BON Hotels has taken over the Shishangeni Private Game Lodge after lengthy negotiations. The lodge is situated on a 15 000 hectare private concession of the Kruger National Park and will be rebranded as Shishangeni by BON Hotels.
The acquisition is a strategic one, says Guy Stehlik, CEO of BON Hotels. “This property has been in our sights for a while – it is our first (game) lodge and adds tremendous value to our portfolio due to its unique location and diverse offering, and it speaks to a different market from that for which we are known".
With a total of 63 units, the lodge can accommodate up to 106 guests at full occupancy. Conference facilities include seating for a maximum of 44 delegates and boasts beautiful spaces for events creating a truly African experience, says Stehlik.
BON Hotels has appointed a new GM, Chris Pollard, to oversee the lodge, with a particular focus on staff training and service levels. Efforts are underway to enhance relationships with tour operators that have been doing business with the lodge and to reach out to new operators. Because of its size and location, the lodge will be particularly attractive to STO groups and FIT business, Pollard says.
Shishangeni by BON Hotels is easily accessible by air or road and comprises three camps: Shishangeni Private Lodge, Camp Shonga and Camp Shawu, each adding a different experience that caters to a cross-section of markets.
Pollard adds: “Such is the diversity of the three camps that we are able to offer a three-, four- and five- star experience to our guests.”
