Spring 2019

77 Jan19105 Experience the Unforgettable at JamalaWildlife Lodge Nestled in the grounds of one of Australia’s most interactive zoos, the National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra, Jamala Wildlife Lodge is something that has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. Partnering undeniable luxury with the opportunity to truly get up-close to some of the world’s most majestic and powerful creatures, the lodge is something special indeed. Today, Jamala is often considered one of the country’s most essential of luxury experiences. Canberra’s National Zoo and Aquarium (NZA) has, over its twenty-year history, always endeavoured to offer visitors unique and wonderful ways to interact with their residents. Today, it is one of the largest privately- owned zoos, and hosts the largest inland saltwater tank in Australia. Moreover, innovation and creativity has always been at the heart of the zoo, alongside a need for constant improvement, offering new and better experiences for guests to indulge in and enjoy. One of the major additions to the NZA was Jamala Wildlife Lodge in 2014, which boasts eighteen luxurious African-lodge inspired rooms set across three different accommodation precincts: Giraffe Treehouses, Jungle Bungalows and uShaka Lodge. Over the last five years, the lodge has been awarded a plethora of accolades, including several from the Australian Hotels Association and recognition from numerous global industry publications. There can be little doubt then that Jamala Lodge is something special indeed. Inspired in no small part by African iconography, Jamala’s interiors are transformative, inviting guests to experience the wonders of the Serengeti in Australia. It’s all animal print and intricate wooden carvings, partnered with high-vaulted ceilings and clean, modern interior design. Whilst the interiors help sell the experience, there can be no denying that the zoo’s more permanent residents are the stars of the show. During their stay, guests can come face to face with rhinos, lions, tigers, sun bears, monkeys and meerkats – among others – gifting an unprecedented opportunity to connect with and learn about these incredible creatures in a way that few ever can. But, Jamala’s luxury trappings don’t end there. For the gourmets, fine dining offerings complete the experience. With sunset canapés and drinks, an African-styled five course dinner with fellow guests and a freshly prepared breakfast, guests can rest assured that Jamala aims to impress, earning its reputation for providing a ‘once in a lifetime experience’. By all considerations, the cornerstone of Jamala Wildlife Lodge is uShaka Lodge, with its Lemur Rooms, Meerkat Rooms and a huge lounge area complete with a 200,000-litre shark tank. The six Giraffe Treehouse suites allow guests to mingle with one of the zoo’s most popular residents, Hummer the Giraffe. Each of the treehouses boasts panoramic views of the Molonglo River, and Jamala’s signature style of spacious, seamless luxury. Last but not least are the Jungle Bungalows. Each of these resplendent suites sit adjacent to a large animal enclosure, with areas allocated for special up-close interactions, separated only by a sheet of glass. If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy a glass of wine while sitting mere feet from a Cheetah, the Jungle Bungalows are your best bet. All in all, there can be no doubt that Jamala Wildlife Lodge offers one of the best luxury experiences in Australia, offering the tantalising thrill of the safari with best in class, five-star surroundings. Whether you are an animal lover, or just a lover of luxury, Jamala offers a truly remarkable accommodation experience. Company: Jamala Wildlife Lodge Telephone: +61 2 6287 8444 Website: www.jamala.com.au Explore