The Retreat Selous

The Retreat Selous

The Retreat Selous is a well established all-suite tented lodge, probably most sought-after for its prized location (with one of the most commanding vistas in the reserve) and the exclusive holistic experience of nature and wildlife, far from other camps and lodges. It is situated in wild bush on the banks of the wide Great Ruaha River, a mecca for wildlife and hippo in particular.

The centrally situated main house – The Fort – is high up on a rocky hillside, on the site of a former military observation post from World War 1. Benefiting from cooling breezes, it is treasured for being one of the best vantage points in the whole reserve.

The spaciously set tented suites have been sensitively constructed to harmonize with the raw habitat, whilst guaranteeing privacy. The decorative interiors are a step away from the traditional colonial style found in many lodges and camps. Instead, the owners have carefully blended ethnic elements, bespoke furnishings, African antiques, natural materials, and precious stones – a new sense of comfort and luxury.

Accommodation

The customised 100 -220 m² luxury tents, mounted on raised teak wood platforms, rise to a height of over 6 meters, protected by two layers – a strong mosquito net as an inner wall and heavy duty canvas on the outer side. The tents are at least 30 to 50 meters apart and can be fully opened to the sounds, the breeze, and full view of the bush, or be cosily fastened, as you prefer. Each suite has its own private outdoor deck with seating and an outdoor antique copper, brass or silver bathtub, a supremely comfortable king size bed surrounded by a silk mosquito net, indoor en suite facilities, including separate shower and specially commissioned washbasins made with semi-precious stones.

The three River Suites have their own enticing private plunge pools and a sundeck as well as access to the large communal infinity pool. The six Eagle Hill Suites are located next to the main house, The Fort and offer similarly outstanding views from the top of the hill. The versatile Lion’s Suite has a further 60 m² of tented seating area which can accommodate additional beds to cater for families and also has a personal dining area with plunge pool, great for honeymooners.

The Retreat Selous now includes Hippo Point, a completely separate and exclusive unit, located 2km from The Fort  and has two large suites, each with their own sundeck and plunge pool. You have your own private bar, lounge, dining area, pool, cook and butler. To complete this exclusive safari experience, you also have your own private guide for your activities.

The Retreat Selous experience

Rigid timescales for activities are not the order of the day at The Retreat Selous. Instead, it prides itself on offering guests a more tailormade safari experience and have designed popular themes including Adventure, Awareness, Romance in Africa, Family Delight or The Spiritual Retreat to cater for different needs. Whether you wish to explore the Selous on foot, boat or vehicle, the experienced guides will customise the experience around your needs. For the keen safari enthusiast, The Retreat Selous also offers fly camping with a private cook, butler and guide to ensure you feel completely safe so you can fully enjoy the superb game viewing without any worries.

The Retreat Selous is not all about safari activities, however, as guests can also enjoy a spa treatment or two at the romantic outdoor ‘River Spa’, on the shores of the Great Ruaha River at the end of an exhilarating day’s safari.