Singita Blog

Archive for the ‘Accommodation’ Category

May 23rd, 2011

Safari Brothers Explore the Unexplored

Tanzania is one incredible place! The vast spaces and dramatic settings absolutely blew our minds.  The excitement levels grew as we flew over the Serengeti; we looked out of the small aeroplane and we could see the herds starting to make their way slowly NW towards the Singita Grumeti concession.

Our Singita Explore tented camp was set up in one of the more remote parts of the concession, giving one a feeling of freedom and genesis. On our arrival we were greeted by the notoriously friendly Swahili staff and greeting “Jambo!”. We tried to get our heads around the fact that we were in the middle of the Serengeti, with endless grasslands dotted with the familiar acacia species. Not only were we in this surreal place but also our accommodation was a tent fit for a king.

Although back-to-basics and in true camping-style, the tents are equipped with anything and everything one’s heart could desire; luxurious camp cots, hot showers and comfortable lounging wear and furniture. All is prepared within seconds upon request. The experience is hard to put into words; embraced by absolute luxury, yet at the same time feeling what it might have felt like to be the first people to set foot in Africa – exploring the unexplored.

I will never forget this experience – to feel so close to nature amongst herds of zebra, impala and giraffe; going to sleep with them and waking up with them.  This is an experience that is truly life-changing – not just an opportunity to explore this amazing part of Africa but an opportunity to explore one’s self.

Written by James Suter, Guide from Singita Kruger National Park

James Suter and Marlon du Toit (AKA the Safari Brothers) are both professional guides and work in the heart of the Kruger National Park at Singita’s Lebombo and Sweni Lodges.   This week they went up to experience Singita Explore in Tanzania and are now documenting the adventure through their eyes; the eyes of the Safari Brothers.  Follow the entire adventure on Singita’s Facebook page.

You’ll be in awe of their astounding photography.


March 24th, 2011

Sweni – Spirit of the River

Singita’s private concession in the Kruger National Park is one of the most pristine wildnerness areas in Africa and where a unique wildlife population thrive within an astounding diversity of flora and landscapes.

Sitting low on the Sweni River, Singita Sweni Lodge is a tranquil sanctuary built on stilts with decks of dark timber, giving it a grounded and earthy feel.  The six secluded suites offer solitude in a wild setting that stimulates all the senses.  The idea of ‘letting nature indoors’ is one of the main design elements at Sweni.  The look and feel, with tactile furnishings, has been carefully created to bring in the textures and shades of the bush.

Imagine taking time to lie back in an enormous bath of bubbles or salt crystals, watching the hippos wallowing around in the river beneath open windows.  Part of being a natural extension of the surrounding bush is enjoying the outdoor shower overlooking the river and ‘camping out’ under the stars on balcony beds.

The ‘touching the earth lightly’ concept plays a major role and every effort has been made to respect and protect the environment so that it will be conserved for future generations.

For more information about our exclusive lodges in Singita Kruger National Park read more on our website - and look out for our helpful ‘what to pack’ list and weather information.

February 1st, 2011

Plan a family safari for summer 2011

Now that the bustle of the holidays has passed, it is time to start planning summer family vacations.  What better way to make memories together as a family and discover a unique destination, than a safari in Africa.

When it is summer in the northern hemisphere, countries in Africa are experiencing cool but mild winters which provide excellent opportunities for game viewing and exploration.

Offering four uniquely different locations, Singita can provide a family safari that will meet the needs of grandparents, parents and children of all ages.  Hot air balloon in Tanzania while viewing the migration – and reserve the four bedroom private retreat at Singita Sasakwa with a heated infinity plunge pool and each room with en-suite bathroom.  This retreat also contains a two bedroom nanny flat for extra convenience.  Or plan a trip to Zimbabwe to stay at Singita Pamushana – only six suites and a private retreat tucked cosily into a rocky outcrop overlooking a breathtaking dam and 105 000 acres of private wilderness.  Spend the days on game drives, viewing ancient rock art sites; enjoy tiger fishing on the dam and take canoe trips at sunset.

If South Africa is the destination of choice, Singita not only offers family suites at Ebony Lodge and Boulders Lodge but also Singita Castleton Camp provides an excellent option for big family gatherings.  A luxury homestead with wide verandahs, expansive lounge and dining areas, and six rooms suitable for up to twelve guests at any one time.  Castleton Camp also boasts its own kitchen, chef and private guide.  A perfectly relaxed atmosphere prevades and schedules are completely tailored to match the natural ebb and flow of the day.

To find out more about each destination and our accommodation options for families visit our website and lodge details for more information.  And there’s still time to book our Singita Family Safari promotion and save at Ebony and Boulders – read more.

December 1st, 2010

Monkeys, oranges, and rejuvenation

A treatment at the Singita Bush Spa can be enjoyed in the spa itself, or better yet, in a guest suite. Whether out on the deck with a spectacular view and the sounds of nature all around, or inside the room, the massage is as tranquil as in the spa. After the treatment guests can relax on their bed or flop onto a deck chair without ever having to completely regain consciousness.

The Monkey Orange Massage adds a different dimension to Swedish massage.  I wanted to create a treatment that not only was unique to Singita, but also captured the essence of the Kruger National Park – a true “Bush Spa” experience.  Monkey oranges are part of the calabash family – a round fruit that hardens when dried.  Inspired by the wild monkey oranges growing on the Singita concession, we designed a treatment using the fruit as “tools” to create pressure and pounding for easing tension and removing trigger points; as well as gliding over the body for relaxation and stress relief.  The African Marula and Neroli oils that are used, complement the monkey oranges for a completely holistic African spa experience.

For more information about pampering treatments at our Singita spas, click here to read more.

Article Contribution by Kerryn Mudie – Singita Spa, Singita Sabi Sand

November 26th, 2010

Bath with a View

Whether sinking into a froth of bubbles surrounded by the elegance of a Sasakwa cottage or slipping into a sunken tub overlooking the riverine forest at Singita Sweni, all of the Singita lodges promise a bathtime ritual that induces one to unwind, enveloped by picture perfect panoramas.

The claw foot tub at Singita Sabora Tented Camp – Tanzania.  There are so many layers to this 1920s-inspired explorers’ camp and the view from the tub is one of staggering beauty – savannah grasslands until the eye can see.

The bath tubs at the contemporary Singita Faru Faru Lodge in Tanzania, are positioned to maximize the opportunity to view the game that comes down to the Grumeti River to drink.

A bath soak at Singita Sasakwa Lodge – Tanzania – is an infinitely luxurious affair.  At the end of an exciting day of game viewing there is nothing better than to settle into a candle-lit oasis with a breathtaking view of the plains.

Embracing and intimate, Singita Sweni Lodge – South Africa – is truly cosy.  Imagine taking time to lie back in an enourmous bath of bubbles or salt crystals, watching the hippos wallowing around in the river beneath the open window.