We are always excited about a new offering from the world of luxury safaris, so the arrival of Asilia Africa’s newest, Jabali Ridge, has got us ogling. This is architecturally unique, alluring, and utterly luxurious, from its magnificent location on a boulder-strewn koppie, to its dramatic infinity pool with baobab views, and its seamlessly blended 8 suites, which are made of natural materials and camouflage perfectly against the granite landscape. In addition to 8 luxury suites (each sleeping 2 people), Jabali Ridge Private House offers exclusive accommodation to groups and families in 2 master bedrooms and a twin room.
The lodge opened its doors in September this year, inviting guests to this mountaintop retreat overlooking the vastness of Ruaha National Park. The intelligent design of Jabali Ridge makes it almost invisible on the landscape, surrounded by granite boulders, and among the baobab trees that make this region so special. The bedrooms are built of natural timber, woven textiles, and dynamic Louvered shutters, which slide open or closed to suit guest preference during different times of day. The shuttered walls are features themselves, acting as cool ventilation passages on warm days, and sealing to enclose the rooms at night.
King size beds offer indulgence for afternoon siestas and spacious comfort at night, while ensuite bathrooms are equipped with rainshowers from which a view of the surroundings can be enjoyed. Private decks with loungers enhance the space in which guests can relax and admire the Ruaha scenery, while a Spa offers even more in terms of safari pampering. And did we mention the rim-flow pool that spills out between the boulders and onto the endless plains below? Well, there’s that too.
In terms of safari experience, Tanzania is world renowned. Ruaha National Park is vast, and it is where 10% of the world’s wild lion population resides. Mega prides of about 20 lions are known to patrol these lands, while the landscape is also perfect cheetah territory. Elephants dominate Ruaha, while buffalo, giraffe, sable and roan are among the abundant wildlife populations scattered throughout the area, and around the Mwabusi River, which is a hotspot nearby.
Game drives, walking safaris, and night drives are conducted by expert guides who bring invaluable quality to the Jabali experience. Beginning at the break of dawn, morning game drives kickstart the day of game viewing, and can include a picnic breakfast if this is what guests would prefer. Alternatively, a cooked breakfast can be enjoyed upon return to the lodge. All ingredients and recipes are locally crafted and perfected, while all meals – from bread and biscuits to ice-cream – are homemade by the talented kitchen staff at Jabali.
The lodge, which opened in September closes seasonally from 16 March to 31 May, while the rest of the year is divided between high and low season. Families with children over 5 are welcome, however there are no specialised kids’ activities. Jabali Private House shares the breathtaking location and luxurious amenities, and is the best option for a family looking for an exclusive experience at this new and astoundingly beautiful safari lodge.
