FROM DÉCOR TO DELICIOUS - THE BAOBAB RIDGE WAY!

When it comes to guest experience, Baobab Ridge is far from your average safari lodge. In a market place that's somewhat overcrowded with "traditional" lodge design, we tend to take a different approach to things, going for unique and slightly unconventional over run-of-the-mill. 

Our guests always rave about our wonderful, relaxed atmosphere where they are made to feel right at home and able to unwind and be themselves. They also love our amazing food because it literally feeds into this same easygoing vibe, providing wholesome, healthy and home-cooked dishes that are good for body, mind and soul!

From full English-style breakfasts; home-made pizzas; fresh pancakes and sliders to fresh fruit skewers; cheese and cold meat platters; crisp, fresh salads and three-course dinners, meals at Baobab Ridge are never going to leave you hungry! The accent is on fresh, organic (where possible) and locally sourced ingredients and we specialise in both vegetarian and vegan options. 

While we've kept the décor at Baobab Ridge understated, our lovely "matriarch" Nini Gouveris has added some amazing style statements that break the mould of the usual palette of neutrals and bush-inspired colours, providing some colourful punches in the process. 

Not the least of these are our sumptuous red couches out on our gorgeous pool deck. Custom-designed by Nini to be both plush and practical, the richness of the colour provides warmth and sass and is offset by the unique a antique turquoise wooden Zanzibari doors to the honesty bar with its distinctive African portrait and complementing red traditional hats. 

The couches and the upper deck loungers, with their oversized cream-coloured mattresses, were made locally from reclaimed wood in keeping with Baobab Ridge's deep commitment to sustainability. Designed with comfort in mind, we defy anyone to lay back on them and not fall asleep! 

The overall look of the pool deck is one that Nini is very proud of, with its rich combinations of traditional African artefacts and objets d'arts and wonderful woods, from the latte backdrop to the rough-hewn nature of the dining tables and tribal stools used as side tables. The blue of the antique doors is picked up in the heavy glass beads used as décor items in wooden bowls both here and throughout the lodge. It's also reflected in the beautiful swimming pool that sparkles in sunlight that's filtered through tall shade trees. 

The organic flow of the lodge begins in the entrance hall and reception area - a natural gathering point for guests - and extends to the lounge and bar, with its plush leather recliners offering the perfect excuse for a midday siesta! The courtyard-style deck is where breakfasts and afternoon teas are enjoyed al fresco, alongside the indoor dining room which is used when the weather prevents dinner from being served outside in the boma, under a blanket of twinkling stars.

The indoor-outdoor theme is carried into the air-conditioned guest suites, with stackable sliding doors that open up completely to covered, private verandahs with views of the surrounding bush, creating an effortless transition from inside to outside. The suites themselves are airy, cool and spacious, offering a secluded sanctuary where guests can enjoy downtime in between activities. 

With their high ceilings and tall, floor to ceiling windows, the design of the suites has been driven by the elements and the need to keep cool in the summer months and warm in the winter. 

All windows slide open and have insect-proof screens, allowing for natural circulation of air when the air conditioning is not in use. Neutral walls and cool floor tiles create a calm ambience that's complemented by rich textiles and textures, plush linen and throws.

Each suite has its own kitchenette with a tea and coffee station and bar fridge. Guests are always welcome to bring their own drinks (we don't charge corkage) or have the fridge stocked from the bar. 

The suite bathrooms (with the exception of the family suite) are wonderfully large, with a huge soaking tub, double vanities, separate toilet and shower that opens to the outside verandah. The décor theme is crisp whites with accents of navy blue and white linen blinds. 

Our gardens are filled with life, from baobab trees aplenty to large shade trees where a plethora of birds and other small animals can be seen. Our lawns are perfect for children to play on, and at night we are often visited by bush babies and even honey badgers! 

If all of this sounds just too wonderful to imagine, you'll just have to come and see everything for yourselves on a wonderful safari. You'll arrive as strangers but leave as members of the extended Baobab Ridge family!