The Homestead is set to open in early 2022 on the Nambiti Private Game Reserve in South Africa. Nambiti is regarded as one of South Africa’s most ambitious conservation initiatives and one of the few reserves where the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) can be experienced.

“The Homestead was born in a moment where we witnessed the impact we can make in the people and places around us. This was the genesis of The Homestead, and it is still at the centre of our ethos today,” said Wayne Scholes, CEO, Really Epic Dog Group, who purchased the land in 2019 after falling in love with the beauty of the site. “We look forward to soon welcoming guests to South Africa and The Homestead, where they can immerse themselves in the incredible beauty of Nambiti. Our surrounding wildlife is extraordinary, home to the famous big five alongside lesser-known species, and our aim is to invite guests to be a part of the experience and recognize the power we all have to affect the people and places around us. The land holds a special meaning and significance to me personally and I couldn’t be prouder of what we are doing.”

The Homestead will debut with 12 luxury lodges; six are designed for couples or solo travelers, with individual infinity pools. The other six can be booked privately or connected for traveling groups. The resort will also boast a world-class spa, fitness center, infinity pool, multiple food and beverage outlets and meeting and event space.

Sustainability is at the forefront of The Homestead, designed to complement the natural landscape. An elevated, 180-meter-long structure connects to a natural escarpment and lake. The roof, when complete, will be planted using the same grass that covers the nearby grasslands. Rainwater tanks and French drains will drive important nutrients back into the ecosystem, alongside tree planting and solar panels.

Luxury all-electric vehicles will prevent approximately nine metric tons of CO2 emissions, and a single, three-hour game drive will save 60 liters of oxygen. The batteries last 15 years and the vehicle’s quietness will limit wildlife disturbances. Building a better future through regenerative travel is the central focus of The Homestead.