The luxurious private villa, close to the main lodge, but also screened from view with clever positioning, has all the bells and whistles you could want in a bush getaway. From a gym and yoga room downstairs to a heated pool and an outdoor shower with a peephole through which you can watch passing game, it’s so comfortable that you could easily stay for a week.
What’s also unusual is that you have access to the main lodge’s facilities – such as an amazing underground viewing hide, linked to the lodge by a tunnel that emerges at the waterhole – a great feature for photographers who want to get up close. But you can also choose to enjoy the villa in complete privacy as you would your own home, albeit with a private chef, guide and staff on standby. Three en-suite bedrooms (the main a palatial space with a mini-study, dressing room, enormous bathroom and private deck area) all face onto the waterhole, which the resident elephant Mr T is known to frequent.
The design also encourages outdoor living – to fully experience the setting you can dine on a covered deck, game view or star gaze in one of a few different beanbag- or lounger-equipped spots, or swim in your own pool.
Decor is contemporary safari chic – refreshing in a realm so often dominated by kitsch curios and overbearing or muddy colour schemes. Neutral tones and understated textures create a comfortable airy atmosphere. But it’s luxe, too: the richly textured wallpapers are different in every room, the furniture is all supersized and ultra-comfortable, and the villa is kitted out with everything from Clinton Friedman umbrellas to delicious-smelling bath products. Overall the experience is one of easygoing luxury – big open spaces, serious comfort and inspiring scenery.