Set in the private, remote Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve in southeast Zimbabwe, the newly redesigned Singita Malilangwe House is perched on a rocky outcrop with spectacular views of the dam below. Located alongside Singita Pamushana Lodge, this sole-use five-bedroom villa, which reopened in July 2019, makes optimum use of its magnificent location and takes its design and architectural cues from nature and local Shangaan culture.
Spacious interiors are connected, flowing seamlessly to a raised outside dining platform and stylish interactive kitchen – and onto oversized decks offering the ultimate in outdoor living. Surrounded by magnificent boulders and ancient fig trees, the villa allows guests to immerse themselves in the tones and textures of the reserve’s dramatic landscape.
Transforming the former master bedroom into a double-volume space, the redesign also includes the addition of a large automated panel of frameless glass which drops away for an indoor/outdoor shower experience with unsurpassed views.
An expansive rim-flow pool on the main deck is positioned on the extreme edge of the villa’s cliffside setting – maximising views and creating a visual connection with Malilangwe Dam. Each of the five luxurious suites also features its own private deck. This tranquil home was designed to provide families or small groups the relaxed freedom to create days on safari any way they wish, with a dedicated chef, butler, private game vehicle with experienced Field Guide catering to their every need.
All elements chosen by leading design team of Cécile & Boyd and GAPP Architects, are sympathetic to the original essence of the villa, which drew inspiration from the rich tribal heritage of Ancient Zimbabwe. An emphasis was placed on creating fluid transitions between in- and outdoor areas, which enhances the entire guest experience. The décor conveys refined luxury with rich textures, geometric patterns, tile inlays, hammered brass and woven leather in tones of deep olive, tan, black and white create a striking backdrop for contemporary African artefacts, in keeping with the nearby Singita Pamushana Lodge.
The private 130,000-acre Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve is conserved by Singita’s non-profit partner, The Malilangwe Trust. Bordering Gonarezhou National Park, it boasts an exciting diversity of wildlife. Home to one of the highest concentrations of endangered black rhino in Zimbabwe, as well as healthy populations of elephant, cheetah, wild dog, lion and leopard and abundant birdlife, the reserve is a game-viewing paradise. More than a traditional safari, guests can immerse themselves in wellness experiences and fill days with fishing, sundowner cruises on Malilangwe Dam, in-room yoga and massages, stargazing, wine tasting, community visits, bush walks and visits to ancient rock art sites. The virtually untouched Zimbabwean wilderness makes for an idyllic long-stay safari for families.
This exclusive-use retreat forms part of Singita’s Private Villa Collection, a series of seven extraordinary lodges designed for privacy and flexibility for families and groups to connect in iconic wildlife locations. Itineraries, activities and meals are tailored as guests set the rhythm of their safari vacation according to their interests.
Rates for Malilangwe House start from US$11,670 per villa per night, accommodating up to ten guests. The lodge can be accessed from Johannesburg (O.R. Tambo International Airport), followed by a Federal Airlines scheduled flight from O.R. Tambo Airport to Buffalo Range International Airport – available on Mondays and Thursdays only. Connections are available through Victoria Falls between May and September on Thursdays. Guests can also book private air charters to the lodge.
