This luxurious lodge is located in the game-rich Sabi Sand Reserve in the northeastern corner of South Africa. Built around the enormous boulder for which it is named, the lodge lies on the banks of the Sand River. No expense has been spared here: the lodge has been sympathetically built of wood, stone and thatch to blend with the environment, and incorporates modern and traditional influences in its design. It's a wonderful place to enjoy excellent service, accommodation, food, views and, most of all, diverse wildlife. Meet the stars of the show, the Big Five, particularly leopard.
/31.4304685592651,-24.7858578995255,6/600x400?access_token=pk.eyJ1IjoidGltYnVrdHV0cmF2ZWwiLCJhIjoiY2poMGw1eHpkMmRkbDJ6bW8xYWZ5OGpjYyJ9.PYvAO7lUJ40SOpGvwmQLqw&attribution=false&logo=false)
The spacious central areas of Singita Boulders Lodge overlook the Sand River. Built with traditional materials – stone, wood and a thatched ceiling, and decorated with earthy tones, textured fabrics, every corner reveals thoughtful design. The dining area has unusual black stone walls and organically shaped lighting, and guests can kick back in built-for-comfort seating areas that are dotted around the central space. There are also massage and gym facilities, raised viewing decks, a shaded swimming pool and a world-class wine cellar.
The 12 luxurious suites are built of natural materials, ensuring that the eye flows smoothly from inside to out. The rooms are spacious, with a large four-poster bed, minibar, air conditioning and a fireplace for chilly evenings. The en-suite bathrooms have indoor and outdoor showers, a stylish tub and unique towel-holders. There are comfy chairs inside and out on the private raised deck, and a plunge pool overlooking the plains. Sit back, drink in hand, and watch the passing wildlife parade.
Day and night game drives are core components of a safari here, although walking safaris, which tend to steer clear of the big game and focus more on the smaller creatures such as reptiles, insects and birds, are also popular. Mountain biking with a guide is an excellent experience, if you're up for it. Take a community visit; taste fine wines with the house sommelier; shop till you drop at the in-house boutique; work off the excellent cuisine at the gym or chill with a treatment at the wellness centre.
The attention to detail. Drawing kits in the room, fleece ponchos for chilly evening drives, hot water bottles tucked into your seat on dawn game drives, binoculars for every guest — it's the small things that set the tone here, and they get every single one right.
Book a wine tasting in the cellar. It was built around an enormous boulder found during construction and houses one of Africa's most impressive collections, including rare vintages you won't find anywhere else.
The lodge runs full most of the year, so the atmosphere is convivial rather than secluded. If total solitude is what you're after, consider one of Singita's quieter properties.
Owned by Singita, this property is committed to sustainability and conservation in Africa. Endorsed by Bioregional, they embed One Planet Living principles into their operations. Singita partners with communities, supports education, and leads wildlife conservation efforts through initiatives like the Grumeti Fund and Singita Lowveld Trust. Their focus on community empowerment and environmental stewardship shapes their vision for a sustainable future. Note: a conservancy fee applies but is not included in the nightly rate.
A safari that surpasses every expectation awaits in this vast wilderness just west of the Kruger National Park.
