Monwana

“To us Monwana is so much more than a lodge. It’s Africa personified. It’s an extension of the earth. It’s a sensory journey. It’s a life-changing experience. It’s a family of people. It’s a promise. It’s a home.

We have had the privilege to travel extensively, and have stayed in some of the world’s most beautiful destinations and hotels. We’ve experienced first-hand the many layers of an exceptional hospitality experience, from linen to service to fine wine. We know what really matters in a holiday, and what the promise of luxury really means.

Our decision to relaunch our own re-imagined Monwana is essentially the best of our lives’ experiences collected over two decades, and brought to life in our favourite place on earth.

This is our home to body, mind and soul.

We’d love it if you would make our home your own.”

[Monwana Founders]

Monwana is located in the private 14,000-hectare Thornybush Game Reserve, and is part of the Greater Kruger National Park, a natural ecosystem of almost 2 million hectares with some of the most exciting wildlife viewing on earth. Here the symbiotic partnership between tourism and conservation has created a spectacular wilderness where animals have learned over time that they are safe and respected. In return, we are invited into their sacred kingdom. Enjoy an unhurried Big 5 private safari – personal and uncrowded, with close contact animal encounters in the safe hands of expert guides and trackers. The wildlife density on this tract of land is quite extraordinary, thanks to the rivers, landscapes and vegetation. Game drives head out early morning, and late afternoon into the evening. Guided bush walks are also on offer.

We’ve designed a lodge to be lived in, where the outside is invited in. Double volume vertical space, massive cathedral windows and doors that open wide mean that you are part of the bush wherever you may be.

The lodge’s facilities have been carefully designed to allow for sociable spaces and privacy in equal measure. Facilities include a lounge, bar, wine cellar, wraparound wooden deck, pool area, gym, spa and safari boutique.

With never more than 8 rooms occupied, with a maximum of 16 guests, Monwana’s environment is always intimate and private. You have the choice between Suites, Residences (Woodland and Savannah), and the exclusive Monwana Villa.

Each of the rooms occupies its own unique space in the African bush, where you will feel as if it is just you in this vast natural habitat. We know how magical the atmosphere is, and have created spaces for you to enjoy it. Recline on the deck, take a shower in the open or cool off in your private plunge pool. Every amenity has been personally tested – from thread count to body lotion to slippers – to ensure every creature comfort is met.

Between the hours when you are out on safari, the choice is utterly yours as to how you experience Monwana. You may choose to be sociable at the poolside or the bar. Or perhaps you’d prefer a moment of your own in quiet reflection in the swing chair on the deck, or reading a good book at the cosy fireside in the lounge?

You’ll surely want to try a private wine tasting in the cellar, and a dinner for two under the stars. Or a personal picnic somewhere special may be more up your alley… Of course there are never enough hours in a day when it comes to healing and revitalising body, mind and spirit in the sanctuary of the spa. a gentle sensual sanctuary of elements, including stone, water, air, metal and wood. Relax completely at the hands of our professional therapists, with nothing but the sound of running water, leaves rustling in the wind or the splash of an antelope drinking from the pond outside your treatment room.