Kenyan Encore
Exclusivity is a word that can be tossed around easily when describing solitude and fashionable surroundings, but the opulent oasis of Segera goes well beyond that simplistic description. A step into an unimaginable world and surrounded by inspiring nature sums it up. An exhaustive Google search would never discover words that adequately captivate its extravagant appeal.
Prior to arrival onto Segera’s private airstrip, the overhead view exposes an intimate complex of six timber and thatched villas encircled by lush landscaping, a centerpiece swimming pool, and breathtaking views of Mount Kenya as a backdrop.
Unforeseen class is complemented by the property’s extensive African art collection, thanks to the discriminate eye of visionary owner, Jochen Zeitz. Fabulous paintings and sculptured art create a gallery comparable to museum-quality masterpieces. In fact, Zeitz is responsible for the creation of his namesake contemporary art museum in Cape Town. The main villa was initially the owner’s private home, but eventually opened to public reservations, which established jobs and a deeper engagement with the surrounding populace.
The retreat prides itself on its extensive contribution to the preservation of not only threatened wildlife, but also the region’s delicate ecosystems. The surrounding 50,000 acres of game sanctuary provide habitat for lion, leopard, buffalo, giraffe, and zebra along with an assortment of plains game that complete the structure and natural balance of life in the bush.
Paramount to the wildlife allure is the unrestricted hierarchy of complex animal survival. Our first outing revealed a lioness dragging a defeated wildebeest into the bush, a testament to the reality of environmental existence.
The most underscored characteristic of each of the four Wilderness Safaris camps is the consistency of comfort slathered with luxury. Lounging under a star-studded canopy with a soothing libation in hand, exotic dinner being created by pampering staff, all the while enveloped in the untouched panorama of the bush as star performer, and you have an Oscar-worthy cinematic presentation.
The appeal of each camp is outstanding, but even more impressive is the precept of sustainable eco-tourism that benefits the local community. As described by Jens Kozany, manager of Segera, “The Long Run Initiative was founded based on the holistic balance of the four ‘c’s: conservation, culture, community, and commerce.”
Getting away from it all is an understatement. Getting into it all is expedited by an extensive portfolio of luxury properties throughout Africa. Urban dwellers can rejoice. Bush elegance is exactly what the doctor ordered, barefoot luxury in an escape for the soul’s rejuvenation.