The African safari experience has long been a pinnacle of adventure and luxury for travellers seeking more than just a holiday. The story of Hideaways Africa begins around 30 years ago with Garth Jenman. Hideaways Africa grew from Jenman’s initial camping expeditions to a collection of exclusive lodges across Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa, and Zambia. The company’s mission has outgrown tourism and turned its eye towards creating profound, meaningful connections through the raw beauty Africa possesses (in spades we might add).
How Hideaways creates magical experiences
Hideaways specialises in creating safari encounters that are unique to each guest. What sets them apart? Their access to private concessions within national parks, allowing experiences other lodges cannot compete with.
The company’s approach means that guides are not just animal-tracking experts but storytellers who bring the surrounding landscapes to life. They help guests understand the intricate ecosystems and animal behaviours within the delicate balance of wildlife. Are you going to be tracking leopard movements? Identifying rare bird species? Each safari becomes an immersive educational journey that connects travellers deeply with the natural world.
The ‘Unique Properties’ of Hideaways
2024 was a remarkable year of growth for Hideaways, with six new properties added to their portfolio:
- Bumbusi Wilderness Camp
- Mhara River Camp
- Mariners Moon
- Mankwe Tented Retreat
- Cape Point Hideaway
- Camelthorn Bush Camp
Each location is carefully chosen for its potential, unique ecological significance, and ability to provide guests with experiences. From the riverine forests of Mana Pools to the vast plains of Hwange, every camp offers a different window into the continent’s biodiversity.
Understanding the Costs
Safari experiences with Hideaways range from approximately R5 000 to R25 000 per person per night. This includes luxury accommodation, meals, game drives, and unique experiences like:
- Specialised wildlife tracking
- Photography safaris
- Cultural village visits
- Night drives on private concessions
Budget-conscious travellers can find off-peak season rates with discounts of up to 30 per cent.
The pricing structure is designed to be transparent and inclusive. Most rates include not just accommodation and meals, but also guided experiences, park fees, and often some specialised activities like guided walks or photography workshops.
The Hideaways Philosophy
As Garth Jenman, Director of Hideaways Africa, puts it: “Every lodge, every camp is designed to immerse you in the raw beauty of Africa, while still wrapping you in comfort. We don’t just offer beds in beautiful places – we prepare experiences that awaken something deep within you.”
The company also actively supports conservation and local communities. Every stay directly contributes to protecting these incredible landscapes and helping those who call them home. They actively work with local communities to create economic opportunities, support conservation efforts, and preserve traditional knowledge. Through endeavours like community-based tourism and educational programs, the company guarantees that the benefits of safari tourism spread far beyond the boundaries of their lodges.
Hideaways offers access to some of Africa’s most iconic wilderness areas. Are you a wildlife enthusiast? A nature photographer? Just a regular person seeking a genuine travel experience? As Amy Karlsen from the Hideaways team states: “A safari isn’t just about ticking off the Big Five. It’s about slowing down, listening to the sounds of the bush, watching elephants at sunset, and sharing stories by the fire. It’s about feeling the pulse of Africa in every moment.”
Contact Details and Safari Packages
Contact Details:
- Phone: +27 (0) 21 671 7729
- WhatsApp: +27 (0) 724 903 287
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://hideawaysafrica.com/
Recommended Safari Packages
Top Budget-Friendly Options
Hwange and Victoria Falls Safari
- 4 Nights
- Zimbabwe
- From $1 677
Victoria Falls Golden Safari
- 5 Nights
- Zimbabwe and Botswana
- From $2 759
Luxury Extended Experiences
Best of Botswana
- 11 Nights
- Multiple National Parks
- From $7 947
Highlights of Zimbabwe Superior Package
- 9 Nights
- Multiple Locations
- From $7 069
Unique Specialised Safaris
Zimbabwe Birding Expedition
- 5 Nights
- Hwange National Park & Victoria Falls
- From $3 157
Rhino Track & Trail Safari
- 6 Nights
- Matobo National Park, Hwange, Victoria Falls
- From $2 859
