Elite Traveler Summer 2021

DUMATAU CAMP

BOTSWANA

Along the banks of the flowing Linyanti River, within the private (and gigantic) Linyanti Wilderness Reserve, is where you’ll find the recently renovated DumaTau Camp and the brand-new Little DumaTau. The two camps have 12 luxury tented suites between them and follow the company’s inspiring philosophy of helping to preserve biodiversity, conserve wildlife and uplift local communities. Many of Wilderness’ properties leave little to no footprint on the land, and DumaTau is no different — it runs on 100% solar energy; wastewater is treated in an Above Ground Sewage Plant so that water is clean before entering the natural environment; reverse osmosis filtration is done on-site so guests have high-quality drinking water (therefore reducing the use of bottled water); and only approved eco-friendly detergents are used. At DumaTau, there are seven guest suites and one family suite; each one has a private plunge pool, indoor/outdoor showers and sumptuous lounge. Each suite has endless views over the Osprey Lagoon, where the region’s various residents can be seen: Elephants are often found along the waterways and lagoons; and leopard, giraffe, lion, mongoose, owlet and wild dogs are also frequently spotted. Wilderness has a number of conservation projects in place to help protect and conserve the wildlife, working with local authorities and supporting research. Naturally, there’s a bunch of safaris on offer: the classic 4x4 game drive, a barge ride along the Linyanti, a helicopter ride over the plains, or an after-dark safari to seek the less-seen nocturnal creatures. Contact enquiry@wilderness.co.za, wilderness-safaris.com

GROOTBOS PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE SOUTH AFRICA Conservationist and entrepreneur Michael Lutzeyer went on a camping trip in South Africa’s Western Cape in 1991. A ‘Farm for Sale’ sign caught his eye, and the spectacular views overlooking Walker Bay caught his heart. Now, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is a multi-award-winning private nature reserve with conservation and community values at its core. And it’s still run by the Lutzeyer family. Grootbos, meaning ‘big forest’ in Afrikaans, sits on flourishing hills of fynbos (a belt of natural shrubland only found in the Western and Eastern Cape) and 795 species of fynbos biome can be found at the reserve; six new species were found here, four of which are not found anywhere else on the planet. And thanks to Grootbos’ conservation efforts, a number of endangered species are thriving. The reserve cherishes the local flora and fauna and naturally ensures that the eco-lodges and gorgeous villas pay homage: Think thatched roofs, natural materials and floor-to-ceiling windows. Forest Lodge has 16 suites in charming cottages among the milkwood trees with decks overlooking the bay. Garden Lodge is better suited for families, as some of the suites have multiple bedrooms, plus there’s a game room. The private villas are exclusive-use and each has its own infinity pool, braai (a kind of barbecue grill), the services of a dedicated private guide, a butler and a chef. The region is home to the marine ‘big five,’ so the activities on offer are shaped around the majestic creatures of the deep: Get up close and personal with shark cage diving while a dedicated marine biologist teaches you about the behaviors of the apex predator, or board a purpose-built, eco-friendly vessel for a marine safari, also led by a marine biologist. For on-land adventures, head out on a 4x4 botanical tour to explore the “tiny, exquisite worlds” through the resort’s 6,000-plus acres. Guests of the private villas also have access to exclusive experiences, from private sunset picnics on the beach to private wine tours. Contact Sean Ingles, general manager, bookings@ grootbos.co.za, +27 283 848 053, grootbos.com

Photos Grootbos Private Nature Reserve