenya’s Masai Mara is set to be the flagship property from our friends at House in the Wild. Kipeleo is nestled high up above the Masai Mara with sweeping views over the plains below. A pitch perfect Exclusive Use five bedroom property, offering considered luxury in the bush. Ideal for families or groups travelling together, each of the five rooms (individual cottages) have living roofs, a comfy lounge area with open fire, fully stocked mini bar, private deck with sun loungers, indoor and outdoor showers and a deep bath with prime Mara views. When not out exploring the Masai Mara with expert guides or the local communities, guests can enjoy the well equipt gym, rejuvenating spa with a variety of wellness treatments,  infinity swimming pool, hot tub, thoughtfully curated library, media room and sunken fire pit – a spot we feel will be a firm favourite for gathering around as the sun sets and stars come out.

TAWANA | BOTSWANA

Opening May 2024

Set within the incredible Moremi Game Reserve, Tawana is Natural Selections newest camp, promising an unparalleled exploration of the Okavango Delta. Set on the banks of the perennial waters of the Gomoti River, Tawana stands out for its partnership with Chief Tawana Moremi of the Batawana tribe. Raised on stilts, the camps eight expansive suites are made up by three units (bedroom, lounge and bathroom) each under it’s own thatched roof and connected by a wooden deck. Each suite has over bed air conditioning, comfortable lounge area, indoor and outdoor showers, a private terrace, plunge pool, outdoor sala, and views of the river and grasslands. The camp is completely solar powered and includes a well stocked library, walk-in wine cellar, wood-fire pizza oven, open-air dining kgotla, spa and 16-meter lap pool. The ultimate eco-friendly escape that promoting responsible tourism within an area of exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.

KIBALE LODGE | UGANDA

Opening July 2024

Volcanoes Safaris, which has been leading the way in gorilla and chimpanzee ecotourism in Uganda and Rwanda for the last 25 years, will launch its fifth property, Kibale Lodge, this July. For those seeking a different African lodge experience, Kibale Lodge is a must-visit.

Located on the edge of Kibale National Park, it is perfectly located for access to the main gate, yet set quietly away on a pristine area of land, commanding sensational views of the  Rwenzori Mountains in the west and the Queen Elizabeth plains and Kazinga Channel to the south. Thanks to Volcanoes Safaris dedicated chimpanzee conservation work since 1997, Kibale Lodge can offer a unique chimpanzee interaction for their guests.

With just eight rooms, a separate family villa, spa, sauna and pool, Kibale Lodge is wonderfully intimate with a high staff to guest ratio.  As with their other lodges, Kibale Lodge is being hand built by local experts using local materials delivering an authentic sense of place.

Kibale lodge is a wonderful additional to a perhaps lesser known Ugandan safari experience.

PUQIO | PERU

Opened September 2023

Jagged canyon ledges, soaring condors, ethereal grasslands and a river believed to flow directly into the Milky Way – welcome to Peru’s Colca Valley. Deep in the heart of this other-worldly land, is the recently opened Puqio Camp. Four tented suites and four Pirca rooms reflect the simplicity and beauty of the surrounding landscape, with luxury canvas accommodation and meals cooked on open flames.  An Andean-style exploration, inviting guests to experience the Valley through the local gastronomy, excursions, and discovery drives of fuming volcanoes, sweeping grasslands and untrodden pathways.

CASA SANTIAGO BOTERO | COLOMBIA

Opened 2023

Recently opened at the end of 2023, Casa Santiago Botero is a colourful five-bedroom, exclusive use villa within Cartagena’s Old City. And, boy, what a place: owned by renowned artist Manuela Echeverri & Santiago Botero, Casa Santiago Botero is an art collector’s paradise. With a full team of staff looking after your every need including an experienced local chef who curates fabulous Caribbean culinary experiences throughout the day, on request. At the rear of the villa is a serene courtyard and pool area surrounded by lush vegetation – an ideal spot to relax after a busy day exploring Cartagena and the local area.  Exclusive access to the villa’s 55ft Ferretti yacht is a nice touch too.

KOTIYAGALA LUXURY VILLAS | SRI LANKA

Opening March 2024

Opening this month, Kotiyagala Luxury Villas is elevated 12 foot above the lush vegetation of Yala Forest, and is Sri Lanka’s newest Eco Retreat. Home to a specialist Ayurvedic Spa with Storm and Ice Room, this 12 villa property introduces a unique, modern luxury. Each villa enjoys it’s own private deck and infinity pool with floor to ceiling glass windows framing the views beyond. On site naturalists and safari rangers guide guests through Yala National Park in hopes of a glimpse of the elusive leopards, spot a gentle sloth and enjoy the resident wildlife.

And finally…we are yet to receive images as they are tightly under lock and key, but we are excited to welcome the newest addition to Singita Grumeti Reserve in the Western Serengeti. Exclusive Use, five bedroom property Singita Milele is set to open in May 2024.

 SINGITA MILELE | TANZANIA

Opening May 2024

Located on Sasakwa Hill within the 350,000 acre Singita Grumeti Reserve in northern Tanzania, Singita Milele enjoys a secluded setting with uninterrupted views of the Serengeti Eco System. This beautiful villa can accommodate up to 10 guests in five spacious, elegant suites. Each suite is uniquely designed with its own expansive terrace, lounge, dressing room, outdoor shower and much more.

Built to the highest eco credentials, the villa’s communal spaces are both subtle yet ornate.  An infinity pool, jacuzzi, movie room, boma, fitness centre and outdoor sala are all there for guests to enjoy between exciting days on safari. Every element and feature of this magnificent villa has been curated to make the most of its iconic location.

Hospitality within the villa will be at the highest standards possible, with a signature chef and full house staff at hand as well as a wellness professional for massages. All safari and conservation activities on the vast Singita Grumeti Reserve are available to guests at Singita Milele.

Singita Milele is set to be Tanzania’s most luxurious private safari villa, if not in the whole of East Africa.