Journey Beyond to manage and operate Monarto Safari Resort

Adelaide headquartered, experiential tourism group Journey Beyond has been named the manager and opertaor of the much-anticipated multimillion-dollar Monarto Safari Resort which will open its doors to the public on Wednesday 28th May 2025.  

Located within an hour's drive of Adelaide in South Australia, the resort is located within Monarto Safari Park and the new Wild Africa precinct, showcasing stunning views of the Mallee Plains. Guests will get rare access to African wildlife, with the chance to see rhinos, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and hippos roaming the open plains and waterholes.

The resort’s arrival follows the introduction of Asian elephants Burma and Permai this year at Monarto Safari Park, and Nile hippos Brindabella and Pansy in 2023. The new animals, alongside the Monarto Visitor Centre which opened in 2022, have already helped boost tourism and job growth in South Australia. The addition of the $40 million safari resort is anticipated to attract even more visitors.

The Monarto Safari Resort, owned by Jayco caravans founder Gerry Ryan, will add to the largest safari experience outside of Africa. The resort will feature 78 luxury rooms, a world-class spa, two swimming pools, conference spaces, and a luxury camp.

Ryan shared “we’ve always wanted to offer guests an experience that connects them with the natural beauty and conservation efforts of the area. I’m excited to see how Journey Beyond will bring this vision to life.”

Journey Beyond Chief Executive, Chris Tallent said with years of expertise in managing unique tourism operations in remote destinations across Australia, Journey Beyond is exceptionally well-placed to manage this cutting-edge new build.

David Donald, Executive General Manager at Journey Beyond, invites guests to “stay wild” in this spectacular setting adding “here, you can connect with wild Africa, witness the beauty of diverse species, and enjoy the serenity of your surroundings, making your stay a truly unforgettable adventure.”

Zoos South Australia Chief Executive, Elaine Bensted enthused "we're really looking forward to this partnership and working with Journey Beyond."

"Their extensive knowledge of regional tourism, coupled with a strong focus on sustainability and conservation, will ensure that the resort will become a premier destination for nature enthusiasts.”

The luxury resort features 78 hotel guest rooms and 20 luxury tents in the safari lodge, a world-class spa, two swimming pools as well as conference, function and restaurant spaces.

Perfectly suited for families, couples and adventure seekers, visitors will be able to enjoy private tours through Wild Africa, such as Premium Safari Tours, bespoke experiences onboard custom-made safari vehicles, and sundowner drinks and canapes while overlooking the free roaming animals exploring the open plains.

The hotel will also offer an inspiring setting for business events and conferences, as well as a venue for weddings in the world's wildest locale.

As part of Journey Beyond' s commitment to people, place and planet, for every stay at the hotel a portion of the room rate will be donated to Monarto Safari Park's conservation programs. Conservation is at the heart of Monarto Safari Park and Zoos SA's mission, and by staying at the resort and lodge, guests are directly contributing to programs that ensure the ongoing preservation of these amazing animals.

SA Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison said Journey Beyond and Monarto Safari Resort are the perfect pairing and noted "I know the leading experiential tourism group will be dedicated to upholding and showcasing the important work of Zoos SA as part of this partnership.

"There is no doubt the multi-million-dollar development will be a jewel in South Australia's tourism crown, offering unique accommodation and experiences for a range of travellers in Murray River, Lakes, & Coorong.

"I look forward to seeing the bookings come in from February for this world-class offering, which will be enhanced by the knowledge and globally revered reputation of Journey Beyond."

The management of Monarto Safari Resort adds to Journey Beyond' s investment in South Australia - including its recent partnership with one of the nation's longest running food and beverage festivals, Tasting Australia.

Bookings and packages for Monarto Safari Resort will be available from 3rd February. For those looking to Go Wild and discover the stunning savannah that is Monarto Safari Resort visit www.monartosafariresort.com.

Images. Credit: Monarto Safari Park Resort