Just You, Nature, and a Villa in Africa - Insider tips on Singita's private retreats

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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) with our team, and why many are choosing to slow down and skip a few game drives. Which seasons are best? Where to do yoga? Or where to catch the best sunrise? These three ladies will help you plan.

They also reveal special design details like the magic of the Milele pool during the migration, how Kataza House was inspired by volcanic rock and gorillas, and the incredible African art found in the villas. In each, there’s always a sense of easy, homely comfort while showcasing African design, with a seamless flow to the wilderness outside. Quiet is a given; the sun rising and waning over the bush is the only indication of time…

Step inside our villas – from South Africa to Rwanda. Nine nature-inspired private retreats, in wilderness hotspots, designed with comfort in mind for conscious travellers.
Chapters
  • 00:02 Introduction to Safari Conversations
  • 02:13 Staff backgrounds and experience
  • 04:33 What makes Villa experiences special
  • 08:22 Guest activities and conservation interests
  • 12:30 Villa staff and seasonal highlights
  • 16:42 The Explore tented experience
  • 19:32 Combining Villa properties across regions
  • 27:38 Design philosophy and local artistry
  • 33:12 Meaningful guest connections
13 Nov 2025 English South Africa Society & Culture · Places & Travel

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