Marking a quarter-century of curating extraordinary travel experiences, Sanctuary Retreats, part of the A&K Travel Group family, has confirmed the complete reimagining and rebuilding of two of its flagship African properties: Gorilla Forest Camp in Uganda, soon to be Gorilla Forest Lodge, offering unparalleled proximity to mountain gorillas, and Baines’ Lodge in Botswana, renowned for its unique Okavango Delta adventures.
The flagged enhancements were foreshadowed exclusively by LATTE in April 2024.
These ambitious projects, the first in a series of exciting developments for the brand, underscore Abercrombie & Kent’s commitment to delivering authentic experiences, exceptional service and unwavering conservation efforts.
Building on the momentum of the recent announcement by A&K of the new ‘Pure Amazon’riverboat in Peru, set to open in 2025 as the brand’s first riverboat in South America. A&K Travel Group is embarking on a significant development plan, which will see further evolution across its portfolio of camps, lodges, and riverboats, with more details to be unveiled soon.
A&K Philanthropy, a pioneer of community-based conservation, will of course feature prominently in these efforts, which aim to improve the health, education, and economic well-being of local communities while promoting conservation awareness.
Gorilla Forest Lodge – A Jewel Reborn
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda, Reopening Mid-2025Deep within the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Gorilla Forest Lodge is a haven for those seeking an intimate encounter with the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. As the only luxury lodge located inside the gates of this pristine wilderness, the entire property is undergoing a complete transformation, with a planned reopening in mid-2025.
Each of the 10 suites is being significantly enlarged and reimagined, with designers drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape. Natural materials, earthy tones, and organic textures create a sense of harmony with the forest. Floor-to-ceiling windows seamlessly blend the indoors and outdoors, while expansive veranda-like decks invite guests to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the rainforest.This connection to nature extends throughout, from the airy lounge and elegant dining area to the newly expanded spa. Clay-look textured plaster walls, woven banana leaf ceilings, and elongated framed vistas create a sense of rhythm and harmony. Imagine waking to the symphony of the rainforest, the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant calls of exotic birds, all while enveloped in the comfort of Gorilla Forest Lodge.
Each suite offers a tranquil retreat after an exhilarating day of gorilla trekking, complete with freestanding bath to soak in after a day exploring. Indulge in impeccable dining, as has become the norm with all A&K’s Sanctuary properties.
The lodge features a range of initiatives to minimise environmental impact, including the use of repurposed materials, rainwater collection systems, composting, and careful consideration of building materials to ensure minimal waste and a reduced footprint.
A&K’s Legacy of Conservation
The story of Gorilla Forest Lodge is deeply intertwined with the legacy of Geoffrey Kent, the visionary founder of Abercrombie & Kent. In 1985, Kent met with the soon-to-be President of Uganda, General Museveni, to discuss the protection of the country’s endangered mountain gorillas. Their collaboration led to the establishment of the first luxury property in the area, providing a sustainable model for tourism that benefited both the gorillas and the local Batwa people. Today, the property continues this legacy of conservation, offering guests a unique opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat while contributing to their ongoing protection.
A&K Philanthropy: Empowering Communities in Bwindi
Guests can actively participate in the positive impact of Gorilla Forest Lodge by contributing to philanthropic projects that support the local community through initiatives from A&K Philanthropy. These initiatives include the Bwindi Community Hospital and Nursing School, empowering women through the Bwindi Women’s Bicycle Enterprise, and providing safe water access to schools through the Safe Water for Schools Uganda project. These efforts aim to improve the health, education, and economic well-being of local communities while promoting conservation awareness. A&K Philanthropy pioneered community-based conservation, and Uganda stands as a shining example of its positive impact.
Baines’ Lodge – Where Romance Meets the Wild
Okavango Delta, Botswana, Reopening Mid-2025In the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Baines’ Lodge offers an intimate and exclusive retreat for those seeking an authentic safari experience on a private concession. Named after the 19th-century explorer and painter Thomas Baines, the lodge is undergoing a complete rebuild, with a planned reopening in mid-2025.
Ideal for honeymooners and couples seeking a romantic escape, Baines’ Lodge provides an intimate setting with only four guests per vehicle and a minimum age requirement of 16. Each of the six newly designed suites is being meticulously crafted to provide an unparalleled level of sophistication and comfort, immersing guests in the beauty and adventure of the Okavango Delta.Designers have drawn inspiration from the surrounding delta, incorporating natural materials and a colour palette that reflects the soft hues of the landscape – think muted greens of the reeds, the subtle blues of the waterways, and the warm browns and tans of the papyrus and sand.
Private decks, extended to offer more space and privacy, feature star baths and inviting daybeds, perfect for relaxing under the vast African sky. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting long shadows across the delta, guests can retreat to a haven of comfort and listen to the sounds of the African night.Sustainability remains at the core of Baines’ Lodge philosophy, with solar power, water-efficient systems, and minimal waste practices woven into every aspect of its operation.
Exploring the Okavango Delta
At Baines’ Lodge, adventure awaits at every turn. Embark on game drives in open 4×4 vehicles, exploring the diverse habitats of the Okavango Delta and encountering its abundant wildlife. When water levels allow, embark on a quintessential Okavango Delta experience: gliding through tranquil waterways in a traditional mokoro. Discover hidden lagoons teeming with life and observe the intricate ecosystem up close. This seasonal activity offers a unique perspective on the delta’s beauty and biodiversity. For a truly unforgettable experience, take to the skies on a scenic helicopter flight, soaring above the floodplains and witnessing the vastness of this unique landscape.
Supporting Conservation in Botswana
Guests can contribute to the conservation of the Okavango Delta by supporting the lodge’s philanthropic initiatives. Baines’ Lodge is located on a community-owned concession, and the lodge is proud to employ staff from the local community and support their development. The lodge also hosts children from local schools for educational visits, offering them a unique opportunity to learn about the delta’s ecosystem and the importance of conservation. These projects focus on wildlife conservation, community development, and education, ensuring that the beauty and biodiversity of the delta are preserved for future generations.
