Hotels We Love: Hotel de la Ville, Rocco Forte

More than a hotel collection, Rocco Forte Hotels reflects the vision of the Forte family. Led by Sir Rocco Forte alongside his sister and children, the family has spent generations creating hotels defined by genuine hospitality, timeless style, and a distinctive blend of British elegance and Italian character.

Perched above the Spanish Steps, Hotel de la Ville captures the spirit of Rome with effortless sophistication. Set within an 18th-century palazzo, the hotel pairs historic architecture with vibrant contemporary design, offering sweeping city views, celebrated restaurants and bars, and an atmosphere that feels both refined and unmistakably Roman.

Every space has been thoughtfully designed to celebrate Italian craftsmanship and artistry. Sun-filled guest rooms and suites, a tranquil central courtyard, the Irene Forte Spa, and the panoramic Cielo Terrace all invite guests to slow down and savor la dolce vita.

Dining is equally memorable, from Fulvio Pierangelini's acclaimed Mosaico restaurant to the elegant Café Ginori, where Italian culinary traditions are reimagined with creativity and style.

Whether enjoying an aperitivo overlooking Rome's rooftops, unwinding with a signature spa treatment, or simply stepping outside to wander the streets surrounding the Spanish Steps, Hotel de la Ville offers an exceptional base from which to experience one of the world's most captivating cities.

3 RFH Hotel de la Ville - Entrance 343R TH Sep 19 LR

7b RFH Hotel de la Ville - De La Ville Suite 6939 JG Jul 19

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Cielo 7091 JG Jul 19

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Cielo Bar 167 MA Apr 26

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Cielo Private Terrace 1314 JG Feb 20

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Courtyard 122_Merged TH Sep 19

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Duplex Jnr Suite _204 6634 JG Nov 21

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Executive Suite ML Sept 19

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Mosaico 0550 JG May 19

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Panoramic Suite with Terrace #606 MA 012 Oct 25

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Panoramic Suite with Terrace #606 MA 015r Oct 25

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Roma Suite 1014 JG May 19

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Roma Suite 2921 JG Apr 19

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Superior Deluxe Sole Use 6702 JG Jul 19

RFH Hotel de la Ville - Superior Room _403 6497 JG Jul 19

RFH_Hotel_de_la_Ville_-_De_la_Ville_Spa_1780_JG_Oct_19

RFH_Hotel_de_la_Ville_-_De_la_Ville_Spa_1932_JG_Oct_19

RFH_Hotel_de_la_Ville_-_Junior_Suite_0394_JG_Nov_17

“Our inspiration came from our surroundings: Trinità dei Monti, Villa Medici - Accademia di Francia; it’s impossible not to be influenced” Tommaso Ziffer

With Our Compliments:

Daily Breakfast Included

$100 Hotel Credit for Standard Rooms & Junior Suites

$200 Hotel Credit for Special & Forte Suites*

Room Upgrade**

Early Check-in/Late Check-Out**

20% Spa Discount

On Site Dining:

Mosaico – A Roman courtyard

Café Ginori – All day dining

Cielo – alfresco restaurant

Cielo Bar – rooftop bar with 360° views of Rome

Julep Bar – our herbal and vermouth bar

La Cantina: Wine cellar for private dining and tastings

Location:

30 min drive from Ciampino Airport (CIA)
45 min drive from Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
15 min drive from Termini Station
Nearest metro: Spagna

A Room With a View: Best Hotel Views Worldwide

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River Oaks Travel Recommends: Belmond Trains

Belmond has long understood something many luxury travelers eventually discover for themselves: the journey can be every bit as meaningful as the destination. In an era of rushed itineraries and airport lounges, the hospitality brand’s collection of legendary train journeys invites travelers to slow down and experience the world with a sense of romance that feels increasingly rare.From the snow-capped peaks of the Andes to the rolling countryside of England, Belmond’s trains are not simply transportation. They are moving hotels, fine dining destinations, and cultural experiences wrapped into one unforgettable adventure.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: Europe's Most Glamorous Train

There may be no rail journey more iconic than the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. With its meticulously restored 1920s and 1930s Art Deco carriages, polished brass details, and white-glove service, stepping aboard feels like entering another era entirely.

The train’s classic route between Paris and Venice remains its signature experience, though Belmond has expanded itineraries to include destinations like Prague, Vienna, Florence, Istanbul, and the French Alps. Guests dress for dinner, sip champagne in the bar car while a pianist plays softly in the background, and wake to views of Europe unfolding beyond their cabin windows.

What makes the experience extraordinary is not simply the glamour, but the pace. There’s time to linger over breakfast, watch villages pass by, and settle into the rhythm of slow travel in a way modern tourism rarely allows.

The Royal Scotsman: Scotlands at Its Most Cinematic

If the Orient Express evokes European glamour, the Royal Scotsman captures the soul of the Scottish Highlands.

With just a small number of cabins, the train feels deeply intimate, more like a private country house on rails than a traditional luxury train. Routes wind through misty mountains, remote lochs, and castle-dotted landscapes inaccessible to most travelers.

Days might include whisky tastings at renowned distilleries, private estate visits, or clay pigeon shooting before returning onboard for multi-course dinners showcasing Scottish ingredients. Evenings often end in the observation car with local musicians playing traditional folk music while guests trade stories over single malts.

For travelers drawn to nature, heritage, and understated luxury, it is one of Belmond’s most immersive experiences.

“I expected beautiful scenery and luxury service, but what surprised me most was how emotional the journey felt. Watching the sun rise at the edge of Lake Titicaca, I realized I hadn’t looked at my phone in hours. It reminded me what travel is supposed to feel like.” – A recent guest aboard the Andean Explorer

With Our Compliments:

Ask your Travel Advisor for River Oaks Travel Amenities

Consider Belmond’s Luxury Barge:

Les Bateaux Belmond – Not a train, but Belmond’s luxury barge fleet in Burgundy and Champagne are often grouped alongside the rail journeys because they embody the same “slow luxury” philosophy.

Belmond Train Journeys are Ideal For:

Slow travel enthusiasts
Luxury travelers looking for uniqueness
Food and wine lovers
Rail enthusiasts and romantics
Celebration travelers (honeymoons, milestone birthdays, anniversaries, and retirement trips)

Andean Explorer: Peru Through a Different Lens

High in the Peruvian Andes, Belmond operates South America’s first luxury sleeper train, the Andean Explorer.

Traveling between Cusco, Lake Titicaca, and Arequipa, the train offers a strikingly different perspective on Peru than the typical Machu Picchu itinerary. The landscapes shift dramatically throughout the journey: golden plains dotted with alpacas, dramatic mountain passes, and mirror-like lakes reflecting vast open skies.

Inside, the design blends contemporary comfort with subtle Andean influences. Guests gather in the piano bar or open-air observation car while the altitude and scenery create a dreamlike atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.

The train has become particularly popular among travelers looking to combine cultural immersion with luxury in a way that feels authentic rather than performative.

The British Pullman: A Golden Age Escape Close to London

For those short on time but still craving the nostalgia of classic rail travel, the British Pullman delivers a taste of the golden age without requiring a multi-night commitment.

Departing from London Victoria Station, the beautifully restored train offers themed day journeys throughout England, from countryside lunches to murder mystery evenings and seasonal experiences. Each carriage has its own history, many having once carried royalty and political leaders.

It’s an experience that feels delightfully theatrical, proving that luxury travel doesn’t always require crossing continents.

Beyond these iconic journeys, Belmond’s portfolio extends even further, offering travelers a remarkable variety of rail experiences across the globe. In Southeast Asia, the Eastern & Oriental Express winds through Malaysia’s lush landscapes from Singapore, combining old-world glamour with immersive cultural experiences. In Peru, the Hiram Bingham delivers travelers to Machu Picchu in vintage-inspired elegance, complete with live music and refined dining along the way. Belmond has also expanded its collection with the Britannic Explorer, a luxury sleeper train showcasing the landscapes of England and Wales through a contemporary lens. And while not rail journeys, Belmond’s intimate river barges through Burgundy and Champagne reflect the same philosophy of slow, immersive travel that has made the brand’s trains so enduringly appealing.

Why Belmond Journeys Continue to Sell Out

Part of the appeal lies in exclusivity. Unlike cruise ships or large resorts, Belmond trains accommodate a limited number of guests, making each departure feel personal and intimate.

But the deeper reason these journeys resonate is emotional. Travelers are increasingly searching for experiences that feel meaningful, immersive, and difficult to replicate. Belmond’s trains deliver exactly that.

There’s a romance to rail travel that air travel lost long ago. Conversations linger longer. Landscapes are savored rather than flown over. The transition between destinations becomes part of the story itself.

With only a handful of departures remaining for 2026 and bookings now open for 2027, many of these journeys are already seeing strong demand from travelers planning well in advance.

For those seeking a more thoughtful and unforgettable way to see the world, Belmond’s trains may just represent luxury travel at its finest.

Interested in a Belmond train journey? Contact our team!

Antwerp, Belgium: The Hidden Gem You Need to Visit in 2025

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Discover the Emerald Isle: A Journey Through Ireland’s Luxury Gems

With a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and legendary charm, Ireland has long been an enchanting destination for discerning travelers. River Oaks Travel invites you on an unforgettable, tailored journey through the best that this captivating country has to offer. Let our dedicated...

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River Oaks Travel Recommends: Segera, on Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau

Get to know: Segera

Set on a 50,000-acre private conservation estate on Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau, Segera is not designed to feel like a lodge at all. It feels like being invited into someone’s deeply personal world: a place where luxury, ecological restoration, contemporary African art, and community exist in quiet, considered balance.Created by philanthropist and former Puma and Harley-Davidson CEO Jochen Zeitz, Segera reflects a philosophy that goes far beyond hospitality. This is a sanctuary shaped by rewilding projects, cultural investment, and intentional design, offering guests the privacy and infrastructure of a private estate rather than a traditional safari camp.

A Collection of Villas, Not "Rooms"

Segera is composed entirely of villas and private houses, each with a distinct personality and architectural language.

Garden Villas are ideal for couples or solo travelers, thatch-roofed, timber villas raised on decks with indoor-outdoor bathing, generous verandas, and swing beds. Some feature greenhouse-inspired aesthetics, surrounded by gardens, art installations, and private pathways with views toward wildlife corridors.

For families, the Family Villa and Greenhouse Villa offer two-bedroom configurations with airy, light-filled spaces that work beautifully for parents traveling with children, or close friends who value shared space without sacrificing privacy.

The Farmhouse, one of the original homesteads on the property, feels warm, residential, and grounded. It’s best suited for multi-generational families or small private groups and is particularly exceptional for guests with kosher requirements, with kitchens fully prepared by staff and past guests rating the setup above dedicated kosher kitchens elsewhere.

Villa Segera, a favorite among returning guests, offers an especially elegant layout: two connecting upstairs bedrooms, flexible additional space downstairs, beautifully designed bathrooms with privacy blinds, and elevated views over elephant corridors. While close to the owner’s residence area, it remains entirely private.

Finally, Segera House, the flagship residence, is being reconfigured to include four identical en-suite bedrooms and a dramatic glass conservatory dining space. Once complete, it will be ideal for groups where equal room standards matter, family offices, celebratory trips, or ultra-high-net-worth families traveling together.

Art as Identity, Not Decoration

One of Segera’s most defining features is its role as a living gallery.

Home to part of the renowned Zeitz Collection, guests encounter museum-quality contemporary African art throughout the gardens, villas, and communal spaces. Sculptures emerge along garden paths; installations spark conversation at breakfast. This is not art as décor, it’s art as narrative, exploring African identity, sustainability, and creativity.

An active artist-in-residence program, works by artists such as Uma Two Feathers, and staff who can speak knowledgeably about each piece give depth to the experience. Guests often find themselves unexpectedly drawn into conversations about the works they pass on the way to dinner or their villa.

Segera doesn’t try to impress loudly. Instead, it lingers. It feels less like a hotel stay and more like being welcomed into a living art estate, where conservation, culture, and comfort intersect with rare authenticity.

With Our Compliments:

Ask your Travel Advisor for River Oaks Travel Amenities

Ideal Length of Stay:

3 – 4 days

When to Go:

February & March September & October

(These months balance beautiful weather, great wildlife viewing, and a calmer atmosphere.)

Months to Avoid:

April & May

(These are heavy rain months.)

Combine with:

Masai Mara

Angama Mara

Ishara Mara

Kenya + Tanzania + Rwanda (perfect for guests wanting a broader East African journey)

Segera is Ideal For:

Multi-generational families seeking privacy and space
Art-forward, design-driven travelers
Ultra-high-net-worth guests who value discretion
Clients with special dietary needs, including kosher
Wildlife lovers wanting a refined, non-touristy safari
Travelers drawn to sustainability with substance

Wildlife Without the Crowds

Because Segera sits entirely on private land, the wildlife experience feels unfiltered and intimate. Elephants, giraffes, Grevy’s zebra, and cheetahs are often visible directly from villas or along daily walking paths. The property is carefully protected by discreet electric fencing and cactus bomas, preserving both safety and uninterrupted views.Game drives (day and night) are complemented by walking safaris, helicopter excursions, and time spent simply observing wildlife as it moves naturally through established corridors behind the villas.

Designed for Flexibility & Care

Segera excels at the details that matter most to discerning travelers. Dining is highly flexible: private villa dinners, garden picnics, conservatory settings, and curated family meals are all seamlessly arranged. Children’s programming feels thoughtful rather than performative, egg collecting, mocktail making, croquet, and bush play that mirrors the environment.Notably, Segera can accommodate guests with mobility needs, including access to an electric mobility wheelchair operated by staff, previously used successfully by elderly guests, available upon request and confirmation. If this is the kind of safari experience you’ve been searching for, Segera deserves a place on your list.

Interested in planning a stay at Segera? Contact our team!

Why Thailand Continues to Captivate Travelers

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Hotels We Love: Hotel de la Ville, Rocco Forte

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River Oaks Travel Recommends: Belmond Trains

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River Oaks Travel Recommends: Segera, on Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau

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Tanzania

Sweeping Savannas, Towering Mountains, & Beautiful Beaches

Known For: The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Mt. Kilimanjaro, The Big Five, Adventure, World Class Beaches

Tanzania is home to some of the most stunning natural sights in Africa. From the peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro to the endless herds of wildebeest and zebra on the plains, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And the sounds of bird calls echoing through Ngorongoro Crater or the crashing waves along the white sands of Zanzibar will stay with you long after you’ve left. So whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled climb or a relaxing safari, Tanzania is the perfect destination. Let’s get started on your African checklist!

General Information:

Main Airports:

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)

Capital City:

Dodoma

Currency:

Tanzanian Shilling but USD is widely accepted

Weather and Seasons:

Tanzania has a comfortable climate year-round, but with significant changes is ecosystem and elevation there can be significant variations in different regions
There are two rainy seasons during the year, the “short season” in November and December and the “long season” between March and May.
If you’re in search of the Great Migration then you’ll want to visit in late May, June or July, however if you simply want to see wildlife then the dry summer months (January, February and early March) for the herds to concentrate at watering holes, making the search much easier.

Who it’s great for:

Family Vacations

Tanzania is a great option for families of all ages and sizes! Whether you’re looking to explore with just your immediate family or the full extended crew there are amazing experiences to be found. Visit Maasai villages to learn about their history and culture, participate in conservation efforts for rhino or lion populations, or head out on a walking safari to learn about tracking animals and the native plant species.

Romantic Getaways

Tanzania offers so many opportunities for romance – we love this as a destination for honeymoons, anniversary trips, or even a “just because” trip with your sweetheart! Enjoy sunset sundowners in the bush after a day’s game drive, dine under the stars at your tented camp, or hit the beach for a few days of fun in the sun – no matter your definition of romance, Tanzania has the answer!

Adventurers

Looking for an adventure? Tanzania is the perfect destination! With a variety of climate zones, there’s something for everyone. Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, explore the Serengeti by hot air balloon or go surfing in Zanzibar. Whatever your interests, you’ll find it here!

Nature Lovers

Tanzania is a paradise for nature lovers, with its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. From the verdant slopes of Ngorongoro Crater to the golden plains of the Serengeti, there’s always something new to discover. Whether searching for the Big Five, hiking through rugged landscapes, or diving along the coast, Africa is sure to amaze and delight.

Advisor Tip

While the Great Migration in June and July might be the most well known “season” in East Africa (we’re looking at you National Geographic!), traveling during the shoulder seasons can be rewarding as well. Consider January and February as an alternative and get the chance to experience “baby season” when all the mammals such as wildebeest, zebra and even lions are raising their young.

Advisor Favorite Hotels

1. &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge – Ngorongoro Crater

This over the top, Maasai meets Versailles, styled property on the upper rim of Ngorongoro Crater offers guests a luxurious and often surprising experience in one of Tanzania’s most amazing destinations.

2. Four Seasons Serengeti Safari Lodge

With an enviable location in the heart of the Serengeti, the Four Seasons Serengeti Lodge gives guests all the sumptuous luxuries and service that you expect of a Four Seasons and unexpected surprises like a watering hole with elephants playing and Maasai warriors dotted around the grounds, making this is a safari experience like no other.

3. &Beyond Mnemba Island

For travelers in search of seclusion, &Beyond Mnemba Island definitely fits the bill! This exclusive, private island resort off the coast of Zanzibar gives guests the daily choice of heading out on an ocean adventure (think snorkeling in the turquoise waters or drifting along the waves in a traditional Dhow) or sitting back and relaxing with experiences like yoga, spa treatments or simply enjoying the beach!

4. Singita Sasakwa Lodge

This gorgeous manor-style property, perched on a cliff line in the Western Corridor of the Serengeti, offers guests panoramic views and strikes the perfect balance between casual luxury and elegance. We love this lodge as a home base for exploring the Serengeti – especially during the Grumeti River crossing of the Great Migration.

More Inspiration

Whether you’re looking for your next safari destination or just want to be inspired, our blog is the perfect place to start. With details on our favorite hotels, experiences, and more, you’ll be able to plan your Tanzania trip.River Oaks Travel Recommends: Segera, on Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau

Ready to Plan YOUR East African safari?!

If you’re looking to explore Tanzania, Kenya, or Rwanda,
our River Oaks Travel Concierge team is here to help!

With our expert knowledge and outstanding partnerships, we
can make sure that your experience is seamless.

So reach out to us today, and let’s start planning
your adventure!

PLAN YOUR TRIP

South Africa

South Africa: Two Oceans, Three Capitals, Countless Opportunities for Adventure

Known For: The Big Five, Great White Shark Diving, World Class Wines, Adventure

Black rhino silhouetted against the setting sun, mountain ranges rising above cosmopolitan cities, countless stars gleaming in a desert sky, the waves of two oceans crashing along powdery beaches – South Africa is a country filled with diverse sights and landscapes to discover. Whether you’re looking to stroll along Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront before sitting down to dinner, explore the vineyards carpeting the hills and valleys of the Winelands, dive with Great White Sharks off the coast or trek through the wilderness in search of the Big 5, there’s a life changing experience to be found for every type of traveler – let’s find yours!

General Information:

Main Airports:

Cape Town International Airport (CPT)
O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB)

Capital City:

Praetoria
Bloemfontein
Cape Town

Currency:

South African Rand

Weather and Seasons:

South Africa is a year round destination but the summer months of November to March are the high season for tourism.
The shoulder season of April to May and September to October provide great value for travelers in addition to some of the best weather throughout the year.
Even the winter months of June to August bring benefits. During this time the vegetation is less thick, so game viewing is better than ever.

Who it’s great for:

Family Vacations

South Africa offers families of all ages a fun (and educational!) vacation! Spend time in Cape Town exploring history, drive the Whale Coast in search of the Marine Big Five or spend a day learning about conservation efforts while keeping an eye out for elephants!

Romantic Getaways

South Africa is one of our favorite destinations for a romantic trip! Start off a trip with a few days in the Cape Winelands taking in stunning views and world class wine tastings. When it’s time to start searching for the Big Five, choose a tented camp for some old school romance – many even offer private plunge pools!

Art and Design Lovers

There’s a very rich art history in the South African culture and our favorite stop for design lovers is Cape Town. We recommend staying at The Silo where the modern design of the hotel will take your breath away! Then head out into town in search of inspiration, from the colorful homes of the Bo-Kaap and Woodstock neighborhoods, to the V&A Waterfront lined with quaint local shops and the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa – there’s something for every art lover!

Adventurers

South Africa is an adrenalin junky’s dream! With excursion options like cage diving with Great White Sharks in Cape Town, helicopter tours over the Cape Winelands, or even helping to track down a black rhino for a medical checkup – there are adventures to be found around every corner!

Advisor Tip

While the “Big Five” are a huge part of any trip to South Africa, there’s so much more to discover here! For a shorter trip we recommend spending some time in Cape Town and the Cape Winelands in addition to your safari. If you’ve got time for a longer trip then head out on a road trip along the Garden Route for stunning scenery, great beaches, and the Marine Big Five.

Destination Guides

Ready to dive in? Check out our in depth destination guides below for recommendations on activities, hotels, and more in some of South Africa’s most popular areas.

Cape Town

With Table Mountain guarding its back and the Atlantic Ocean lapping at its feet, Cape Town is an enchanting city that calls out for travelers to explore its vibrant streets. Located on the southwestern coast of South Africa, Cape Town is one of the three capital cities of the country and is also the most visited by travelers.

Cape Winelands

Only 40 minutes outside Cape Town but feeling a world away are the Cape Winelands, an area home to amazing accommodations, gorgeous gardens, and out of this world wineries. By venturing outside the city, you open yourself up to a whole new set of sights and experiences.

Cape Whale Coast

This 90 mile stretch of coastline to the east of Cape Town offers up some of the most pristine landscapes in South Africa and arguably the best whale sightings in the world. With its location only a short drive from Cape Town, Hermanus is a great home base for travelers to explore the “Serengeti of the Seas”.

Garden Route

For travelers looking to explore at a leisurely pace, the Garden Route must seem a godsend! This 300 kilometer stretch of coastline between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth offers scenic sights, animal encounters and beautiful beaches galore.

Kwa-Zulu Natal & Durban

KwaZulu-Natal offers an eclectic mix of contrasts to every visitor – with mountains, savannahs and stunning beaches galore, not to mention the sparkling cities and authentic tribal settlements – the Zulu Kingdom offers plenty to keep a traveler busy!

Greater Kruger

Journey to “Land’s End” where the crystalline blue waters of the Sea of Cortez meet the golden sand beaches and rusty desert of the Baja Peninsula. Come explore the bustling streets, stunning beaches and natural wonders of this glamourous paradise.

Madikwe Game Reserve

Between the Pacific Ocean and the Western Sierra Madre Mountains lies a pure treasure — Riviera Nayarit! With a coastline nearly 200 miles long full of white sand beaches and turquoise waters Nayarit is a perfect vacation spot.

Johannesburg

The verdant jungles and crystaline blue waters at the southern end of the Yucatan peninsula are home to one of Mexico’s most popular destinations – Riviera Maya! With hot spots like Tulum and Cancun and luxe retreats like Mayakoba, this is a perfect destination for a getaway!

Our Favorite Hotels in Costa Rica

1. The Silo – Cape Town

This eclectic gem of a hotel may not look too lavish from the exterior (it is built in an old grain silo after all), but you know what they say – don’t judge a book by it’s cover! Once you step inside this landmark property the lush furnishings and chic design welcome guests to stay and enjoy themselves while the hotel’s signature pillowed glass windows sparkle like a jewel box in the sky!

2. Singita Sabi Sands

Set along the banks of the Sand River in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Singita Sabi Sand offers guests exclusive access to this protected part of South Africa, known for high concentrations of big game. Singita Sabi Sand offers every traveler a world class safari experience with fine dining, wines, and white glove service, alongside phenomenal daily activities and game viewing. With 3 lodges to choose from (including a private use villa) there’s a perfect lodge for every type of traveler.

3. Shamwari Private Game Reserve

A stay at Shamwari Private Game Reserve is one that will remain with you forever. Located in the heart of the Eastern Cape, the reserve offers abundant wildlife, fauna and flora exclusive to the area and unforgettable encounters with nature. Plus with 7 lodges; each providing distinct experiences from exclusive tranquility, effortless family enjoyment or the back-to-nature appeal of a luxury tented camp – there’s an option perfect for every traveler!

More Inspiration

Looking for more to inspire your next South African safari? Check out our blog posts for details on our favorite hotels, experiences and more to be found all along the Cape!

Ready to Plan YOUR South African safari?!

Whether this is your first trip to South Africa or
you’re returning for more adventure, our River Oaks Travel
Concierge team is here to make your experience amazing! Reach out
to our team today to get started planning your adventure!

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Wildlife Safari by Private Jet

Once-In-A-Lifetime Private Jet Journey

Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure around the world? While you may have been forced to put travel plans on hold for much of 2020, make up for it in 2022 by checking off several items on your wanderlist. Experience a Wildlife Safari: Around the World by Private Jet (Feb 3–26, 2022) for a trip highlighting the true wonder of the world: the incredible diversity of our planet’s wildlife.

Travel from one captivating destination to the next in style. You’ll join a small group of 48 guests on a chartered Boeing 757 jet equipped with 50 fully lie-flat seats. As you reach each locale, you’ll divide into small groups to get up close with some of the world’s most incredible wildlife. Joining you is an experienced wildlife photographer, so you can get real-time tips on getting that perfect shot.

Travel Health: You can travel in confidence knowing our partners have enhanced health and safety protocols with a full-time physician accompanying you throughout your entire adventure.

Abercrombie & Kent Private Escapes Up to 50% Off!

Start your private jet journey in Joshinetsu Kogen National Park in Nagano, home to the Japanese macaque, AKA the snow monkey

Travel via helicopter to visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary at Corella and see one of the world’s smallest, and rarest, primates

Swim with the majestic and docile whale shark — the world’s largest fish — to observe this one-of-a-kind species up close

Go behind-the-scenes at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Center in Borneo to observe young orangutans as they were conditioned to return to the jungle

Visit the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center accompanied by its founder – in search of the sun bear, also known as the honey bear for its love of honeycombs and honey

Spanning about 250 square miles, the forests of Ranthambore are the finest habitat in the world to see wild tigers – go on a jeep tour in search of these elusive big cats

As you travel through Ranthambore, listen for the alarm calls of grey langur monkeys and you may be able to spot leopards

Get up close and personal to Madagascar’s playful endemic primates, the lemurs, on an excursion to the Nosy Antsoha Reserve

Trek through Rwanda to see troops of the jungle’s resident golden monkeys, an endangered species

For an unforgettable experience, look into the eyes of the mountain gorillas of the Parc Nationale des Volcanes in Rwanda

Set out on safari to see the Big Five in Kenya on the last stop on your journey: lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and Cape buffalo

End your private jet journey with a hot-air-balloon ride with a bird’s-eye view of elephants enjoying breakfast, while hippos and crocodiles swim nearby

Ready to see the world by private jet?

Limited to 48 Guests | 24 days | Feb 3–26, 2022
$154,950 per person, double occupancy | $19,950 single supplement

Ask your River Oaks Travel Concierge for more information!

Get More Info

Nine Perfect Days on a Kenya Safari

Have you dreamed of going on a luxury Africa Safari, but have no idea where to stay or what to expect?

Let our safari experts inspire your own trip with our itinerary covering Amboseli, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, and the Masai Mara. This incredible nine-day Kenya safari highlights the diversity and beauty of this wonderful country in some truly magnificent properties and lodges. Have a little more time to spend in Kenya or looking to add on the Serengeti in Tanzania? Set up an appointment with a travel advisor at our Houston location or give us a call, and we’ll have you recreating “Out of Africa” with ease.

Day 1: Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and overnight at Hemingways Nairobi.

Day 2: Scheduled flight to Amboseli National Park with an afternoon game drive. Overnight at Tawi Lodge.

Day 3: Experience morning and afternoon game drives with Mount Kilimanjaro making the perfect backdrop to your photographs. Overnight at Tawi Lodge.

Day 4: Fly to Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia. Afternoon game drive. Check in at Kicheche Laikipia for the next two nights.

Day 5: Today you get to explore the conservancy – there are lots of activities available including meeting the last two northern white rhinos in the world*. Overnight at Kicheche Laikipia.

Day 6: Fly to the Masai Mara where you will spend the next three nights at the stunning Angama Mara.

Day 7 & 8: There are lots of activities to take part in at Angama Mara – head out on game drives into the Mara Reserve, walk with the Masai along the edge of the escarpment, visit a Masai Village or soar over the plains in a hot air balloon*. Overnight at Angama Mara.

Day 9: Today it is time to return home with some new and exciting memories – you will fly back to Nairobi where you will have a day room before connecting onto your international flight.If you would like to extend your trip to see more of Africa or get in some beach time, please contact us for our special offer rates.

Special Offer Rate:

USD 6,592 per person

Book by:

31st August 2019

Valid for travel:

Between 1st October 2019 to 15th May 2020 excluding 15th December 2019 – 7th January 2020 & 9th to 14th April 2020.

Accommodation is subject to availability | Terms & Conditions apply

*Not all activities included in the program and are available at an additional cost.

INCLUDED

1 night at Hemingways Nairobi on Bed & Breakfast | 2 nights at Tawi Lodge on full board with house drinks and shared game drives | 2 nights at Kicheche Laikipia on full board with house drinks and shared day & night game drives, canoeing & mountain biking | 3 nights at Angama Mara on full board with house drinks, shared game drives and a nature walk | Day room in Nairobi | Internal flights, transfers & park fees in Kenya

EXCLUDED

Dinner and drinks at Hemingways Nairobi | Premium drinks at the safari camps | All other activities not mentioned in inclusions | International flights, visas & gratuities

Safari Inspiration: 9 Perfect Days on a Kenya Safari

Have you dreamed of going on a luxury Africa Safari, but have no idea where to stay or what to expect?

Day 1: Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and overnight at Hemingways Nairobi.

Day 2: Scheduled flight to Amboseli National Park with an afternoon game drive. Overnight at Tawi Lodge.

Day 3: Experience morning and afternoon game drives with Mount Kilimanjaro making the perfect backdrop to your photographs. Overnight at Tawi Lodge.

Day 4: Fly to Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Laikipia. Afternoon game drive. Check in at Kicheche Laikipia for the next two nights.

Day 5: Today you get to explore the conservancy – there are lots of activities available including meeting the last two northern white rhinos in the world*. Overnight at Kicheche Laikipia.

Day 6: Fly to the Masai Mara where you will spend the next three nights at the stunning Angama Mara.

Day 7 & 8: There are lots of activities to take part in at Angama Mara – head out on game drives into the Mara Reserve, walk with the Masai along the edge of the escarpment, visit a Masai Village or soar over the plains in a hot air balloon*. Overnight at Angama Mara.

Day 9: Today it is time to return home with some new and exciting memories – you will fly back to Nairobi where you will have a day room before connecting onto your international flight.

If you would like to extend your trip to see more of Africa or get in some beach time, please contact us for our special offer rates.

Special Offer Rate:

USD 6,592 per person

Book by:

31st August 2019

Valid for travel:

Between 1st October 2019 to 15th May 2020 excluding 15th December 2019 – 7th January 2020 & 9th to 14th April 2020.

Accommodation is subject to availability | Terms & Conditions apply

*Not all activities included in the program and are available at an additional cost.

INCLUDED

EXCLUDED

Dinner and drinks at Hemingways Nairobi | Premium drinks at the safari camps | All other activities not mentioned in inclusions | International flights, visas & gratuities

Ready to go on a Kenya safari and want more information on this promotion?
Not sure if Tanzania or South Africa might be a better fit for you? Contact our expert travel advisors to get help with planning your own trip to Africa:

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Sweeping Savannas, Towering Mountains, & Beautiful Beaches

Known For: The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Mt. Kilimanjaro, The Big Five, Adventure, World Class Beaches

General Information:

Main Airports:

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Currency:

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1. &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge – Ngorongoro Crater

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4. Singita Sasakwa Lodge

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Ready to Plan YOUR East African safari?!

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Known For: The Big Five, Great White Shark Diving, World Class Wines, Adventure

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Ready to Plan YOUR South African safari?!

Once-In-A-Lifetime Private Jet Journey

Abercrombie & Kent Private Escapes Up to 50% Off!

Ready to go on a Kenya safari and want more information on this promotion?
Not sure if Tanzania or South Africa might be a better fit for you? Contact our expert travel advisors to get help with planning your own trip to Africa: