Morukuru Family has reopened its two exclusive-use properties in Madikwe Game Reserve, North West, following several months of closure due to severe flooding in February.
Morukuru Owner’s House and Morukuru River House – both flooded to the top of doorways when the reserve’s Marico River burst its banks – reopened on September 2 after extensive refurbishments. The group’s other property, Morukuru Farm House, was not affected by the flooding and remained open.
“Where possible, we assisted in finding alternative accommodation for guests who had planned to stay with us: some were moved to Morukuru Farm House. But we lost a lot of reservations during that time as well as a lot of potential new bookings for the future due to the uncertainty about re-opening both houses,” Morukuru Family Co-Founder and Co-Owner Ed Zeeman told Tourism Update.
The refurbishments include the addition of a new fitness room shared between both houses. The lower sala at Morukuru River House has been moved to a new location.
The interiors were reimagined with the help of designer Amy Kidger of Hinterland Studio and photographic artwork from Leana Clunies-Ross has been added to the properties.
Enhancements were also made to the outdoor living spaces to maximise river views and outdoor dining experiences.
“What began as a challenging event became an opening to reimagine two soulful homes. We’re delighted to welcome guests back to the properties,” said Zeeman.
Morukuru Owner’s House is a two-bedroom retreat for up to four guests while Morukuru River House hosts up to six adults and four children across three en-suite bedrooms and a children’s bedroom.
Services include a personal chef, butler, housekeepers, safari guide and tracker.