Author: Morukurublog

Meet Boitshepo “Hope” Totobe – also known as Chef Hope.

Her journey began in a small village called Molatedi in the Madikwe Game Reserve, where she grew up – next stop was Coligny in the North West Province, where she went to boarding school, then onto Catering School, touch down at Morukuru Family Madikwe, off to Morukuru Family De Hoop and back to Morukuru Family Madikwe.

Hope tells us that Marcia Tjobeke can be credited with having the biggest influence on her decision to pursue a career in food and hospitality. It was Marcia who guided Hope and trained her to be a cook. “Mama Marcia taught me all I know – and especially about herbs and spices, which are now what I use to stamp my unique mark on my dishes. Turmeric, Cumin, Masala, Chilli, Fresh Ginger, Saffron and Curry Leaves are my favourites, and I call them “ingredients of love”. A large part of the African food culture focuses on beef, mutton and lamb – my passion for seasoning – allowing these ingredients to shine.”

 

Morukuru Family Madikwe is in a remote setting, but Chef Hope doesn’t allow that to hold her back when sourcing ingredients. “We have excellent local suppliers and great relationships with producers. Everyone is always willing to assist me in tracking an essential item down. This type of community support is wonderful – especially when I’m preparing for guests and when I find out that there are certain dietary preferences. I’m in a position to be able to prepare anything and accommodate special requests.”

Hope’s journey with Morukuru Family includes time at both Morukuru Family Madikwe and Morukuru Family de Hoop. “The culinary styles in the bush and at the coast do differ – at Morukuru Ocean House and Beach Lodge, we pursued a modern restaurant style, and here in the Madikwe Game Reserve, I focus on traditional menus with a dash of contemporary flair. My goal is to complement the overall safari experience – so I enjoy planning bush breakfasts, pizza in the bush, or unique dining experiences like a dinner at Ed’s View.”

Hope’s advice for all aspirant chefs is to start with wonderful homemade dishes, using simple cooking techniques, and if possible, find yourself a mentor like Marcia who will encourage and teach you to stamp your own style on each dish.

We are thrilled to announce that Morukuru Family Madikwe will once again be a part of the esteemed Relais & Châteaux collection, from July 2023. This comes after a rigorous selection process, culminating in a unanimous decision by the board of directors of Relais & Châteaux. The three exclusive-use safari villas in Madikwe Game Reserve were previously affiliated with Relais & Châteaux from 2013 to 2017. Morukuru Family De Hoop, the sister property, was accepted into the collection in November 2022. The membership highlights the alignment of Morukuru’s values with Relais & Châteaux’s commitment to excellence and sustainability.

Relais & Châteaux has been an invitation to discover the world in an extraordinary way since 1954. With a presence on five continents and in 68 countries, this prestigious collection comprises approximately 580 luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants. The brand is known for upholding standards of subtle sophistication, enabling guests to indulge in remarkable travel experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Morukuru Family Madikwe’s return to Relais & Châteaux offers guests an exceptional opportunity to explore the magnificent Madikwe Game Reserve. Nestled within the heart of the reserve, the three exclusive-use safari villas provide a luxurious haven surrounded by breathtaking surroundings.  With their unique charm and personalised service, these villas promise an unforgettable safari experience, complete with thrilling game drives and encounters with South African wildlife.

The values of Morukuru Family align seamlessly with those of Relais & Châteaux. The properties at both Madikwe and De Hoop exemplify sustainability and a commitment to the environment. Morukuru Family Madikwe is now completely solar powered, reducing its carbon footprint and promoting eco-conscious practices. Morukuru Family De Hoop is entirely off the grid, minimising its impact on the pristine natural surroundings. These eco-friendly initiatives demonstrate a dedication to preserving the planet for future generations.

Relais & Châteaux’s philosophy revolves around promoting and preserving the diversity of cuisines and hospitality worldwide, while combating industrial standardisation. Their aim is to revitalize the art de vivre by sharing knowledge, preserving traditional skills, and protecting resources for future generations. By re-joining the Relais & Châteaux collection, Morukuru Family Madikwe embraces this vision, offering guests a travel experience that is not only luxurious but also a means of connecting with the world around them with the  collective philosophy,  to move forward together on a shared, long-term journey towards creating a more sensitive and attentive world. With its commitment to sustainability and shared values, Morukuru Family is poised to provide Relais & Châteaux guests with an unparalleled experience in the captivating wilderness of Madikwe. From exciting game drives to the wonders of land-based whale-watching in De Hoop Nature Reserve, guests can expect unforgettable moments that showcase the beauty and uniqueness of South Africa.

 

Over the past two weeks, the Madikwe Game Reserve has witnessed significant achievements in lion conservation. Thanks to donations to the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation from our guests as well as our owners, Ed & Anka Zeeman,  essential steps have been taken to ensure the well-being and preservation of the lion population and highlights the importance of lion management and conservation within protected areas like Madikwe.

The Morukuru Goodwill Foundation has been able to assist in the funding of regular conservation initiatives with not only lions but also other wildlife species such as wild dogs, cheetahs, and rhinos. The donations from our guests no matter how big or small, play a significant role in funding wildlife protection within protected areas like Madikwe. Though our Safaris with a Purpose initiative, guests are able to join in on the conservation efforts during their stay.

Lions hold a crucial position as keystone species within ecosystems. They exercise top-down control, regulating the populations of herbivores like wildebeest and zebra. This, in turn, safeguards the delicate balance of the ecosystem by preventing overgrazing and protecting the vegetation. Conversely, an excessive number of lions can lead to a decline in prey numbers, resulting in dense vegetation and an imbalanced ecosystem. This emphasises the importance of lion management in maintaining a harmonious natural environment.

Madikwe implements several measures to ensure effective lion management within the reserve. One such measure involves placing some female lions on contraception for a specific period, preventing the entire pride from breeding simultaneously. This approach helps prevent overpopulation within a short span of time, allowing for a balanced lion population within the reserve.

To safeguard the health of the lion population, regular vaccinations are administered to protect against diseases such as rabies and distemper. These vaccinations are essential in maintaining the well-being of the lions and preventing any potential outbreaks that could have a devastating impact on the population.

Blood samples are also collected for genetic profiling. This practice enables the park to monitor the lion population and understand the intricate connections between family trees. Genetic profiling helps identify and prevent inbreeding, ensuring the long-term genetic integrity of the lions within Madikwe. In certain cases, when new blood is needed, males from other reserves are translocated to Madikwe. This helps maintain and enhance the genetic diversity within the pride.

Within the reserve, dedicated guides and researchers diligently record the movements of lions and track their kill mortalities. This valuable data provides park management with insights into the seasonal movements of various prides throughout different areas of the reserve. By understanding lion behaviour and movements, informed decisions can be made regarding lion management strategies, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the lion population.

“We are so grateful to the vital role our guests play with their donations to the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation.  It is such a privilege to be a part of the amazing work being done in protecting and preserving iconic species. Through contraception, vaccinations, genetic profiling, and comprehensive research.  Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference in safeguarding the future of these majestic creatures and their natural habitat” said Shane Kloeck, Conservation & Sustainability Manager, Morukuru Family Madikwe.

 

Maintenance Manager Pieter Maree joined our Morukuru Family just over four months ago and has been weaving his magic ever since. But there’s more to Pieter than meets the eye. Beyond his professional prowess with power tools, he is a devoted family man, cherishing his role as a loving husband and father. When he’s not meticulously attending to our maintenance needs, Pieter pursues his passions for fishing, cycling, and golf.

“ I’m the eldest of five, and I grew up on a farm just outside of Bloemfontein in the Freestate. As the saying goes – you can take the guy out of the Freestate, but you can never take the Vrystater out of the guy. That’s why you will always find me in shorts – typical of a Freestate native”

Pieter has a philosophy that every day is a new opportunity and should not be taken for granted. He told us, “Every day here at Morukuru De Hoop is different. However, the way I approach each new day is the same. Planning is very important; I like being prepared for a productive day.  I am an early bird. I enjoy watching the sunrise with a big cup of coffee – this daily ritual gives me a good perspective on life”.

Having worked in Zanzibar for five years, Pieter has had the opportunity to live and work in a swoon-worthy environment. “ Zanzibar is beautiful, and I didn’t think anything could trump that. But here at De Hoop, the location is next level – and I get to do my work in harmony with our team and the animals found in the Reserve. I’m lucky to get the chance to meet guests from all over the world and South Africa too, and I feel privileged to be able to recommend everything available here – dune surfing, nature walks, whale watching and special events such as the turtle release and beach cleanups.”

Pieter’s Zanzibar experience exposed him to a culture that is very aware of the environment, especially the dangers of plastic bags. “ In Zanzibar, it is illegal to have any plastic bags. When we do our routine beach clean-ups, I am always shocked by the amount of single-use plastic waste. Reduce and recycle is a motto I learned to incorporate into my daily living. I believe everyone is responsible for reducing their human footprint as much as possible. I recycle what I can. Morukuru Family is committed to the environment and sustainable practices. It is great working together for a shared goal.”

 

Managing people can be challenging, but Pieter says that he believes that leading any team is a privilege and working side-by-side is an honour. “ Morukuru Family has a strong ethos of teamwork. I respect that and enjoy working in a place that supports things like skills development and training. There is an opportunity to grow and to grow my team.”

Pieter caught the travel bug during his time in Zanzibar. “ Zanzibar was on my bucket list. Now that’s ticked off. New Zealand and the Netherlands are places I would love to explore. The distance between the Free State and Wellington, New Zealand, is approximately 11,505 kilometres if I was to travel in a straight line. Zanzibar is 3,300 kilometres, so I would be reaching a new PB ( personal best)! I think that is a great goal to aim for.”

From humble roots in Johannesburg’s Mohlekeng township to tending the gardens of Morukuru Family Madikwe, Tumi’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of nature and his passion for all things green. Let’s get to know Tumi and find out more about his family, his role and his secret to a bountiful vegetable garden.

‘My parents were originally from the North West Province. Their village is called Supingstad, and it is close to Zeerust. They moved to Johannesburg because of better job opportunities.  While growing up, we always had a garden, and being an only child tending to the garden was my responsibility. I always had to make sure it was neat and tidy. My passion for gardening comes from my involvement from an early age. I find it rewarding to see my handiwork literally come to life. I enjoy seeing my plants grow and develop and the seasonal changes. Since arriving in August last year, I have lived through Spring, Summer, and Autumn, and I’m excited to spend my first winter here at Morukuru Family. Now the lush greens of spring and summer start to fade, and copper and bronze leaves replace the green.

Over the past year, I have got to appreciate beautiful grounds – all the different Houses surrounded by lush lawns, established trees and beautiful plants. Farm House is my favourite.”

Morukuru Family is home to some pretty powerful plant species. The climate of the Madikwe region plays a significant role in Madikwe’s rich flora, and some species found at Morukuru Family can be used in traditional medicine. Tumi explains;

“We have some Aloe Vera growing in our gardens. Aloe Vera can be used as a skin treatment. Studies have shown that Aloe Gel might effectively treat Psoriasis, Seborrhea, Dandruff, minor burns, skin abrasions, and radiation-induced skin injuries”.

Tumi is keen on producing home-grown vegetables and told us that because he is a dedicated composter, the soil is rich in nutrients. This means he can grow a variety of crops all year round – and green vegetables do exceptionally well. When Tumi is not tending his veggies or the Morukuru Family gardens, he takes any opportunity to visit his family and friends and to check in on his livestock.

I miss my family, but the upside is that working at Morukuru Family has given me a chance to grow. Here I am given responsibility for a variety of different tasks. Each job means that I’m learning. The owners and management provide encouragement and tools to reach my goals. Morukuru Family has created an environment where I feel comfortable, and I really enjoy working in a customer service focussed environment.

We love sharing positive news, and this conservation success story fits the bill. Our Morukuru Goodwill Foundation (MGWF) has been working alongside the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation’s Turtle Conservation Centre team and the Cape Nature Rangers to give two green turtles a second chance in the wild.

 

Meet Amigo and Zelena!  Both were rescued from the stretch of coast bordering Morukuru Family De Hoop and have now been reintroduced into the De Hoop Marine Protected Area (MPA) of the De Hoop Nature Reserve. This is the first time that turtles have been released in this area. We are thrilled to say that the De Hoop MPA is an ideal place to release rehabilitated turtles.

These juvenile green turtles were found by the team while patrolling on the quad bike. Amigo and Zelena were in a bad way and were suffering from a number of health challenges, including malnutrition and dehydration. Both Turtles were rushed them to the aquarium in Cape Town, where a team of specialist vets saved them. The turtles were stabilised with fluids, underwent CT scans and had a full blood workup. We are grateful to the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation’s Turtle Conservation Centre team, whose expertise saved Amigo and Zelena. Under specialist care, the turtles began to thrive and were declared fit to be released back into the Southern Cape Ocean.

The official release day had arrived, and the atmosphere was filled with excitement and gratitude. Our friends from Cape Nature Rangers, who have long supported the rescue of turtles, gently lifted Zelena and took her down to the water’s edge. She took a deep breath, a few strong flipper movements, and swam into the breaking waves and under the surface. Proud supporters of the Turtle Conservation Centre and adopters of Amigo, Ed and Anka Zeeman, owners of Morukuru Family and founders of the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation, carried Amigo down to the water. He was eager to join Zelena, following her example as he quickly swam under the surface.  As they swam past the backline, a pod of common dolphins surfed passed, welcoming Amigo and Zelena home.

This trial release went incredibly well and confirmed that the release programme could comfortably continue in the De Hoop MPA. Guided by initial research, the team set clear guidelines to determine the specifications for future releases. Juvenile or young green and hawksbill turtles would likely explore the coastal waters, making them the ideal candidates for research in a location like De Hoop.

Talitha Noble, the Conservation Manager at the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation’s Turtle Conservation Centre, told us about the next project involving three turtles. “Learning from our time in De Hoop, we selected three more turtles for the second release. Two hawksbill turtles (Siriti and Amber) and one green turtle (Coral) were cleared by the vets and matched the specifications of which turtles we want to release in De Hoop.”

We are proud to confirm that the team celebrated three more successful turtle releases. Every turtle released back into the ocean is equipped with acoustic tags, and the MPA has six receivers meaning that marine experts will gain invaluable insight into the coastal movement of these sea turtles and their use of the De Hoop coastline.

Morukuru Family de Hoop is excited to support turtle and wildlife conservation efforts through our partnership with the Two Oceans Aquarium. By joining forces with this amazing organisation, we aim to make a lasting impact and promote awareness about the plight of sea turtles. Morukuru Family and Morukuru Goodwill Foundation have sponsored and implemented informative turtle information boards at Koppie Alleen and are aiming to establish comprehensive systems to assist in their conservation.  We are also planning to create opportunities for our guests to actively participate and make a difference in the De Hoop Nature Reserve, just as they do able to do with our “Safaris with a Purpose” initiative in Madikwe.

Why De Hoop is a perfect turtle release site – research potential

Declared an MPA in 1985, the value of De Hoop’s marine environment has been recognised for some time. More recently, though, the secret of De Hoop’s magic lies in what it has to offer turtle conservation along the southern coast of South Africa.

At first, there were occasional aerial sightings of foraging turtles in the coastal seagrass beds of De Hoop, followed by photos of these turtles spending time in the surf zone, and eventually stranded turtles washing up in the shallows. It became clear that turtles are regularly spotted in this area. In the last eight years, the Turtle Conservation Centre has received seven live green juvenile/sub-adult turtles from De Hoop, with the beloved Bob as the most well-known.

“One of these turtles, Litchi, was rescued from De Hoop in February 2021 and released off Cape Point 11 months later with a satellite tag. She headed straight for De Hoop and is still there 17 months later!” noted Tracy Whitehead, Turtle Rescue Network Coordinator.

In partnership with the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB)’s Acoustic Tracking Array Platform (ATAP), the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation’s Turtle Conservation Centre fixes small, frequency-emitting tags on released turtles. All along the South African coastline, there are acoustic receivers that capture these frequencies when the animal swims past.

One of the main benefits of De Hoop for turtle conservation is that, in this area alone, there are six active receivers. This is hopeful for future releases, as green and hawksbill turtles such as Amigo, Zelena, Coral, Siriti, and Amber tend to be coastal in the late juvenile stage. A coastal array of receivers is therefore likely able to pick up their movements successfully.

“In the years to come, we will hopefully gain invaluable insight into the coastal movement and behaviours of these sea turtles and their use of the De Hoop coastline,” said Talitha

 

 

Protecting Madikwe’s Wildlife for Generations to Come: our new Conservation & Sustainability Manager Takes Charge.

Shane Kloeck has been part of our Morukuru Family for the past nine years. We first met him when he completed his Experiential Training for his Degree in Nature Conservation. Qualifying as a ranger has allowed him to pursue his dream job. Shane has been a crucial part of our ranger operations, but we have now assigned him to a new position. Meet our Conservation & Sustainability Manager.

This new role means I won’t spend more time in the bush with guests. My challenge is looking for ways to conserve and preserve biological and ecological resources. I’m very focused on using our resources to benefit future generations. I’m excited to examine how Morukuru Family can further reduce our footprint and look for additional ways to enhance the Madikwe reserve and the surrounding communities.

By creating this new Conservation & Sustainability Manager role, Morukuru Family is once again demonstrating leadership in the conservation arena. Innovation has always been a cornerstone of our model. With Shane now dedicated to this niche position, we look forward to finding fresh solutions to address environmental obstacles. We have always embraced sustainability principles, but we also know that there are always improvements to be made and new ideas and options to implement. Pursuing our conservation ideals is not static, and we are excited about pushing even further to introduce creative shifts.

My key focus will be on managing our private area and spearheading thinking about how the lodge and staff to can consider sustainability in every part of their jobs. I will be using Weeva to capture data. Weeva is a 360° sustainability management platform. It guides tourism businesses through small, actionable steps that impact them together. My job also allows me to collaborate with the Reserve management on conservation projects. I look forward to nurturing this strong relationship and brainstorming new ideas. Safari with a Purpose is one of my passion projects, and I plan to work closely with guests interested in participating in this option. Some of the responsibilities of the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation (MGWF) are also in my portfolio, and I’m already exploring how MGWF can contribute even more to our support of the local school in Molatedi. We mustn’t forget that much of the work of the MGWF is possible because guests make donations. This financial and material support allows us to support the Madikwe Reserve in many ongoing essential projects.

With years of hands-on ranger experience, Shane is no slouch when working in conservation. He has often participated in Rhino Notching and specialist projects working with Lion, Wild Dog and Cheetah. These initiatives include inspecting the animal collars, collecting DNA samples and assessing if any further check-ups are needed.

Working alongside a specialist vet and the Head of Anti-Poaching has been a privilege. Once the Rhino has been darted, you can get up close to the sedated animal so DNA samples and horn shavings can be collected, and the actual notching can be done. The experienced team guide everyone along the way – this has been a fantastic learning experience for me, and I encourage guests to explore this opportunity which falls with our Safari with a Purpose offering.

 

Safari with a Purpose is an amazing experience for guests. This programme allows guests to get involved with actual conservation work. Guests get hands-on experience working with critically important species. They can get very close to the animals and touch them. This is not a “petting zoo” scenario but the opportunity to get stuck in and contribute towards protecting and conserving that specific species. Guests also get the chance to listen and learn from conservationists working in the field across several disciplines. The Madikwe Reserve is not only about wildlife – there is a critical community element too. Guests can visit a nearby community school and get an understanding of how this school operates. Meeting the educators and the learners is a poignant experience, and guests leave with a unique perspective on what it is like in these areas.

At Morukuru Family, we have always been dedicated to sustainable tourism. However, we recognise that there is always room for improvement. So, behind the scenes, Shane and our team have been getting on with the business of adding even more progress.

Morukuru Owners house and River house have become solar-powered; Farmhouse is going off the grid by becoming solar-powered and should be completely self-reliant in the next month or so if all goes according to plan. Energy is a hot topic these days. At the moment, I’m putting a plan together to reduce our energy consumption further. Sometimes, small changes like scheduling specific machines for a different time or upgrading to eco-friendly equipment make a huge difference. For example, conventional geysers are on the way out, and new heat pump geysers will significantly reduce power usage. Guests often ask about how they can make a difference to their footprint. When they return home, I suggest that small steps like eliminating single-use plastics, upping recycling efforts and being mindful of energy and water consumption all add up.

 

Tourism is constantly evolving, and the safari industry recognises that conservation and sustainability are intertwined. Shane Kloeck’s latest career move will allow Morukuru Family to do what we love best – pursuing tangible conservation initiatives.

Did you know that April 30th is World Land Rover Day? Cars come and go – Land Rover stays forever.

Each year, 30 April marks ‘World Land Rover Day’ – a celebration of the day in 1948 when the first Land Rover was revealed to the world. 2023 is the 75th anniversary of this legendary classic, and we find out why the famed British off-road brand is such a big part of our world at Morukuru Family Madikwe.

Owner of Morukuru Family, Ed Zeeman, introduced the Land Rover brand to Morukuru Family Madikwe because he admires the rugged good looks of the vehicle as well as its’ comfort and swift suspension. Although his fleet can be heavy on maintenance, it makes up for that by ensuring the most pleasant safari driving experience. When Ed is out in the bush, he says that driving a Land Rover is one of the highlights of his time in the bush.

Shane Kloeck, Conservation & Sustainability Manager, is on the ground at Morukuru Family Madikwe and shared his Landy journey with us.

What was your 1st Land Rover experience? My first experience was many years ago when I was still a child going out on Safari in an open safari vehicle. I thought it was incredibly awesome and was amazed at what the vehicle could do.

Land Rover is an essential part of the Morukuru Family experience. What vehicles are in the fleet? Here at Morukuru Family Madikwe, we have five vehicles in our game viewer fleet.  We have three 130 Defenders and two 110 Defenders with models ranging between 2011 and 2015.

 

Experts describe Land Rover as “practical and reliable.” What do you think? They are practical and can go anywhere. I would say reliable. I’m sure people have heard Land Rover jokes. Driving one means having some knowledge of the odd repair.

Tell us why Land Rover has a reputation for extraordinary capability.It is a competent vehicle. Being relatively light, it has assisted me numerous times with following animals offroad over extremely rocky terrain. It also has more than enough power to get over obstacles and even more power when you engage Low-range and even better if the Diff lock is engaged.  

Land Rover can practically go anywhere. How hard have you pushed your vehicle?Looking after the vehicle comes first – so no crazy moves for me! I need my vehicle to be fully operational. One of my biggest considerations is the tyres – it’s essential to be careful when taking the vehicle through its paces. But I have occasionally pushed the vehicle into very rocky terrain where most other vehicles would get stuck. I’ve had many guests comment on how they can’t believe what the vehicle can do.

 

At Morukuru Family, guests’ comfort and safety come first. Explain how Land Rover gives you peace of mind when out on safari. Landrover is not the most spacious option, but it makes up for that with its comfort levels.  This is important, considering one could spend 7-10 hours daily on Safari. Our guests have more than enough space for cameras, binoculars, jackets and other safari paraphernalia.

The Land Rover is one of the oldest and best off-road vehicles around and is designed for minimum impact on the terrain.  How important is this when considering the environment and how careful you are when driving in the bush – in terms of not destroying the environment? It is one of the most important factors to consider. I always look at the vegetation and species of plants that will be affected when I drive off-road. As a rule, if there are rare or protected species, we avoid off-roading in that area and areas affected by excessive rain. One could leave ruts, which accelerates the process of soil erosion. Landrovers are permanent 4×4, which means the wheels don’t spin as easily, which prevents the ground/ vegetation from becoming damaged. Another aspect is our Landrovers have thin profile tyres which decrease their contact points on the ground lessening the surface area which gets damaged by the tyres if driving carefully.

 Your vehicles must be in tip-top condition – what does your fleet’s maintenance and servicing regime look like? We follow the recommended general services protocols and constantly check any nuts and bolts that might loosen on the rough terrain. We pay particular attention to our suspension components to ensure our vehicles stay as comfortable as possible. A rule of thumb here at Morukuru Family is that if you hear or feel anything which doesn’t seem right, have a look immediately to prevent further issues down the road. As the saying goes – prevention is better than cure.

 If you could take your Land Rover anywhere in the world – where are you exploring?I would head for any open wilderness.

We couldn’t leave out these lovely reminiscences from our General Manager Armand Steyn, who finds the nostalgia surrounding Land Rover completely compelling. For me, Land Rover is something like Kit Kat. It is a brand that has always been part of my life in one way or another. When I was a child, my dad bought a second-hand Land Rover, and we spent our time together re-building it. This vehicle and that phase of my childhood take me back to those epic boyhood moments spent with my dad. It’s true what they say about boys and their toys!

Now that I also now own a Land Rover shows what an impression this brand has made on me. And I think I have bragging rights, at Morukuru Family, for the “best Land Rover moment” – because I was privileged enough to meet Kingsley Holgate, who is a famous South African explorer and has the reputation of being “the most travelled man in Africa”. He is a Land Rover fanatic himself, and he autographed my Land Rover for me. This is my top Land Rover moment – oh, and all those times this beast of a vehicle got me out of sticky situations in the bush.

 

De Hoop Nature Reserve is recognised as one of Africa’s primary marine conservancies. Boasting 36 000 hectares of unspoilt fynbos and hugging a substantial span of the Southern Cape Coast, the De Hoop Nature Reserve is a beautiful year-round destination. This is home to the luxurious, off-grid, Relais & Chateaux accredited Morukuru Ocean House and Morukuru Beach Lodge. Our guests can enjoy uninterrupted space, offering nature walks, dune boarding, mountain biking and encountering species such as Bontebok and Cape Mountain Zebra during a nature drive. During our Winter (June – October), it is home to migrating Southern Right Whales visiting from Antarctica to mate and calve. This means land-based whale watching is on the agenda.

This perfect escape has just got better with the launch of Bites Beach Café by Morukuru Family De Hoop. A genius reimagining of ‘Koppie Alleen’, a historic Cape Dutch cottage, has resulted in a unique relaxed dining venue. This remote, beautiful, thatched fisherman’s cottage is situated on rocks next to dunes with views of the magnificent shoreline of the untamed De Hoop Nature Reserve.

With a casual daytime menu of fresh fish, wood-fired pizzas and burgers, Bites is open to our guests and day visitors to De Hoop Nature Reserve for lunch. In the evening, Bites is a private space for Morukuru Family guests with a menu of African-themed fine dining. Our diverse team of professional chefs is passionate about homegrown cuisines like Cape Malay and traditional Xhosa & Tswana cuisine. Inspired by tradition, our talented team interprets popular local food to deliver our African Feast at Bites Beach Cafe.

Everything from our Morukuru Family de Hoop kitchens is inspired by fresh, local, sustainable produce.  We are proud to support nearby suppliers like Elim butchery, B’Bos trout farm from Struisbaai, freshly caught fish from Fish & More fishery (Struisbaai), Varsmark fruit and veg (Bredasdorp) and Klein River cheese (close to Stanford). Our team interprets these ingredients for our Taste of Africa menu.

With a backdrop of a spectacular sunset and a soundtrack of traditional African songs, guests can enjoy an exceptional dining experience. Starting with welcome drinks and ending with a dessert of Traditional Amarula malva pudding served with homemade Anglaise & fresh minted Berries with Cape Velvet ice cream. In between, the menu showcases canapes like Spinach & Feta samosa, Beef kofta with Tzatziki biltong and Droëwors (a Southern African snack food based on the traditional coriander-seed spiced boerewors sausage.); starter choices such as homemade Pot Bread with flavoured Butter and smoked Snoek pâté with an Apricot jam or curried cape Malay mussel potjie; main courses including pepper crust Klein Karoo Springbok loin with Morongo and Sadza drizzled with a jus, traditional umngqusho (Umngqusho is a South African dish based on samp and sugar bean) with fresh Pears from Elgin region and Klein River cheese with crispy Spinach or freshly caught local linefish of the day served with chakalaka, pome puree with Sheba sauce. This sophisticated menu includes palette cleaners such as fresh Berries & Lime, Castle milk stout and pineapple and yoghurt sorbets.

We love our guests to celebrate, let loose, and live life to the fullest, and “P-Day” is the perfect time to share some fabulous festivities hosted at AtholPlace House & Villa.

As an exclusive-use venue, AtholPlace House & Villa has made its mark on the Johannesburg social scene as the “go-to” venue for special events such as milestone celebrations, bridal and baby showers, product launches, photoshoots, small conferences, corporate getaways and intimate boutique-style weddings.

The House’s large garden, huge patio, and extensive in-door lounge and dining areas are perfect backdrops for any party. With designer decor taking centre stage, these spaces evolve from dream to reality. Long tables are a perennial favourite creating a communal and relaxed atmosphere. The Villa offers hosts and hostesses an intimate ambience, allowing them to sit amongst their friends and family for a personal feel.

The scientific exploration of colour psychology is relatively new, but we do know that colour affects mood, feelings, and behaviour. Colour is a powerful force, and our guests certainly know how to embrace the entire spectrum. AtholPlace House has hosted parties with all colours of the rainbow. Some clients create serene neutral palettes, others go for pops of full-on colour, and some of our younger guests invite their favourite TV characters to their party. The elegance of AtholPlace House & Villa allows any colour scheme to take centre stage – whether it is a formal black-tie event or a casual, fun get-together. Life’s too short for dull – colours speak louder than words, and our team is on hand to assist in making these events and experiences unforgettable.

 

Some think that Selfies are just a trend. But we know that selfies allow our guests to express their creativity and express themselves. And why not! It’s your party. Most of our events include photo booths, picture stations, custom backdrops, or special areas to take selfies. Apparently, behind every selfie, there are approximately 37 almost identical pictures that just didn’t cut.

Food is a big part of any celebration, and our team, under the careful eye of Head Chef  Vasco, can create menus to suit any taste and theme. Some guests sit down with discuss all the options and create a menu together; others are eager to hear recommendations and approve Vasco’s ideas on the spot. “ Our three-course dining experience is a favourite.with some clients choosing to add additional canapes at the start of the event. We have also been getting requests for special desserts or cakes, depending on the occasion. This gives our pastry chefs the opportunity to showcase their skills” says Vasco.

As the saying goes, a party without cake is just a meeting. So let’s talk cake. Some of our clients work with top event planners to plan and execute their special bash, and these magicians turn to their trusted suppliers to deliver the most glorious gateaux. Others ask our chefs to come up with a tempting treat.  All you need now is a glass of champagne – oh – and an invitation to the next party at AtholPlace House & Villa.

Today we kick off our dedicated Big Five blog series by introducing you to our Big Five Trees. So come on a safari and don’t forget about the trees.

At Morukuru Family Madikwe, we are proud to be able to introduce our guests to the Big Five. Back in the day when trophy hunting was an acceptable practice, hunters coined the term “Big Five”. This described the five most dangerous animals to hunt on foot: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. Nowadays, the Big Five refers to the five most revered animals wildlife enthusiasts hope to see while on safari.

We don’t think those five large African Mammal species should be the only ones to receive this special accolade, and today we kick off our dedicated Big Five blog series by introducing you to our Big Five Trees. The Madikwe Game Reserve has some of the most impressive trees in the world, and they are a must-see when you visit Morukuru Family Madikwe.

First up is the Marula (Sclerocarya birrea). The Marula is a medium to large tree, usually 9 m tall, but it can grow up to 18 m. The edible fruit is fleshy, almost round and ripens to yellow. Elephant love to indulge in lightly fermented Marula fruit on the ground. The Marula fruit is also famous as the inspiration for Amarula Liqueur and traditional Marula beer. Guests will be treated to coffee with Amarula on a morning game drive.

Next up is the Leadwood (Combretum imberbe). These are generally found along rivers and dried-up creeks. Leadwood trees are endangered and cannot be cut down or removed! Previously when Leadwood was abundant, they were used in making railway sleepers and furniture as the wood is weighty and sturdy. The trees live for a considerably long time, and some of the oldest specimens are estimated to be over 1000 years old. Due to the solid nature of the Leadwood, large bird species like vultures like to perch in the branches and survey the veld.

Following on is the Cork Bush ( Mundulea sericea), which is prevalent in open bushveld and wooded grasslands. During spring, vibrant purple flowers are in bloom, making the tree easy to spot. The Cork Bush is a favourite haunt of nectivores like sunbirds, and you could be lucky and hit a bird-watching jackpot.

Image: Random Harvest Nursery

Our list includes the River Bushwillow (Combretum erythrophyllum). This species is a medium-sized tree, a fast grower, and produces creamy flowers and beautiful 4-winged seeds. Pied Barbets love the seeds; you might spot a little family tucking in.

Image: iNaturalist

To finish, our favourite is the Tamboti Tree (Spirostachys Africana). Morukuru is the Tswana word for the Tamboti Tree, and Owner’s House has an exceptional example of this protected species. Our magnificent tree is a whopping 19,3 metres tall with a base of  2,2 metres and is one of the largest and most impressive Tamboti trees in Africa and most definitely the biggest in the Madikwe and North-West area. As we head towards autumn, the Tamboti displays vibrant colours with golden pollen-covered male florets at the top of the tree and smaller red female florets growing lower down. The bark is dark grey to blackish with a distinctive grid-like pattern, and the fruit is in triple-segmented capsules. In the summer, when the fruit ripens, the capsules burst open with a clapping sound before dropping from the tree. Greedy francolins and guinea fowltake advantage of this feast. Colloquially the fruit is termed jumping beans. The ” jumping” movement is caused by the larva of a small grey moth from the Pyralidae family, which wriggles inside the seed, causing it to “jump”. The Tamboti is well known for the milky latex it secretes, which is poisonous to humans, but not to animals. It is an excellent food source for many species of antelope, elephant and monkeys; black rhino are particularly partial to the Tamboti, and porcupines enjoy the bark so much that they sometimes ring bark the trees, causing them to die.

Plan your trip to  Morukuru Family Madikwe to experience a brilliant wildlife experience – enjoy the chance to see the Big Five mammals and also our Big Five Trees. An African proverb says Time Spent Amongst Trees Is Never Time Wasted, and we agree!

 Meet Janine Butter from Huis van Middenmeer who was the visionary behind the new look of Morukuru Farm House and the Spa.  We sat down with her to chat about the project and her vison for the new look and feel.

How many projects have you now done for Morukuru Family? I have been involved with Morukuru Ocean House, AtholPlace Villa, Morukuru Beach Lodge and now Morukuru Farm House.

What was the vision for the new look? Where did your inspiration come from?  We were inspired by the beautiful surroundings of the South African bushveld. The colour palette used throughout came from that inspiration.  The “dusty green” from the Sheppard trees, the terracotta from the red sand and termite mounds and all the natural colours from the various landscapes within Madikwe. This inspiration can be seen in the fabrics and wallpapers selected.  We wanted to create a more modern look but still incorporating the rustic feel of the bush with the interior and exterior of Farm House to blend naturally.

What are some of the standout spaces and décor pieces?  The huge, beaded hanging lamp in entrance of Farmhouse created by Mash.T Studio is just beautiful. It captures your attention the moment you walk through the doors.

The bar area is definitely one of my favourite spaces. We combined all the colours of the bush together in the 100% woven raffia wallpaper on the bar counter and combined it with a luxurious wool fabric on the bar seats. The inside of the cabinet behind the bar is covered with a copper mosaic wallpaper. A great combination and very unique.

The new spa building is also a standout area. The view combined with the waterhole for the animals and the complete vibe you feel there. It’s magical.

In every interior we design we love to combine our fabrics, wallpapers, furniture and decoration with locally sourced items and art. For this project we really wanted to use some of the Ardmore fabrics and wallpapers.  We just love them, and we are also one of their dealers in the Netherlands.  We used wallpaper in every toilet, each with a different pattern and colour combination.  We also used their outdoor fabric for the cushions on the loungers by the pool.

In the public area we wanted a big artwork, so we commissioned an incredible 230×180 cm painting by Teboho Makoatsa. 

Working on a refurbishment is different than starting a project from scratch – for this you had the best of both with the refurb of the house and then the new spa building. How did you approach the two? A refurb or starting a project from scratch isn’t that different for us. For both spaces we could nearly start with a clean slate. The building for the spa was designed by Nicholas Plewman and we designed the interiors.   For the Farm House itself, we cleaned the whole space, did some painting, and decorated it again. All new furniture, wallpaper, curtains, and accessories, so it looks completely new but with still keeping the charm of the old building. We also wanted to create little places to sit apart – but also together – and enjoy the view and sounds of the nature and animals.

We worked with a great team, and it was a great support to have Jan Engelbrecht from Andreas Nicolaas Interiors as the project manager based on the ground in South Africa whilst we were in Holland.  He also assisted with some of the specific pieces we designed such as lanterns and custom furniture that needed to be made in South Africa.

Tell us about the look for the new spa and viewing deck. For the spa our vision was to create a serene and calm space. We used mostly natural tones, some terracotta and only natural materials. All the walls of the Spa building have been cladded with little boulders from the bush. The walkway filled with custom made lanterns is magical and gives you goosebumps. You walk through big, old statement doors that open up to the deck and large firepit that overlooks the newly built waterhole for the animals to drink from and for guests to enjoy a gorgeous African sunset. It’s truly magical place to enjoy a meal or just to unwind and relax and enjoy the surrounding of the bushveld.

 Anything else you would like to add? From the first time I experienced Madikwe and safari in South Africa, it has always been my wish to design a lodge in the bush. I’ve had the vision for years and every time we went on game drive, I could imagine how I wanted it to look. Now that wish has come true! We are thrilled with the overall result and can’t wait for guests from all over the world to come and enjoy this beautiful place.

 

Morukuru Family is much more than idyllic properties – it is about family, which is made up of our guests, our founders, our suppliers and our staff. And when we mix all these special elements together – the end result is what we fondly call #MorukuruMoments.

Sitting around a fire in camp is a quintessential safari experience. There’s nothing more relaxing, soothing and soul-lifting than relaxing fireside and taking in the night sounds of the bush. There’s something mesmerizing about watching flames dance against an evening sky, and some experts say this promotes mindfulness since it engages your senses and keeps you in the moment.

Often the simplest things in life are the best! Stokbrood, braaibroodjie, and roosterkoek are all foolproof variations of bread cooked over the coals. We twist a basic bread dough around a skewer and seal the ends with a bit of water. Braai over the coals for a fabulous, charred flavour. Enjoy with lots of butter.

Can you ever get enough fresh ocean air? Morukuru Familly De Hoop has an abundance of the stuff. Just step outside – inhale and get your top-up of mood-boosting oxygen.

 

An African proverb tells us that Everyone smiles in the same language. Be welcomed to Morukuru Family Madikwe with a warm smile and a cold drink.

From the safety of our game vehicle and under the watchful eye of our professional rangers, guides, and trackers, meet the largest existing land animal. And tick off a Big Five sighting at the same time.

 

It’s all about breakfast in De Hoop and Madikwe with a Morukuru Family speciality – our breakfast potjie. This is a spin on a full English breakfast – a combination of bacon, pork sausage, tomato, onion and mushroom, with eggs dropped into the middle and sprinkled with cheese. All cooked over open coals in a traditional South African cast iron cooking pot (potjie).

Get your cool on big time! The white sand of the De Hoop dunes is perfect for dune boarding! Try this exhilarating, fast, fun, and super-safe sport. Snowboarding is so last year, and this is the most fun you can have in the sand.

Romance or relaxation? At Morukuru Family

Madikwe, you can have both with the ultimate candlelit bath. Under the stars and listening to the soundtrack of the bush elevates the ordinary to the extraordinary.

 

We are all about family and creating lifelong memories. Our team will make sure you have all you need to spend quality time together doing fun-filled activities.

We call this Alfresco bush style. Experience the wonder of sitting in the wide open space of the Madikwe Game Reserve at dusk, watching the stars slowly come out one by one whilst listening to the safari symphony in the background. Now add some candles, a couple of lamps, a beautifully decorated table, exquisite wines, delicious food- and great company, and you have an outdoor dining experience you will never forget!

 

Congratulations! You have planned and booked your bucket-list trip to South Africa to enjoy a Safari. Here’s some basic information to get you prepared. Going on safari is an incredible experience. Some of our guests find it addictive and have become regular, repeat visitors. It is also unlike any other holiday you may have been on, and it is helpful to know what to expect when going on your debut African wilderness trip. If this is your first time visiting Morukuru Family Madikwe, knowing the basic drill can help you plan and prepare.

Our Freedom Concept:  Morukuru Family has gained a reputation as the specialist for exclusive use stays in South Africa. We are proud to have pioneered this concept in South Africa, and our ‘Morukuru Freedom Concept’ allows guests to do “whatever they want, whenever they want”. The Morukuru Family philosophy is high-end exclusive use experience underpinned by flexibility.

Early wake-up calls and late evenings: You can look forward to two game drives each day. Ideally one early in the morning, expect to be woken up while it is still dark, and one late in the afternoon. These times are the optimum game-viewing opportunities as animals are most active just before sunrise and after sunset. Plus, you can experience the magic of an early morning African sunrise and a spectacular African sunset with glorious, flaming colours. However, as per our Freedom Concept, the game drive times can be altered to suit your personal preferences. Before setting out at dawn, you will be served hot beverages and a nibble like home-baked, traditional South African rusks. This will keep you going until you stop for a coffee- break when you can refuel. Before heading out in the late afternoon, you can enjoy afternoon tea with some freshly baked treats.

Proximity to wild animals: You will be in an open vehicle near wild animals. This is the Madikwe Game Reserve and not a theme park. Before setting off, your team will explain the basic game-drive etiquette. Keeping you safe and giving you a memorable experience is our priority. The most important rule of all is to enjoy your visit to Morukuru Family and go home with lifetime memories.

Children of all ages are welcome too: Thanks to the exclusive-use nature of the Morukuru Family safari houses we are able to welcome families with children of all ages. And children of all ages can join on game drives too, there are no minimum age restrictions. We even provide booster seats, if required. Taking your children on safari in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve is an experience they will never forget.

There are no toilet facilities in the wild: Game drives are usually 3 hours or longer. Go to the toilet before you leave. If you don’t mind answering the call of nature behind a bush or a tree, your guide will show you to a suitable spot.

You will stop for drinks and snacks:  On morning game drives, you will stop for a tea/coffee break with some treats from our kitchen to tide you over before you enjoy your breakfast back at the house. Evening drives include a sundowner pause when you can witness the true beauty of the sunset with your favourite ice-cold beverage in hand and some bush-style canapes. Now’s your chance to talk to your ranger and ask any questions you may have left out.

Have some fun – our rangers, field guides and trackers are very knowledgeable and entertaining: Our team is very experienced and can share fascinating stories about their encounters with wildlife. Speak to them. A good question to start with is, “What was the most interesting/dangerous experience you’ve had in the bush?” They are usually quite happy to start talking about this. It may be difficult to get them to stop, though…

You will not see the Big Five on every game drive: Some days you may see a lot of animals and birds, and other days barely anything. There are no guarantees in the wild. The Big Five refers to the five most revered animals wildlife enthusiasts hope to see while on safari: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. If you see rhino, do not geo-tag the locations because this helps poachers to find them. You can also have plenty of fun with other species, including the Small Five: the ant lion, leopard tortoise, elephant shrew, buffalo weaver and rhino beetle. The exclusive Ugly Five club members are the hyena, wildebeest, vulture, warthog and marabou stork. It’s good to remember that your time in the bush will include a wide range of sightings – including birds, insects, reptiles and trees and plants.

Game drives can get bumpy: Expect a lot of bumping and bouncing around because the roads are untarred. We call this the “Morukuru massage”, and it comes free of charge.

Game drives can get cold:  No matter the height of the mercury in camp, game drives can get quite chilly in the early mornings and late evenings – because you are travelling in an open Landrover at a fair amount of speed. Always carry a jacket.

What to pack: Your time at Morukuru Family will be casual, so you can keep your luggage light and uncomplicated. Your safari packing list should include neutral-coloured, lightweight clothes, comfortable shoes, long trousers to avoid being bitten by insects, a hat, and a jacket. Do not forget your camera, binoculars and some safari books. Early morning and evening drives will be cold, and you will need a decent jacket, a couple of warm layers, a beanie, and gloves. Our team will supply blankets and hot water bottles to turn up the heat. Once the sun is up over the horizon, you will want to lose the layers and have your essentials like sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses on hand.

Activities when not out on a game drive: When you are not exploring the bush in a game drive vehicle, you can enjoy other activities, such as a guided bush walk with one of our experienced ranger and tracker teams.  Or you can simply relax by the pool, enjoy a good book or catch up on some sleep. Your trip is a holiday, after all, and now’s the time to just do nothing except listen to the sounds of the bush and catch sight of roaming game as they stroll past the camp.

Mary Poppins told us that “anything can happen if you let it”. Pack your bag, get on your flight and prepare to have the time of your life on your first safari. We’ve got everything else covered.

 

 

There are few cafés which serve up views like those from the new Bites Beach Café by Morukuru Family De Hoop, or whose walls could speak of such times past. Bites breathes new life into an ancient structure.  This new addition for guests staying at the luxurious, off-grid, Relais & Chateaux accredited Morukuru Beach Lodge and Ocean House, offers an evocative drinking and dining alternative to their gracious, sweeping restaurant and dining room.

Bites Beach Café has opened its doors  in the ‘Koppie Alleen’ Cape Dutch cottage, a remote, beautiful and historic thatched fisherman’s cottage situated on rocks, next to sand dunes with views of  the magnificent shoreline of the untamed De Hoop Nature Reserve. No other man-made structure is around for miles, other than Morukuru Beach Lodge and Ocean House which are discretely situated amongst the fynbos.  Their stunning contemporary architecture forms a wonderful, visual counter-balance to this historic cottage, which is happily brought back to viable use through this restoration. Koppie Alleen has been sensitively converted incorporating modern architectural elements, such as floor to ceiling glazing, in order to capitalise on its remarkable position with its dramatic, uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean.

Offering both indoor and outdoor seating, Bites will offer a ringside seat for land-based whale watching, when the Southern Right whales migrate to these waters to calve between July and the end of October.  A fireplace will take the chill off those winter months, and, in summer, the outdoor seating will offer visitors the perfect arena from which to take in and soak up the remarkable wildlife, views and sun.

With a casual daytime menu of fresh fish, wood-fired pizzas and burgers, Bites is open to walkers and day visitors to De Hoop Nature Reserve for lunch and coffee (as well as Morukuru Family De Hoop residents) whilst in the evening it will be exclusively for Morukuru Family guests, either from Beach Lodge or Ocean House, when the menu will offer African-themed fine dining featuring  South African dishes with a twist. It will also be used for sundowners,  breakfasts and special occasions for Morukuru Family guests.

 

 

Now that we’ve got your attention let us turn our focus to International Zebra Day. Every year on the 31st of January, the conservation community directs their efforts towards Zebra to raise awareness about these black and white creatures.

Movie fans will know the character Marty from Madagascar. Marty is a male Burchell’s/Plains zebra who used to live at the Central Park Zoo and is a good friend of Alex, the lion. Wildlife buffs will know that South Africa is home to two different species of zebra. The Cape Mountain Zebra (Equus zebra zebra), a subspecies of mountain zebra, is found in mountainous regions of the Western and Eastern Cape, including the De Hoop Nature Reserve. Burchell’s/Plains zebra (Equus quagga burchellii) is a southern subspecies of the plains zebra (so Marty’s cousins). This species is found North West of the Orange/Vaal River system, which means the Madike Game Reserve is prime zebra territory.

In 2002 the IUCN ( International Union for Conservation of Nature) assessed the global population of the Burchell’s/Plains zebra to be 660,000 individuals in the wild. Numbers for the Mountain Zebra were estimated to be 9,000. Each species of zebra has its own conservation status. According to the IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Species, the Burchell’s/Plains zebra is not endangered, while the Mountain Zebra is considered vulnerable.

Conversion of much of the Cape Mountain Zebra’s habitat for farming has contributed to the animal’s endangered status, as well as hunting. Although Mountain Zebra historically lived all over southern Africa, the Cape Mountain Zebra now exists only on nationally protected wildlife preserves like the De Hoop Nature Reserve. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Cape Mountain Zebra were hunted near to extinction for their skins (a misguided fashion statement for the Cruella de Ville’s of the period). By 1937, a population survey indicated there were only 45 Cape Mountain Zebra alive! National parks and wildlife conservation efforts have helped restore Cape Mountain Zebra populations to close to 1000 mature individuals. The Cape Mountain Zebra is  protected by law and international treaty, which bans international commercial trade of mountain zebra or products manufactured from their skin or parts. International Zebra Day is a reminder that we need to be vigilant. Zebra are already extinct in Burundi and Lesotho and possibly also in the Sudan, Angola, and Somalia.

When you are visiting Morukuru Family Madikwe or Morukuru Family De Hoop, how will you be able to tell the two species apart? This is a hypothetical question since each property is home to only one type. Basically zebra look like smallish, stocky horses in stripped pajamas. Both species have black stripes on a white background so our expert rangers tell us that the easiest way to tell the species apart is to look at their bellies.

Burchell’s /Plains zebra: have stripes that cover their flanks and meet in the centre of their bellies. These can be seen even on foals. The black stripes can fade and even disappear as they go down the legs. They have shadow stripes between the black. Their necks are smooth underneath – no dewlap. Look at their noses too. The Burchell’s/plains zebra has a black nose with stripes meeting it.

Cape Mountain Zebra: The Cape Mountain Zebra’s vertical stripes stop at their sides leaving a white-belly with a single black stripe running down the centre from neck to tail. There is usually no shadow stripe between the dark stripes, and the stripes stay distinct all the way down the legs. They have a dewlap (an obvious hanging fold of skin) under their necks; these are usually more pronounced in the males. Their noses have a chestnut or brown coloured patch above the black.

Now that you understand the differences between the Cape Mountain Zebra and the Burchell’s/Plains Zebra – habitat and anatomy – here are five fun facts that contribute to the legend of the Zebra.

Rock art: Geologists and palaeontologists have discovered images of zebra featured in pre-historic rock art and have dated these findings from 28 000 years ago. This was long before the Quagga – a type of Zebra became extinct in 1878.

The longest migration: Recently discovered through radio collaring, a small group of Burchell’s/Plains zebra made the longest known migration of any mammal. They walked 480 km from the Chobe River in Namibia to the Nxai Pan, Botswana and back again.

The tail that got away: Sometimes when two males fight over a female one will bite off the other’s tail. Not only does the tailless stallion usually loose the girl, he also has a permanent reminder in the form of biting flies he cannot switch away.

Ankle foul: Aggressive males (again when fighting for the ladies) have been known to fall to their knees (actually wrists) and bite each other ankles.

Cool down: More concentrated capillaries under black stripes causes them to get hotter than the white. Little air currents, like mini-winds, form between the stripes and may help to cool zebra down.

How can YOU raise awareness of the threat to zebra and make a difference? You can choose to support wildlife conservation initiatives such as the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation (MGWF). Morukuru Goodwill Foundation (MGWF) was founded in 2007, by Ed & Anka Zeeman owners of Morukuru Family, and has a multitude of goals including, but not limited to all types of wildlife conservation. Or you can draw attention to International Zebra Day in style by dressing up in black and white or telling a hilariously bad Zebra joke like…Zebras usually hold strong opinions. They are very black and white creatures.

It’s a new year, and we are excited to see what 2023 holds for our guests, staff, and suppliers. Everyone has predictions for this year, but without the secret superpower of prophecy, who really knows? We’ve been throwing some ideas around and doing our research, and we have uncovered what we believe will be some of  the Travel Trends for 2023.

2022 was officially the year that the world opened back up. After nearly two years of being kept at home, we were thrilled to embrace a much-needed return to travel and “business as normal”. We hope travellers will build on 2022 and decide to make 2023 another year of deep experiences and lasting positive impact on the places and people they visit. Here are some of the top travel predictions to inspire your wanderlust in 2023

Off-Grid Travel – off-grid experiences are one of the top trends for 2023. Many travellers are ready to disconnect from their devices’ constant distractions and return to nature. Off-grid travel is a way to avoid crowds, embrace a digital detox and rekindle connections with the environment and ourselves. Both Morukuru Family De Hoop and Morukuru Madikwe are off-the-grid!

Culture Experiences– More travellers than ever are ready to experience new cultures and experiences on their 2023 travels. Travellers want to get ‘out of their comfort zone’, enjoy destinations with completely different cultural experiences and languages to their home country, and visit lesser-known places off the beaten track.

Nostalgic Travel – travellers are interested in family reunions and multi-generational trips, which is no surprise given the desire to spend time with family after many were kept apart for so long. This mode of travel means gathering your nearest and dearest and embracing the simple pleasures of a good old-fashioned holiday and make lifelong memories!

 

Bucket List Trips – travellers are enthusiastic about fulfilling their Bucket List trips in 2023. Many people have realised that life is too short to put off those dream destinations for “someday” and are ready to make their travel dreams a reality now. From splurging to budget-savvy options – travel Bucket Lists are here to stay with travellers are increasingly inclined to seek out once-in-a-lifetime experiences and create memories. We can’t wait to make some of these bucket list experiences come true!

 

Travelling Light – A combination of customers becoming more conscious of their carbon footprint and the rising cost of checked-in luggage means suitcases are being slimmed down. Many hotels and resorts offer bulky items for hire, so you don’t have to pack every piece of sports equipment.  At Morukuru Family De Hoop we have everything guests will need to enjoy the great outdoors such as reef shoes, gumboots, beach equipment and more!  Travellers are also now more willing to buy essentials from local destinations, supporting and engaging with the community in the process.

  

The Rise of Solo Travel – More and more travellers are taking off on their own to explore destinations around the world. According to a Google survey of female travellers, 46% said that the feeling of freedom and independence drives their decision to travel alone. Another 22% said they don’t want to wait around for other people, while 15% of respondents claim that solo travel is a way to challenge themselves and gain confidence. The majority of solo travellers tend to be women over 55, who are financially independent. Millennials and Gen Z’s are adapting to the flexibility of a remote work culture. Nothing can hold back these travellers.

Embracing the Off Season – destinations are predicting a shift in traditional travel seasons. Work-from-anywhere policies can be credited for part of the shift. We know that guests can have wonderful game viewing on safari all year round. Peak season, off-season and shoulder season are blurring. It’s clear that there is no time like the present to take a trip and the travel industry is responding by offering experiences all year round.

Traveling to Gather – Post Covid travel is seeing the rise of people travelling the world in small groups – groups of women, groups of men. Groups of couples or groups of friends who have similar interests, groups of families, likeminded people who share a particular passion. People are traveling together more and more.. With exclusive-use and villa offerings,  it’s never been easier or more fabulous to gather together, and travel the world over.

The Great Outdoors – 2023 is set to be the year that travellers rediscover the benefits and joy of nature. It is known that spending time outdoors makes you less stressed and happier and there is a shift to moving off electronics (at least for part of a trip). This category blurs with “adventure travel “where travellers take part in exciting outdoor activities. Some of the most popular activities for adventure travellers include surfing; trail running; mountain biking and hiking in and around natural attractions.

Meet our Magic Maker – Ahkanya Mgxigxwa:

According to our dictionary, magic is the power of apparently influencing events using mysterious or supernatural forces. And when it comes to our kitchen at Morukuru Family De Hoop, there is plenty of magic.

Chef, Ahkanya Mgxigxwa grew up in the small Eastern Cape hamlet of Port St.Johns, known as the gateway to the Wild Coast, the strip of coastline from the Mtamvuna River in the north to the Great Kei River in the south. Here in this untamed Wilderness, her home-grown passion for cooking was born. Akhanya comes from a large, extended family and identifies with the Amapondo culture, which forms part of South Africa’s Xhosa heritage. Ahkanya has fond memories of learning the fundamentals of simple food, like Samp & Sugar Beans, which her mother and grandmother taught her.

There is a popular saying, Magic is believing in yourself; if you can do that, you can make anything happen. Ahkanya had no doubts that once she secured a position as a sculler in the De Hoop kitchen, she would follow her passion for the culinary arts. So, under the wings of our highly qualified team, she began her journey towards becoming a Magic maker in the kitchen. Although she has no formal training, she has her sights on qualifying as a professional chef. She’s already proving herself in dessert making, baking and as a Boulanger.

Chocolate has a reputation for being a temperamental ingredient, and no dessert menu is complete without this dark delicacy. Akhanya shared some of her tips for working with this testing raw material. “ Firstly, you must be sure of the quality of your chocolate. Use the best available. Then you must be familiar with the recipe – so there are no hidden surprises. Chocolate is unpredictable – so watch for rapid temperature changes, and I like to dust the surface with cocoa powder. Finally, I learned that cocoa is the perfect non-stick solution!”.

Our magic maker, Chef Ahkanya is waiting to delight you with her skill, imagination and passion. So, Wamkelekile! We are ready to welcome you!