Eco-luxury safari retreat Ubuyu, A Banyan Tree Escape is slated to open in late 2025 in Tanzania’s largest national park.
Taking its name from the Swahili word for the fruit of the baobab tree, Africa’s ‘Tree of Life’ revered for its resilience and longevity, Ubuyu sits in the Ruaha National Park in southern Tanzania’s Iringa region.
Ubuyu’s namesake trees frame the entrance, and the retreat comprises of six artisan-crafted villas, each designed to blend into the surrounding terrain with sweeping views over the savannah.
One- and two-bedroom villas draw inspiration from traditional Maasai circular dwellings, featuring open-air showers, private plunge pools and expansive decks positioned to capture sunrise light and wildlife movement.
The three-bedroom retreat follows the curve of the Great Ruaha River and is centred around a firepit and rooftop terrace designed for stargazing. Each villa is solar-powered and constructed using natural materials including timber, thatch, clay and carved Mninga wood furniture crafted by local artisans.
At the heart of Ubuyu lies the Living Room, a free-flowing communal space inspired by traditional Maasai enkangs, while the Open Kitchen presents a plant-forward, zero-waste menu and the rooftop Mganga Bar enjoys views of the river and surrounding bushland.
The retreat also features the Maji Spa, which is set along the riverbank, and each stay is guided by a dedicated Escape Host who brings intimate knowledge of the land, wildlife and surrounding communities.
Related Posts
5 December 2023
Banyan Tree debuts in Dubai
18 September 2023
Ennismore unveils plans for Banyan Tree Dubai
2 May 2023