Slow travel isn’t just about taking it easy; it’s about immersing yourself in the culture, environment, and rhythms of a place. For those yearning for an extended escape, the wild offers unparalleled experiences. From the savannas of Kenya to the rugged landscapes of Namibia, here are some extraordinary houses in the wild that promise unforgettable long stays…

Set in the private Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, Khayelitshe House is a secluded oasis in the heart of Zimbabwe’s Matobo Hills. Bordering the Matobo National Park, the exclusive-use villa gets its name from the local Ndebele language – ‘Ekhaya’ and ‘Litshe’, meaning Home in the Rocks. Hidden amongst the ancient granite boulders, it seamlessly blends with the incredible landscape. Fully staffed with a private chef, host, and guide, the villa boasts four en-suite suites, each with amazing views of the famous balancing rocks. 

Located on the banks of the Marico River in South Africa’s iconic Madikwe Game Reserve, Morukuru Family offers a collection of exclusive-use houses designed for privacy and luxury. The houses, including the cosy Owner’s House, family-ready River House, and expansive Farm House, are perfect for families or groups seeking a bespoke safari experience. Each house is fully staffed, ensuring a personalised and hassle-free stay. Owner’s House is a two-bedroom private bush house that’s ideal for couples or a family (with the option to extend to Morukuru River House next door). River House boasts three bedrooms perfect for a family. For bigger groups, the five-bedroom Farm House is ideal for a multi-generational safari. Activities are tailored to guests’ preferences, from game drives and bush walks to fishing and star gazing, making it an ideal destination for extended stays.

A spectacular private safari on the banks of the Chongwe River in Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, Chongwe River House sleeps eight in four spacious ensuite bedrooms. Following the natural lines of the riverbank, Chongwe is inspired by the towering shapes of termite hills and blends perfectly into its setting, offering an incredible view of the escarpment below. The rooms are open to the river, with generous bedrooms and bathrooms that feature innovative waterfall or rainfall showers. A large private swimming pool and shady deck set beneath majestic winterthorn trees also look out onto the magnificent panorama of the Zambezi escarpment. Chongwe House comes fully staffed with a guide, house manager and private chef, allowing guests to set their own pace for their safari. A private vehicle, canoe, boat and armed scout for walking safaris enable guests to choose from a number of ways to explore the beautiful surroundings

On the southern tip of the Kalahari desert is the magnificent Tswalu, offering visitors exclusive access to the largest privately protected wilderness region in South Africa. For an even more bespoke experience, Tarkuni at Tswalu is their exclusive-use, private homestead accommodating up to 10 guests in 5 luxurious suites. When staying at Tarkuni, you will enjoy access to a private host, chef, safari vehicle, guide, and tracker, making every experience totally your own.

Located within the Okonjima Nature Reserve in Namibia, against the breathtaking background of the Omboroko Mountains, The Main House at Okonjima African Villa provides an exclusive retreat surrounded by rugged beauty. The House offers spacious ensuite bedrooms, each boasting an indoor and outdoor bush-shower as well as a beautiful bath-with-a-view. A large sitting room and dining area with an open wood-burning fireplace is a welcoming space for guests to unwind, while an infinity pool and private walkway to an open, shaded ‘sala’ is the ideal spot for birdwatching and afternoon naps. A private host and chef will attend to guests’ every need. The villa is located next door to the AfriCat Foundation, an organisation committed to the conservation of Namibia’s large carnivores. Guests can join adventures like cheetah tracking, leopard viewing, birdwatching, nature walks and Bushman Trails. 

Perched atop a dune plateau in Namibia’s NamibRand Nature Reserve, the Mountain View Suite at Wolwedans offers solitude and serenity like no other. Within Wolwedans’ iconic land of blue skies and endless plains, the Mountain View Suite will leave you feeling as if you are in your own private universe. It’s orientated to enjoy an expansive view down the valley to the mountains in the distance, and offers a spacious en-suite bedroom leading onto a pool deck, allowing you to enjoy the view of the valley to its fullest. With its sweeping views of the desert landscape, stargazing opportunities, and guided nature walks, it provides a quiet, disconnected retreat ideal for long stays.

Ready to arrange your own unforgettable long stay in private African luxury?

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