A2A Safaris - Grumetihttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/tags/grumetienConservation Up Close: An Invitation to Participate in a Critical Elephant Collaring Projecthttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/conservation-close-an-invitation-to-participate-a-critical-elephant-collaring-project<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>For those who share in our deep love of Africa and our passion for protecting the continent’s landscapes and wildlife, being given the chance to immerse oneself in an impactful conservation project is the opportunity of a lifetime. Safaris with a Purpose is a programme of special projects developed with a specific conservation goal in...</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Grumeti</a></div></div>Thu, 02 Aug 2018 07:00:44 +0000Anonymous2049 at https://us.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/conservation-close-an-invitation-to-participate-a-critical-elephant-collaring-project#commentsProactive Conservation: The Singita Grumeti Elephant Collaring Projecthttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/proactive-conservation-the-singita-grumeti-elephant-collaring-project<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>Visitors to Singita Grumeti, a 350,000-acre private concession in the western corridor of the Serengeti, are surrounded by lush grasslands and healthy herds of migrating wildlife. The thriving biodiversity of this area is a complete turnaround from the desolate state the land was 15 years ago, before the establishment and intervention of the Singita Grumeti...</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Grumeti</a></div></div>Thu, 03 May 2018 07:00:38 +0000Anonymous2021 at https://us.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/proactive-conservation-the-singita-grumeti-elephant-collaring-project#commentsMeet Singita’s Elite Anti-Poaching Task Forcehttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/meet-singita%E2%80%99s-elite-anti-poaching-task-force<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>For the Singita Grumeti Fund‘s Special Operations Group, an elite task force within the anti-poaching unit responsible for protecting Singita’s 350,000-acre concession in the Serengeti, the day starts long before sunrise. It is a job which requires the utmost dedication of the scouts who are highly trained in the tracking and apprehension of poachers, many...</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/anti-poaching" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Anti-Poaching</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Grumeti</a></div></div>Tue, 16 Jan 2018 07:00:21 +0000Anonymous1969 at https://us.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/meet-singita%E2%80%99s-elite-anti-poaching-task-force#commentsSingita Serengeti House: The Ultimate Private Safarihttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/singita-serengeti-house-the-ultimate-private-safari<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>It’s not easy to spot; slung low on the slopes of Sasakwa Hill and clad in local stone, Singita Serengeti House is a subtle building that blends quietly into its remote location in the great plains of northern Tanzania. Purpose-built as an environmentally sensitive private retreat for family and friends, this elegant and comfortable villa...</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/experience" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Experience</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/lodges-and-camps" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Lodges and Camps</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Grumeti</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/luxury-safari-tanzania" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">luxury safari in Tanzania</a></div></div>Thu, 02 Nov 2017 07:00:14 +0000Anonymous1940 at https://us.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/singita-serengeti-house-the-ultimate-private-safari#commentsDiscover Singita Explorehttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/discover-singita-explore<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>The Serengeti stretches out west of Africa’s Great Rift Valley in a series of vast plains, forming a landscape traversed by millions of zebra and wildebeest, as well as huge herds of buffalo, elephant, giraffe and antelope. The spectacle of the annual migration is a popular reason to visit this iconic safari destination but high...</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/experience" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Experience</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Grumeti</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/singita-experience" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Singita Experience</a></div></div>Tue, 18 Jul 2017 07:00:37 +0000Anonymous1906 at https://us.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/discover-singita-explore#commentsGraduation Day at the Singita Serengeti School of Cookinghttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/graduation-day-the-singita-serengeti-school-cooking<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>Wednesday the 8th of February 2017 was a very exciting day for the local community at Singita Grumeti, as the first group of students from the new Singita Serengeti School of Cooking (SSSC) was awarded their graduation certificates at a special ceremony in front of their tutors and proud family members. The ceremony marks the...</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Grumeti</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/singita-school-cooking" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Singita School of Cooking</a></div></div>Tue, 14 Feb 2017 07:00:59 +0000Anonymous1870 at https://us.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/graduation-day-the-singita-serengeti-school-cooking#commentsCocktail Recipe: Coconut Mojitohttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/cocktail-recipe-coconut-mojito<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>Louise Heyns, a pastry chef at <a href="http://singita.com/lodge/singita-sabora-tented-camp/" target="_blank">Singita Sabora Tented Camp</a>, grew up in Stellenbosch and kicked off her career at some of the culinary hot-spots of the Cape Winelands before joining the team at <a href="http://singita.com/region/singita-grumeti/" target="_blank">Singita Grumeti</a>. She is responsible for planning the day’s menu and preparing the high tea spread served in the late afternoon; a food experience that is often accompanied with a delicious and refreshing cocktail.</p>
<p><img src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sabora_cocktail_5-1022x1024.jpg" alt="Coconut mojito recipe from Singita Sabora Tented Camp, Tanzania" width="1022" height="1024" class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-16145" srcset="http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sabora_cocktail_5-1022x1024.jpg 1022w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sabora_cocktail_5-150x150.jpg 150w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sabora_cocktail_5-300x300.jpg 300w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sabora_cocktail_5-768x769.jpg 768w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sabora_cocktail_5-360x360.jpg 360w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sabora_cocktail_5.jpg 1174w" sizes="(max-width: 1022px) 100vw, 1022px" /></p>
<p>The mojito is a classic cocktail of Cuban origin, traditionally made from a mixture of mint, lime and sugar. From the cane fields to the clubs of Havana, the drink has evolved over hundreds of years and through countless variations. Louise’s recipe has a tropical twist in the form of some coconut flavouring, which makes it ideal for soaking up the last of the Serengeti’s simmering heat in the shade of the lodge veranda. Herd of zebra on the lawn optional.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-16097" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sabora_cocktail_2.jpg" alt="Singita Sabora Tented Camp, Tanzania" width="1000" height="666" srcset="http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sabora_cocktail_2.jpg 1000w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sabora_cocktail_2-300x200.jpg 300w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sabora_cocktail_2-768x511.jpg 768w, http://469uj5355hpj1cwksq2n1n1a.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/sabora_cocktail_2-320x213.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></p>
<h3>Recipe: Coconut Mojito</h3>
<p><strong>Ingredients – what you will need:</strong><br />
25ml light rum<br />
25ml coconut liqueur<br />
10ml coconut milk<br />
A handful of fresh mint<br />
A lemon wedge<br />
10ml lemon juice<br />
Crushed ice</p>
<p><strong>Method – what to do:</strong><br />
1. Fill the glass about halfway with the crushed ice, then pour in the rum, followed by the coconut liqueur and lemon juice<br />
2. Take the fresh mint and crush with some ice, then add this to your drink so the glass is almost full<br />
3. Add your lemon wedge top with more crushed ice<br />
4. Finish off with the splash of coconut milk and garnish with mint</p>
<p>Makes one serving</p>
<p><em>Browse the <a href="http://singita.com/tag/cocktail-recipe/" target="_blank">Cocktail Recipe</a> tag on the blog for more delicious and refreshing recipes, like <a href="http://singita.com/lodges-and-camps/cocktail-recipe-wild-hibiscus-spritzer/" target="_blank">Wild Hibiscus Spritzer</a> and <a href="http://singita.com/experience/cocktail-recipe-blueberry-gin-royale/" target="_blank">Blueberry Gin Royale</a>. Follow Louise on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lulupastrychef/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> if you also love delectable cakes, cookies and confectionary – but be warned, it’ll make you hungry! </em></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="http://singita.com/experience/cocktail-recipe-coconut-mojito/">Cocktail Recipe: Coconut Mojito</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/experience" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Experience</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Grumeti</a></div></div>Tue, 14 Jun 2016 08:00:00 +0000Anonymous1533 at https://us.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/cocktail-recipe-coconut-mojito#commentsGet to Know Us: Singita Environmental Education Centrehttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/get-to-know-us-singita-environmental-education-centre<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>Singita’s commitment to conservation, development and community outreach come together in perfect harmony in the establishment of the Environmental Educational Centre (EEC) in Tanzania. The Centre serves to engage and educate the community’s next generation of leaders on the importance of a balanced, sustainable ecosystem. The EEC conducts approximately 25 week-long courses per year which are attended by 300 youth from the 26 secondary schools in the districts which border <a href="http://singita.com/regions/singita-grumeti/" target="_blank">Singita Grumeti</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_6.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13736" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_6.jpg" alt="Singita Grumeti Environmental Education Centre, Tanzania" /></a></p>
<p>In order to ensure the long term sustainability of the ecosystem and the rich biodiversity within it, it is essential that the local communities be empowered, informed and engaged with conservation. Laurian Lamatus is the principal of the EEC and has been supervising the programme there since 2009. We asked him a few questions about his role, the work done by the Centre, and the importance of conservation in the region:</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_5.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13735" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_5.jpg" alt="Singita Grumeti Environmental Education Centre, Tanzania" /></a></p>
<p><strong>What does an average day at the EEC look like for you: </strong><br />
The first thing I do in the morning is inspect the kitchens to make sure that breakfast is ready for the learners. Classes then commence at 8.00am and run until 5.00pm, after which time we keep the kids active with outdoor play for a couple of hours. After a short break we meet for dinner, which is usually followed by a conservation film before bed time around 9pm. Each day I will also have a slot for doing managerial work for the centre.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_1.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13731" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_1.jpg" alt="Singita Grumeti Environmental Education Centre, Tanzania" /></a></p>
<p><strong>How did you become aware of the importance of environmental awareness?</strong><br />
I was a shepherd as a young boy, taking care of our goats and sheep, and had a great passion for birds and insects. I frequently stayed with my Grandma during my youth and she taught me about various herbal plants; a set of knowledge that I am proud to use to this day. In primary school I joined <a href="https://www.rootsandshoots.org/" target="_blank">Jane Goodall’s Roots and Shoots environmental club</a> where I became a leader and this sparked a greater interest in environmental conservation.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_7.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13737" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_7.jpg" alt="Singita Grumeti Environmental Education Centre, Tanzania" /></a></p>
<p><strong>What’s your favourite thing about engaging kids with nature? </strong><br />
I love to see how my students react to what they hear and see while out on game drive or exploring nature. I also enjoy the community visits where we teach local youths about what environmentally conscious hospitality means for them and their families, and the important link between tourism, conservation and community prosperity.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13732" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_2.jpg" alt="Singita Grumeti Environmental Education Centre, Tanzania" /></a></p>
<p><strong>What does the environmental education course entail?</strong><br />
The goal for this course is to impart both theoretical and practical skills amongst youths in secondary schools and their teachers on the sustainable use of natural resources. The centre does this by encouraging a passion for the environment and creating an understanding of the ecosystem and our role in it. Knowledge shared includes soil and vegetation usage and management; water conservation; as well as the protection of local wildlife including birds, animals and insects. Leadership skills are also taught as part of a broader strategy to influence the mindset of the youths through KAP; knowledge, attitude and practice.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_8.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13738" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_8.jpg" alt="Singita Grumeti Environmental Education Centre, Tanzania" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Based on the skills and knowledge they’re gaining, what <em>real</em> impact do you think your students are having in their communities? </strong><br />
First of all the programme is creating future leaders with the experience and ability to correctly manage the use of natural resources. Secondly, the students’ families benefit from the ripple effect of their knowledge through activities like the planting of trees and vegetable gardens in nearby villages. Finally, and as a result of this ripple effect, the local community becomes more aware of the importance of conservation, ensuring that the message is spread far and wide.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13733" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_3.jpg" alt="Singita Grumeti Environmental Education Centre, Tanzania" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Which of the projects that you have undertaken with the students do you think have been most successful?</strong><br />
Apart from the “green programmes” (like the tree planting mentioned above), we’ve also had wonderful success with building awareness through an art competition. Students were encouraged to design something for use in a calendar which was then printed and used to create awareness for other youths and their communities. The annual ‘Malihai’ (youth conservation clubs) conference which commemorates <a href="http://www.unep.org/wed/" target="_blank">World Environment Day</a> brings young people together to learn from one another and from our speakers, who are environmental experts and professionals. They benefit greatly from these presentations as it helps to keep them up to date with global projects and movements affecting conservation and tourism.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_4.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13734" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/eec_4.jpg" alt="Singita Grumeti Environmental Education Centre, Tanzania" /></a></p>
<p><em><strong>WANT TO HELP?</strong><br />
You can become a valued funding partner of the Singita Grumeti Environmental Education Centre by sponsoring a five-day course, attended by 12 learners and two teachers. Funds received enable the Centre to implement an increasing number of courses and so maximise the impact of the programme on the preservation of the reserves and of the community lands.</em></p>
<p><em>If you are interested in making a contribution to this or any of the other programmes listed <a href="http://singita.com/community/" target="_blank">here</a> please contact Pam Richardson, Singita’s Group HR and Community Development Manager at <a href="mailto:pam.r@singita.com" target="_blank">pam.r@singita.com</a>.</em></p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="http://singita.com/15150-2/">Get to Know Us: Singita Environmental Education Centre</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/environment" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Environment</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/people-singita" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">People of Singita</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Grumeti</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/sustainable-conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Sustainable Conservation</a></div></div>Wed, 13 Jan 2016 14:58:39 +0000Anonymous1447 at https://us.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/get-to-know-us-singita-environmental-education-centre#commentsSustainability is Thriving at Singita Grumetihttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/sustainability-thriving-singita-grumeti<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p>One of the most successful ongoing community development projects at <a href="http://singita.com/regions/singita-grumeti/" target="_blank">Singita Grumeti</a> is the Grumeti Horticultural and Marketing Co-op Society (GHOMACOS), supplying the lodge kitchens with a constant flow of high-quality, freshly harvested, locally grown vegetables, herbs and fruits. Lodge guests are often surprised at the freshness and diversity of the juices, salads, vegetables, desserts and sorbets on the menus at Singita Grumeti, given the remote location of <a href="http://singita.com/regions/singita-grumeti/" target="_blank">the five lodges and camps</a>. Many guests are also appreciative of the fact that the food they’re enjoying is locally grown, benefits small-scale producers, and hasn’t clocked up unnecessary transport miles.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/GHOMACOS_14.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13502" alt="Grumeti Horticultural and Marketing Co-op Society" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/GHOMACOS_14.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13480" alt="Grumeti Horticultural and Marketing Co-op Society" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/GHOMACOS_6.jpg" /></p>
<p>Launched in January 2010 with a handful of vegetable farmers and an annual turnover of around $74,000, GHOMACOS’s membership has grown to 53 small agricultural businesses active in eight local villages in the local communities. Business has grown dramatically since then, with last year’s turnover totalling more than a quarter of a million dollars; income that flows directly into local households.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/GHOMACOS_9.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13501" alt="Grumeti Horticultural and Marketing Co-op Society" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/GHOMACOS_9.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>GHOMACOS’s members are predominantly fruit and vegetable farmers, but also include pig, cattle and poultry farmers, egg producers, and bee-keepers. There is a dedicated GHOMACOS market place in the village closest to <a href="http://singita.com/sasakwa-lodge/" target="_blank">Singita Sasakwa Lodge</a>, where members can display and sell their wares during the week. Here, drivers from each kitchen arrive to collect orders, and often the chefs themselves pay a visit to peruse the produce, checking quality and offering constructive feedback to the farmers.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13479" alt="Grumeti Horticultural and Marketing Co-op Society" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/GHOMACOS_5.jpg" /></p>
<p>Not only does this type of successful small-scale farming keep the lodge kitchens amply supplied, it has stimulated the local economy, provided self-sustaining jobs and, from a conservation perspective, reduced the community’s reliance on bush meat and illegal hunting by providing alternative sources of food for families. For many of these rural communities, the gradual shift from subsistence farming to practising farming as a business has been life changing.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13494" alt="Grumeti Horticultural and Marketing Co-op Society" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/GHOMACOS_7.jpg" /></p>
<p>Singita Grumeti provides support and training to all members in areas such as farming techniques, sourcing the best seeds and understanding the importance of quality, packaging, and timely deliveries. Training extends to administrative, financial and marketing skills, and Singita Grumeti also funds an annual financial audit.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/GHOMACOS_51.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13503" alt="Grumeti Horticultural and Marketing Co-op Society" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/GHOMACOS_51.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>Singita’s vision has always been to protect and preserve conservation areas in iconic wildlife destinations through the interrelation of ecotourism, community development and conservation. GHOMACOS is a great example of a sustainably run project in partnership with a local community. Members of GHOMACOS are experiencing tangible benefits from living in close proximity to the reserve, as Singita Grumeti pays premium prices for their goods. In turn, this encourages the local community to support the protection of wildlife, habitat and natural resources in one of Tanzania’s most iconic safari destinations.</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/GHOMACOS_4.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13478" alt="Grumeti Horticultural and Marketing Co-op Society" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/GHOMACOS_4.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><em>Singita Grumeti’s other community development projects in the region include the <a href="http://singita.com/blog/environmental-education-at-singita-grumeti/" target="_blank">Environmental Education Centre;</a> a scholarship fund for local schoolchildren; and improved access to fresh water. You can read all about these projects <a href="http://singita.com/community/singita-grumet/" target="_blank">here</a>.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://singita.com/blog/sustainability-is-thriving-at-singita-grumeti/">Sustainability is Thriving at Singita Grumeti</a> appeared first on <a href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/cuisine" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Cuisine</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/singita-grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Singita Grumeti</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/sustainable-conservation" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Sustainable Conservation</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Grumeti</a></div></div>Thu, 12 Nov 2015 12:56:28 +0000Anonymous1376 at https://us.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/sustainability-thriving-singita-grumeti#commentsA Serengeti Safari Fondly Rememberedhttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/a-serengeti-safari-fondly-remembered<div class="body text-field" property="content:encoded"><p><a href="http://singita.com/sasakwa-lodge/" target="_blank">Singita Sasakwa Lodge</a>, located in the Grumeti Reserves in northern Tanzania, is a slice of heaven, if we say so ourselves! The majestic views of the Serengeti from its position atop a hill and the old-world elegance of the nostalgic manor house decor make this lodge a true celebration of comfort and luxury. Ms. Anna Lord, a recent guest from Singapore who visited <a href="http://singita.com/regions/singita-grumeti/" target="_blank">Singita Grumeti</a> with her family, is in agreement: “It was an extraordinarily comfortable, indulgent but fun experience, in the hands of knowledgable and extremely hard-working professionals who do everything to ensure that you have a holiday that you will never forget.”</p>
<p>What follows are some of Anna’s memories of Singita Sasakwa Lodge, along with a selection of the stunning photographs she took during her stay with us:</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_collage_1a.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13036" alt="Image copyright Anna Lord" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_collage_1a.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>“From the moment that we touched down on the wonderful Sasakwa airstrip, we knew that we were in good hands… Our bags were whisked off to our cottage and we were immediately immersed in the indescribable beauty of the Serengeti.”</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13021" alt="Image copyright Anna Lord" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_3.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>“Frankly, if our Singita experience had ended after that [first] game drive, the trip would have been worthwhile.”</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_20.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13029" alt="Image copyright Anna Lord" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_20.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>“No matter how many excellent documentaries you have seen, nothing prepares you for the incredible spectacle of the plains filled with long lines of wildebeest and their calves, with a few zebra and topi tagging along. The sight, sound and scent of the phenomenon as they crossed the river meant that I could tick a major box on my bucket list.”</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_5.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13022" alt="Image copyright Anna Lord" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_5.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>“We were travelling with our 4 children (aged 4, 7, 10 & 12) and immediately knew that our accommodation was beyond perfect. Beautifully appointed, vast living and dining spaces (indoor & out), with four slightly different, tastefully designed bedrooms, each with stunning views and impeccable bathrooms with views that are to die for!”</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_11.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13025" alt="Image copyright Anna Lord" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_11.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>“I apologise in advance for the excessive use of superlatives that you are likely to have to endure if you manage to persevere to the end of this, but it is almost impossible to do justice to this fabulous lodge and the wonderful team that runs it, using words. ”</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_8.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13023" alt="Image copyright Anna Lord" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_8.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>“The days continued along these lines; with meticulous attention to detail, no request was too much trouble and every bite that we ate was delicious.”</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_collage_2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13030" alt="anna_lord_collage_2" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_collage_2.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>“No matter how amazing the lodge, the food and the service, no safari is complete without an incredible guide… Their passion for wildlife and professionalism in their work are very special indeed.”</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_21.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13035" alt="anna_lord_21" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_21.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>“Matthew is now a hero in our house. All of our children sobbed saying goodbye to him and have talked about him to anyone who will listen. He had such an incredible impact on all of them and us. They learned so much from him, including stories about Masai life, learning how to make and use a bow and arrow, and lessons about traditional remedies.”</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_18.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13028" alt="Image copyright Anna Lord" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_18.jpg" /></a></p>
<p>“For anyone who wants to visit the Serengeti without sacrificing an ounce of luxury, I wholeheartedly recommend Sasakwa. My only regret is that we didn’t stay for longer so that we could enjoy more of what the lodge itself had to offer.”</p>
<p><a href="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_9.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-13024" alt="Image copyright Anna Lord" src="http://singita.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/anna_lord_9.jpg" /></a></p>
<p><em>You can read Anna’s full review on <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.za/ShowUserReviews-g293751-d646998-r266034429-Singita_Sasakwa_Lodge-Serengeti_National_Park.html" target="_blank">TripAdvisor</a>. Please contact our <a href="mailto:enquiries@singita.com" target="_blank">Reservations team</a> to plan your own visit to this spectacular part of the world.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://singita.com/blog/a-serengeti-safari-fondly-remembered/">A Serengeti Safari Fondly Remembered</a> appeared first on <a href="http://singita.com">Singita</a>.</p>
</div><div class="field-tags field-items"><div class="field-label">Tags: </div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/experience" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Experience</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/singita-grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Singita Grumeti</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/singita-sasakwa-lodge" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Singita Sasakwa Lodge</a></div><div class="field-item odd " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/grumeti" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">Grumeti</a></div><div class="field-item even " rel="dc:subject"><a href="/africa/blog/tags/luxury-safari-tanzania" typeof="skos:Concept" property="rdfs:label skos:prefLabel" datatype="">luxury safari in Tanzania</a></div></div>Wed, 23 Sep 2015 14:22:36 +0000Anonymous1350 at https://us.a2asafaris.com/africahttps://us.a2asafaris.com/africa/blog/a-serengeti-safari-fondly-remembered#comments