What’s new in Singita Grumeti

I’ve just returned from my first stay in Singita Grumeti since 2023. Here’s what’s changed:

New villas

Kilima is now under Singita management.  The villa has been there for 14 years and was owned by the late Paul Allen, co-founded of Microsoft.  So you might not be surprised to learn that it wasn’t exactly built on a budget.  Until I was told its age I assumed it was brand new.

Next door is the newly opened Milele, which welcomed guests last summer.  Both of these are exclusive use, five bedroom villas a few minutes drive from Sasakwa.  Both properties offer similar amenities and nearly identical views, given their proximity. The main difference is design: Milele features an open-plan layout with a main living area that opens up for a spacious, airy feel, while Kilima is set farther back and more enclosed.

These villas are absolutely class. Perched above the hills with stunning views, they’re built to an impressively high standard—spacious, with private gyms, kitchens, and more dining areas than you’ll know what to do with. The only drawback is the lack of an on-site spa. Sure, you can have treatments in your room or pop over to Sasakwa, but I’d have preferred a dedicated spa on the premises.

Price wise, if you’re going as a family, please adopt me and take me with you.  But if you’re going as a group then it’s neither here nor there price wise compared to staying in one of the Singita lodges.  An absolute bargain.

Serengeti House

Serengeti House is the third villa that is privately owned, of which Singita manages.  During my last stay I mentioned it needed a refurb and they’ve shut it for over 2 months to do just that.  Some light touches, a better spa, better position of kitchen and things to look forward to.  It will be reopening mid-March 2025.

Sasakawa

No major changes to the lodge itself—the most significant addition in recent years was the Hillside Suite. However, the old stables—shut down after too many guests overstated their riding abilities and got injured—are being repurposed. The space will now feature late checkout facilities, such as day rooms (similar to Rwanda, where you’re not left stranded after check-out), a football pitch converted from the former riding arena, and a cookery school for both guests and locals.

Sabora

Sabora has undergone an extensive rebuild, with tents relocated into the same area to eliminate the distant night lights that used to disrupt the sense of seclusion. The result is light, elegant, and beautifully executed.  I always recommend Sabora, even if they are “just tents.” It pairs well with Sasakwa, especially for honeymooners—Sabora offers that immersive nature experience, while Sasakwa provides sweeping views from the hilltop. Important to get the order right though: Sasakwa is the better lodge, so finish there.

Faru Faru

Faru Faru also closed for a refurbishment last year. Given the lukewarm feedback I’d heard, I wasn’t expecting much. I was wrong—they’ve done an excellent job.  They are continuing with some further improvements that will be finished throughout the year.  I’ll have a full review soon.

Conclusion

Singita already delivers one of the top safari experiences in one of the most predator-dense regions on Earth. It’s great to see them raising the bar even further. I took video tours of most of these properties and will share them when I get a chance.