Mantis opens off-grid safari lodge in South Africa’s Eastern Cape

Mantis Collection has opened Mantis Hiddn, a luxury off-grid mountain retreat set within an 800-hectare private reserve in the Eastern Cape’s greater Addo region.

The lodge offers high-end travelers an immersive nature experience, combining sustainability, wellness, and privacy in one remote location. 

The Eastern Cape is known for its unspoiled landscapes and rich wildlife, making it an ideal setting for nature-led travel.

“Hiddn is redefining wellness and sustainable luxury,” said CEO Craig Erasmus.

“Here, structured schedules are replaced by rituals that allow guests to reconnect with nature at their own pace.” 

Mantis Hiddn is designed for exclusivity and comfort.

The property features 12 suites for guests older than 12, each with en-suite bathrooms, fireplaces, and private decks.

Two villas accommodate families of all ages and include infinity pools, expansive decks, and personalised butler service.

The lodge operates off-grid using solar power, complemented by water-harvesting and recycling systems.

Locally sourced materials were used throughout construction to minimize environmental impact.

Personalized experiences and wellness 

Guest stays are tailored to individual preferences, with itineraries developed in consultation with an Experience Guide both before arrival and after departure.

Wellness is central to the lodge’s offering, covering physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and environmental dimensions.

Activities range from yoga, meditation, and breathwork to art therapy and in-suite fitness sessions with Technogym equipment. 

Culinary experiences are equally bespoke. Guests co-create menus with chefs, incorporating locally sourced and foraged ingredients.

Dining takes place across indoor and outdoor settings, including terraces, bomas, and remote bush locations, ensuring every meal is part of the natural experience.

Nature and adventure beyond the lodge 

Beyond the lodge, visitors can enjoy helicopter flights for coastal and marine photography, guided walking trails, and stargazing under some of the clearest skies in South Africa.

The focus is on authentic, nature-based experiences rather than traditional game drives, reflecting the lodge’s emphasis on environmental stewardship. 

With its blend of sustainable design, personalized wellness, and immersive nature experiences, Mantis Hiddn offers a fresh approach to luxury travel in Africa, appealing to travelers seeking quiet, comfort, and connection to the natural world.