Jozini Tiger Lodge, part of the Signature Life Hotels and Resorts portfolio, will open in March.
The lodge is built on the Jozini Dam in the Pongola Nature Reserve in Maputaland, northern KwaZulu Natal and features 60 thatched double bedrooms and offers various catering options.
The reserve is covered in acacia bush and is home to a variety of wildlife that includes white rhino, kudu, impala, nyala, wildebeest, zebras, buffalo, elephant and giraffe.
The reserve's various habitats support an estimated 25 indigenous fish species, mammals, reptiles and amphibians. Rare or endangered animals include the honey badger and wild dog. The water is home to hippos and crocodile and this particular area is also a renowned bird-watching destination.
“Jozini Tiger Lodge is made for all occasions,” says general manager Darryl Grisdale. “From individuals to couples, families, groups, business conferencing, angling parties and tailor-made weddings.”
The lodge also features a stand-alone restaurant, a bar, and an extensive menu designed by an award-winning chef. There is a boma for dinner in addition to the restaurant, and the conference facilities accommodate up to 160 delegates.
A variety of team-building activities are available and there are several additional and creative programmes that the lodge staff can help put in place.
The property offers panoramic views overlooking the river and a wellness centre with various relaxation treatments and a private lounge are also available.
For an extra charge, guests can enjoy sunset boat cruises, cruise and game drives and boat hire. Nearby wildlife habitats include Umfolozi, Mhuze and Ndumo game reserves and Sodwana Bay as well Ponogola reserve on the eastern shore. All are home to four of the Big Five.
Fishing is another draw card and the Tiger Fishing tournament in October attracts anglers from all over the world. Apart from tiger fish, the Pongolapoort area, also known as Jozini Lake, has a huge variety of species. In recent years elephant and buffalo have been re-introduced and naturalised into the surrounding areas of the lake and often hippos can be spotted.
