Last month, Singita unveiled the reinvention of Singita Sweni Lodge in South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park. The leafy location of the lodge, tucked into a verdant riverbank and surrounded by ancient trees, has always been a source of inspiration for the design of this intimate hideaway within Singita’s private 33,000-acre concession. The lodge takes its cues from the rich color palette of its riverside position, but now will go a step further, drawing on the iridescent sheen of bird feathers, butterfly wings and beetle shells to create a bold, new African context for contemporary design, architecture and food.
With leading South African design team, Cecile & Boyd at the helm, the new look of Singita Sweni Lodge will feature a base spread of neutral tones to bring in light, which is reflected by gold and bronze ore, polished mud, gleaming recycled timbers, richly-hued marble and splashes of vibrant color. Bold pops of teal, emerald, citron, yellow and pale pink will give a dramatic feel to the space. Working with GAPP Architects and also renowned chef, Liam Tomlin, the updated Singita Sweni Lodge will exude a glamorous attitude, with a revamped dining experience and show kitchen, a new outdoor dining deck, an indoor dining area and winter lounge, a new pool with views over the Sweni River, a fire pit, and the addition of a secluded Pool Suite.
Each of the lodge’s six contemporary suites have been restructured to maximize open-plan living with panoramic game-viewing decks. The additional new Pool Suite with the unique inclusion of a private swimming pool and shaded riverfront deck can be connected to the adjacent unit to create a more generous two-bedroom suite, offering guests an extra layer of privacy—perfect for families and honeymooning couples. All suites have outdoor showers that overlook the river, and outdoor day beds where you can spend a night under the stars. With its close proximity to the Sweni River, guests are treated to exceptional, up-close sightings of the wildlife that wanders down to drink or wallow. Guests have private access to Singita’s concession in the national park, which offers some of the most exciting game viewing in Africa. The area is home to large numbers of elephants, leopards, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and hippopotamuses, as well as a myriad of other species.
Singita offers an array of activities for all ages, from walking safaris, game drives, mountain biking, stargazing safaris, archery and visits to the Singita School of Cooking, which celebrates its 10-year anniversary in 2017. As one of Singita’s most impactful conservation projects, the Singita School of Cooking offers a highly competitive, 12-month course that enrolls eight members of the local community annually to complete an introductory course to hospitality. Rates for suites start at R22,750 (approx. $1,675 USD) per person, per night and R27,300 (approx. $2,010 USD) per person, per night for the brand-new Pool Suite. Includes full-board basis, twice-daily Land Rover safaris, walking safaris, mountain biking, archery and return road transfers between Satara airstrip and the lodge.
