About Singita

As an ecotourism and conservation brand, Singita is unwavering in its commitment to preserve and protect Africa’s wilderness for future generations and since opening its first property – Singita Ebony Lodge – in 1993, sustainability, environmentally conscious hospitality and the empowerment of local communities have been cornerstones of this enduring 100-year purpose.

But Singita’s story dates back almost a century ago, and started on a piece of land in a remote corner of the Lowveld, which was purchased by the grandfather of our Founder, Luke Bailes. This 30,000-acre traversing land, which would later become the Sabi Sand Reserve, was transformed over time from a former hunting concession into an exclusive conservation reserve where all species are protected.

The unique philosophy that is central to the history of this magnificent piece of family land, which saw its wilderness and wildlife recovered and restored, lives on in each of Singita’s award-winning lodges and camps today. Set in four different countries, these sanctuaries offer travellers seeking extraordinary experiences in nature the opportunity to truly slow down and awaken their senses.

In South Africa, Singita Sabi Sand and Singita Kruger National Park are home to Ebony, Boulders, Sweni and Lebombo Lodges, as well as Castleton – a private-use African farmhouse (and the former Bailes family home). In Zimbabwe’s remote southeast, Singita Pamushana Lodge and a private-use villa, Singita Malilangwe House, are situated in the Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve. Our lodges and camps in the Serengeti in Tanzania are Singita Faru Faru and Sasakwa Lodges, Mara River Tented Camp, Sabora Tented Camp, Explore Mobile Tented Camp and exclusive-use villas, Serengeti House and Singita Milele. Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House, a private-use villa, are set right on the edge of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.


Our story unfolds

It is our life’s work to share these awe-inspiring parts of the continent with guests who appreciate and yearn for pristine wide-open spaces, while preserving the natural environment and challenging accepted norms in luxury travel to raise the bar on sustainability. Singita’s concessions, reserves, lodges and camps are located in some of Africa’s most pristine wilderness areas, and our commitment to safeguard the precious wildlife and communities of these areas is entrenched in three core pillars: Biodiversity, Sustainability and Community. Differentiating our business in a philosophical way, Singita’s decisions take 20-, 50- and 100-year horizons into account.

“Singita guests have a far-reaching impact, as they contribute to numerous conservation initiatives and community empowerment programmes,” says Bailes. “Modern conservation requires a keen focus on keeping tourism, communities and wildlife in a constructive balance – and the survival of each is crucial to the survival of the whole.”

Alongside our partner conservation Funds & Trusts, we are the guardians of large areas of pristine wilderness and responsible for thriving community partnership projects that make a tangible difference in the lives of people living and working in and around our lodges. Looking towards the future, these initiatives remain at the heart of Singita’s story.

It’s the story of a sustainable farm-to-table food journey that celebrates fresh, seasonal produce and traditional regional highlights; the story of wellness that extends beyond conventional treatments, emphasising true wellbeing & balancing body and soul; and the story of reconnecting with nature in meaningful ways. It’s the story of discovery, of shifting one’s perspective and of touching the Earth lightly – and stepping into a more sustainable future.


The next chapter

Looking to the future, we are undaunted in the pursuit of our purpose, and it continues to inform all our decisions on the ground. The breathtaking landscapes of our reserves and concessions form the perfect backdrop for the stillness our guests seek and we are dedicated to creating exclusive sanctuaries that inspire a soul-restoring sense of calm – lodges, camps and villas providing restful retreats; and wide-open spaces revealing the magic of the bush.

We will only develop new properties that are better than, or as good as, the ones we already have and this disciplined approach ensures that we continue delivering Singita’s unparalleled guest experience, remain steadfast in our commitment to our purpose, and keep benefiting the land and communities in which we operate.

“There’s an authenticity of place at each of our lodges and camps that’s not only a rarity, but touches guests on every level – spiritual, emotional and physical.”

– Luke Bailes, Founder & Executive Chairman of Singita