Q&A with Adrian Gardiner, Founder, Mantis

Photo credits: Mantis

You’ve long been a pioneer in eco-conscious hospitality. What inspired your vision to intertwine conservation, community, and luxury from the very beginning of Mantis' 25-year successful journey?

"Growing up in Zimbabwe, surrounded by nature, I've always been passionate about wildlife and envisioned myself nurturing my own piece of land in South Africa. That dream was realised when we took on the challenge of rewilding farmland in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape. It was a bold idea at the time, but it helped put the region on the map for safari tourism and proved that ecosystems can be restored while creating livelihoods and uplifting local communities through responsible tourism. Mantis stands for Man And Nature Together Is Sustainable, which captures our core philosophy. From the beginning, our goal was to show that luxury hospitality can coexist with environmental stewardship by unearthing the exceptional, creating unique experiences, and offering sustainable journeys. That balance between care for the land, cultural respect and authentic experience has shaped everything we do."

Wellbeing in travel is expanding beyond spas and fitness to include mental clarity, connection to nature, and purposeful experiences. How does Mantis incorporate this more holistic view into its guest journey?

"For us, wellbeing means offering more than just physical relaxation. We focus on  reconnecting guests with nature, people, and their own sense of purpose. At Mantis, wellbeing is deeply rooted in the environment and the experiences that foster harmony and connection. Whether guests are staying in eco-lodges or enjoying a river safari, they are surrounded by natural world that encourages relaxation and restoration."

From restoring wilderness areas to developing eco-lodges, sustainability is at the core of Mantis. What have been the greatest challenges—and rewards—of aligning business goals with environmental responsibility?

"There have been challenges, of course. Conservation takes time and long-term commitment. It’s not always the quickest route to a return. But staying true to our values has seen rewards in ecosystems restored, jobs created, and guests who return because they believe in what we do. We’ve certainly benefited from being part of the Accor brand, gaining recognition and the ability to scale. Aligning our business with wildlife, nature and people has helped us build a lasting legacy and strong loyalty. For us, environmental responsibility isn’t just a business strategy, it’s woven into the very fabric of who we are."

Mantis properties often serve as gateways to protected ecosystems and cultural heritage. How do you ensure that guest experiences remain both impactful and respectful of local communities and biodiversity?

"Respect is the starting point. We work closely with local communities from the very beginning. We train and employ local staff, support small businesses, and work with partners to help the economic benefits of tourism stay in the regions we operate. We also focus on education, both for guests and our teams. Many of our experiences are guided by locals who have an intimate knowledge of the land and culture. We encourage guests to listen, learn, and leave a positive impact behind."

Looking ahead, what role do you believe hospitality leaders must play in shaping a more regenerative travel industry—and how is Mantis evolving to meet that responsibility?

"Hospitality leaders have a vital role in shaping a regenerative travel industry by focusing on both environmental and social recovery. Mantis is embracing this responsibility through Mantis Impact, a programme dedicated to supporting projects that protect wildlife, biodiversity and empower local communities. Our aim is to foster long-term benefits for the environment and the people who call it home."