Singita means ‘the place of miracles’, and Singita Ebony Lodge was the first on the list of Singita miracles now spanning almost 30 years. And the miracles keep coming through Singita’s philosophy and practice of authentic conservation-based, sustainable, community-inclusive daily practice. It’s a beautiful story that continues to unfold across both south and east Africa.
Standing in the shade of ancient ebony trees along the evocative Sand River, Singita Ebony Lodge is in the iconic Sabi Sand reserve – 18 000 hectares of magnificently conserved, privately-owned bushveld, alongside the Kruger National Park. This is prime big cat country with plenty of leopards, along with the rest of the famous Big Five, antelope, giraffe, zebra, passing wild dogs and smaller mammals and birds. It’s a wildlife paradise for those who love the great outdoors and old world Africa.
This enchanting lodge is a fresh take on the romantic tented safari camps of old, the evocative era of African explorers and Karen Blixen. It’s thoroughly inspired by the adventure and charm of those explorers’ camps, with safari furniture and khaki canvas under thatch. Polished wood, natural textures and tones along with vintage brass and stone fireplaces give the lodge a deep warmth and cosiness. Basketware and oversized portraits of African tribal warriors give a sense of place.
Glass-fronted, the suites are massively spacious – warm in winter and cool in summer – and you feel immersed in nature. Suspended private decks and plunge pools with views onto the Sand River – and all the relaxed comforts and sustenance needed in suite, plus yoga mats – means you really don’t need to go anywhere if you so choose. Game drives and walks are magical though, as is relaxing on the multi-tiered guest deck under shady trees. Or sipping a pink gin and tonic at the bar, as the sun dips for the day and wildlife strolls quietly along to drink river water down below.
Singita Ebony Lodge is thoroughly family friendly too, with family suites and a private villa, which includes a personal butler, guide and game drive vehicle. It’s ideal for families or friends wanting to be closer together. When dining, it could be under the stars, next to the pool or alongside the fire in the boma to taste flavours from Africa. Not just at mealtimes, but always, the staff are superb, attentive and exude warm African hospitality. For that is where you are, after all, in this award-winning Singita space of magic and miracles.
What we love
- the unobtrusive care and attention to detail of the exceptional staff
- dining out in the bush under the stars
- that there’s a fitness centre, but also yoga mats in your suite.
- the healthy, plant-inspired cuisine with ample meaty options too
- seeing wild dogs on the hunt
- stargazing with a knowledgeable ranger
- that if you stay at Ebony and Boulders, you will have your same ranger throughout
Need to know
- access by scheduled flights (1 hour) or private charter to Singita’s airstrip 10 minutes from the lodge.
- driving time from Johannesburg is 6.5 hours (430km)
- children from 10 years old are welcome
- there is complimentary wifi
- Kosher and Halaal food is offered with advance booking
Posted by Keri Harvey