When US billionaire Paul Tudor Jones leased 140,000 hectares adjoining the Serengeti National Park, in effect creating a new private game reserve, he built a house high on Sasakwa Hill and a tented camp on the plains, both straight out of central casting's Colonial Archive, with vintage Chevrolets parked at jaunty angles, Edwardian oils
and cut-glass decanters. Originally built for his private use, the accommodation quietly opened to paying guests last year. Then a management deal was struck with Luke Bailes's prestigious Singita Group, giving the South African ecotourism expert a showpiece in East Africa. Singita's interior designers moved in to deliver their signature African Opulence look at Sasakwa Lodge, before sweeping down the hill to tweak Sabora Tented Camp. A third option, Faru Faru Lodge, opened as we went to press and, with its combination of reeds, rocks and electric windows, it might be the most intriguing
of all. The reserve has an equestrian centre, tennis courts, a spa and gym; the cuisine and wine cellar are unrivalled in the region. But it is Grumeti's commitment to local communities and wildlife conservation that deserves the most sustained applause. This is one of the most exciting launches in East Africa in decades, providing all the privacy, exclusivity and now professional service that anyone paying these prices deserves.
WHEN TO GO
June-August is traditionally the best time to view the Serengeti wildebeest migration, although vast herds have been known to pass through as late as November.
ROOM TO BOOK
The owner's cottage (number 7) at Sasakwa,
if only for a night.
CONTACT
Sasakwa, Western Serengeti, Tanzania (00 255 28 262 2074; www.grumetireserves.com).
COST
US$1,500 per person per night at Sasakwa; US$850 at Sabora and Faru Faru
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