For many people, the month of November is traditionally associated with giving thanks and being grateful for those things we cherish most. So, with that in mind, our blogs this month will each pay homage to some of things we are most grateful for. It is an opportunity to salute our adventure-seeking guests and warm-hearted staff that are making a meaningful difference to our planet’s land, wildlife and people.
Today, however, we are grateful for change and the ability to continue to wow our discerning guests, some of whom have been travelling with us for 25 years!
In 2013 we officially embarked on an ambitious three-year, USD 31 million lodge investment strategy in order to maintain the high level of world-class luxury accommodation that our guests have come to expect.
With several complex, grand-scale lodge rebuild and refurbishment projects underway at the same time (which is no mean feat), the highly esteemed and celebrated architects, interior designers, builders, one-of-a-kind carpenters, sustainable energy experts and, of course, our incredibly hard-working &Beyond warehouse, logistics and lodge teams all pulled together and we are tremendously proud of the results.
In addition to the extensive, and already award-winning, rebuilds of some of our most iconic lodges, the vast majority of our properties across Africa also received glamourous makeovers and touch-ups.
And so, on this #TransformationTuesday, we invite you to join us on a visual ‘before and after’ journey through some of our most exciting lodge transformations. Picture yourself here…!
1. Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, Kenya
Building on its history of timeless African safari elegance, the iconic &Beyond Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp was completely rebuilt and exquisitely redesigned to further enhance its signature elements of romance and nostalgia, as well as to celebrate its panoramic views of the game-filled Masai Mara plains.
With a strong emphasis on guest privacy, the new camp layout maximises the uninterrupted views ensuring that each tented suite enjoys its very own private Mara experience; the luxury tents overlooking the endless plains and the superior tents boasting views of the Sabaringo Forest. The tents have comfortable built-in daybeds where guests can relax and take in the spectacular scenery, as well as large bathrooms with double vanities, generous showers and separate “loos with a view”.
As guests arrive at &Beyond Kichwa Tembo, they are instantly welcomed by the commanding view. The spacious guest areas incorporate split-level spaces where guests can relax and unwind. The different layers can accommodate high guest volumes in peak season, yet still provide a sense of intimacy during quieter times. The large windows invite the Mara inside, making it feel like part of the guest area.
Simple yet contemporary, the Maasai-inspired lodge is elegant and timeless, firmly entrenching &Beyond Kichwa Tembo as the unrivalled luxury tented camp of its size in the greater Mara.
Before and After
years