We’d been hearing whispers about an extraordinary African-style lodge in the heart of our capital – a place where you could sip champagne beside hyenas, sleep metres away from giraffes, and dine with lions. Friends raved about Jamala Wildlife Lodge, and curiosity got the better of us – we had to experience it for ourselves.

Jamala Wildlife Lodge and the National Zoo & Aquarium were created by Richard and Maureen Tindale, fifth-generation Canberrans with a deep passion for animals and conservation. In 1998, they purchased the zoo – then a small aquarium and wildlife park in liquidation – with a vision to create a unique luxury accommodation experience alongside the animals. Inspired by their love for Africa and its wildlife, the Tindales expanded the zoo, rescuing animals from circuses and private collections, and in 2014, opened Jamala Wildlife Lodge. The lodge’s opulent suites, including the Jungle Bungalows and Giraffe Treehouses, not only bring guests face-to-face with lions, bears, and giraffes, but also help fund the zoo’s vital breeding and conservation programs.

We arrived just before dinner, greeted by the soft glow of lanterns and the sounds of the African savannah – in the middle of Canberra. Nestled within the zoo, Jamala blends the thrill of close-up wildlife encounters with the comforts of a five-star retreat.

Our home for the night was a Giraffe Treehouse – a beautifully designed suite with African-inspired décor, a high fluffy bed, and thoughtful touches like a chilled bottle of champagne, cookies, and chocolates.

Pre-dinner drinks on the terrace set the mood for a spectacular night. We enjoyed evening Moët as hyenas paced just beyond the fence, their low calls echoing through the dusk.

Dinner was pure theatre. In the cave-style restaurant, we dined beside two magnificent white lions, separated only by glass. The three-course gourmet menu – chosen a few days in advance – was creative, superbly executed, and paired with excellent wines.

The next morning began with a private zoo tour, where we met some of the extraordinary residents up close. Some guests opted for private animal encounters – cheetahs, giraffes, even rhinos – while we lingered over breakfast in the same ‘cave’ restaurant, once again sharing the space with hyenas and lions.

Many guests book two nights to experience both the Giraffe Treehouse and Jungle Bungalows – and we suggest it too.

The Lux Traveller loves: the perfect fusion of African adventure and Australian hospitality, dining with white lions, and waking to a safari at your doorstep – all while supporting animal rescue and conservation.