How do you see yourself in the current landscape of travel? In recent years, we've lived through a global pandemic that almost brought worldwide tourism to a standstill. Travellers' evolving preferences, technological advancements and geopolitical factors continue to influence the African travel consciousness. Against this shapeshifting backdrop, we highlight the significance of the exclusive-use travel trend, in particular in Africa.
The excluive-use travel trend in Africa is on the rise, Image Credit: Malewane Royal Malewane
The Luxury of Choice
Life is all about choices. Sometimes, we can get so bogged down in the minutiae of it all that we lose all perspective, igniting a flashing signal in our brains: I need a holiday, now!
But what do you do when the prospect of jostling for your postage stamp-sized patch on a sliver of beach with hundreds of other sun-seekers curls your toes? Where do you find your inspiration to escape?
In the latter half of the year, which has undoubtedly been busy and demanding, you may be starved of time and space to yourself. Cue the trend of exclusive-use travel in Africa and its many advantages. Enjoying the unmatched luxury of having the “run-of-house” can immeasurably enhance your holiday experience, even if it's a short “power” break.
An exclusive-use luxury home means having this space all to yourself, Image Credit: Lion Sands Ivory Sands Fish Eagle Villa
Headspace – Space to Breathe and Space to “Be”
The exclusive-use travel trend is all about finding a sense of seclusion and privacy, allowing you to unwind without the distractions shared accommodations bring. Parents with young children rejoice! No more getting yourself into a pretzel of worry for fear of waking up the neighbouring guests when your offspring spring to life at 6 am. Kids' table manners gone on holiday? Having the place to yourself means breathing a sigh of relief as no side-eye glances at mealtimes.
Private facilities and plenty of space awaits you at Ellerman House, Image Credit: Ellerman House
An Above and Beyond Experience
With exclusive-use travel, itineraries and activities can be tailored to individual preferences. Hitting the mark on the post-pandemic travel trend of hyper-personalisation, buyout-style accommodation goes a long way toward exceeding guest experiences, leading to more fulfilling and memorable experiences for you and the lucky few with whom you choose to share the experience.
Priceless moments together as a family in Africa awaits, Image Credit: andBeyond Phinda
Slow Travel Unlocks Deeper Connections
Swap the shackles of prescriptive game lodge schedules for an "anywhere, anytime" tailored-to-me experience. No rushing to get back to the safari lodge for brunch to keep schedule. Micro-camps and small-scale safari lodges with accommodation capacity of a maximum of 18 to 20 guests offer an intimate connection with nature, away from the madding crowds.
You may be wondering if travelling this way is self-indulgent, selfish even. To this notion, there's a time for such travel, and that's not to say that all trips will be exclusive-use style.
Time and space to disconnect, Image Credit: Singita Serengeti House
You can have the best of both worlds sometimes. For example, you may seek properties that offer a family villa or private cottage, allowing you to meet people in the shared areas of the accommodation yet retreat to the sanctuary of your private space when you desire.
Exclusive-use travel means travelling at your own pace, immersing yourself in the nuances that make your chosen holiday unique and memorable. With private safari experiences, you can tailor your safari without the pressure of adhering to the lodge's predefined schedule. The hospitality team can lavish their undivided attention on you, unlocking rare opportunities to connect with the destination's people, culture and nuances.
Luxury is in the privacy you get to enjoy, Image Credit: Jamala Madikwe
From “Buddymoons” to Travel Bubbles: An Exclusively-Yours Celebration
Travel is back, and it's time to celebrate; however, a hangover from the global pandemic has caused the trend of "bubble" travel to persist. More and more, travellers are building trips which, traditionally, they may have shared with their significant other alone.
The private nature of exclusive-use travel means taking over an accommodation type ‒ villa, small hotel, sailing craft or safari lodge – allows for quality bonding time, strengthening relationships and creating lasting memories. Africa brims with jaw-droppingly beautiful venues for weddings, honeymoons, graduation celebrations, anniversaries and milestone birthdays.
An elegant stand-alone villa within the Phinda Private Game Reserve, Image Credit: andBeyond Phinda
With Exclusive-Use Travel, Less is More
While trends like AI, sustainability, and emerging destinations are reshaping African travel, the evolving trend of exclusive-use travel offers profound psychological benefits for travellers. The trip's focus is heightened through personalised, curated, immersive experiences with lasting well-being benefits.
Summer safari in Kruger's Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, Image Credit: Singita Castleton
Longing for an Exclusive-Use Holiday in Africa?
Rhino Africa's Travel Experts know all the ins and outs of exclusive-use travel in Africa and can tailor your dream holiday. As seasoned travellers who frequent only the best accommodations, sampling every offering, sleeping in the beds, and feasting on the food, there really is no one better to trust with your African holiday.
