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On the Wild Side: Resorts Caring for Wildlife

On the Wild Side: Resorts Caring for Wildlife

We all want to make sure we are doing our best to protect our precious and beautiful wildlife for the future. Luckily, there are many incredible resorts to choose from which are committed to environmental conservation, so you can rest easy during your next big trip. From coral restoration in the Maldives to safeguarding endangered species in South Africa, these five resorts invite you to help preserve our planet’s ecosystems – both land and sea – through unforgettable experiences.

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve

Situated on 7,500 hectares of protected land in the Cederberg Mountains of South Africa, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve and Wellbeing Retreat is a beacon of wildlife conservation. During your stay at the reserve, you’ll encounter many of the area’s 35 species of mammals and more than 150 bird species, many of which are rare or endangered. The reserve plays a crucial role in preserving the Cape Floral Kingdom, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's richest plant biodiversity hotspots. During your stay you can participate in guided nature drives and walks, learning about the reserve's conservation efforts and observing magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Bushmans Kloof actively manages the reintroduction and protection of indigenous species, including the Cape Mountain zebra and bontebok, both of which were once on the brink of extinction. The reserve also maintains a nursery for indigenous plants, contributing to the restoration of the area's unique fynbos vegetation.

Courtesy of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection

Soneva Fushi

Protecting precious underwater ecosystems, Soneva Fushi in the Baa Atoll of the Maldives is home to the Indian Ocean's largest coral restoration project, featuring a one-hectare coral nursery and the Maldives' first Coral Spawning and Rearing facility. This ambitious undertaking works towards creating 150,000 coral fragments annually, contributing substantially to marine ecosystem regeneration. On land, Soneva Fushi offers a ‘Wildlife Explorer’ experience, where you'll learn about the diverse flora and fauna of Kunfunadhoo island. The resort’s commitment to sustainability extends to its dining experiences, which are rooted in a farm-to-table approach with extensive organic gardens. And as part of the “Fishing is a Family Matter” experience, you can also learn how to fish sustainably with local Maldivian fisherman Rocket and his family, before having your catch prepared back at the resort with a traditional marinade recipe.

Courtesy of Soneva

NIHI Sumba

On the remote Indonesian island of Sumba, NIHI Sumba actively works to preserve the island's unique ecosystem across its 175 hectares of tropical forest, grasslands, and pristine beachfront. Ride along the beach while supporting the resort’s safeguarding of the indigenous horse population through local breeding programmes. When night falls, you can take a guided walk along the coastline during turtle nesting season, to learn more about the resort’s collaboration with local communities to protect nesting sites. There is also a sanctuary for the native Sumba hornbills, established to combat habitat loss and reforest the area. 

Courtesy of NIHI Sumba

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

At the heart of Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is the resort's King's Pond, which is home to more than 4,000 tropical fish from 98 species. Here, you can participate in guided snorkelling sessions and learn about marine ecosystems from the resort's team of marine biologists. You can also join the resort's marine naturalists in maintaining the ancient Hawaiian anchialine pools, assisting with tasks like monitoring water quality and observing native species. Meanwhile, bird enthusiasts can be guided through the golf course ponds, which serve as sanctuaries for marine birds.

Courtesy of Four Seasons

Conrad Bora Bora

To discover French Polynesia’s unique aquatic biodiversity, stay at Conrad Bora Bora Nui. The resort actively engages in marine conservation efforts such as the Biorock Program, collaborating with Espace Bleu and the Global Coral Reef Alliance to regenerate surrounding coral reefs using cutting-edge technology. Join a guided snorkelling tour to observe these ecosystems and learn about the importance of coral conservation. Or, for a truly hands-on experience, join the resort's marine biologists in monitoring and maintaining the coral nurseries, directly contributing to the preservation efforts.

Of course, you can book these and other wildlife hotels with the ASMALLWORLD Collection.

Courtesy of Hilton Hotel & Resorts Group

ASMALLWORLD Collection Hotels Selected By Our Editor

Soneva Fushi
Soneva Fushi
Maldives, Maldives
Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat
Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Re...
Western Cape, South Africa
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
ASW Collection
Conrad Bora Bora Nui
Bora Bora, French Polynesia

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