%20(1).png)
Top Destinations for 2024
No items found.
Trending
No items found.
Experience the epitome of luxury and adventure in the heart of South Africa's Sabi Sand Game Reserve, where exclusive wildlife encounters and dedicated conservation efforts meet unparalleled elegance and comfort.
.png)
Experience the epitome of luxury and adventure in the heart of South Africa's Sabi Sand Game Reserve, where exclusive wildlife encounters and dedicated conservation efforts meet unparalleled elegance and comfort.
Nestled in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, renowned for its high density of wild leopards, Singita Ebony Lodge stands as a beacon of luxury amidst untamed African wilderness. This extraordinary lodge, perched on the banks of the Sand River, offers a window into a world where these elusive and majestic creatures roam freely. Sabi Sand, a private game reserve adjacent to the Kruger National Park, is famed for its exceptional leopard sightings, providing guests with unparalleled opportunities to witness these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
Singita Ebony Lodge, the oldest property of Singita, seamlessly merges the rustic charm of the wilderness with the sophistication of modern luxury. Since its inception in 1993, the lodge has been a paradigm of safari excellence, offering a tranquil escape in an area where leopards reign supreme. The lodge’s distinct location in its own exclusive area within Sabi Sand ensures a sense of seclusion and intimacy with nature, making every stay a personal encounter with the wild.
The architecture and ambiance of Singita Ebony Lodge are a tribute to the golden era of safari adventures. The lodge's stately design, characterized by stone and thatch structures, is elevated by vast hardwood decks and open rear views to the Sand River. The interior decor, reminiscent of the 1920s, features a harmonious blend of brass, aged leather, and colonial antiques, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance and adventure. This setting not only offers a luxurious stay but also a deep connection to the history and spirit of African safaris.
Discovering the untamed wilderness of South Africa, Singita Ebony Lodge in Sabi Sand Game Reserve presents a unique blend of adventure and luxury. This exclusive retreat, nestled on the banks of the Sand River, offers an unparalleled experience for families seeking to reconnect in the age of digital distractions. My personal journey with my twin 16-year-old boys at this lodge transformed our view of nature and adventure.
The thrill of tracking a five-tonne bull rhino on foot in the fading light of the South African bush is an exhilarating challenge that replaced our usual digital entertainment. Guided by experienced rangers like Golden Shabangu and Marc Bowes-Taylor, equipped with knowledge and a .458 rifle for safety, we navigated this tense and thrilling environment, learning to interpret nature's signs and signals.
Even for teenagers, Singita Ebony offers engaging experiences beyond the digital realm. The lodge's dining experience, led by senior sous chef Dave Schubach and sommelier Ngoni Mtizwa, turns meals into interactive culinary adventures. Guests are encouraged to engage in discussions about the food and wine, making even a seven-course degustation meal an exciting event for all ages.
Beyond the dining room, the lodge offers a myriad of activities. From fishing on the Sand River, where we encountered hippos while reeling in catfish, to educational sessions about conservation and anti-poaching efforts, every experience at Singita Ebony is both informative and thrilling.
Singita Ebony Lodge transcends the ordinary, offering families a haven where they can reconnect with nature and each other. The lodge's thoughtful design and secluded outdoor spaces create an atmosphere of intimacy and immersion in the wilderness. The private outdoor boma, enveloped by the riverine canopy, sets the stage for unforgettable nighttime gatherings under the stars.
A cornerstone of the Singita Ebony Lodge experience is its unwavering commitment to conservation. The lodge is more than a luxury destination; it’s an active contributor to the preservation of Africa's breathtaking wildlife and landscapes. Singita's conservation approach is multifaceted, focusing on community partnerships, robust anti-poaching initiatives, and sustainable practices to safeguard the area's biodiversity.
Guests at the lodge have the unique opportunity to witness and participate in these efforts. Interactive sessions, educational talks, and field experiences are organized to highlight the lodge's role in conservation. These initiatives not only enrich the guest experience but also play a crucial role in raising awareness and fostering a deeper connection to the natural world.
The suites at Singita Ebony are a blend of luxury and nature. Each suite features its own private plunge pool and expansive decks, replacing external walls with glass and canvas to maximize views and immersion in the surrounding wilderness. The lodge's setting allows for close encounters with a wide array of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, rhinos, and a diverse bird population.
For families, the Singita Ebony Villa offers a unique experience, combining two family suites with private amenities, including a lounge, dining area, and swimming pool. This setup offers families the flexibility and intimacy they need while being in close proximity to nature and each other.
Siana Travel has established partnerships with every hotel in our exclusive Portfolio, ensuring a truly luxurious experience for our esteemed guests. By booking your stay with Siana, you will enjoy a range of exclusive member benefits and our unbeatable price guarantee. Contact one of our travel tailors to book your stay.
1 hour flight to Singita’s Airstrip followed by 10 minutes drive to the lodge
1 hour flight to Skukuza Airport followed by 1 hour drive to Singita Castleton
430 km | 6 hours drive to Singita Castleton
Should you wish to fly in via private aircraft and land on the Singita’s airstrip, please get in touch and we will assist with the necessary arrangements.
The suites are ideal for singles and couples traveling together. One inter-leading unit is available for groups traveling together.
Lewis suites ideal for families with teenage children. The suites are right next to each other and within close proximity to the main lodge area.
The family suites ideal for families with small children. The family suites include an en-suite master bedroom and an en-suite twin bedroom as well as a dining and lounge veranda area with a stone fireplace, and a private viewing deck with heated plunge pool.
1 hour flight to Singita’s Airstrip followed by 10 minutes drive to the lodge
1 hour flight to Skukuza Airport followed by 1 hour drive to Singita Castleton
430 km | 6 hours drive to Singita Castleton
Should you wish to fly in via private aircraft and land on the Singita’s airstrip, please get in touch and we will assist with the necessary arrangements.
Journeying into the heart of Africa’s most untouched and remote wilderness areas, Singita’s twice-daily game drives present the opportunity for intimate connections with nature and discovering the raw beauty of the continent’s most magnificent creatures up close. From rolling grasslands where giraffe and elephant meander in peace to riverine woodlands where shy creatures suddenly appear from lush foliage; and from rocky outcrops favoured by big cats to hidden valleys where large herds of antelope roam and graze, each game drive traverses landscapes that are as rich in scenery as they are in wildlife.
Walking safaris are an incredible way to experience the bush up close and personal. Your expert guide and tracker will accompany you as you track animals on foot through the wilderness and explore the magnificent plants and landscapes around you. We suggest a minimum age of 15 years for this activity, but participation is at the discretion of your Field Guide.
Singita is recognised as one of Africa’s most influential collectors of wine, with an extensive cellar showcasing a premium selection of wines, including some of the continent’s most sought-after private reserves, including exclusive release, limited single vineyard and rare auction wines. It’s safe to say that wine is a key ingredient of the unique Singita experience.
Offering the luxury of unfiltered time and space, the African wilderness is the ultimate setting for complete unwinding, while the continent’s healing energies are encapsulated in rituals that nourish and nurture. Singita's enduring purpose to restore the land and its wildlife extends to offering healing experiences to guests at every touchpoint. The dedicated treatments in massage spaces tap into the profound benefits of indigenous wisdoms and essential oils that relax, replenish and revive. Each tailor-made therapy can be customised and timed to preference, ensuring a completely personalised experience. The massage menu has been designed to immerse guests into their beautiful surroundings, and all treatments incorporate that peace and vibrant energy to revitalize and nourish the soul.
Inspiring new perspectives, Singita's tailormade safaris allow for endless discovery in nature’s abundant classroom, and with a front-row seat to the continent’s most iconic wildlife and wilderness areas, families are able to share profound and unfiltered moments in the bush throughout their stay. Singita’s Mini Game Rangers’ Course confirms that nothing compares to nature’s ability to inspire, excite and transform, and the value of giving the next generation the freedom to learn more about the environment in the heart of the wilderness is simply immeasurable. This specially crafted, fun-filled course teaches young explorers everything from outdoor survival and animal tracking skills to more about the wonders of astronomy and the secrets of tree and bird identification.
Not your regular curio shop, you will find original treasures that have been gathered from all corners of the African continent. A range of collectable sculptures, home-ware and furnishings will allow you to recreate ‘the safari dream’ within your own home. Artefacts, as well as authentic carvings and jewellery created by local craftsmen are just a few of the treasures you may find to take home as gifts. Amongst beautiful museum quality, fine-art prints and works by some of the most respected artists on the continent, there are many pieces especially designed for Singita.
Arriving in Wengen felt like stepping into a serene winter fairytale. This car-free village in the heart of the Jungfrau region is a peaceful retreat, where the only sounds are the crunch of snow underfoot and the gentle hum of Taxi Imboden or hotel electric vehicles navigating its narrow, postcard-perfect streets. As we stepped off the cogwheel train that winds its way up the valley, the magic of Wengen unfolded before us—snow-capped peaks towering on every side, charming chalets dusted with powder, and an atmosphere of pure Alpine tranquility. The Grand Hotel Belvedere, perched proudly with its historic Belle Époque façade, greeted us like an old friend—its presence a blend of elegance, nostalgia, and fresh promise.
We arrived on the second day of opening and were the very first agents to experience this newly refurbished gem. While the hotel is still a work in progress, it’s clear from the moment you arrive that it is already on its way to becoming something extraordinary. The welcome was seamless and personal, with staff greeting us warmly and offering refreshing drinks infused with local mountain ingredients—a thoughtful touch that set the tone for our stay. As we were whisked inside, we felt the hotel’s unique charm: the perfect blend of Belle Époque history and modern Scandinavian elegance. Our room on the first floor felt fresh, warm, and refined, with a calming scent of cedarwood filling the air. The Grown Alchemist bath products in the bathroom, the clever window design offering glimpses of the bedroom and snowy vistas beyond, and the thoughtful storage space all demonstrated meticulous attention to detail. The beds were supremely comfortable, split perfectly into singles at our request, and even though we noticed a hint of music from the dining room below, other rooms we visited were blissfully quiet. The management team’s commitment to perfection is already evident, and we know exactly where to place our clients for an uninterrupted experience.
That evening, we settled into the cozy Belvi Salon bar, where we were introduced to Alpanist gin, a beautifully crafted Swiss mountain spirit. The staff—hailing from Switzerland, France, and Italy—were both knowledgeable and engaging, making us feel truly at home. Dinner at Brasserie Belvedere was a highlight of our stay. We began with the Swiss Wagyu Bresaola Carpaccio, paired with wild mushroom tapenade and aged Sbrinz cheese, a perfect balance of rich, earthy flavors. For the main, the BBQ trout from Lake Blausee, served with a dill and parsley salsa verde, was flawlessly cooked—light, fresh, and bursting with flavor—a testament to the kitchen’s dedication to using local, high-quality ingredients. Watching the snow fall gently outside through the sleek wooden tones of the dining room created an atmosphere of cozy luxury, an experience we won’t soon forget.
The next morning, we awoke to a generous breakfast spread that reflected the same attention to detail. Freshly baked breads, artisanal Swiss cheeses, seasonal fruits, and yogurt awaited us, along with small ceramic pots of bacon, sausages, and eggs served to the table. More options were available, but the spread alone was more than enough to fuel a day on the slopes. The hotel team arranged everything for us, from 10% off ski rentals at a local shop—where the service was friendly, knowledgeable, and professional—to helping us navigate the area’s ski runs. Wengen is perfectly positioned for exploring the Jungfrau region, with over 200 kilometers of slopes. We spent the day gliding through the blue and red runs, which were beautifully groomed and easy to navigate, with panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks. Skiing in this region felt magical, with polite skiers, quiet trails, and picture-perfect moments at every turn. Returning to the hotel after catching the final lift, we relaxed in our room, watched the snow fall from our balcony, and soaked in the calm, wintry atmosphere.
Later that evening, we wandered through Wengen’s charming streets, stopping by cozy boutiques and enjoying the village’s timeless Alpine charm. The next morning, before our departure, we were given a private tour of the under-construction spa and new facilities, which promise to be truly exceptional. With its planned onsen-style pools, spacious treatment rooms, and panoramic relaxation areas, the vision for the spa is breathtaking and will no doubt become a standout feature. While not yet complete, what has already been achieved is exceptional, and the hotel’s management team deserves credit for their dedication and expertise.
The Grand Hotel Belvedere may still be finding its final form, but what we experienced was nothing short of impressive. From the warm, genuine staff to the thoughtful design and extraordinary dining, this is a hotel with all the ingredients for success. Its location in Wengen, with seamless access to world-class skiing, scenic trails, and year-round adventure, only enhances its appeal. Whether for families, couples, or discerning travelers looking for an authentic and luxurious Alpine experience, this hotel is poised to become a true gem in the Swiss Alps. This visit was a privilege, and with a management team this dedicated, we have no doubt the hotel will reach its full potential very soon. We look forward to returning and experiencing it again as it evolves into one of Switzerland’s finest retreats.
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
%20(1).png){kind=icon}