National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World has added Bensley Collection – Shinta Mani Wild along with 9 other handpicked lodges to its growing collection of world-class hotels in extraordinary destinations around the world. These new properties have each demonstrated their dedication to sustainable practices and to protecting natural and cultural heritage while simultaneously providing an intimate and exceptional guest experience.
With just 15 luxurious tents, Bensley Collection – Shinta Mani Wild opened in December 2018 and is located in the remote wilderness of the Kirirom National Park and the South Cardamom National Park, three hours south of Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Glamping goes to a whole new level as guests arrive Indiana Jones style by a 400 zip line over a river and waterfalls into Bensley Collection – Shinta Mani Wild, or in a Jungle Jeep as preferred. Inspired by an imaginary safari with Jackie O’ guests will feel like one of the first to explore this hidden paradise.
The camp was born when world-renowned designer Bill Bensley identified an unprotected 800 acre wildlife corridor and set out to save it from poaching and logging. The camp has a partnership with the respected Wildlife Alliance NGO, whose Rangers have an onsite station. The Shinta Mani Foundation spearheads conservation and community outreach programmes, providing local employment from their hospitality school in Siem Reap.
Guests can enjoy a range of creative adventure activities, feast on delicious cuisine including local freshly foraged ingredients, relax at the Khmer Tonics Spa and join the Wildlife Alliance anti-poaching rangers and researchers as they check camera points and study the untamed forest and its wildlife inhabitants. This is an experiential luxury adventure giving intimate access to one of Asia’s most stunning forest ecosystems.
Bill Bensley has a lifelong personal affiliation with National Geographic and shares “As many baby boomers did, I grew up in a National Geographic family. It was the only magazine that Mum and Dad subscribed to year after year. I remember their specials on a Sunday night which was a family event that brought us all together. We are honoured and delighted to join this very special group of unique properties with Shinta Mani Wild. Being part of the Unique Lodges programme will promote us to a niche group of travelers looking a unique and authentic experience where conservation and sustainability are at the heart of everything we do to preserve this unique destination.” Bill said.
As with all National Geographic Unique Lodges, Bensley Collection – Shinta Mani Wild has been chosen with sustainability in mind. A National Geographic sustainable tourism expert has spent time at Bensley Collection – Shinta Mani Wild ensuring that they incorporate innovative sustainability practices into their everyday operations, support natural and cultural heritage, and engage with the local community in tangible ways. To learn more about how these properties are having a positive impact in their destinations, read our full 2019 Sustainable Tourism Impact Report.
“We’re excited to expand our collection of Unique Lodges to these destinations that are truly making meaningful strides in sustainability,” said Heather Heverling, senior vice president of product management, National Geographic Expeditions. “These new properties embrace National Geographic’s values and are making a positive impact on both a local and global scale.”
See an overview of these lodges and destinations here. For more information about National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World, visit www.nationalgeographiclodges.com.
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