If you’re interested in experiencing some of the century-old traditions cultivated by local cultures, the following establishments will give you the chance to not only observe but participate in the rituals of everyday life.
!Xaus Lodge, Northern Cape
!Xaus Lodge is an authentic luxury lodge owned by the Khomani San and Mier communities in the South African side of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Experience the African bushveld in 12 secluded chalets situated over 91 dunes, 38km away from the Auob river road. Guests have the opportunity to venture out on foot in the company of Bushman trackers, visit Bushmen artists in their craft village, and observe the night sky through a powerful telescope. There is something truly magical to be experienced when doing a sundowner or night game drive through the sand dunes, finished off with a traditional dinner in the boma. Find out more.
Emoya Luxury Hotel & Spa, Free State
Emoya Luxury Hotel & Spa is situated in “Big Sky Country” on the western boundary of Bloemfontein. Visitors are accommodated in unique African shanty huts, so while you experience the “township” life of the locals, you also have the added luxuries of a veranda, en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning, and wireless internet. Enjoy tasty meals at The Spookhuijs restaurant and coffee shop, and entertainment at The Shebeen Bar which offers live music on Fridays and sport games on Saturdays. Other activities include game drives, visiting a big cat sanctuary, golfing, fishing, birding, and cycling. Find out more.
Ammazulu African Palace, KwaZulu-Natal
Ammazulu is a boutique hotel overlooking the Krantzkloof Nature Reserve in Kloof. Celebrating the vibrant cultural heritage of KwaZulu-Natal, the palace is the lovechild of artist, Peter Amm, who incorporated his entire collection of Zulu arts and crafts into more than 40 beaded columns and hallways. Each suite is immaculately decorated with traditional African artwork and has a private veranda. Pamper yourself in the sauna or steam room, relax around the pool, or unwind on one of the decks overlooking the reserve with a drink from the bar. Whatever you do, make sure you spend time wandering the halls of this “Palace of Dreams”. Find out more.
Chrislin African Lodge, Eastern Cape
Chrislin African Lodge is nestled amongst citrus farms in the heart of Addo, on the doorstep of Addo Elephant National Park. Spend the night in traditional mud huts, and enjoy days relaxing around the swimming pool, exploring the expansive gardens, or cooling off in the thatched lounge. Dinners are pleasant affairs with an on-site restaurant and wine cellar, and guided game drives into the nearby parks can be arranged. Find out more.
Gooderson DumaZulu Lodge & Traditional Village, KwaZulu-Natal
Gooderson DumaZulu Lodge & Traditional Village is an ethnic escape in Hluhluwe where visitors are accommodated in rounded huts encircling a central cattle kraal in true Zulu style. The exteriors of the huts are decorated to reflect the different tribes of Southern Africa, including Zulu, Swazi, North Sotho, Xhosa, Venda, Tsonga, and Ndebele. Your stay will be kept busy with visits to the on-site reptile park (with the largest collection of snakes in northern Zululand), game drives, and tours of the Kingdom of the Zulu. Experience the DumaZulu Cultural Show where you can watch locals make spears, shields, baskets, and clay pots; visit a sangoma; watch African dancing; observe the throwing of bones; and taste Zulu beer. Find out more.
Which African getaway would you like to experience with LekkeSlaap?
