Safari Lodge has officially opened in South Australia’s Mallee Plains, marking its debut as the country’s premier luxury safari destination.
Located adjacent to the Monarto Safari Resort, the property is the result of a decade-long development project led by founder Gerry Ryan AO.
The lodge aims to provide an immersive African-style safari experience within Australia, featuring world-class accommodations paired with authentic wildlife encounters, according to an article by Nomad.
The property is situated within an exclusive 40-hectare sanctuary managed by Journey Beyond.
The development represents a significant investment, following the AU$40 million infrastructure established by the parent Monarto Safari Resort in 2025.
Every architectural element of the lodge was designed to prioritize unobstructed views of the surrounding environment, where guests can observe nine distinct species, including giraffe, zebra, and cheetah.
Accommodations consist of 20 standalone luxury safari tents that blend sophisticated glamping elegance with safari authenticity.
Each tent features premium bedding, ensuite bathrooms constructed with natural materials, climate control, and private decks overlooking active waterholes.
The stay is fully inclusive, covering meals prepared by specialized chefs, beverages, and unlimited access to the broader 1,000-animal collection at Monarto Safari Park.
In addition to high-end lodging, the site offers a variety of guest experiences, including spa facilities, night safaris, and naturalist-led photography workshops.
The operational model is built on regenerative tourism, with a portion of every booking directly supporting Zoos SA’s conservation initiatives and endangered species programs.
Gerry Ryan’s vision for the lodge was to fill a gap in the Australian luxury market by offering a local alternative to transcontinental safari travel. South Australian Minister for Tourism Emily Bourke described the opening as a “game-changer” for the state’s tourism profile.
Journey Beyond CEO Chris Tallent noted that the property’s philosophy ensures “every detail is thoughtfully considered from world-class design and elevated comfort”.
This opening sets a new benchmark for ultra-luxury, nature-based accommodations in the Southern Hemisphere.
For developers and operators, the Safari Lodge model demonstrates how high-value, experience-driven “glamping” can successfully integrate with conservation efforts to attract affluent, eco-conscious travelers who seek transformative stays without the need for international travel.