The Masai Mara is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most renowned wilderness conservation regions, and the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge has been crafted to provide guests with a sanctuary from which to discover nature and breathtaking vistas in harmony.

With guided game drives, guests can observe the “Big Five” that the Masai Mara is home to, including lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceros, and elephants. In addition, between June and September, guests can witness the annual great wildebeest migration from the Serengeti, an unforgettable experience.

The lodge is located at River Talek, a water source and habitat for many wildlife species, allowing guests to observe wildlife from the comfort of their rooms or while enjoying a meal at the on-site restaurant. With its stunning location, luxurious amenities, and unparalleled hospitality, the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge promises to be a game-changer in the luxury safari segment.

Read More: The New Look Of AndBeyond’s Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge

The Design of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

The JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, designed by Kristina Zanic Consultants, blends the savannah inwards, drawing inspiration from the natural elements that surround it. The lodge’s soft, warm tones, natural materials, textures, and native colours thread through its design, creating a sense of harmony and tranquillity.

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge’s Tented Suite

JW Marriott Masai Mara’s Tented Suite

The lodge comprises 20 private tents, each with a private terrace overlooking the River Talek, providing guests with a peaceful sanctuary to relax and soak up the stunning views. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the tented honeymoon suite has a private plunge pool, perfect for a romantic retreat. Families are also catered to, with two interconnecting king and twin suites available.

Culinary & Wellness Journeys at JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

At the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, culinary journeys are integral to the experience. The lodge’s signature restaurant, JW Garden, offers outdoor dining in a lush garden setting, where guests can enjoy farm-to-table cuisine with organic ingredients sourced locally. In addition, the live cooking stations, interactive cocktail mixology, and chef-led talks make dining at JW Garden an interactive and unforgettable experience.

For those looking for a more relaxed setting, the Fig Tree Lounge offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains, with indoor and outdoor seating options available. The lounge serves a range of refreshing beverages, including cocktails, and is the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the stunning vistas.

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge’s Fig Tree Lounge

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge’s Spa by JW

The Spa by JW at the lodge offers a range of signature treatments that blend locally inspired techniques and therapies, using products by the renowned African skincare brand Healing Earth. Guests can indulge in a relaxing massage, facial, or body treatment while surrounded by the sounds of the wilderness, creating an immersive and rejuvenating experience.

Sustainability & local engagement at JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge

When it comes to engaging with the local community, one of the lodge’s ongoing initiatives is the Apprenticeship Programme, which invites young women from the surrounding community to diversify their skills and broaden their experience, kick-starting their careers in the hospitality industry.

The lodge also supports local organizations that protect the environment and its wildlife, such as The Mara Elephant Project and The Mara Protector Conservation Programme. Guests can learn more about these initiatives and the local culture from the lodge’s Head Guide, a lifelong conservationist who offers talks and guided walking tours.

Read More: No Ordinary Safari! Track Gorilla Families In East Africa

By prioritizing sustainability and community support, the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge offers a luxurious safari experience and plays an essential role in preserving the natural beauty of the Masai Mara and empowering the local community. Guests can feel good knowing that their stay at the lodge is positively impacting the environment and the lives of those who call the region home.

“Fostering meaningful connections and nourishing the soul is at the heart of the JW Marriott brand, so entering the luxury safari segment is a natural next step,” said Bruce Rohr, Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “Offering our guests once-in-a-lifetime experiences and a deep connection to place, JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge balances the thrill of a game drive with thoughtful opportunities to switch off and take it all in.”

JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge is a 30-minute drive from Keekorok Airstrip and a 25-minute drive from Sekenani Main Gate.

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© This article was first published online in Apr 2023 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Experience Safari In Luxury At JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

&Beyond Punakha River Lodge is designed for discerning travellers seeking an out-of-this-world experience — luxurious yet authentic. The lodge has taken inspiration from its surroundings, drawing together traditional Bhutanese architecture — with its decorative painted details — with a unique twist. The safari-style tented suites are suspended from a timber structure, and the blue poppy –the national flower of Bhutan– is used as a recurring motif throughout the interior design.

&Beyond Punakha River Lodge’s guest tent

The lodge combines traditional Bhutanese style with gorgeous twists, from elegant brass-cladded bathtubs to decorative painted and gilded details in the woodwork that stand out effortlessly. It will be a veritable paradise, both inside and outside the lodge, where one can relax after experiencing tremendous peace and well-being while getting a genuine sense of place.

&Beyond Punakha River Lodge’s guest tent bathroom

Experiences & activities at &Beyond Punakha River Lodge

From the moment you arrive at &Beyond Punakha River Lodge, you can expect to be awe-inspired by the unparalleled beauty of Bhutan. The pristine natural setting will allow guests to immerse themselves in an unforgettable journey of discovery.

The surrounding landscape is not only stunningly beautiful, but it is also steeped in culture and tradition. A visit to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten –a nearby stupa– will allow guests to better understand the region’s history, values and culture.

Aside from simply luxuriating amidst the beautiful scenery, visitors will have easy access to several walking trails and riverside getaways perfect for al fresco lunches, picnics and beach activities such as yoga, massages or swimming with views of the Himalayas. For those wishing for an adrenaline rush, there’s river rafting, kayaking or cycling available nearby, as well as paddy field lunches — all adding up to an unforgettable experience. When in doubt, check out the lodge’s pool pavilion.

&Beyond Punakha River Lodge’s pool pavilion

Whether you prefer taking it easy or getting active with some of the many outdoor activities available in this part of Asia, there’s no doubt that &Beyond Punakha River Lodge offers style & luxury — making it an ideal destination for your next vacation!

&Beyond Punakha River Lodge’s spa

&Beyond stands apart from other luxury lodges for their personalised high-end tours, which span 13 countries in Africa and five in Asia (alongside four countries in South America). Their remarkable lodges are situated in iconic safari and island destinations across Africa and South America. If you are looking for an opulent escape surrounded by natural beauty that offers something unique, then do keep the upcoming Punakha River Lodge in mind.

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© This article was first published online in Feb 2023 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Haven in Bhutan: Discover &Beyond Punakha River Lodge first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

This remarkable ecological and cultural conservation achievement has been made possible thanks to a collaborative effort between the Royal Government of Bhutan, the Tourism Council of Bhutan and the Bhutan Canada Foundation.

What is the Trans Bhutan Trail

The Trans Bhutan Trail is a network of ancient paths and trade routes that connect the high valleys and passes of eastern Bhutan with the lowlands of the west. First blazed in the 16th century by Tibetan pilgrims travelling to India, over time, it became an essential lifeline for both people and goods moving between Bhutan and the outside world.

The Trail, a unique piece of Bhutan’s cultural heritage, fell into disuse but has now been painstakingly restored and upgraded using traditional methods and materials. Eighteen major bridges, more than 10,000 steps and 250 miles of Trail have been built or restored over the last three years, converting this ancient pilgrim route into an outdoor adventure haven.

Looking onto Trongsa Dzong, Trans Bhutan Trail

Why is trekking so popular in Bhutan

The reopened Trans Bhutan Trail will give visitors an incredible insight into life in remote parts of Bhutan as they hike from east to west (or vice versa) through pristine forests, past alpine lakes, meadows and across high passes – experiencing first-hand the country’s unique culture, cuisine and hospitality along the way.

Hike, bike, raft and camp through the lush meadows and dense forests of nine dzongkhags (districts), 28 gewogs (local governments), two municipalities, parts of Phrumsengla National Park, and more than 400 historical sites, including museums and ancient fortresses, like Jakar Dzong and the Fortress of the White Bird.

This ancient trail runs from Haa in the west to Trashigang in the east, passing through Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangi Phodrang, Trongsa, Bumthang and Mongar. All aspects of guided walking and biking on the Trail can be arranged directly via TBT on a not-for-profit basis.

Trans Bhutan Trail Map, Trans Bhutan Trail

Take time to learn about Buddhism while visiting important spiritual and cultural landmarks across the west and centre of Bhutan. Accommodations are available in a combination of simple guesthouses, homestays and tented camps, all located within walking distance of the Trail. In addition, travellers may choose to relax and rejuvenate at one of Bhutan’s luxurious resorts before heading home with memories (and photos) that will last a lifetime.

Buddha Dordenma Statue, Kuenselphodrang, Thimphu, Trans Bhutan Trail

Sustainability and environmentally friendly practices will be maintained throughout The Trail, ensuring consistency across other projects run by the Bhutanese tourism industry. In addition, the Trans Bhutan Trail is committed to enhancing the route out of respect for Bhutan’s ancestors and as a gift to future generations. The Trail is a member of the World Trails Network Sustainability Committee and was recently named in TIME’s World’s Greatest Places In 2022, an annual list of 50 extraordinary travel destinations.

Bridge in Katsho, Haa, Trans Bhutan Trail

Domkhar Palace, Bumthang, Trans Bhutan Trail

When can I hike in Bhutan

As the saying goes, there is a trek for every month of the year when in Bhutan.

The best time to trek in Bhutan is from mid-September to mid-December. This is the autumn season, with clear blue skies, the temperature at a comfortable mid-20 degrees during the day and just under 10 degrees at night, with fall leaves making for a colourful landscape. The autumn season is ideally suited to cover the high-altitude treks, such as the Bumthang trek in the north.

The lower altitude treks in central and southern Bhutan can be attempted during the spring season from March to May. Take in the foothills and valleys with flowers blooming across the countryside.

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© This article was first published online in Aug 2022 – World Travel Magazine.

The post Trans Bhutan Trail: Experience the beauty & culture of Bhutan first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

The new design of andBeyond’s Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge

The lodge is designed to make the most of its spectacular setting and offer guests an unparalleled safari experience. The new look has redefined the traditional concept in a manner that is luxurious and contemporary while retaining the rustic and tactile nature of the original camp and following the contours of the nearby Grumeti River, creating a natural flow of sitting and dining areas with the landscape.

Tanzania Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge

Tanzania Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge

Tanzania Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge Family Suite

Tanzania Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge Suite’s bathroom

What to do at andBeyond’s Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge

The lodge offers various activities for guests, including morning and afternoon game drives, all-day safari, bush walks with experienced guides, cultural visits to nearby Lukungu community, stargazing and bird watching. For the more adventurous, there is also the opportunity to go hot air ballooning over the Serengeti.

If you’re looking to get a taste of traditional African life, there’s no better place to start than Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake. This vast body of water is home to many traditional communities that make their living through fishing. Visiting these communities is a great way to learn more about their way of life and see first-hand how they make a living.

The cuisine here at the lodge is designed to reflect the best of the local area. Seasonally sourced ingredients are used to create wholesome, flavoursome dishes that are colourful enough to steal the limelight of your social media feed. With its new look, AndBeyond’s Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge is the perfect place to enjoy an African safari.

Africa Tanzania Grumeti Experience Game Drive

The Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

World-renowned for the great migration, the Serengeti National Park, a World Heritage Site, is one of Africa’s most popular safari destinations. Over 4000 lions, 1000 leopards, 550 cheetahs, some 500 bird species endless herds of wildebeest and zebra inhabit an area close to 15,000 square kilometres in size and roam in their own habitats freely.

Other lodges in Tanzania include Singita Faru Faru Lodge, Singita Mara River Tented Camp, Singita Sasakwa Lodge, Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, One Nature Nyaruswiga and Mwiba Lodge.

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© This article was first published online in June 2022 – World Travel Magazine.

The post The New look of andBeyond’s Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Secluded in northern Ubud, away from the crowded commercial zones, the resort consists of just 16 villas situated along the contours of the topography, sharing space with terraced paddy fields, jungle and river. The villas are designed to blend in with the natural surroundings, fading the lines between a typical ‘resort room’ and nature. With an emphasis on escape and renewal, this new retreat offers a range of activities such as yoga and hiking, local immersive experiences as well as tour programs that showcase the best of Bali’s culture and cuisine. Banyan Tree Buahan can be an ideal place for a luxury escape or a jungle adventure.

Banyan Tree Buahan Ubud Bali

What’s unique at Banyan Tree Buahan Bali

Banyan Tree Buahan Bali is designed for the traveller who needs to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. The unique open-air design of the villas means that you can enjoy the sounds, smells and views of the jungle, and the close proximity to nature lets you experience the benefits of forest bathing – a Japanese practice that involves spending time in nature to promote good health. The resort has a ‘no walls, no doors’ concept, so you’ll feel cocooned in nature. The tranquil setting of this jungle retreat will help you slow down and gain a sense of balance.

The 16 villas or ‘Bale’ here range between three views and sizes: Riverside Jungle Pool Bale, Buahan Valley Pool Bale and Rainforest Pool Bale. Each ‘Bale’ comes with a private pool, open deck, pool deck with sunbeds, pool gazebo and a whole lot of forest.

Banyan Tree Buahan Ubud Bali

Of the many sustainable practices at Banyan Tree Buahan, the zero waste farm-to-table concept in their kitchen stands out. Most of the food served at the hotel is locally sourced. This is not only good for the environment, but it also helps support the local economy.

The local immersive experiences at Banyan Tree Buahan range from nature walks and discovering the activities taking place in local villages, to indulging in body wraps, scrubs and massages at the world-famous Banyan Tree Spa. Banyan Tree is also famous for its cuisine, so expect authentic Asian dishes made with the freshest local ingredients.

Banyan Tree Buahan Ubud Bali

Nestled in the lush tropical rural setting of north Ubud in Bali, this luxury resort is reminiscent of other luxury escapes such as Capella Ubud, Shinta Mani Wild in Cambodia, and The Datai Langkawi. With its commitment to luxury and its focus on connecting guests with nature, the Banyan Tree Buahan Bali is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all who visit Ubud.

Read More: Epic Views & Thrills At Family Friendly Schilthorn, Switzerland

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Read More: Canton Of Vaud – A Family Destination For Adventure Sports, Culture & Relaxation

Read More: Experience The Thrill Of A Lifetime At The Jungfrau Region 

Read More: Saint Bernards, Thermal Pools & Mountains – This Is What Makes Switzerland Special

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© This article was first published online in May 2022 – World Travel Magazine.

The post New Jungle Retreat In Ubud – Banyan Tree Buahan Bali first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation in Margaret River Region

Barn Hives in Yallingup

Imagine fitting a black square peg in a field of green. The black square peg here is a two-story open plan living, self-sustained eco-pod with a private deck and the field of green is a vineyard. The six eco pods in Yallingup are ideal for a quiet getaway and essential if one wishes to wake up with views of vineyards.

Barn Hives’ sustainable credentials are in its eco-friendly design and minimal impact on its surrounding environment. Attention has been paid to sunlight and cross-ventilation when constricting these pods. Water is collected from rainfall and heated by solar panels making it self-sustainable. Beyond the surrounding vineyard, explore Smiths Beach, the various wine estates in the Margaret River region and a wide range of outdoor activities.

Read More: 10 Best Outdoor Camping Locations In Australia

Petit Eco Cabin in Yallingup

The single timber Petit Eco Cabin in Yallingup is nestled into the trees by the lake, overlooking an organic vineyard and is designed to allow you to slow down and reconnect with nature.

In an effort to minimise the impact on the environment, the cabin was positioned to take advantage of the Northern sun and cooling sea breezes. It captures and stores its own rainwater, greywater is recycled onto the newly planted fruit trees, and a solar hot water system provides the cabin’s hot water.

 

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While at the estate, vineyard tours by the owners of Windows Estate and picnics in the open surroundings help you slow down. The organic vineyard and family-run winery produces Cabernet Sauvignon and Chenin Blanc, traditionally processing the wines by hand almost every step along the way. The estate takes a minimal intervention approach, where they aim to showcase the fruit’s quality without making adjustments or additions to the wine while making it.

New Cellar Doors in Margaret River Region

LS Merchants Cellar Door

Winemaker Dylan Arvidson opened the doors to a brand new LS Merchants cellar door in Cowaramup over summer (Dec 2020). Tastings consist of a selection of current release LS wines with the occasional limited release and back vintage wine on tasting and all releases available to purchase.

Production is small, and the experimental wines are usually only one or two barrels, made from almost 20 different varieties, styles and blends from fruit grown in Margaret River, Ferguson Valley and The Great Southern.

The approach to winemaking here is wild fermentation where possible and a lot of experimentation; the former to express the varietal characters, the latter to push conventional winemaking boundaries and produce interesting and enticing styles.

A: 163 Treeton Road North, Cowaramup, WA, 6284, Australia

Read More: Margaret River Wine Food And Adventures In Nature

Grace Farm, Wilyabrup

Grace Farm’s new cellar door opened on December 27, 2020. The intimate space allows the winemaker to offer a personalised wine tasting experience.

Grace Farm is a young vineyard that is experiencing great success and winning awards on regional, national and international levels. The vineyard sits in the prime wine-growing sub-region of Margaret River, Wilyabrup, where ideal conditions undoubtedly contribute to the grapes’ quality.

A: 741 Cowaramup Bay Road, Gracetown, WA, 6284, Australia

Marri Wood Park, Yallingup

Marri Wood Park Cellar Door is now open for wine tasting. Visitors can expect a relaxed and truly memorable experience set amongst natural bush atop their biodynamic, family-run vineyard. There is no fee to try all of their wines, including the popular Sparkling Chenin Blanc, naturally sparkling Pet-Nat, SB, SBS, Chenin and Cab Sav.

 

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Marri Wood Park is a boutique family-run and owned, Demeter certified biodynamic vineyard. Their biodynamic philosophy utilises sustainable practices: no chemicals, no pesticides, no irrigation and no fertilisers. The result is hardy vines that produce high quality, robust and delicious grapes.

Read More: 7 Amazing Things To Do In Cairns Australia 2022 Bucket List

The berries are hand-picked and sorted, lightly pressed and fermented in an array of fermenters (including clay amphoras, French and Austrian oak barrels) to produce the highest-quality wine. Book ahead to be greeted with a complimentary cheese platter, or just drop in. They look forward to welcoming you.

A: 28 Whittle Rd, Yallingup WA 6282, Australia

Featured Image credit, clockwise: Horse riding in Margaret River, Australia, www.margaretriver.com ; Winter Accom (Empire), Image by Elements Margaret River, www.margaretriver.com ; Blackwood River Houseboats in Margaret River, Australia, www.margaretriver.com ; Vasse Felix, Image by Russell Ord Photography, www.margaretriver.com

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© This article was first published online in Jan 2021 – World Travel Magazine.

The post New Eco-Friendly Accommodation & Cellar Doors In The Margaret River Region first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

The new norms for domestic travel expected to be implemented gradually, globally, over the coming weeks and months consist of the same few rules that we have all grown accustomed to over the last couple of months: practice social distancing, avoid crowds, cover the mouth & nose with a mask and wash hands frequently.

Our need for travel is unquenchable. The build-up and stifling of emotions while in lockdown needs to be let out. Complying with the health and safety norms is also paramount, so it’s crucial to find the balance between proper distancing and leisure. Small adjustments sound too little of a compromise, especially if it paves the way for the new norm. The ideal way to keep within limits while having a well-deserved break is by safely checking into a villa or a lodge.

It’s the revival of the old thrills: bringing the family along a grand stay with the promise of fresh new surroundings: lush, green vistas, bright blue private pools, or the sprawling, golden desert lodges. The change of atmosphere brings comfort; and inhaling fresh ambiance will revive one’s spirit.

Here are five themes to enjoy a holiday while following the guidelines of social distancing.

Recline & enjoy family-fun hotels

Eight amazing stays from Tanzania to Indonesia, from water sports on pristine beaches to walking amongst ancient pine trees. Family travels anywhere in the world require the presence of both leisurely and thrilling activities, a homely feeling, and plenty of room for cosy quality time with loved ones. If you have dreamed of a paradise-like family get-together, take a look at these 8 getaways for family-fun.

Taylor River Lodge

All Around Asia: Celebrating Culture & Luxury

Experience Asia’s authentic places to stay in luxury, there are no cookie cutters to be found anywhere close by. A touch of the Orient, a glimmer of the Middle East – Asia is a melting pot of cultures exploding with diverse charms. From the Zen-inspired mountains of Chengdu to the dazzling sand dunes of the Bedouin, experience the continent’s many facets while staying in its most immersive luxury hotels.

Phum Baitang – Garden & Grounds © Zannier Hotels

Green Side Of The Desert

From sustainability to conservation efforts, the Middle East’s most eco-friendly lodges ensure a guilt-free stay. Beyond the rolling desert dunes and glittering malls, the Middle East is home to a trove of eco-friendly, sustainable resorts.You don’t have to sacrifice your eco-credentials while travelling around the middle east – whether you need a quick trip away from the city or want to completely break away to an oasis of calm, there’s a sustainable, luxurious lodge waiting to welcome you.

Al Maha Desert Resort, UAE Emirates Suite

2020’s Best Villas

Unique locations and gorgeous views, our selected villas are homely and luxurious. Wintry snow-capped mountains gazing down modern-day chalets, precariously-placed castles at the edge of a Mediterranean cliff, enthralling beachside huts in their pure solace and exclusivity–these are some of the world’s best destinations that appear to be conceived in dreams.As doors swing open, wanderlusts are transported into a whole new world of luxury. All yearnings are indulged; from island hopping, gastronomical cravings, stellar sights, and newfound delights, diligently served by the affectionate locals eager to please. Inhale a bit of whimsy with the sprawling natural backdrops and revel in the magic and modernity behind the walls of these otherworldly villas.

Lux_ North Male Atoll

Island Resorts Protecting The Oceans

Discover how some of the world’s most alluring island resorts are protecting the oceans.

The sustainably built residence of The Brando, image by Adam Bruzzone

Turtle, marine mammal and coral preservation; celebrity-led developments and the rehabilitation of ecosystems: some of the world’s most exclusive island resorts excel most for the commitment they show to protecting the oceans. Venture to these isolated locations across the planet to see the difference resorts like this can make to life beneath the waves.

The post Luxury Villas – Social Distancing In Style first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Hotel corridor

Business hub ’The Works’

The impressive results are shown in the ‘Other Side’ bar; hotel lobby

The post Zambia’s Latitude 15˚ first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

Amangiri, USA – Camp Sarika

Amangiri, USA – Camp Sarika

Amangiri, USA – Camp Sarika

Amangiri, USA – Camp Sarika

Amangiri, USA – Camp Sarika

The post Glamping in United States’ Desert At Camp Sarika By Amangiri first appeared on World Travel Magazine.

The bedrooms open up completely to the landscape, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor so that guests can be emerged in the true beauty of their surroundings

Cheetah Plains Lodge

Cheetah Plains Lodge

Cheetah Plains Lodge

The open plan dining room and bar area at Cheetah Plains boasts unrivaled views of the landscape creating the perfect setting for game viewing

Cheetah Plains Lodge is tucked within the districts of Sabi Sand Game Reserve

The post Living Inside The Cheetah’s Lair In South Africa first appeared on World Travel Magazine.