It’s the ultimate safari… A bush adventure with big game sightings galore, followed by an intimate riverine retreat in a world-renowned wildlife sanctuary.

Sabi Sand, a privately owned reserve in South Africa’s northeast, is one of the most game-rich areas on the continent. Forming the backdrop for three of Singita’s multi award-winning lodges, it gives guests private access to 45,000 acres of unspoilt land teeming with iconic species. This includes the highest density of leopards in any area in South Africa, as a study by the conservation organisation Panthera has shown. It is here, in the shade of enormous trees, that Singita Ebony Lodge enjoys a picture-perfect setting on the edge of the Sand River.

Just 100 kilometres away, the world-famous Kruger National Park is home to Singita’s 33,000-acre private concession on its border with Mozambique, and this remote stretch of serene beauty features a unique wildlife population across four ecological zones. Nestled on a tranquil tree-lined riverbank, Singita Sweni Lodge provides a nurturing haven from where to appreciate the fauna and flora of the area – including up-close sightings of animals emerging shyly from the foliage to drink or wallow in the water.

Despite being so close to each other, the lodges celebrate vastly different landscapes and architectural styles, and reflect their environments in uniquely personalised ways. Not only do their interiors echo the distinct colours, textures and tones outside, but guests are also encouraged to engage with the surrounding sights and sounds in diverse ways.

PROMOTION Book a combination of five nights between Singita Ebony and Sweni Lodges and receive one of the nights and one flight per person between the lodges complimentary. _[Enquire now »_](enquiries@singita.com)

Inspired by the romance and adventure of former explorers’ camps, the 12 luxurious suites at Ebony Lodge in Singita Sabi Sand merges old-world charm with contemporary style and design. This extends to a guest experience that makes the most of the area’s coveted location in the heart of South Africa’s ‘big cat country’. Twice-daily game drives and guided bush walks provide a front-row seat to an abundance of iconic species – including rhinos, hippos and wild dogs.

The lodge strikes the perfect balance between old and new, and vintage brass, hand-woven baskets, khaki canvas and exposed thatch merge flawlessly with polished wood, natural fabrics and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto pavilion decks. Each suite features a plunge pool with private river views – framed by giant trees and frequented by game gathering to drink.

Traversing grasslands, riverbeds and thick bush areas, game drives in open Land Rovers with Singita’s field guides and trackers – who expertly follow and track animals on their trails – ensure excellent photographic opportunities.

Tucked away from view by the boughs of ancient trees, each of the seven suites at Singita Sweni Lodge provides an intimate hideaway. There’s a seamless transition between soothing natural encounters at the lodge and venturing into the wide-open spaces of this remote expanse, allowing guests to completely unwind.

Raw landscapes are etched against bright blue skies, herds of elephants meander through grasslands and vibrant birds like lilac-breasted rollers flit past as time stands still on leisurely game drives. Dramatic red rhyolite cliffs dissect the land, with giant euphorbia trees – unique to the area – studding the ridges.

The lodge's unassuming approach translates to rich, nurturing interiors. Colours inspired by butterfly wings and beetle shells catch the eye, while subtle glamour and refinement anchor a bold interpretation of contemporary African design.

Throughout, the emphasis is on comfort, functionality and an unrushed, easy flow. State-of-the-art amenities like Bose sound systems and bean-to-cup coffee machines feature alongside welcoming wooden decks with daybeds that make for magical nights under the stars. Tantalising tapas and elegant drinks at the Marble Bar are perfectly matched with sultry soundtracks at sunset.

The extraordinary diversity of species here, as witnessed in regular Wildlife Reports from Singita’s Field Guides, include sightings of the area’s famously large prides of lion, white and black rhino and numerous antelopes. It’s also a paradise for birds and bird-lovers alike, and from kingfishers to storks, and francolins to swifts – each day brings a whole new world of enchantment

PROMOTION: Singita Ebony and Sweni Lodge Combination Guests booking a combination of five nights between Singita Ebony and Sweni Lodges will receive one of the nights and one flight per person between the lodges complimentary. A minimum of two nights is required at both lodges and the promotion is valid until 19 December 2019 & 6 January - 14 December 2020. _[Find out more »_](https://singita.com/promotion/singita-ebony-sweni-combination-2018/)