A safari for the senses, shaped by design

Our guests travel from across the globe to experience Africa’s wild places, which means when they retreat to one of our camps after a game drive, the journey should continue. We carefully select our camps’ locations first to ensure the least possible environmental impact, and second, to place you in the thick of the true wilderness. They are near water sources or close to migratory paths so that you remain connected to nature throughout your stay. With Wilderness, your wildlife experience is as fascinating from your suite as it is on a game drive.

Through the clever use of open-concept architecture, our camps naturally draw the eye outward to the beautiful environs, from sprawling grasslands and wetlands to wide-open desertscapes. When you step into a camp, you’ll also notice the abundance of natural light; something we take advantage of to bring the outside in.  

Whether overtly or subtly, the design of each of our spaces includes nods to the local culture, either through scent, sound, sight or touch (and through taste in the dining areas). Beyond the locally inspired artworks on display in your suite, such as portraits of community members or baskets handwoven by our Wilderness family, you may also notice finer details that allude to the destination’s cultural or natural features: a textured throw pillow that uses a traditional weaving style… a particular shade of terracotta that reminds one of the dried leaves of the local mopane trees.

In some of our Botswana camps, you may also pick up on the scent of wild sage in the air – a fragrance that’s become synonymous with Botswana safaris, as the plant is abundant in the wilderness. In our wellness areas, the Sanctuaries, you’ll hear calls of the local birdlife, or songs recorded right here at our camps. Across all the senses, and all of our camp spaces, our design principles and special touches immerse you in our distinctive destinations.  

When it comes to design, some of our camps stand out from the rest. With interior design and architecture imbued with storytelling, here are some of our most inspiring camps:

The design of this multi-award-winning lodge is a nod to Rwanda’s rich culture. The pointed tips of each Forest Villa are inspired by the palaces of Rwanda’s historical monarchs, and you’ll find references to traditional art styles like Imigongo throughout your suite. Like elevated bird’s nests, each Villa is surrounded by trees and offers spectacular views of the area’s iconic dormant volcanoes – Bisoke, Karisimbi and Mikeno. 

DumaTau stretches along the banks of Osprey Lagoon, providing a front row seat for viewing hippos, crossing elephants, and numerous water-based wildlife species bathing and swimming in front of you while you sip your morning coffee.

Here the animals frequently move through camp so you can enjoy the safari experience without leaving your suite. The local Linyanti region is also brought to life throughout in hand-crafted mosaic tiles, acacia wood, traditional textiles, and handmade artworks which play homage to the resident species.

Tucked into a dry watercourse carved through the desert rock, and artfully designed to blend in with the landscape, this camp gives you a true sense of adventurous spirit.

The camp’s waterhole that takes centre stage, providing you with a front row seat for seeing desert-adapted lions, elephants, and giraffes.

Along the northern border of Namibia lies Serra Cafema, separated from Angola only by the rushing Kunene River. This is a world unto itself in an ancient, unexplored landscape. Here the sound of the flowing water, and the silence of the desert calm your mind as you rest in your wood, canvas and thatch suite.

Every element of the interior design pays homage to the nomadic Himba people who have long traversed this part of the world, while under a dense canopy of trees, the elevated decks provide panoramic views of the Kunene and beyond. 

On the edge of Hwange National Park’s productive Ngamo Plains, Linkwasha is all about space and privacy. Each suite is shaded by leadwood trees and overlooks a waterhole, while the tiered decks of the main area lead to a sparkling pool where elephants often come to quench their thirst. The neutral tones are offset by bold, authentic Ndebele patterns.

Go on a safari that awakens the senses at every turn, from game drives to time spent in your private suite. Thoughtful design, sustainable architecture, and the wild landscapes around you all play a role in shaping a journey that feels immersive and deeply personal.