Cape Town - Mantis has partnered with the Kenyan based Monarch Group to develop, manage and market a number of their unique properties.
This pivotal partnership marks the beginning of a foothold in East Africa for Mantis.
It’s a match meant to be with a fusion of like-minded entrepreneurs. Both Mantis and Jambo Chester Hotels and Resorts (the current name for the collection of private luxury lodges) are family owned.
South African hotelier and developer of Mantis, Adrian Gardiner is committed to conservation and ecotourism with his passion for tourism firmly set on the African continent, making this new chapter in East Africa particularly pleasing. “I have had the pleasure of visiting all the Monarch Group properties. Having been involved in the creation of Shamwari Game Reserve and many other lodges and hotels around the globe, I can honestly say that what we have in Kenya is truly iconic. Mantis is privileged to be in partnership with Jared and Tabitha,” noted Adrian on the signing of the partnership.
Kenyan born husband and wife team Jared and Tabitha Kangwana are eager to enter this new chapter with Mantis. “I am very excited about our new relationship with Adrian and the Mantis Collection and look forward to their promotion of our top class products both locally and internationally,” comments Jared as he reflects on this union.
Together, this couple offer exceptional access to Kenya’s natural beauty through their privately owned select properties, all listed below.
Firstly, north of the ancient Aberdares Forest and just west of Mount Kenya, the exclusive Mutara Camp Laikipia sits just above the tropical equator in one of the most unique places on earth. The 15 room world-class tented camp is the only accommodation in the 20 000-acre Mutara Conservancy.
Laikipia holds some of the greatest and most diverse wildlife in East Africa. Significant populations of endangered species are protected here. Such animals include African Wild Dog, Grevy’s Zebra, Black Rhino and three of the last fourremaining Northern White Rhino in the world.
Also in the Laikipia District (in the Ol Pejeta Conservancy) and joining the Mantis Owner’s Collection is a five bedroomed Villa on the Mount Kenya Wildlife Estate.
Impala EcoLodge is the second lodge which Mantis will be managing and marketing. Twelve luxurious chalets are nestled on the shores of Lake Victoria within the lush grounds and protected ecosystem of the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary. Built to minimize ecological impact and to maximise guest comfort, this is the perfect base for exploring Kenya’s Western Circuit and the many activities offered on Lake Victoria.
Next on the list of properties are two private homes, namely Jahazi and Bahari. Both are nestled on lush Mida Creek, part of Kenya’s famous Watamu Marine National Park. Jahazi and Bahari offer the combination of complete seclusion and easy access to the 7km ’Long Beach’, voted one of Africa’s top 5 beaches.
Lastly, Mantis is also involved in the refurbishment of the 84 roomed Chester House Apartment Hotel in Nairobi CBD. This development will include luxury 5-star suites and a club level that will bring a new level of luxury to the Nairobi Skyline. After completion of this refurbishment program, the hotel will be renamed The Mantis Chester Suites and will include new conference and function rooms as well as the addition of a luxury Health and Wellness Spa.
Adapted from a press release for IOL