Authentic EcoTourism a True Recipe For Success says Top Lodge Owner

In an exclusive interview today, Luke Bailes, owner of Singita Lodges described the company’s success over the last 16 years as “tremendously fulfilling”.

Singita now has 9 luxury lodges and is looking to develop even more top-end properties. Currently the group operates five lodges in South Africa, three in Tanzania, and one in Zimbabwe.

All the lodges are operated and managed sustainably, Said Mr Bailes “We believe that our clients truly want to feel good about themselves and their tourism. That’s why we are committed to delivering completely authentic sustainable tourism. Our three watchwords are wildlife, tourism and local communities. We feel everyone should benefit”

Singita recently announced a co-operation with Grumeti Reserves whose Paul Tudor Jones described Singita as “one of the world’s top eco-tourism and hospitality operations”. Singita has devoted itself to work diligently to continue to foster Grumeti’s relationship with the local community, the Tanzanian Government and the Grumeti Fund

The mission of Grumeti Reserves is to rehabilitate and improve the indigenous biodiversity of the western Serengeti-Mara system to the benefit of local communities and districts, as well as national, and international stakeholders, through practices that are financially sustainable, environmentally and culturally responsible, and politically acceptable.

Singita’s accolades include being named the ‘Best Hotel in the World’ by Conde Nast Traveler (USA Edition) in 2001, 2002 and 2004. Conde Nast Traveller (UK Edition) named Singita the ‘Best Hotel in the World’ 2004. Travel and Leisure named Singita the ‘World’s Best Hotel’ for 2004 and number 1 in its ‘World’s Best Service Awards’ in June 2005. Harpers Hideaway named Singita ‘Best Resort in the World for 2004.’

The high end ecotourism market is growing exponentially. Said Mr Bailes “Our clients come from all over the world to enjoy a truly authentic ecotourism experience. Source markets now include Europe, USA, India and the Middle East.”

And Singita’s successful growth shows no signs of slowing. We understand that within the next three years a Singita 10 island atoll in the Seychelles, Singita lodges in Kenya and Rwanda may well be open for business. And Singita’s commitment to the local population will put them in poll position with their lodge in Zimbabwe where they’re currently feeding some 20,000 children a day.

Sustainable tourism certainly means sustainable success for Singita.

Valere Tjolle