Safari Conversations - the Singita podcast

Deep in the Serengeti, camouflaged amongst tall grass, Explore is one with the plains. Every moment at this pared-back, private camp is guided by the environment. Wind cools you. Heat nudges you toward shade. Curiosity calls you into each unhurried day. You wake to a human voice announcing sunrise, and at night, wildlife calls from the nearby dark.

Free to roam, you feel the earth crunch beneath every step, share meals over open flames, and end days trading stories around embers, under star-filled skies. It’s simple, yet holds everything you need: a comfortable bed, a warm bucket shower, and…

Singita's properties in Rwanda lie in the country's mountainous northwest, right on the edge of Volcanoes National Park.

This region is one of the most biodiverse on Earth, home to endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, forest elephants, buffaloes, and hundreds of bird species, along with rich plant and insect life, and communities who have lived alongside these forests for generations.

Framed by sweeping views of three volcanoes, Kwitonda and Kataza House are designed to help you slow down, offering moments of stillness and deep rest alongside meaningful and adventurous…

For years, Singita has dreamed of bringing its approach to conservation and hospitality to Botswana. That dream is now a reality.

In this episode, we sit down with Rob Morrison, Elela’s Manager, Kemmonye Wright, Operations Manager for Singita Okavango Delta, and guide Nthophang ‘Tops’ Xani to tell the story of Elela, our first property in the Okavango Delta.

From a 420,000-acre concession that shifts with the seasons to eight entirely private camps designed around freedom and flow, to a hub that invites guests into the heart of the ecosystem — Elela offers a unique and extraordinary…

Nestled at the entrance to Lebombo, one of Singita’s properties in the Kruger National Park, the Gallery of Treasures is a multi-sensory space designed to reveal the often-unseen elements of this remarkable landscape. Created in collaboration with artists and creatives from across Southern Africa, it brings together art, nature, and storytelling.

In this roundtable conversation with Tatenda Chidora, Laurie van Heerden, Christopher Parker, and Jack Fillery, we explore the thinking behind the Gallery of Treasures, the natural world as a source of inspiration, and each artist’s creative process…

At Singita, food tells the story of the people and cultures of Africa and the generations who came before them.

It’s a portal to the diversity of the continent and the richness of its traditions. A way for guests to deepen their understanding and experience of where they are. A means to bring people together, to soften them, and help them grow closer.

In this episode, Mia Neethling, Executive Chef and Guest Experience Lead at Singita Grumeti, speaks with Mbhali Khoza, Sous Chef at Singita Kruger National Park, and Michael Matera, Head Chef at Sasakwa.

Their conversation explores how…

Across countries and cultures, art forms an integral part of African identity – shaped by our natural and cultural heritage and expressed in powerful, distinctive ways. Through our 'Africa Is…' series, we’re exploring art, design, craftsmanship, and storytelling from across the continent to showcase the depth and diversity of talent found here.

In this episode, Singita’s in-house writer, Michael Schapiro, speaks with South African artist Mmangaliso Nzuza ahead of his artist-in-residence programme at Singita Sabi Sand. Their conversation moves through stillness as a creative necessity, the…

Big cats always captivate guests on safari, but they’re disappearing from the wild. In this episode, Lucy Stofberg (field guide at Singita Sabi Sand) chats to Dr Nikki Balme of Panthera (coordinator of the Sabi Sand Leopard Project) about leopard conservation. They explore why leopards are thriving in the Sabi Sand while drastically declining elsewhere.

Did you know leopards have disappeared from about two-thirds of their African range and a shocking 85% in Eurasia? Or that there are seven other subspecies spanning from Arabia to Russia and China?

Leopards are listed as vulnerable on the…

Every great story is made up of many smaller ones.

Ross Couper (Singita’s Resident Content Creator) chats to Martin Tuyisenge (Singita’s Community Liaison Manager) about the ripple effect of every guest’s stay on local livelihoods and conservation at Singita Kwitonda and Kataza House.

Rwanda is truly a bucket list destination, for gorillas, golden monkeys, the food, and culture. But what really captures your heart is the spirit of its people. This is where Martin’s work comes in - as the Community Liaison Manager, he leads projects across six nearby villages, benefiting nearly 5,500 people.…

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to have an entire villa - or the Serengeti - to yourself, then this episode is for you. Our Product Manager, Kim Anderson, sits down with Donna Louw (Private Villa Manager & Wholeness) and Betty Mollel (Villa Manager) to spill the (freshly brewed) tea on what really makes Singita’s private villas in Africa so special.

Donna and Betty tell touching stories from their many years living and working at Singita Grumeti (Tanzania). They share tips only insiders know - like which season baby animals arrive, how guests end up playing football (barefoot)…

Every rhino counts.

In this episode, Sarah Clegg (Malilangwe Trust’s Ecologist at Singita Malilangwe), chats to Tash Dzwukutu (Assistant Lodge Manager at Singita Pamushana Lodge) about the extensive rhino conservation projects in Zimbabwe. Sarah has been in this role for almost 30 years. From a post-graduate student to a Master's degree in Ecology, she oversees the study and monitoring of Malilangwe’s rhino population, with a focus on black rhino social ecology.

They discuss the role of black and white rhino in the ecosystem, the Malilangwe Trust’s (MT’s) conservation efforts, and the…

Take a moment to connect with nature - wherever you are. In this episode, mentor and advanced guide trainer, John Roff, speaks to Bernard Stiglingh, a field guide at Singita Kruger.

Within moments of stepping into nature, our heart rates slow, and our breathing deepens. Muscles release, and our senses start to recalibrate, drawing our attention to details we may usually miss, like the patterns of branches or the feeling of wind against skin. After a while, blood pressure and cortisol levels drop. Mood and memory improve. Small moments, big shifts.

John shares how green spaces soothe us,…

Spending an hour with gorillas in the wild is life changing.

In this episode, Charles Nsabimana, Conservationist at Singita Kwitonda, chats to Prosper Uwingeli, Chief Park Warden of Volcanoes National Park (VNP), about mountain gorilla conservation in Rwanda. Prosper’s been in the role for 18 years, in charge of research, monitoring, and planning. Previously, he was a research assistant at Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund/Karisoke Research Centre. His career in gorilla conservation in VNP spans 25 years, the same as Charles, who started out habituating gorillas when there were just eight families…

What happens when a wildly creative Zimbabwean photographer visits one of the most remote and dramatic landscapes in Zimbabwe to create a short film?
He captured more than just images — he found stories of belonging, the magic of nature, and discovered how light itself became his muse at Singita Pamushana.

Tashinga Dzwukutu (Assistant Manager at Singita Pamushana) sits down with Tatenda Chidora, award-winning visual artist, to explore his perspective after his recent visit. Mainly known for his commercial and fine art photography, Tatenda’s storytelling celebrates expressions of Africa and…

In this heartwarming episode, former Head Guide, Solomon Ndlovu, talks to Jonathan Lachowitz, a devoted regular guest who keeps returning to the wild magic of Singita Kruger Park (South Africa) to walk all day without a schedule. On his visits Jonathan walks with Solomon and Tracker, Sunday Ndhlovu. After 70 days walking together, the trio has an easy friendship built on trust, shared memories, and inside jokes.

Jonathan shares what pulls him back time after time – from the therapeutic power of switching off from his busy life, to the perspective only walking safaris provide. It highlights…

Today we dive into an interesting conversation about the changing safari traveller and why the wilderness still calls to a new generation.
Mandisa Magwaxaza, a travel professional and journalist who works at Singita, chats with travel journalist & Communications Specialist, Ondela Mlandu. They share insights on solo travel; on younger guests who choose to travel consciously; social media’s influence; and how to travel more sustainably. They discuss the rise of multi-generational travel. Solo travel has emerged as a trend, travellers ditching stereotypes and seeking life-affirming adventures.…

Saddle up and get ready to be inspired!

In this episode, we're joined by two amazing colleagues from The Grumeti Fund (GF), Singita's conservation partner in Tanzania. Skyler Nuelle (Head of Partnerships & Impact Analysis, GF) chats to Matt Perry (GM: Grumeti Fund) and Glen Steyn (Head of Anti-poaching, GF) about the Wagora Bike Ride.

They talk about how the event got its name, the route, and the epic adventures you could have along the way with the anti-poaching scouts.

Matt shares the emotional story of Kitaboka Wagora, an incredible scout who sadly lost his life while on duty, and…

Big cats captivate guests on game drives, but they are also in great danger. In this episode, Marnus Roodbol (Lowveld Project Manager of the Carnivore Conservation Program for the Endangered Wildlife Trust) (EWT), chats to Bernard Stiglingh (field guide at Singita Kruger) about lion conservation in Africa. They discuss the critical role lions play in ecosystems, conservation efforts, and what's driving their alarming decline.

Marnus highlights that wild lions are now only found in 10 strongholds across Africa, with populations declining by 48% in the last 20 years.

We uncover the African…

A tasty tale today. Meet three phenomenal chefs with different roles but they agree that the Singita Community Culinary Schools (SCCS) gives them goosebumps.
Chef Adele Stiehler-van der Westhuizen, managing director of Prue Leith Culinary Institute, hosts a chat with Chef Nande Magojo (Chef Skills Developer at Singita Kruger) and Chef Andrew Nicholson (Singita’s Group Executive Chef).

SCCS, partnering with Prue Leith Culinary Institute, trains youth from communities near Singita's lodges in South Africa, Tanzania, and Rwanda. With over 100 graduates since 2007 and a 92% employment rate –…

Singita has worked with Cecile & Boyd for 30 years and the same people are still in the room today. Today, we unpack this enduring partnership – what makes it successful and fun, what drives the constant inspiration for new lodges as Singita expands.

Lindy Rousseau (Singita’s Strategist) chats to Geordi de Sousa Costa and Paul van den Berg (Designers and Partners at Cecile & Boyd). They discuss their partnership, the evolution of their design, and vision for future. This exceptional business relationship is built on trust, collaboration, passion, and a shared vision of conservation.

There…

A species in a downward spiral. Not cute or cuddly, but vultures play a crucial role as nature's clean-up crew. In this episode, Dr. Gareth Tate, the Birds of Prey Program Manager for the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), chats with Ben Nichol (Conservation Impact Lead for Singita Lowveld Trust) (SLT) about vulture conservation. They discuss their role in ecosystems, the threats they face, and what's driving the alarming decline.

Fast facts:
• There are 23 species of vultures worldwide; 11 migrate through Africa.
• Vultures can clean up an impala carcass (40kg) in just 10 minutes.
• India's…

Linky Nkuna was born and raised in Justicia, near Singita Sabi Sand, and started her career in education. She is now the Programme Manager for Singita Lowveld Trust’s (SLT) community programmes. Today we are zooming in on one of the SLT’s programmes, Early Childhood Development (ECD), and the 17 centres it supports in communities surrounding Singita’s lodges in South Africa. Linky chats to Elsa Pallett (Marketing Manager for SLT) about the superstar, Frank Makwakwa, and the Practitioners who are driven by their love for children, and all the ways that the SLT adds value for 1,700 children and…

A pangolin is poached from the wild every five minutes. It's reached a tipping point and if we don’t act now, they could disappear in our lifetime. So little is known about this enchanting, solitary mammal covered in scales, yet they’ve quickly become the world’s most trafficked mammal.

The IUCN lists the four Asian species as critically endangered, while the four African species, endangered. All face extinction because of the illegal trade – poached for their scales for Asian medicine; or bush meat in Africa; or a delicacy in Asia. Electrocution (fences) and habitat loss also contribute to…

Get ready to be inspired! In this episode, we're joined by two amazing women from the Grumeti Fund (GF), Singita's conservation partner in Tanzania, Skyler Nuelle (Head - Partnerships & Impact Analysis) and Frida Mollel (Head of Community Outreach Programme).

Frida shares her inspirational story of overcoming cultural barriers to get an education in her Maasai community. Now she's paying it forward, leading programs to transform girls' lives through education in communities surrounding Singita Grumeti, in the western Serengeti.

We're diving into the tough challenges girls here face - from…

We meet two dynamic women in senior management at Singita Grumeti, Tanzania. Bronwyn Laing (GM at Singita Serengeti) chats to Joyce Moikangoe (Lodge Manager at Singita Sasakwa Lodge) about female leadership and how they lift others as they climb.

Joyce was born in Tanzania, studied in South Africa, then returned home to give back and be a part of something bigger. She joined Singita ten years ago and became the first Tanzanian female lodge manager. Bronwyn started in pharmaceuticals but fell in love with East Africa on a trip. She also studied rhino conservation and a three-month contract…

Ever wonder how Singita transforms Tanzanian nature lovers into the polished, knowledgeable guides leading their exceptional game drives?

Ross Couper (Singita's resident photographer and former guide), sits down with Grant Telfer, the (Head of Singita's Guide Training in Tanzania), to get the recipe. From a Singita field guide in South Africa, Grant’s compass pointed him north to become a lodge manager in Grumeti in 2013. A 6-month stint helping out with guide training led to a 10-year career managing guide training.

When Singita puts out a call for new recruits, they're flooded with…

In the Western corridor of the Serengeti lies a 350,000-acre game reserve that’s been protected by NGO, the Grumeti Fund, for the last 20 years in partnership with the Tanzanian government, creating opportunities for communities too. (It’s also Singita’s amazing conservation partner in Tanzania.)

The landscape was devoid of wildlife when they started to restore it in 2003, with a small team of ex-poachers. It took ten years for the wildlife to bounce back. Now with a team of 165, the challenges are real – climate change, integrity of the landscape, biodiversity loss – and they take the…

Today, we're taking a trip back to where it all began – Singita Ebony, nestled in the shade of giant trees along the Sand River, in Sabi Sand. It's not just a lodge; it's the beginning of our 30-year journey and a beacon of our 100-year purpose, filled with memories for many people.

Under ancient Ebony trees, the Bailes family brought their dream of preserving wilderness areas to life and established the first commercial lodge in 1993. This planted the seed of what is today 16 award-winning lodges - a collection that represents the best of ecotourism and conservation. A sense of purpose and…

In this episode, we meet Singita’s Head Chef at Singita Volcanoes National Park, in Rwanda. Vanie Padayachee chats to Sharon Machira, a journalist, content creator and Podcaster in Kenya, about a previous visit to spill the beans (and the gooseberries) about the on-site nursery called ‘Akarabo’ (meaning Little Flower) and the food philosophy here.

In an entertaining conversation, they unveil the plant-based menu with ingredients plucked from the lodge garden or sourced from female farmers, and what she does with tree tomatoes. Delicious raspberries, lettuce, green beans, rainbow carrots, and…

We meet two of Singita’s dynamic head chefs based at lodges in Tanzania and Rwanda. While the local ingredients and menus are entirely different, they have a lot in common.

Mia Neethling, Singita’s Executive Chef in Tanzania, and Vanie Padayachee, Head Chef In Rwanda, chat with two lodge managers in Tanzania about the food served at Singita Grumeti (Tanzania) and Singita Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda). Mia and Vanie head up the teams producing exceptional and sustainable food at these award-winning lodges. Irene Diu and Betty Mollel are both lodge managers in Tanzania where they witness…

Conservation success stories from the Ecologist of 27 years.

Singita Photographer and former guide, Ross Couper, chats to Sarah Clegg, Ecologist at Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve in Zimbabwe, where Singita has two lodges: Singita Pamushana & Malilangwe House. The Malilangwe Trust is our conservation partner in Zimbabwe, responsible for far-reaching community and biodiversity projects.

Sarah was the first ecologist at the Malilangwe Trust in 1996 and is responsible for establishing the monitoring systems still in use today. The focus is mainly on black and white rhino populations. They discuss…

Design and creativity form part of Singita’s DNA. Showcasing the creative talent found in Africa is one of the ways we celebrate the culture and heritage of this continent. Over the last 30 years, Singita has been creating pioneering hospitality experiences, and design has formed a large part of our visible identity. Singita has worked with the same design team for three decades, Cécile & Boyd.

In this episode, host and creative icon, Maps Maponyane, speaks to Geordi da Sousa Costa (co-founder of Cécile & Boyd) and Group Creative Direction at Singita, Georgie Pennington.

In this fascinating…

In this episode, well-known travel journalist Richard Holmes talks to Dr. Andrea Ferry, Sustainability Co-ordinator at Singita. They discuss sustainability in the world of luxury travel, and especially safari travel.

Many travellers don't think too carefully about just what's being done to protect the wilderness areas they visit. Part of the problem is deciding how we define sustainability. Is it about offsetting the carbon from your flight to Africa? Is it about supporting local communities while you're here? Or is it about what powers the light bulbs in your suites and fuels the vehicle…

Two seasoned photographers on different continents share their views on the role incredible images and emotive videos play in marketing ecotourism in Africa and how they both stumbled into their current careers, almost by accident.
Ross Couper has been with Singita for ten years and is now the resident Content Creator supplying the Marketing team with high-quality images and videos spanning wildlife, lodge interiors, staff portraits, and orphaned rhino rescue missions. Tara Shupe, in the US, is an international humanitarian photographer and filmmaker.
Despite them being in two countries,…

This is Safari Conversations – the Singita Podcast.

30 years ago, founder Luke Bailes had a dream of creating a pioneering ecotourism brand that could help save pristine wilderness areas in Africa for future generations.
The first chapter in Singita’s story started when Ebony Lodge opened in the Sabi Sand, in 1993. But truly, it began long before that, on a piece of land his grandfather owned and where they spent holidays as a family at Castleton.

So much has happened in the last 30 years, to where we find ourselves now – owning and managing award-winning lodges across multiple countries in…