Sudipta Dev – Mumbai
Safari Getaways, a new venture of Nirvana Excursions is introducing luxury wildlife experiences for those seeking vacations with a difference. “We want to give people an experience they cannot imagine in the middle of the African savanna, from infinity pools overlooking a waterhole where animals frequent, to ultra luxury tents comparable with five-star hotels,” said Viren Batra, founder and CEO, Safari Getaways, adding that their product is not a mass product. “On a regular safari you would end up paying US$ 2500 upwards, we are looking at taking that and going beyond,” he added.
The clientele are mainly FITs as of now; later Safari Getaways will introduce group tours also. There is no fixed schedule and guests can have unique experiences. “There is a lot of interest among people to see animals in their natural habitat. Also, safaris help support the local economy as well, which will help the animals be there for a long time. The best part is that there is no impact on the environment, the tents are built over a small area for a particular period of time and moved. The area is left as it is,” stated Batra, pointing out that the luxury tents are one part of the offering. “We are looking at bringing in all the available luxury options within East Africa, Central Asia, South East Asia like Vietnam and of course India. There is a lot of interest in South America and Central America – Panama, Costa Rica, the Amazon,” he said. Guests get to stay in exclusive lodges in Kruger National Park with river (frequented by animals) running through the property so they are guaranteed better sightings. “Luxurious camps in private reserves overlooking the valley, from where you cannot see another tent. There are similar experiences in game rich destinations of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Namibia,” added Batra.
Another initiative is Little Nirvana Explorers with kids itineraries. “We are planning mom and kids groups. There will also be a lot of FITs and every itinerary will be designed keeping in mind the age of the child, for example a start pack for skiing in Kashmir, swimming with dolphins in the Amazon,” stated Nidhi Batra, co-founder and director, Nirvana Excursions.