Singita Sweni Lodge

Singita Sweni Lodge

Tucked into the banks of the Sweni River, this intimate lodge is a hidden jewel that provides a bold, new African context for contemporary design, architecture and cuisine. Guests have private access to 33,000 acres of pristine wilderness in the world-renowned Kruger National Park, ensuring unforgettable game-viewing experiences. With the lodge’s proximity to the river, guests are also treated to up-close sightings of numerous animals and birds frequenting the area to drink or wallow in the water.

Unique Features: A highly skilled team of tracking dogs and handlers enhance anti-poaching efforts in the Sabi Sand Reserve, while the Trust’s partnership with the global conservation NGO Panthera has shown that the area is home to the largest density of leopards of any protected area surveyed in South Africa. The Panthera’s Furs for Life project, of which Singita is a partner, has reduced the demand for leopard skins with 50%.

Accommodations: Offering intimate engagements with nature, the lodge features seven suites, including a secluded Pool Suite with a shaded riverfront deck. Inspired by beetle shells, chameleons, birds’ wings and the surrounding trees, Sweni Lodge’s subtle glamour celebrates gold and bronze ore, gleaming timbers and vibrant pops of color. Accompanied by a cool evening breeze and the beauty of the clear night sky above, the tranquil journey back to the lodge often reveals the elusive magic of nocturnal Africa, making for a fitting finale.

As Suite As It Gets: When money is no object, go for the 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 unit with two en-suite bedrooms, offering guests an extra layer of privacy, perfect for families and honeymoon couples.

Dining: Prices include breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, all drinks (including premium wines, spirits and liqueurs, but excluding French Champagne). The use of cutting edge, energy-saving technology in the kitchen, a forward-thinking waste management policy and Singita’s commitment to the ethical, sustainable and local sourcing of ingredients perfectly complements this contemporary food philosophy.

Activities: 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 favored 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.

Spa & Fitness: The Singita wellness philosophy creates an environment for urban-weary guests to reconnect to nature, revive their senses, restore their body and mind, and explore the African culture. The guests’ wellness journey can be performed in the tranquility of the Spa, out on a private deck, or in the comfort of guest suites. Fully equipped fitness centres are available for guests’ convenience. Each facility provides picturesque views of the bush, allowing you to keep an eye on the action outside while you work out.

Location: Singita Sweni Lodge lies in the southeastern reaches of the Kruger National Park, on South Africa’s border with Mozambique. Situated on 33,000 acres, Singita’s concession is an isolated piece of pristine wilderness where a unique wildlife population thrives across four distinct ecological zones. This area is especially well-known for the remarkable concentration of the ‘Big 5’ and four particularly formidable prides of lions.

Closest Airport: Nearest Airport: There is an airstrip 5 km away from the administrative headquarters of the Kruger National Park, at Skukuza. Alternatively, OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and Kruger Mpumalanga Airport are close by. They can arrange scheduled flights or private charters for your trip. All flights land at the Satara airstrip located 45 minutes from the lodge. Guests are collected off the flight by Singita staff and transported to the lodge.

Children’s Programs: Yes. 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.

Pet Friendly: No, unfortunately pets are not allowed.

Weddings: No, they don’t normally host weddings, although they may by special request.

Meetings: No, unfortunately, they simply don’t have the space to accommodate large groups.

Extra Info: During your stay at Singita Sweni Lodge, you are likely to spot a great variety of wildlife including elephant, leopard, famously large prides of lion, white rhino, black rhino, buffalo, hippopotamus, cheetah and sable. And when the sun dips on the horizon, bringing the day to a close with a brightly painted sky, idyllic sundowner stops in exclusive settings encapsulate the romance of safaris deep into the bush.

www.singita.com/lodge/sweni-lodge