East Africa | Gorillas & More

The legendary Virunga Mountains in the north-east are home to volcanoes, swathes of cloud forest and half the world’s total population of endangered mountain gorillas. The primates of Rwanda are unparalleled, and Wilderness Bisate is the perfect base for mountain gorilla trekking. This thrilling excursion takes place from Volcanoes National Park headquarters where guests are allocated to one of the twelve habituated gorilla families for a one-hour awe-inspiring encounter.

* Gorilla Trekking Permits, per person, at an additional cost.

Credit: Wilderness

Credit: Wilderness

Credit: Wilderness

View this beautifully-coloured primate, which is endemic to the area and lives in groups of between 30 to 80 individuals in the Park’s bamboo forest.

Set on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, and an easy drive to the park gate, Wilderness Bisate is located in a vantage point that feels part of the park, offering breathtaking views of six volcanoes, including Bisoke, Karisimbi and Mikeno.

A full-day guided hike to the summit of Mount Bisoke (3 711 metres) can be strenuous, however, is well worth the effort, offering sweeping views of the rainforest and crater lake. Explore the diversity of habitats, and visibly discover the flourishing wildlife.

One of the Wilderness Bisate agronomists will show you around the tree nursery and help you plant a sapling as part of our visionary reforestation project. Includes a visit to the Bamboo Greenhouse to see our greater indigenous tree nursery efforts.

Guided visit to the nearby community and members of the cooperative, including the farmers who cultivate and sell their vegetables to Wilderness Bisate.

A spectacular, challenging hike to Dian Fossey’s burial site and the ruins of her Karisoke Research Centre, set in the saddle of Bisoke and Karisimbi volcanoes at an elevation of some 3 000 metres.

Bisate Kwanda accommodates early arrivals and later departures, providing more flexibility with transfers in and out of the lodge. Further enhancing our guest experience, the offering at Bisate Kwanda will allow guests to shower, change, have a light meal, visit the Wilderness Bisate Boutique stocked with items from Rwanda (purchases at an additional cost), have a massage (treatments at an additional cost), or simply relax in the informal lounge with fireplace, while enjoying the sweeping views overlooking the organic vegetable garden and the reforestation efforts towards Volcanoes National Park.

Kwanda is a Kinyarwanda word meaning growth or expansion; a place to gather; a gift – all three of which perfectly sum up the day lounge’s unique offering. Located close to the main lodge, tucked out of sight, Bisate Kwanda has local craftspeople to thank for its uniquely Rwandan flavour. From hand-tooled wooden utensils and food boards to delicate crockery, striking entrance floors and hallways, volcanic rock walls and facings, hand-woven baskets and placemats, and garden pots, everything has been designed and hand-crafted by Rwandans to create a truly authentic ambience.

* All Volcanoes National Park activities require permits (per person) at additional cost. The private gorilla trek is at a further additional cost.

Established in 1967, the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund works to protect and study gorillas, and their habitats, as well as to empower people who live near their forest home. With a team of hundreds working in Rwanda and the DRC, the Fossey Fund is the world’s longest-running and largest organisation dedicated entirely to gorilla conservation.

In 2022, the organisation moved to its first permanent, purpose built home, the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. Nestled in a beautiful, reforested landscape near the Volcanoes National Park it is worth visiting, with a stop at the campus easy to add during a stay at Wilderness Bisate or Wilderness Sabyinyo.

https://gorillafund.org/ellencampus/

* No additional costs besides the entrance fee, and may be experienced either on arrival or departure, or in the afternoon after gorilla trekking.

Credit: Wilderness

Credit: Wilderness

Credit: Wilderness

Wilderness Rwanda is set to elevate the concept of holistic travel with the unveiling of a dedicated wellness centre – The Sanctuary at Wilderness Bisate. Embraced by the country's volcanic highlands and natural beauty of the forested foothills just outside Volcanoes National Park, Bisate's Sanctuary is a serene haven for gorilla trekkers and wellness seekers alike. The Sanctuary has been designed to offer a grounding space where guests can re-centre and unwind. A heated, salt-water indoor lap pool provides both relaxation and quiet reflection, while a steam room and ice bath introduce the revitalising benefits of contrast therapy. Cocoon-like meditation pods offer moments of solitude and stillness. A fully equipped gym and yoga area allow guests to continue movement practices at their own pace, while dedicated body treatment rooms offer signature massages and beauty treatments, including head massages, hair washing, and blow-drying.

Wilderness Credit: Wilderness

Wilderness Credit: Wilderness

Wilderness Credit: Wilderness

Journeying into the heart of Africa’s most untouched and remote wilderness areas, Singita’s twice-daily game drives present the opportunity for intimate connections with nature and discovering the raw beauty of the continent’s most magnificent creatures up close.

Each tailormade exploration with your personal Field Guide celebrates the freedom to spend unfiltered time in wide-open spaces and while no two Singita game drives are ever the same, you are bound to be enchanted by vivid encounters with Africa’s most iconic wildlife – which flourish and thrive through the tireless efforts of Singita’s non-profit conservation Funds & Trusts.

From rolling grasslands where giraffe and elephant meander in peace to riverine woodlands where shy creatures suddenly appear from lush foliage; and from rocky outcrops favoured by big cats to hidden valleys where large herds of antelope roam and graze, each game drive traverses landscapes that are as rich in scenery as they are in wildlife.

As the warmth of the African sun slowly starts to light up the treetops and grasslands, our early morning game drives are filled with an energy that’s simultaneously exciting and soothing. Never knowing what’s around the next corner, the sense of adventure for what lies ahead for the rest of the day welcomes a continuous unfolding of magic as the bush wakes up to reveal its secrets.

And when the sun dips on the horizon, bringing the day to a close with a brightly painted sky, idyllic sundowner stops in exclusive settings encapsulate the romance of safaris deep into the bush. Accompanied by a cool evening breeze and the beauty of the clear night sky above, the tranquil journey back to the lodge often reveals the elusive magic of nocturnal Africa, making for a fitting finale.

Warmth & wisdom

Imparting a wealth of knowledge and intuitively responding to each guest and group’s interests, Singita’s expert Field Guides and Trackers exude an unlimited passion for Africa’s wildlife and wilderness. Their in-depth knowledge of the area – and the inherent role of every plant, insect, bird, mammal, predator and season in its unique ecology – makes every encounter and sighting all the more meaningful, and elevates each connection with nature.

Key Species You Are Likely to See

During your stay at Singita, you are likely to spot a great variety of wildlife, including cheetah, bearded wildebeest, Bat Eared fox, Maasai giraffe, lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and the rare Colobus monkey.

When Is the Peak Time to See the Wildebeest Migration?

There is no real beginning or end to the wildebeest’s constant search for food and water. The only beginning is when calves are born – almost 400,000 wildebeest calves are born during a 6-week period usually between late January and mid-March. The migration path varies from year to year depending on weather and other environmental factors.

What Time of Year Can We See the Wildebeest Migration and in Which Area?

It's difficult to predict exactly where the migrating wildebeest will be in a given month because movements depend so much on weather patterns. Generally over the year the animals move from the wet southern and eastern plains of the Serengeti from November to March through the western and central region to the dryer north of the Serengeti National Park, both north and south of the Mara River, from the end of May through October.

Guests at Singita Grumeti have the opportunity to visit the Environmental Education Centre, which was developed for the young people of the local communities, to meet the students and learn about the programme. The Centre is dedicated to instilling in its students an understanding of the Serengeti Ecosystem and provides education on the rationale behind “protected areas” and on general, local and global environmental issues.

Not your regular curio shop, you will find original treasures that have been gathered from all corners of the African continent. A range of collectable sculptures, home-ware and furnishings will allow you to recreate ‘the safari dream’ within your own home. Artefacts, as well as authentic carvings and jewellery created by local craftsmen are just a few of the treasures you may find to take home as gifts. Amongst beautiful museum quality, fine-art prints and works by some of the most respected artists on the continent, there are many pieces especially designed for Singita. Here too you can find a range of quality branded Singita safari wear.

We offer a worldwide shipping service so you may make your purchases at the lodges with the option to send them straight home.

As one of Africa’s most influential buyers of wine, Singita’s cellars are home to some of the most sought-after private reserves and vintage wines the continent has to offer. Whether you are a connoisseur or just enjoy the occasional glass of wine, our experienced sommeliers delight in introducing guests to a vast selection of varietals from all over the world.

Through Singita Premier Wine Direct guests may purchase wines from our cellars: either to be taken home at the end of their trip or conveniently delivered to their door. As an addition to cellar purchases, we have secured allocations of highly limited, sought-after wines, including ‘Icons’, ‘Single Vineyard’ and ‘Limited Release’ wines, directly from leading wineries in South Africa. Stored in temperature-controlled cellars, these wines are unlikely to be available anywhere else.

Offering the luxury of unfiltered time and space, the African wilderness is the ultimate setting for complete unwinding, while the continent’s healing energies are encapsulated in rituals that nourish and nurture.

At Singita, our enduring purpose to restore the land and its wildlife extends to offering healing experiences to our guests at every touchpoint. The dedicated treatments in our massage spaces tap into the profound benefits of indigenous wisdoms and essential oils that relax, replenish and revive. Each tailor-made therapy can be customised and timed to preference, ensuring a completely personalised experience.

The massage menu has been designed to immerse guests into their beautiful surroundings, and all treatments incorporate that peace and vibrant energy to revitalise and nourish the soul.

Fully equipped fitness centres are available for guests’ convenience. Each facility provides picturesque views of the bush, allowing you to keep an eye on the action outside while you work out.

There are two pools at the main lodge area at Singita Faru Faru Lodge as well as a private infinity pool at the lodge’s private villa suite.

Visitors to Singita Grumeti in Tanzania have the unique opportunity of chartering a hot air balloon for an unforgettable ride over the treetops of the Serengeti. This once-in-a-lifetime experience takes game viewing to new heights and gives photography buffs an amazing new perspective on the world below. You’ll skim above the grasslands and acacia forests, and at other times ascend to 1 000 feet to see the enormity of the reserve. The Singita Balloon Safari is a romantic and evocative way of experiencing the wilderness as you gracefully and silently glide over the plains, observing the wide variety of wildlife below.

Visit the SGF Canine Unit to meet the handlers and learn more about how this specialized anti-poaching unit works to protect this iconic region in the Serengeti. Watch as the dogs use their skills to detect a piece of wildlife contraband hidden for the demonstration. If the dogs are working on tracking you may be able to experience their ability to track a person through the bush. These are pre-organized training sessions and no guest will experience any law enforcement operations for legal and safety reasons. Due to the sensitive and costly nature of the program, a donation amount of $500 per person has been set. A minimum of 2 and maximum of 6 guests is allowed per demonstration.

Daily game drives with professional guides and trackers provide the perfect opportunity to get up close to Africa’s incredible animals, while late afternoon drives reveal the elusive magic of nocturnal Africa. Our game drives are all conducted in state-of-the-art Land Cruisers, each accommodating a maximum of six guests. The location of Singita Mara River Tented Camp provides excellent opportunities to view the river crossings of the annual wildebeest migration. As the Lamai triangle forms part of the Serengeti Mara ecosystem, you will experience year-round concentrations of plains game, big cats, elephant and enormous populations of crocodile and hippo in the Mara River.

Singita Mara River Tented Camp offers a plunge pool at the main camp area, the perfect place for a relaxing dip under the vast African sky.

Singita is recognised as one of Africa’s most influential collectors of wine, with an extensive cellar showcasing a premium selection of wines, including some of the continent’s most sought-after private reserves, including exclusive release, limited single vineyard and rare auction wines. It’s safe to say that wine is a key ingredient of the unique Singita experience.

The Singita wine list has received numerous awards of excellence, the top Diners’ Club Wine List accolade as well as recognition from countless other local and international organisations.

François Rautenbach is responsible for this excellence as the director of Singita Premier Wine, he manages the selection, purchase, storage, and service of all the wines at Singita’s lodges. François also manages Singita Premier Wine Direct which allows guests to order their favourite wines from their safari to enjoy at home. With the Singita Premier Wine Direct service, wines can either be specially packed for guests as checked luggage or shipped directly to a guest’s home.

Personalised wine tastings within the unique ambience of each lodge’s own temperature-controlled cellar are a true guest favourite, for connoisseurs and casual tasters alike. Singita’s experienced sommeliers are able to guide guests through a variety of wine styles, years and cultivars to find the wines most suited to their individual tastes.

Offering the luxury of unfiltered time and space, the African wilderness is the ultimate setting for complete unwinding, while the continent’s healing energies are encapsulated in rituals that nourish and nurture.

At Singita, our enduring purpose to restore the land and its wildlife extends to offering healing experiences to our guests at every touchpoint. The dedicated treatments in our massage spaces tap into the profound benefits of indigenous wisdoms and essential oils that relax, replenish and revive. Each tailor-made therapy can be customised and timed to preference, ensuring a completely personalised experience.

The massage menu has been designed to immerse guests into their beautiful surroundings, and all treatments incorporate that peace and vibrant energy to revitalize and nourish the soul.

Singita guests can experience the Serengeti from an elevated viewpoint aboard a hot air balloon. Partnering with our preferred supplier in the region, Serengeti Balloon Safaris, this experience offers guests a unique way to experience the Serengeti at sunrise.

This activity can be booked on arrival at the lodge, however, it is recommended that this activity is pre-booked through Singita reservations prior to arrival.

Credit: Singita

Credit: Singita

Credit: Singita

As andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is situated in the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, game drives take a significant amount of time to reach the crater’s floor and return to the lodge. This means that you will most likely be offered the choice of one morning or afternoon game drive per day. You will descend into the crater through a lush highland forest, with magnificent birdlife to be spotted among the different tree species. Once on the grassy crater floor, you may discover a large variety of grazing herbivores, as well as the predators that are attracted by this abundant supply of prey. Depending on the time of year, you may see huge flocks of pink flamingo around the shores of the shallow Lake Magadi, while the surrounding swamp is inhabited by hippo. While the Ngorongoro Crater boasts an incredible abundance of wildlife, you will most likely also encounter a great number of other vehicles during the high season, especially at high interest sightings. On the other hand, the rainy season is much quieter, allowing for a far more private game drive. Safari vehicles are closed, with glass windows and a pop-up roof. Off-road driving is not permitted.

Explore the breathtaking surrounds of the archaeological site of Olduvai Gorge, the cradle of mankind, best known as home of the earliest remains of homo sapiens, discovered by Mary Leaky. Move on to crescent-shaped volcanic ash dunes knows as Shifting Sands, which slowly creep across the desert floor in response to prevailing winds.

Additional costs apply

After your scenic descent into the Ngorongoro Crater, enjoy a tasty hot lunch served in breathtaking surroundings at a private picnic spot on the Crater floor. Personalised butler service combines with breathtaking surroundings in the midst of the wildlife action.

Minimum 10 guests. Minimum one months notice required.
Weather dependant and subject to availability of picnic site. Excludes Crater fees.
Additional costs apply

The dining area is magically transformed into an elegant banquet fit for a king and queen. The long, chandelier-lit dining table, adorned with white linen, candles and bouquets of roses, is surrounded by a carpet of brightly coloured rose petals. This is the height of elegance and romance. At each guest’s place setting, a single rose sits on top of a beautifully presented menu card. A sumptuous meal, prepared by expert chefs, is then served by attentive butlers and includes a glass of French champagne.

Minimum 24 guests. Two weeks notice period.
Additional costs apply

Make a toast to the setting sun with a refreshing sundowner cocktail at Gorgor (walking distance from the lodge), on the rim of the Crater. You will also be accompanied by 20 Maasai warriors who will serenade you with their traditional chants and songs. Expect unforgettable views and exceptional photographic opportunities.

Minimum 6 guests; maximum 20. One month’s notice required. Weather dependant.
Additional costs apply

Experiencing the rhythm of African music is one of the most unforgettable experiences. This group of local drummers provides great entertainment to guests, whilst also sharing their unique culture. The traditional music of Tanzanian cultures is given its melodic drive by a marimba (also called a mbira), a type of instrument that is unique to Africa. Weather dependent and exclusivity cannot be guaranteed. Performance takes place on the lawn in front of lodge. Minimum one months notice required.

Available at an additional charge.

From the beautiful forests that surround the Empakaai Crater walls to impressive strangler figs and fantastic birdlife, this energetic full day hiking adventure promises guests an up close experience with nature.

Highlights:
• Explore the Empakaai Crater floor and the water’s edge
• Birdwatcher’s paradise
• Potential sightings of barred tailed trogon, grey headed negro finch, greater and lesser flamingo, steppe eagles and crowned eagles

Maximum 6 guests. The walk into and out of the crater is on a steep grade and at a high altitude and therefore is suitable for relatively fit and agile individuals. Full day hiking adventure.

Additional costs apply

A panoramic half day walk through Maasai villages and open grazing land that allows guests to enjoy the culture and lifestyle of the Maasai. Along with authentic culture, this walk also offers spectacular views of Lake Eyasi.

Highlights:
• The inspiring Africa Foundation Mokilail School project can be visited en route
• The walk can be tailored to finish at a viewing point overlooking Lake Eyasi - perfect for sundowners
• A unique opportunity to interact with the Maasai

Maximum 6 guests. Half day panoramic walking route.
Additional costs apply

This popular late afternoon walk along the western rim of the Ngorongoro Crater allows guests to experience various natural habitats, including the acacia woodland, thick lush forests and open grasslands.

Highlights:
• Excellent birding route with sightings of golden winged sunbirds, African cytrill, white eyed slaty flycatcher and mountain buzzard
• The only place in the area to see Schalow’s wheatear and mountain white-eye
• A chance to see the Maasai and their cattle en route

Maximum 6 guests. Cannot be pre-booked.
Available at an additional charge

Beautifully romantic and exclusive, a private dinner in the lodge’s wine store is perfect for an evening spent with a loved one or as a more intimate activity to spend with friends and family. Tuck into a delectable menu in the beautiful surrounds of the andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s wine store. This dinner includes a small bottle of French champagne as well as a bottle of wine, of your choice, for your special evening.

Minimum 2 guests; maximum 6.

Additional costs apply

After an adventure-filled day of game viewing, enjoy an unforgettable pre-dinner drink in front of the lodge, accompanied by the beautiful traditional singing and chanting of 20 Maasai warriors. This cultural activity is perfect for groups or families.

2 weeks’ notice required.

Additional costs apply

Perfect for celebrating a special occasion or even just to toast an incredible safari, this activity offers the opportunity to indulge in a decadent champagne tasting in andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s beautiful wine store. Sip on a delightful French champagne and compare it with a renowned South African Methode Cap Classique and sparkling wines. This activity also includes delicious finger snacks.

Additional costs apply

Exceptional for the epicurean, this Pairing Dinner activity will allow you to enjoy a private evening that includes a mouth-watering five course dinner menu in the andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s beautiful wine store. Each course will be accompanied with one of the lodge’s exclusive wines from the cellar.

Additional costs apply

Beautifully romantic and exclusive, a private dinner in the lodge’s wine store is perfect for an evening spent with a loved one or as a more intimate activity to spend with friends and family. Tuck into a delectable menu in the beautiful surrounds of the andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s wine store. This dinner includes a small bottle of French champagne as well as a bottle of wine, of your choice, for your special evening.

Additional costs apply

A fascinating cultural highlight now being offered to guests visiting andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is a full-day, off-the-beaten-track adventure with the Hadzabe people. These ancient hunter-gatherers inhabit the land near Lake Eyasi, and their traditional unchanged way of life and obvious harmony with the earth are spellbinding. Accompanied throughout by an andBeyond ranger, guests have the opportunity to engage with the bushmen and learn all about their time-honoured hunting techniques, survival skills, food preparation and cultural norms. A veritable step back in time, this is an undeniably authentic cultural journey into rural Tanzania that reveals the untold world of these charismatic people. This adventure must be pre-booked and is not suitable for children under 12 years of age.

With a dedicated game ranger and tracker, as well as a private game drive vehicle, guests have the luxury of tailor-making their own safari experience; choosing their own game drive times and spending as much time as they want at sightings.

andBeyond’s WILDchild programme, designed especially for children visiting our safari lodges and camps in Africa, is filled with fun, interactive activities that offer opportunities to learn and discover new experiences and cultures. Deeply rooted in the love for the African bush, it not only creates a series of unforgettable moments for the whole family but forges strong bonds between our young guests, our planet and its people.

Visit a Maasai Village and immerse yourself into the local culture. Learn how to make fire the traditional way, get invited into a Maasai manyatta (home) and visit the Maasai school for the younger children.

Be moved by a sensational performance of traditional music, singing and dancing at andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. Tuck into a selection of mouth-watering snacks and savour refreshing pre-dinner drinks while a group of 20 Maasai warriors, in full traditional dress, perform a series of stirring songs; with the spectacular view the Crater as your backdrop. Afterwards, enjoy a toe-tapping, rhythmical performance as African drummers take over and thrill with their expressive beats, dance moves and acrobatic feats.

Enjoy half a day with the KopeLion team and discover how these dedicated conservationists are fostering lion-people coexistence within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA). Working closely with local communities, they are creating a sustainable ‘corridor of tolerance’ that will re-connect the divided Crater and Serengeti lion sub-populations, ensuring their long-term survival. This insightful experience will give you the opportunity to understand the challenges and complexities of wildlife and human coexistence.

Accompanied by a KopeLion team member, you’ll be driven through Maasai villages, and a diversity of habitats, from the lush Crater rim, through sparse grasslands, and into a beautiful secluded forest spot. Here you’ll meet one of the KopeLion ‘Ilchokuti’ (lion guardians) who will talk about his work that entails both working with the local communities, and protecting lions.

Unwind after a thrilling day of game viewing with a bottle of fine wine and share some time with the KopeLion conservationists. This intimate setting lends itself perfectly to an interactive presentation by a member of the KopeLion team, followed by an exchange of questions and answers about the invaluable work they are doing to eliminate human-lion conflict along a ‘corridor of tolerance’ linking the Crater to the Serengeti. This is a perfect opportunity to get a full understanding of the work they are doing, and their commitment to a sustainable solution

Tonight, your dinner will be hosted by the lodge’s General Manager who will offer more insight about andBeyond's philanthropic investments.

You are required to create a personal affirmation to reclaim an unconditional acceptance and love for yourself and reconnect with your soul to release all negative energy from deep within. A unique blend of
aromatherapy and plant oils chosen specifically by you, combining deep tissue massage techniques to bring relaxation to tired, aching muscles allowing the body and soul to return to perfect equilibrium. Choose from a blend of aromatherapy oils to either destress, hydrate, relax or detox.

Full body: 90 min
Back and Neck only: 30 mi

African Shea Butter has been long hailed for its powerful healing and nourishing effects. Relaxing nourishing and energizing this full body massage targets specific areas or tension and muscular discomfort employing deep tissue techniques where pain is dramatically alleviated.

Full Body and Scalp 75min
Back, Neck and Scalp 45min

Re-awaken your Soul with a combination of powerful African aromatherapy oils and botanical body balms combining traditional African Calabash and Bamboo tools with human touch and rhythmic movement in this indulgent ritual, the ultimate source of relaxation to bring balance to your mind, body and soul in the heart of Africa, the cradle of mankind, through touch and vibrational sound therapy using ancient sound tools and techniques.

Choose African Potato for its Ancient Healing powers, Marula Neroli for a Sensory Indulgence, Kalahari Melon for its Hydrating Properties, Mongongo Nut to Detox or Cinnamon and Orange to Firm and Tone

Full body and Scalp: 90min
Back and Scalp: 60min

Re-awaken your senses through gentle exfoliation and envelope your body with inspirational blends of natural African essential oils and botanicals. We start the treatment with a dry polish followed by a full body polish to alleviate tension and renew skin. We then do the wrap and an indulgent full body massage using our powerful collection of indigenous African oils and balms.

Choose African Potato for its Ancient Healing powers, Marula Neroli for a Sensory Indulgence, Kalahari Melon for its Hydrating Properties, Mongongo Nut to Detox or Cinnamon & Orange to Firm and Tone

90min

Maasai Celebration Journey
Healing Earth has embodied the vibrant fusion of colorful beadwork preserving the Maasai Culture of the past, present and future within the Maasai Celebration Journey.

Our Journey starts with a Maasai Foot Ritual, where salt crystals infused with plant extracts are used to cleanse away outside elements, ensuring a positive and continual flow of energy within the client-therapist Journey.

The journey continues with a beautiful body cleanse, using a refreshing Healing Earth Tanga-Orange Polish mixed with indigenous oil extracts to thoroughly cleanse the skin. A delightful, relaxation massage therapy follows with our Maasai Body Butter, enriched with African Shea Butter, Coconut Oil and a rich spice blend that leaves your body, mind and soul renewed and invigorated.
To end your Journey, we call on the Rain with our Ancient Maasai Thank You Celebration to signify the end of our signature therapy and as symbolism of the Maasai Culture where rain is symbolic as an essential life giving force of new beginnings, prosperity and rejuvenation.

Clients embrace the Maasai World and is gifted with a Jewel of Maasai beadwork which they intuitively choose thereby holding a lasting memory and deep-rooted connection with the African Soil and its people.

90mins

Melt away stress and rejuvenate your tired legs with this foot treatment which will leave your feet feeling hydrated, softened and silky smooth, ready to conquer the African bush. Your feet is soaked in an African Joy energizing salt soak, scrubbed with rejuvenating peppermint and eucalyptus scrub and embalmed in African Shea Butter. Relax as you receive a shoulder and scalp massage and finish the treatment with a cooling foot gel to put the final spring in your step

30min
60min

The ultimate hand ritual. Your hands are polished with a pure Peppermint and Aloe Vera polish and cuticles restored with indigenous healing oils. Your hands are then embalmed with African Shea Butter. Relax as you receive a shoulder and scalp massage and finish the treatment with a nourishing Pinotage hand oil massage, leaving your hands feeling soft and rejuvenated.

30min
60min

A WildChild needs pampering too

Soak those tired little feet in Healing Earth’s Lavender and Jasmine bubble bath, followed by a Mango Orange scrub, toe nail grooming and mini foot tickle and rub. To recharge your energy a 15min back, neck and shoulder massage with pure Aloe Vera Gel will guarantee to send our budding rangers off on their next adventure in the African Bush.

Treatment 30min

Armed with a snorkel, mask, and fins, step directly from your Banda into the ocean to explore the vibrant coral reefs encircling the island. With the added option of full-face masks, you can fully immerse yourself in this underwater world, taking your snorkelling fishing experience to new depths.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Catering for every diver, from novice to experienced, Mnemba Island’s dive sites vary in topography, substrate and marine life, making for an exclusive and varied underwater adventure like no other.

With most dive sites a short 10 to 20-minute boat ride from the island – a few of which can even be dived directly from shore; our PADI-certified dive masters and instructors know the reefs around Mnemba Island intimately and take divers to sites best suited to their specific interests. For non-divers, an introductory PADI Discover Scuba Diving course is available, providing the incredible opportunity to see the vast majority of what the islet has to offer in the first 12 m (39 ft) of water. Other PADI-certified experiences and courses for divers from ages eight and up are also on offer.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

The Dive Centres at Mnemba Island offers a full range of PADI-accredited courses for those looking to advance their diving qualifications.

PADI BUBBLEMAKER & DISCOVER SCUBA
This introductory diving course is perfect for little ones or adults who are keen to explore the fascinating underwater world of diving, facilitated by experienced, multilingual professionals.

MANDATORY REFRESHER DIVER COURSE
This course is mandatory for any diver with less than 25 dives, who has not logged a dive in the last six-months, or any diver with 26 – 100 dives, who has not logged a dive in the last year (12-months).

PADI OPEN WATER DIVER COURSE
Learn to scuba dive independently in buddy teams to a depth of 18 m (59 ft). This four-dive course takes three to four days, where upon conclusion, guests will receive a lifetime global certification.

PADI ADVANCED OPEN WATER DIVER COURSE
This dive course only applies to already certified Open Water divers. After successfully completing five dives, the course will certify divers to dive down to a maximum depth of 30 m (98 ft).

SINGLE TRAINING DIVE & ADVENTURE TEST
This is ideal for those who would like to try specialised dives, such as deep dives and drift dives. This course will be credited towards your Adventure Diver or Advanced Open Water diver certification.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Explore the warm Indian Ocean waves in utter tranquility in a tandem deep-sea glassbottom kayak. Ask one of Mnemba’s Dive Instructors for a quick tutorial session or set off with your partner on the quiet waters protected by the island’s surrounding reefs. Paddle along the shoreline, admiring its shifting features, or venture farther into the ocean's depths in hopes of encountering dolphins or sea turtles. Combine exercise with underwater marvels, offering a unique perspective of the island.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Experience an exhilarating aqua tic adventure aboard an inflatable stand-up paddle board (SUP).

Glide gracefully on tranquil waters as you master the art of balance and exploration. Whether you're a beginner seeking leisure or an enthusiast craving a workout, SUPing offers a unique perspective and connection to the sea. Perfect for the calm waters off Mnemba Island, this activity immerses you in your surroundings, providing exceptional views of the ocean waters and the Mnemba horizon.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Channel your energy, balance your chakras, and increase your self-awareness against the backdrop of
the pristine ocean during a yoga class. Skillfully adapted to accommodate all levels of experience, daily group yoga classes can be enjoyed in the Wellness Banda on the yoga deck, along with other restorative healing sessions such as singing bowl meditation.

*Private yoga sessions can be arranged at an additional cost.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

From daily yoga classes and sound bath therapy to specialised alternative therapeutic methods and meditative practices, Mnemba Island seeks to provide a holistic healing experience. Using only 100% natural Healing Earth products, pamper yourself with a soul-soothing massage in the Wellness Banda or book a private in-room wellness treatment in the comfort of your Beach Banda.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Give in to the lure of total isolation and pretend that you are marooned on a deserted island, albeit one where your personal butler is perpetually on hand to cater to your every desire! You may catch a fleeting glimpse of your fellow guests as you lounge in the tropical sunshine in your private beach sala or take a leisurely walk around the island. But you can also choose to make the most of your solitude with a private dinner in a secluded forest clearing or enjoy the light-hearted intimacy of a sandcastle dinner set to the sound of the waves gently sighing on the shore.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Families and groups will fall in love with the tranquility of the island. We will only accommodate a maximum of two children under 12-years at Mnemba Island at any given time. Travel to Zanzibar is recommended for children eight-years or older.

ACTIVITIES
Children visiting the lodge can take advantage of the fun-filled and interactive WILDchild programme thatoffers various activities such as:
• Morning walks with turtle monitors to observe turtle nests
• Assist with replanting trees in the island indigenous tree nursery, learning about the various vegetation types that grow in and around the island
• Join the lodge chefs to welcome the local fishermen onshore and check where the catch-of-the day is on the Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI) List
• Assist the Community and Conservation (CNC) Rangers with building coral bases to plant coral
• Learn about the incredible impact initiatives in and around the Mnemba Atoll in the Ocean Without Border’s (OWB) interactive centre
• Get involved in the dive centres helping the OWB staff
• Go snorkelling along the coral reef
• Help in the OWB staff input new and exciting sightings in the Beyond Sightings platform, while learning about the various sea creatures
• Go on beach and nature walks around the island
• Hand-line fishing from a dhow or the beach
• Enjoy sea kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding
• Bake turtle biscuits with the lodge chef

CHILDMINDING
While we don’t have trained childminders, we can offer the services of certain staff members who are wonderful with children. This will be at an additional cost.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Whether you're sailing through calm waters or tackling a bit of surf, Hobie provides an range of adventures for those keen to explore the warm waters surrounding the island.

SEA KAYAKING – HOBIE MIRAGE TANDEM ISLAND KAYAK
Offering a tandem seating arrangement, allowing for two paddlers to share the fun, this unique kayak is designed with stability and ease of use in mind. Ideal for both beginner and experienced kayakers, its sleek design and pedal powered system makes paddling effortless. Its versatile sail also enables kayakers to harness the power of the wind for a more leisurely journey.

SAILING – HOBIE 14 RACE CATAMARAN
An exciting and accessible sailing experience for everyone, with its sleek and aerodynamic design, this catamaran is built for speed. Its lightweight construction, simple rigging system and responsive nature, featuring two hulls connected by a trampoline, allows it to glide effortlessly over the water.

PEDAL BOARDING – HOBIE ECLIPSE MIRACLE PEDAL BOARD
Combing the fun of paddle boarding with the ease of pedalling, pedal boarding offers a new way to traverse the ocean. Standing on a stable platform, using your legs to pedal instead of your arms to paddle (like riding a bike on water), the board’s sturdy structure and user-friendly handlebars for balance and steering, makes pedal boarding easy for everyone for enjoy.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Enjoy the unforgettable experience of watching green turtle hatchlings as they find their way out of their sandy nests and crawl to the ocean.

This excursion begins with guests meeting for sundowners and an introduction to nesting, tag data, weather and the challenging factors hatchlings face. We discuss why &Beyond nurtures these hatchlings and how we help to deter predators, gather data to observe how effective &Beyond Mnemba Island is as a nesting site and how we allow them a more natural start to their journey.

Only one in 1 000 make it to adulthood and it takes roughly 20 years or more before they reach sexual maturity and can start reproducing.

Learn about turtle etiquette, the sensitive ways the turtles are approached, and the conservation aspect: it has taken two decades of dedicated research and monitoring to make this conservation experience possible.

Hatching is a year-round possibility that generally peaks between February and March; however, as hatchings cannot be guaranteed, this experience is not available to pre-book.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Private, personal and participative; this half-day experience offers you the opportunity to explore local village life beyond the crowds on Zanzibar Island and interact with transformative education* and healthcare community projects. You will be hosted by Wild Impact, &Beyond’s long-term community and conservation development partner; for over 25 years &Beyond and Wild Impact (formerly Africa Foundation) have worked together with Zanzibari partner communities and other stakeholders on projects supporting education, healthcare, enterprise development and marine conservation.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

This one-to-two-hour interactive island experience promises a fascinating glimpse into significant conservation efforts on &Beyond Mnemba Island and the behind-the-scenes workings that come with it. You’ll witness the dedication of the marine rangers and staff members, gaining an insight into the island’s delicate ecosystem. This land-based island experience is ideal for non-divers and must be booked in advance (can be booked once on the island). Subject to availability of the Oceans Without Borders (OWB) and marine ranger teams and weather dependent.

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Imagine helping to build a living masterpiece that thrives beneath the ocean’s surface. On this interactive half-day experience, you’ll play a pivotal role in enriching the underwater world around Mnemba Island through the creation of your own unique coral frame and nurturing its growth. It’s important to be aware of the challenges facing coral reefs. By participating in this experience, you’re not just helping to restore the reefs around the island; you’re gaining a deeper understanding of the threats these delicate ecosystems face and the ongoing efforts to protect them.

*All proceeds go toward Wild Impact OWB programme

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond

Credit: andBeyond