If you’re a planner, you’re likely looking ahead to your next holiday, perhaps already thinking about booking your flights and stays for a special occasion coming up. If a safari holiday is on the cards, and you’re travelling with a group, or simply want a bit of space, consider the ultimate in escape – the private safari villa. To inspire the planners among you, and to give those who need some encouragement a gentle nudge, we have assembled some of our top tips and picks…
A curated collection
We pride ourselves on the unique homes in our portfolio, to be able to suit the length and breadth of our travellers’ safari needs. Each is unique, but all are special. Dotted throughout Southern and East Africa – from Kenya to the Karoo, the Kruger to the Kalahari – our safari villas are a good barometer of the scope and variety we offer at Steadfast. Contemporary, art-filled, traditional or tented, there is an exclusive use villa for every taste (and group size).
Privacy meets service & location
In case you’re not yet convinced that a private villa can up the ante on safari, consider some of the pros… Aside from the privacy and space to yourself, you’ll have total freedom as far as your day’s schedule goes (meal times, game drives, excursions). This is great if you’re travelling with a group as it allows for a little more flexibility.
Meals can be prepared to your group’s specific needs – while any top lodge will cater to dietary needs and requirements, a personal chef will also be able to prepare special occasion dishes, accommodate different meal times and create bespoke menus.
The USPs of some of Steadfast’s all stars
Here are some of our favourite private safari villas, and what sets them apart from the rest of the pack.
Cheetah Plains, Sabi Sand, South Africa
The off-the-charts architecture, interior design and contemporary art will change your perception of bushveld luxury. Cleverly designed to celebrate the setting, it combines social communal spaces and peaceful private areas, and features a formal and entertainment lounge, swimming pool deck, outdoor boma, fine wine gallery and fully equipped chef’s kitchen.
Matetsi River House, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Proximity to the Victoria Falls and an awe-inspiring setting right on the Zambezi River, this private villa is the poster child for the importance of location and this is shown off best by the open-plan indoor and outdoor living areas with wide verandas and a sparkling private pool overlooking the Zambezi. For larger groups, the River Lodge Suite can be booked to accommodate an additional two guests.
Tarkuni Tswalu, Kalahari, South Africa
Set in the remarkably remote Kalahari, this is peaceful seclusion at its pinnacle. Designed with sustainability and appreciation of the outdoors in mind, spaces to relax, swim and dine abound – from a deep shaded veranda, and water-wise plunge pool, to the sundowner firepit, intimate boma for barbecue dinners under the stars and even a gazebo to enjoy a massage, drink or simply the scenery.
Kwandwe Melton Manor, Eastern Cape, South Africa
With its unparalleled indoor/outdoor flow and picturesque location, the setting and spaces are all conducive to relaxation. Home-style comfort and elegant design come together, with rooms centred on a spacious courtyard and pool. This is an ideal space to slow down and relax into manor life, while views from every room and window connect you with the landscape beyond.
Kataza House, Singita Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Situated at the edge of Volcanoes National Park, this villa’s setting is matched only by its magnificent design. A Conservation Room, on-site nursery and garden (growing indigenous plants and vegetables for the kitchen) emphasise the conservation-forward ethos. When you’re not outside exploring, there’s plenty to keep you entertained indoors (the villa has a wine cellar, cinema, fitness centre, heated pool and firepit).
