SA tourism to ‘go wild’ as Monarto Safari Resort opens its doors to the public
The resort offers guests exclusive access to the Wild Africa precinct within Monarto Safari Park.
Australia’s premier experiential tourism company, Journey Beyond, will officially manage and operate the much-anticipated Monarto Safari Resort, which officially opened its doors to guests on May 28, 2025.
Located just an hour from Adelaide, in the heart of the Murray River, Lakes & Coorong tourism region, Monarto Safari Resort offers guests exclusive access to the Wild Africa precinct within Monarto Safari Park. The luxury resort boasts 78 hotel guest rooms, 20 luxury safari tents, a world-class spa, two swimming pools, and a variety of dining, conference, and function facilities.
Guests can expect a front-row seat to breathtaking wildlife experiences, with the chance to view southern white rhinoceros, cheetahs, hippopotamuses, zebras, and giraffes roaming nearby. Unique activities include Premium Safari Tours, bespoke experiences in custom-made vehicles, and sundowner drinks and canapés overlooking the open plains.
A partnership with purpose
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.
Zoe Bettison, South Australia’s Minister for Tourism, welcomed the announcement.
“Journey Beyond and Monarto Safari Resort are the perfect pairing, and 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,” Ms Bettison said.
“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.”
Chris Tallent, CEO of Journey Beyond, emphasised the company’s expertise in managing luxury tourism.
“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, with 78 elegant guest rooms in the hotel and 20 luxury tents in the safari lodge, overlooking the expansive plains of the new Wild Africa precinct of Monarto Safari Park.”
