The last 23 months have made us acutely aware of the need to slow down. Finding peace in an ever-evolving and fast-paced world has become vital in this new normal. Luckily for you, we have rounded up a list of locations around the continent that place you right in the midst of calm, prioritizing your peace of mind and ultimate wellbeing. These natural settings promise boundless landscapes that will leave you feeling restored and centered, from endless mountain valleys to lavish getaways in the hinterlands.
Ajabu House, Lake Naivasha. Photo: Courtesy of Ajabu House.
We've all heard about the Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, where guests can enjoy a leisurely lunch among the Earth's tallest land animals. However, suppose you're a traveler in the mood for the road less traveled. In that case, make a stop along with the Safari Collection's 12-night Siruai Expedition Camp, which you will find Northwest at the family-owned Ajabu house. Surrounded by great fig trees, the home is located on the banks of Lake Naivasha, where casual yet completely safe encounters with hippos are a natural occurrence. Perfect for a big family, the house accommodates 18 guests and has plenty of day trip activities to keep the wanderlust enthusiasts occupied.
For those who wish to take in the breathtaking elements of nature, bird watching proves to be a much-loved pastime, as the variety of birds is astounding. For those seeking a more adventure-filled day, searching for ancient fossils and breaking bread with Gorillas may also be itinerary items. With endless prospects of winding down or adrenaline-filled affairs all located amid an infinite landscape, this is a home perfect for reconnecting to Mother Nature and is conveniently bookable through Airbnb.
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Kasbah du Toubkal, Imlil. Photo: Courtesy of Kasbah du Toubkal.
Nestled above the High Atlas Mountain village of Imlil, you will find a quaint eco-getaway that is sure to make any guest feel entirely in touch with the wonders of the world. Located 40 km from Morocco's capital, the Kasbah du Toubkal hotel sits at one of the highest peaks in North Africa at 1,800m altitude. With panoramic views of the mountains, rooftop terraces, and charming gardens, this location simply begs one to tune into their surrounding habitat and tune out of a technologically wired planet. Instead, guests wishing to truly reconnect with the Earth are encouraged to explore the surrounding trails in the National Park, stretching as far as the eye can see.
Fully staffed by the community's residents, The Kasbah's philanthropic values seep through their operations and are evident in their commitment to uplifting the surrounding locality—they add a 5% fee to guests' invoices to help educate girls in the local village. The hospitality here is more about humanity and togetherness than becoming an acclaimed hotel, albeit the residence was awarded for sustainable tourism by Green Globe. An establishment that genuinely cares, with flexible check-out times depending on availability, this kind of tranquillity is precisely what the doctor ordered.
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King Fisher Village, Santiago. Photo: Courtesy of CN Traveller and King Fisher Village.
If you're in the mood for a beach holiday, look no further than the impressive King Fisher Village. Boasting outstanding white sandy beaches and abundant palm trees, it is a charming small town resort with extensive town offerings. Located to the North of Santiago, the largest of the 10 Cape Verde Islands, it is aptly named “the perfect hideaway by the sea.” If you consider yourself a water baby, then this is the trip you didn't know you needed. From surfing to diving to fishing, this retreat encourages guests to become one with the water and experience the healing powers that it bears. Should you seek a change in scenery, the location also offers hikes around its beautiful grounds. And should you wish to spend an afternoon learning to play guitar or visiting a museum, the staff will be happy to facilitate your every need.
The first and probably best thing about the isles is the year-round summer. Although temperatures have seen a slight shift from their typical due to global warming, lows can reach a minimum of 20 degrees and a maximum of 30 degrees at the latter end of the year. Paired with endless scenic ocean views, what more could you wish for. So whether it's a family holiday, a romantic vacation for two, or a solo retreat, this beach holiday has all the ingredients for the perfect back to nature recipe.
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Sanctuary Chief's Camp, Botswana. Photo: Courtesy of Sanctuary Chief's Camp.
Formerly the royal hunting playground of Chief Moremi and located in the Okavango Delta in Botswana, this luxury camp is unlike any other. Found within the boundaries of the Moremi Game Reserve, it continues to be a wildlife sanctuary. Guests arriving by boat or, recently, more commonly by helicopter, are almost guaranteed to spot the Big Five on the game drives. Being greeted by a herd of elephants while you sip on your morning coffee is an otherworldly experience that is the norm in these parts. More wildlife-bound activities include the Mokoro excursions, where a trained local guide takes guests on a canoe ride through the flooded areas of the Delta with water lilies sitting pretty on top of the water as you flow into a stream of rainwater.
Although the amenities alone are enough to convince anyone seeking a break from busy city life, the heart of the sanctuary has seen it being rated as the top safari location in Botswana. The game reserve has recently reintroduced rhinos into the 60km long area and currently holds the highest number of elephants within any game reserve on the continent. Over and above providing their incredible hospitality, maintaining the wildlife within the reserve's bounds takes top priority. “Here at Sanctuary Chief's Camp, we promise a unique attention to detail and strong environmental and philanthropic credentials to ensure the ultimate luxury safari experience,” reads their brochure.
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