Sindia Camp

On the edge of the Réserve de Bandia, 50km South East of Senegal’s capital Dakar, Sindia Camp is set in an ancient baobab forest. This contemporary private desert wilderness eco-lodge and equestrian center has been created as an idyllic family retreat for a prominent West African businessman. Sindia Camp takes luxury private lodge design and style to a new level with a bold and contemporary interpretation of the classic African tented camp, drawing inspiration from the surrounding arid landscape to blend both West African and European aesthetics. This striking open-plan design comprises five private double bedroom suites, two lounge pavilions and a modern equestrian stable, all screened at its entrance by a dramatic nine meter high sandstone wall. Entering into the main courtyard through a grand antique doorway, a linear water feature gently courses its way down past the open-air dining area and fire pit before diverging into the pool. Here a lantern lit tree top bar and viewing deck overlooks the watering hole, attracting numerous species of endemic game from the dusty plains to within a stone’s throw of the edge of the property whilst offering unprecedented panoramic views. Floating stairs lead into the main double volume pavilion with an inside lounge-dining area offering respite from the heat through the use of traditional mud packed walls. Adjacent to this is a children’s pavilion, a comfortable smaller lounge and entertainment area. The external walls of these two structures were almost completely removed and replaced by glass to create a new safari tent-style, maximizing views and space, and allowing its residents to be immersed in nature. Each of the private double bedroom suites has a luxurious outdoor bathroom, positioned strategically between the giant baobabs for maximum privacy whilst offering incredible desert views. Sindia Camp’s refined interiors are in keeping with the natural setting, bringing the outside in through the imaginative use of sustainable reclaimed materials and a neutral sun-bleached palette. Desert sandstone and weathered solid timbers contrast against exposed concrete and raw steel. High design objects d’art from OKHA combine with the owners own eclectic pieces to create a minimalistic but comfortable living environment epitomizing African luxury. Architecture by SAOTA.