Inter-provincial leisure travel is allowed under Alert Level 2 but some may feel reluctant to explore in the era of COVID-19. With tourism and hospitality playing such a vital role in South Africa’s economy, this series will showcase various industry players who have adapted their offering to the new normal. Hopefully this will help bring a sense of reassurance for then you make travel plans.
Khaya Ndlovu Manor House in Hoedspruit have adapted their ways and introduced their new normal to local guests. Based on a private game reserve, there is ample room for social distancing and flexibility around guest’s needs.
Khaya Ndlovu Manor House is nestled in nature, with ample birds and wildlife.
Getaway chatted to Lisa Harris and Shannon Rombi about what the new normal for Khaya Ndlovu is. From strict sanitising protocols to contactless service, guests will feel safe and at ease here.
The basics, such as sanitisation stations and masks are an obvious addition to the new normal. Harris explained how the space that the manor house has, makes it the perfect place for a social distanced escape.
The proximity to the Kruger National Park is an additional bonus for safari-lovers and first timers alike. Khaya is situated an hours drive to the Phalaborwa Gate and just under an hour and a half from Orpen Gate.
Guests can experience the incredible beauty of Kruger, without the masses. Rangers can take guests on a private day trip into the park on either an open-air safari or closed vehicle.
Game drive protocol:
In line with the new regulations, game drives either in the Khaya Ndlovu Private Game reserve or on private drives in the Kruger National Park operate at 70% capacity.
- 4 guests are allowed on the 7-seater open-air game vehicle
- 6 guests are allowed on the 10-seater open-air game vehicle
Rombi explained that if a family of 8 is travelling together then they will be able to occupy one vehicle together.
Social distancing game drives are part of the new normal.
What to expect from Khaya Ndlovu’s ‘new normal’
‘We are lucky that we have space to play with,’ explained Harris. When it comes to meal times and the dining experience, the manor house will continue to deliver delectable food but guests can decide on their dining location.
From the open-air alfresco deck, to the garden, boma and contactless, in-room dining, whatever guests feel comfortable with, the 4-star manor house can arrange.
An open-air alfresco deck overlooking the Khaya Ndlovu Game Reserve and the northern Drakensberg mountain range.
The deck also offers guests a sheltered dining option.
The options are endless regarding guest safety and comfortability.
Khaya Ndlovu is a 22-sleeper with rooms both inside the manor house itself, as well as garden suites that can accommodate couples and families. The property Khaya is situated on is spacious and interactions with other guests are naturally very seldom.
‘Most of the living happens outside,’ explained Harris. The garden suites are generous in size. Each suite has a private balcony for guests to spend their day bird-watching, reading and relaxing.
For guests staying inside the Manor House, there is ample space between the rooms and guests may roam about without feeling uncomfortable.
Khaya Ndlovu is flexible with their booking plans and have ensured guest’s comfortability and safety is at the forefront of their experience. ‘In terms of space, our options aren’t limited and we can therefore appease and requests guests may have, within reason,’ said Harris. ‘We will design guests bookings to suit their needs.’
Each garden suite has a private balcony, allowing guests the freedom to feel comfortable.
Current specials to welcome back local guests
South African residents can enjoy a two-night stay at R6,600 per couple, which includes breakfast, a 3-course dinner each evening, a game drive and a bush walk.
Residents can also opt for the B&B stay from R950 per person per night sharing, which includes bed and breakfast only.
For day visitors, there are six packages available to experience the magic of Khaya Ndlovu: Drive, Discover and Dine, Walk into the Sunset and Boma Celebration Dinners. As well as a Safair and Pancake Package, Lunch Escape Package and Tapas and a stroll.
To find out more information, visit the Khaya Ndlovu Manor House website here.
Alternatively contact: +27 73 301 1913 or [email protected]
Image credit: Supplied
