Choose Singita Sabi Sand (Boulders or Ebony) for some of Africa’s best leopard sightings and classic Big Five game viewing along the Sand River. Choose Singita Kruger (Lebombo or Sweni) for striking glass-walled suites above the N’wanetsi River on a remote private concession inside the Kruger National Park. A 6-night trip with 3 nights at each is one of the best safaris in South Africa.
This guide compares the four lodges and how to combine them. See our Singita safaris page for full itineraries.
Last checked: September 2026.
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The two areas
Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a private reserve on Kruger’s western border, with no fences between them. It is famous for relaxed leopards that have been viewed by guides for generations.
The N’wanetsi concession is a private concession in the eastern Kruger National Park, near the Mozambique border. Singita holds exclusive traversing rights, so you share sightings only with other Singita guests.
The four lodges
| Lodge | Area | Style | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Singita Ebony Lodge | Sabi Sand | Traditional safari lodge, rich textures, riverside suites | Classic safari feel, families |
| Singita Boulders Lodge | Sabi Sand | Modern design among boulders on the Sand River | Couples, design lovers, leopards |
| Singita Lebombo Lodge | Kruger (N’wanetsi) | Glass “lofts” on a cliff above the river | Architecture, views, couples |
| Singita Sweni Lodge | Kruger (N’wanetsi) | A smaller, more intimate lodge closer to the water | Privacy, small groups |
Wildlife compared
| Sabi Sand | Kruger (N’wanetsi) | |
|---|---|---|
| Leopards | Outstanding | Good |
| Lions | Very good | Very good, including large prides |
| Elephants and buffalo | Good | Good, with big buffalo herds |
| Landscape | Riverine bush and woodland | Open grassland, basalt plains and gorges |
| Feel | Classic, polished game viewing | Wilder, more remote |
Combining them
Most guests spend 3 nights in each area. Transfers are by light aircraft or road. Our Singita Sabi Sand and Kruger itinerary (6 nights, from about US$17,900 per person sharing) pairs Boulders with Lebombo.
Sabi Sand and Kruger or the Serengeti?
- South Africa is easier to reach, with short flights from Johannesburg, and pairs well with Cape Town and the Winelands. It offers excellent Big Five sightings year-round.
- Tanzania’s Grumeti offers vast open plains and the Great Migration. See Singita Grumeti lodges compared.
Both areas are malarial, though the risk is considered lower in South Africa’s lowveld than in East Africa. If you want to avoid malaria completely, see our malaria-free family safari guide.
FAQs
Which is better, Singita Boulders or Singita Ebony?
Boulders is more contemporary and suits couples. Ebony is more traditional and relaxed, and it is a good choice for families. Both share the same wildlife area and guiding.
Is Singita Lebombo inside the Kruger National Park?
Yes. It is on a private concession inside the park, where only Singita guests can drive.
How many nights should I spend at each?
Three nights in each area is ideal. Two nights feels rushed if you want to see leopards and other highlights.
How much does Singita cost in South Africa?
Rates are quoted in South African rand and vary by season and exchange rate. See how much Singita costs per night or ask us for current rates.
Plan your South African Singita safari
We can combine Singita’s South African lodges with Cape Town, the Winelands or a beach. See our Singita safaris page or enquire below.
