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We weren’t sure how our second Safari destination could possibly top our stay at Singita Boulders (which you can read about here), but it turns out Singita Lebombo exceeded our very high expectations. Singita Lebombo is in a category all its own with their accommodations inspired by Eagle’s Nests and perched high above the river, each offering a unique perspective. Our suite was not as large as our Villa at Boulders, but it was so bright and airy; giving a unique glimpse into the surrounding jungle.

We were meant to fly between Boulders and Lebombo, but unexpected weather prevented any flights taking off or landing. Thankfully our travel planner was monitoring the situation and snagged a very amiable driver who was able to take us across Kruger National Park and get us to our destination in time for the afternoon game drive. Other guests who were trying to leave Boulders remained stranded as there was a back log of people trying to secure transfers. Again, kudos to our terrific team in Cape Town.

Upon first glance Lebombo appeared simple, blending in perfectly with the surroundings. Consisting of 16 suites, the staff to guest ratio ensures there is always someone on hand to address your every need or desire. We quickly became acquainted with enthusiastic and engaging Andrew who runs the show, as well as Darren the capable GM. We were assigned Eddie, who like Catherine at Boulders, made sure we never went hungry, as well as Damin and Sheriff our guide and tracker team who seemed to be Lebombo’s most elite pair. Long story short we were in capable hands. We had enjoyed a picnic lunch en route so we decided to do a quick tour of the villa and then get out and explore.

Our accommodation was much more compact than at Boulders, but it was equally special. What is most remarkable is that Lebombo is like an oasis in the jungle, everything has to be brought in at tremendous expense and effort, but the guest experience is seamless. One major shout out regarding customer service, I forgot my prescription sunglasses at Boulders and asked whether it might be possible to have them delivered back to me before we were set to head back to Cape Town. This request was attended to with great urgency and I was reassured I would have them as soon as possible. I believe they were flown in the next day and delivered to me with a flourish.

Game drive number one dazzled with animal sightings. Damin and Sheriff knew we had been guided by Piet and Renneck at Boulders and were committed to giving us an even better show of animals. In truth, both teams were outstanding. Perhaps most importantly they received the memo that pink gin and pink tonic were a necessity on the Jeep for Sundowners.

There is a lot of ground to cover at Lebombo, but the pay-off is remarkable landscape as well as a tremendous variety of animals.

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One aspect that we found to be superior at Lebombo was the food service, as well as the interactions between guests with credit going to Andrew who made a point of making introductions and bringing people together over cocktails. With a cooking school on property it makes sense that the food is just next level. Similar to Boulders the Sommeliers offer their expertise to ensure that the wines are perfectly matched to whatever dishes you choose.

Mornings begin at 5:30 am with a knock on the door and an escort to the main lodge for a quick coffee and snack, as well as a glimpse of the sunrise. Once in the Jeep we relied on our expert guides to suss out the most memorable situations, including a little preview of the lions we would see later in the day. Just a reminder, all photos and videos were taken with an iPhone 15 Pro.

Back from the morning drive we followed the same schedule as we did at Boulders, a late breakfast and then a relaxing massage. By the time 3:30 came around we were ready to revisit the lions and find some leopards.

It turns out that we were in luck, the leopard and lion sightings were fantastic. Forgive the multiple videos, but they really are amazing.

We saw many different lions including the small group below where it appeared some younger healthier lions were caring for an unrelated older lioness who seemed to be weak and sickly. There were also many elephant moms and babies feeding together.

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It was hard to tear ourselves away, but it was lunch time/spa time/shopping time. Singita has a wonderfully curated shop with crafts from artisans all over Africa; while I was tempted by the beaded chair I did end up purchasing these gorgeous chargers as well as a champagne bucket adorned with an ostrich shell mosaic which they shipped back to the States for us. You can browse too if you are interested, just click here.

One last foray into the bush bought incredible zebra and rhino sightings as well as a glorious sunset.

On our final night at Lebombo we asked Darren if he could set up a special dinner and he surprised us with a romantic setting high above the lodge complete with our own fireplace, specialty bar and cigars. Eddie was a trooper bringing our food up a steep flight of stairs, as was the sommelier who reappeared with new bottles to accompany each dish.

We were really sad we had to leave Lebombo as our stay was so remarkable. Over breakfast we started planning our return to Africa in 2026 to coincide with our 60th birthdays, and this time we would bring our children along.

After hugging the team goodbye we were taken to the airstrip in order to board our short flight which would us to the larger airport in order to return to Cape Town for a few days in the wine country.

Keep in mind if you decide to go on Safari, it just might become an addiction!