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Spotlight: Mahali Mzuri

Mahali Mzuri is the new kid on the block for Kenyan safari camps, but they certainly do not lack talent for creating a fantastic glamping experience. Mahali Mzuri is also part of the Virgin Limited Collection of luxurious destinations around the world.

Mahali Mzuri is located within the Motorogi Conservancy in the Kenya’s Maasai Mara ecosystem. The camp has a prime location for observing abundant game in the area and also to take advantage of the annual migration, which sees up to one million wildebeest.

1000-14Photo: Mahali Mzuri website

There are 12 luxury tented suites accommodating up to a maximum of 24 guests at any one time. Each tented suite sits on a raised platform and includes a spacious bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, sitting area and a large deck with views over the landscape. The deck gives you the perfect vantage point for spotting the game that will almost certainly wander into view. There are strict limits on the number of guests that can stay at any one time. Luxury rarely gets this close to the action!

MahaliMzuri2013JB-1397-Edit_001Photo: Mahali Mzuri website

Anyone who’s been on safari before knows that no two game drives are ever the same. Catch glimpses of wild animals roaming the Kenyan plains including wildebeest, elephants, zebra, lions, leopards, cheetah, giraffe, impala and gazelles. On a typical game drive at Mahali Mzuri you’ll spot an abundance of wildlife characteristic to the area. A number of lion pride territories meet in the Motorogi Conservancy which can make for some interesting encounters as the different groups battle for dominance. The experienced and highly trained team of field guides will guide your twice daily (morning and afternoon) game drives. Enjoy navigating the Motorogi and Olare Orok Conservancies in open vehicles.

There are plenty of things to do aside from game drives including walking safaris, hot air balloon tours, and cultural day trips where you can learn about the local Maasai Tribe whose traditions and customs are still practiced. And, of course you should take the opportunity to relax at the spa.

1000-4_000Photo: Mahali Mzuri website

Mahali Mzuri’s spa is called Nasaro – which literally means ‘refuge’ or ‘relaxation’ in Maa. A whole range of treatments is available, from facials to massages to those essential grooming rituals. Nasaro is located down near the valley floor and provides a private, intimate setting in which to be pampered with truly stunning views over the bush. The range of products used comes from Africology, ethical skin care products to capture the rejuvenating and healing essences of Africa.

Mahali Mzuri opened in 2013 and is Sir Richard Branson’s Kenyan Safari Camp located in the Motorogi Conservancy within the Maasai Mara. Mahali Mzuri’s main priority is to leave as small a footprint as possible on the land while collaborating with local Maasai communities and select. tourism partners. The evidence is apparent because Mahali Mzuri has been working with the Maasai since the projects inception and the staff is from the surrounding communities.

Learn more about Mahali Mzuri

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Spotlight: River Dance Lodge

Names of places are sometimes just names and don’t necessarily add to the image in my mind. However, for River Dance Lodge in Idaho, it’s different. It’s becomes obvious very quickly that this glamping destination is set in an exciting river setting. The name “River Dance” evokes an image in my mind of celebration for the river environment. There is so much to do here, it is like a carnival of a outdoor fun.

River Dance Lodge doesn’t disappoint when it comes to accommodations. River Dance is one of Idaho’s finest guest ranches and features hand-built log cabins. Rugged luxury is a contrast of ideas that seem natural here. A cozy cabin is an ideal refuge after a day of adventuring on horseback, rafting, hiking, and fishing; we’ll talk about activities more in-depth later on. Whether it’s your first time or has been too long since the last time you (insert activity name here) afterwards you’ll need a rest and probably want to soak in a hot tub. River Dance builders also thought that was a great idea. So, you can soak in a private hot tub and gaze upon the forested mountains – after a long day of adventuring, you deserve it!

imagePhoto: Brad Moss

Now for the main event, let’s talk about River Dance’s glamping tents. River Dance has placed comfortable canvas tents right alongside a rushing creek. The glamping trend is unique in that it is a modern trend that uses retro equipment like canvas tents to achieve its goals. Not that I’m complaining, it’s just interesting. If nothing else glamping is reactionary to a hyper-connected world. People want to get back to nature but don’t want to sleep on the hard ground. River Dance has furnished its tents with king-sized beds and a wood-burning stove. River Dance took one more step in the name of comfort by adding an antique claw-foot tub with a propane burner to heat the water. Nights of roasting marshmallows under the stars have never been so comfortable.

Vacation planning is a daunting task, which is why all-inclusive packages were invented. Sometimes it’s okay to treat yourself on vacation and free yourself from the stress of planning a vacation. Remember, it’s supposed to be relaxing! It’s a benefit of all-inclusive packages to have an idea of what you’re getting and paying for up front rather than be surprised by your credit card bill after all the little things have been added up. The other good news is that River Dance is a small resort that can afford to give its guests extra attention and care.

DSC_0120Photo: Brad Moss

I have a lot of appreciation for resorts that operate lodging and activities and do it well. It’s a complicated task. Luckily, River Dance Lodge’s owners Betsy Bowen and Peter Grubb are seasoned veterans when it comes to adventure vacation. They also own and operate ROW Adventures who operates the activities for you at River Dance Lodge. With over 30 years experience you know you’re in good hands.

Every season brings something unique to River Dance. The resort responds by providing experiences that highlight the best of each season. The thought of visiting more than once may occur to you now, but it will definitely happen when you’re on the last day of your stay here. Horseback riding in the Bitterroot Mountains is fabulous. There are trails from the Idaho guest ranch to hot springs and it’s possible to ride up the Selway River and go fly fishing.

DSC_0290Photo: Brad Moss

Your tent/cabin can be just as much of an experience as any of the more active adventures. You may even want to spend the bulk of your time relaxing and enjoying the freedom of a clear agenda. River Dance has a defined atmosphere of warm hospitality that fits well with families ready for fun or for romantic getaways for couples.

To learn more or to start planning your trip visit River Dance’s website.

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Severin Safari Camp

Sometimes you just need to getaway to a safari camp in Kenya. Severin Safari Camp is an easy recommendation to give. It doesn’t get more authentic or close than Severin. Guests of Severin experience a unique combination of adventure, recreation and wellness. Few people have seen the dazzling display of colors that you get while watching the sun set near Mt. Kilimanjaro.

Severin Safari Camp is hidden in the remote Kitani Wildlife area of Tsavo West National Park overlooking Mt. Kilimanjaro. The eco-friendly luxury camp offers a unique combination of adventure, wellness and relaxation for the sophisticated traveler who loves romantic pampering and unique wildlife experiences. The camp is unfenced to allow wildlife to crossover to the waterholes. No need to worry though, Masai warriors guard the ground 24-hours per day and escorts accompany guests to and from their tents. Experiences of being so close to nature like this are a rare treasure in our modern world. And, safari camps definitely fit into the glamping style of traveling.

 

6ad7ea2f5b97acf2dd1aa18ff8169561 Photo: Severin Safari Camp website

Severin Safari Camp has an elegant natural design. The tents and suites feature handmade wooden furniture in a traditional African style. The camp is perfectly integrated; the lounge and restaurant area is open and provides a wonderful panoramic view. Severin’s octagonal tents come fully equipped with running hot and cold water, shower, toilet, comfy beds, and private terrace.

In addition to tents, the Kitani Lodge is located in nearby and offers 8 Bandas for self-caterers. The Bandas are equipped with kitchenette, own bathrooms and beds. The mosquito nets give you a feeling of the authentic Africa. From the covered patio guests have a direct view on their private campfire from where they can watch the passing animals. A large variety of wild animals seek the floodlit waterhole at night providing amazing wildlife viewing experiences.

SPhoto: Severin Safari Camp website

Tsavo National Park is recognized as the third largest national park in the world and rich with great herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras and impalas. The park’s 22,000 square kilometers offer a lot to explore on game drives. The camp is very sensitive to preserving the ecosystem and ensures that the camp does nothing to interrupt the fragile system. Solar cells and strict waste management systems top the list of Severin’s efforts.

In rugged safari vehicles driven by Severin’s experienced guides guests see the “real Africa.” The drives take guests closer to wildlife than most have ever been. The panoramic views from the vehicles are breathtaking. The animals are surprisingly active after the sun sets. Night drives equipped with spotlights illuminate the secrets of the African wilderness. Severin’s Masai guide will even take you around on foot for a unique experience.

c92c9ec1a11a5ec3996e785c28a3633cPhoto: Severin Safari Camp website

Severin is informal and it is recommended that you pack for comfort. Don’t forget the sunscreen, binoculars, and sunglasses. Occasionally Tsavo can get cold at night and the early morning, so be sure to pack a light waterproof jacket.

Learn more about Severin Safari Camp and start planning your glamping vacation!