Get ready for South Australia’s new luxe safari resort experience

Rachael ThompsonBy Rachael Thompson
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Dreaming of an African safari holiday? This new resort might just offer the next best thing.

Adventure and luxury meet in the heart of South Australia, as Journey Beyond announces the addition of Monarto Safari Report to their portfolio of high-end accommodations and lodges in Australia. The site is receiving a $60 million investment, including a Monarto Safari Resort which is set to become a standout destination for nature enthusiasts. 

Unwind at Monarto Safari Resort's Marula Spa, where luxury treatments meet the sounds of the savannah.

Chris Tallent, Journey Beyond CEO, is excited by the opportunity for Journey Beyond to manage and operate the new resort. “With years of expertise in managing unique tourism operations in remote destinations across Australia, Journey Beyond is exceptionally well-placed to manage this cutting-edge new build…" 

Monarto Safari Resort swimming pool
The accommodation will feature two swimming pools.

Spanning 1550 hectares, Monarto Safari Park is one of the largest open-range zoos in the world, with a strong focus on wildlife conservation and education. Located within an hour’s drive of Adelaide, it allows visitors to immerse themselves in the wonders of the African savanna, all without leaving Australia.

The luxury accommodation is slated to open in May and will feature 78 rooms, a 20-tent luxury safari lodge (coming in 2026), and unique wildlife encounters. In staying here, guests will have the unique opportunity to participate in exclusive sunrise and sunset African-style safari tours, providing an immersive wildlife experience across 550 hectares of wide-open plains, amongst free-roaming herds of African animals including rhinos, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras and hippos.

Monarto Safari Resort foyer
The interiors are inspired by the rugged beauty of the African savanna, with earthy tones and natural materials like wood and stone.

Zoos South Australia Chief Executive Elaine Bensted says, “We’re really looking forward to this partnership and working with Journey Beyond. Their extensive knowledge of regional tourism, coupled with a strong focus on sustainability and conservation, will ensure that the resort will become a premier destination for nature enthusiasts."

The accommodation’s interiors are inspired by the rugged beauty of the African savannah, with earthy tones and natural materials like wood and stone. The elevated guest rooms and suites will overlook the expansive plains of the new Wild Africa precinct of Monarto Safari. Facilities include two swimming pools, a world-class spa, wedding facilities and top-tier dining facilities. 

Monarto Safari Resort
The building’s exterior showcases modern architecture with sleek lines.

A portion of the room rate for every booking will be donated to Monarto Safari Park’s conservation programs. Gerry Ryan OAM, owner of the luxury resort, says, “Our mission has always been to offer guests an unparalleled experience that connects them with the natural beauty and conservation efforts of the area, and I am excited to see how Journey Beyond will bring this vision to life."

The resort will open on 28 May, with bookings available from 3 February.

Monarto Safari Park giraffes
Graceful giraffes roaming the sprawling plains of Monarto Safari Resort
Rachael Thompson
Rachael Thompson is Australian Traveller's Evergreen Editor and a self-proclaimed cheese and Chablis connoisseur. In her role, she creates and manages online content that remains relevant and valuable over time. With a background in publishing and e-commerce in both interior design and travel, Rachael is dedicated to curating engaging content that informs and inspires. She began her career at Belle magazine, then went on to become Senior Content Producer at Homes to Love focusing on Australian House & Garden and Belle, followed by Editor at Bed Threads. Her work has also appeared in Qantas Travel Insider. When she's not writing, editing, or optimising content, Rachael enjoys exploring the city's newest restaurants, bars, and hotels. Next on her Aussie travel wish list are Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and Lord Howe Island.
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    Lara PiconeBy Lara Picone
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