BILLIONAIRE BOLTHOLES
June 8, 2025
Next level safari and conservation experiences in Africa
By Ian Proctor
The Next Level of the Safari Game
I have had the fortune of staying at over 410 of Africa's top safari lodges and camps over the years... and have inspected hundreds more. I love intimate properties far from crowds, packed with personality, surrounded by great wildlife and wilderness, with experiences that are just "wow". I am also averse to schedules and love the freedom and flexibility to do as I wish each day.
The 3 properties covered in this post are the next level of the luxury safari game... not only do they offer some of Africa's most prolific Big 5 game viewing (and in the case of the 3rd property phenomenal ocean / tropical island biodiversty) they have reached almost mythical status in the safari world as they are extraordinarily private and incredibly unique... they are one offs as are the experiences they offer. Visiting is akin to being in a movie - and you are the star.
Relax and be Yourself
The 2 safari properties, one in South Africa and one in Kenya, are owned by old money billionaires... they are not flashy. The owners have created amazing spaces that you get to be in - an extension of their lifestyle, where they bring their family and friends.
Unlike many luxury safari lodges and camps guests at these properties generally prefer not be seen... guests are afforded a level of privacy which allows them to truly relax and be themselves, whilst surrounded by a team to make all their safari dreams come true.
The 3rd property is an island in the Seychelles owned by a Russian billionaire. From fishing, to diving, snorkeling, and private beach picnics you won't want to leave... I have stayed at a lot of beach properties but this is different... this is magic!
Your Experience at your Pace
At each of these properties freedom is the greatest luxury... there is no agenda, no need to check the time. No one is telling you what to do at 2PM... it's all designed around how you are feeling - it's your experience at your pace.
"I would like to do a morning horse ride amongst giraffe and wildebeest followed by a private breakfast in the underground wildlife viewing hide?" Of course...
"Can we do a doors off helicopter flight in search of Grevy's Zebra?" Absolutely...
"Can you set up a private beach dinner for me and my wife?" Yes we can sir... and for the kids the chef will arrange a private pizza making party in the kitchen.
The Vanguard of Conservation
When it comes to conserving Africa's wildlife and wilderness areas these 3 properties are the vanguard. Conservation is expensive - very expensive. To do real ground breaking work you need lots of money. And that is where these properties truly shine. As a guest you can get fully hands on - immersed in conservation experiences - from ear notching highly endangered rhino to working with cheetah researchers and marine bioligists.
Through their work these independently owned, private properties contribute greatly towards protecting their environment and uplifting their communities. I strongly urge you to support them... none more so than Ol Jogi which, in my opinion, is the most special of the 3 and with which I will start this 3 part blog.
Ol Jogi, is by far, my favorite safari lodge in Africa. Read more
