Author: Morukurublog

Last week on the 9th of August, it was Women’s Day. This annual public holiday marks the anniversary of the great women’s march of 1956, where women marched to the Union Buildings to protest against the carrying of passbooks. Morukuru Family is celebrating Women’s Month by shining the spotlight on our dedicated female staff members so that you can get to know them a little better.

 Meet Ingrid Tshepe, who is a valued member of our housekeeping team at Morukuru Family Madikwe.

Tell us where you grew up?  I grew up in the Molatedi Village, just outside the Madike Game Reserve.

What is your favourite family tradition? Since childhood, playing cards has been something we did as a family. We always played cards, and we still keep playing cards.

What’s one thing that brings you energy and joy? My kids are my joy and my job brings me energy.

 Morukuru Family is famous for its great service levels and for winning awards. Do you feel proud to be part of such a successful team? Yes! Success is important, and receiving recognition encourages all of us to keep doing our best. I love being part of such an amazing team.

 In your spare time – what do you like to do? Getting some time off is something I look forward to as it means I can play with my kids and help them do their homework.

How do you celebrate Women’s Day? Personally, I chose not to celebrate Women’s Day, but it is great that Morukuru Family has decided to recognise the women across the business.

Ellen Ubisi works alongside Ingrid, where she supports the housekeeping team with her skills and attention to detail.

 What does Women’s Day mean to you?  It recognises that women are very strong and they make a valuable contribution to the world.

Tell us about two women you admire and why? Nkosazana  Dlamini Zuma  – who we call NDZ. She is the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs of South Africa. And the late Winnie Mandela, who was the second wife of Nelson Mandela. Both of these individuals have made their mark in politics and have shown leadership.

Your housekeeping role means you need to keep spaces neat and tidy – which is your favourite space at Morukuru Family? That’s easy – I love Morukuru Owner’s House. It is a special sanctuary, and guests love spending time there.

Morukuru Family is famous for its great service levels – what does it mean to you to be part of a winning team? It shows that we are united and that we support each other in our daily work to make Morukuru Family so successful.

 Do you have a best friend – tell us three things about that person. I don’t have a best friend. I choose to have a group of friends. My friends have taught me a lot about myself and sometimes call me out for not being my best self. That is sometimes hard to accept – but that’s life!

 Tell us what your name means?  Lady with Peace or Cool Lady

Another formidable woman in our Morukuru Family who works behind the scenes keeping tabs on the finances Sandra Megit from the Finance Department.  We hope you enjoy getting to know her a little better.

You have been with Morukuru Family for over five years. Tell us about your first day on the job, and share some changes you have seen the business undergo over this time. All these years later and I still remember the warm and welcoming first day I received at Morukuru Family.  Everyone went out of their way to introduce themselves and help me settle in and find my way around.  Many moving parts happen behind the scenes to ensure that our guests have an unforgettable experience, and the entire team worked with me to fit in seamlessly and hit the ground running. There was no such thing as a silly question. The team was always happy to stop what they were doing and help me wherever needed.

An organisation with the culture and success the Morukuru Family has achieved, we are always looking at ways to improve and push ourselves to do better, provide more exclusive experiences for guests and create the once-in-a-lifetime moments they have chosen to spend with us. Like any Family, situations arise that are beyond our control. But it is how we react in those moments that define us.

I think everyone would agree the biggest change and challenge that hit us was COVID-19.

That moment would change the world as we know it. The globe stood still and watched helplessly as the Coronavirus would wipe out all we knew.  Tourism was one of the hardest-hit industries. In an instant, we were forced to stop doing what we love most, welcoming our Family from around the world into our home. But, with the guidance and leadership of the Morukuru Family owners, Ed and Anka, we refused to let the situation dictate the future of the Family.   Everyone in the team, from marketing, reservations, the lodge teams, management and the owners, pulled together with a clear plan to assist our guests in navigating the uncertainty created by a global pandemic.

Many tourism organisations have faltered but not Morukuru Family!  Ed and Anka held the team together with a razor focus. Our staff, our team, and our Family were that focus.

Navigating the constantly changing local and international restrictions, they led us through the chaos, going over and beyond to ensure we could do what we do best, deliver a world-class experience.

 Morukuru is all about “family”. In your opinion, how does this philosophy translate in the workplace?  One of Anthony Brandt’s quotes sums up the Morukuru Family beautifully; “Other things may change, but we start and end with Family.”  We all work together to achieve a common goal. Every booking and every visit is not viewed as a guest. Instead, it is considered a member of our family coming to visit. Every member understands the moving parts of an experience.

From the moment someone enquires, our reservations team ensures that our visitors know everything available during their stay.  The other team members, from finance to lodge teams, ensure that the logistical process is completed seamlessly.

A lot happens behind the scenes, and as a Family, we all pull together to ensure our guests have the best experience. The cliché of a well-oiled machine holds true with the Morukuru Family. All the moving parts work seamlessly to ensure that all our guests must worry about is spotting our incredible wildlife and choosing their sundowner drink.

What’s the most important lesson you learned from a woman? A mentor, a life’s experience to call on, strength and guidance all wrapped up in my mom.  From the smallest to the biggest decisions, my Mom has been there. From travelling around the world as part of the management team with various cruise ship companies to supporting me through my desire to be a professional makeup artist and being my soundboard to when I started my own accounting company…. My mom has always been there. Her famous saying is “nothing lasts forever”. So no matter what challenges you are facing or how life knocks us, never give up, as this too shall pass.

She knows the challenges of women making a career in a male-dominated space, having to prove themselves and go far beyond what is expected.  She taught me not only to know what I need to know but to know everything is possible and apply that to ensure that I am the point person on everything related to my career.  Core to the lessons learnt from this incredible woman were the value of education, constantly pushing yourself to do better and furthering my formal and general knowledge.

Another gem from my mom is; that “being book smart isn’t everything you need to grow”.This has been invaluable advice and a lesson I try to pass on to women starting their own journey and entering the business world.

When you are not in the office – how do you like to spend your leisure time? My leisure time is used doing something that first started as a hobby and later a profession, but I still thoroughly enjoy doing it when I find the time. Being a part-time lecturer and professional makeup artist for television and various productions has led me to make amazing friends over the years. And while this exciting vocation challenges me regularly, I find being able to volunteer to mentor and train young up-and-coming makeup artists to understand the industry from a training, and career perspective fills me with joy. Watching their creativity grow and shine is still wonderful to witness while helping them take those first steps into a competitive environment. Even this, however, pales in comparison to having the honour of being able to assist underprivileged and sometimes disabled girls and women feel beautiful for a special moment in their lives. Whether it is a matric dance or an awards show, the cost of professional makeup is not always possible for many. The appreciation, gratitude and confidence that radiates from them for doing but a simple act of kindness fills my soul.

Morukuru Family is famous for its outstanding service levels and winning awards. Do you feel proud to be part of such a successful team? Success is no accident; it doesn’t happen through happenstance or luck. Instead, it is created through hard work and perseverance to achieve a single-minded goal, to provide and constantly improve our world-class service. The pride I feel seeing the success of the Morukuru Family always feels extra special because I know some people who fill the pages of the Morukuru story. Their own dreams, ambition and commitment drive the Morukuru Family forward. Just like the Tswana meaning of ‘Morukuru’, the Tamboti Tree is renowned for the strength of its roots; holding it firmly in place is our lodge staff, game rangers, chefs, reservation and planning teams, management and owners reaching out into the African sky with the leaves of our Family for all to see.

The measurement of our success is not just for international awards and recognition but to know we are part of the team that created moments and memories that our guests will carry with them for the rest of their lives. A person can only be proud.                 

What does Women’s Day/Women’s Month mean to you?   Women’s Day and Women’s Month, while admirable that it takes place every year in August, should be acknowledged every single day of the year. Every single day there are women of all ages, races and backgrounds doing incredible work. They are moms, teachers, doctors, lawyers and every imaginable profession, including game rangers, by the way. August does, however, show that despite being equal in every single way, women are still held to a lower standard. I hope that discussions around the important role that women play in the professional workplace extend far beyond the month of August. It also shows how much more needs to be done to see more women in leadership roles in business and government. Finally, I believe it will show young girls that they too can achieve anything a man can do and forever change the saying, “behind every strong man is a woman”, to “standing alongside that strong man is a strong woman”.

Meet Julia Bartman. Our intrepid host at Morukuru Family Ocean House and Morukuru Beach Lodge. She explains why Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on progress made on gender equity and to remember women who have broken down social barriers.

What does Women’s Day/Month mean to you?  It’s easy to forget that long ago, women had no rights and were not seen as equals. I qualified as a field guide in 2018. It wasn’t that many years ago that field guiding was not an option for women. That goes for many other professions that we take for granted today. To me, women’s day is a celebration of those women who stood up and opened doors for the rest of us.

Morukuru Family de Hoop is famous for its outstanding service levels – what does it mean to you to be part of a winning team? The operative word is “team”. It’s an honour to work at Morukuru Family. The management and teams work together to produce outstanding service. We are a family.

Your job is to make holiday experiences the absolute best for guests. If you could be a guest for a day – which activity would you choose to do?  I’m passionate about nature and would go on a marine walk, nature walk, nature drive and try my hand at sandboarding.

Where there is a woman, there is magic. How do you “bring the magic”? Morukuru is a magical place, and I guess I’m just one of the Morukuru fairies that make sure the magic dust is sprinkled where needed.

What’s the nicest thing a guest ever said to you? “I can’t wait to come back.”  When you hear that from a guest, you know they were well taken care of.

What’s the best advice another woman gave you?  Never allow a man make you think you are less for being a woman.

Tell us about three women you admire and why?  My Ouma Alta has taught me that even through adversity, you can keep your sense of humour.  My Gran Barbara has taught me that it doesn’t matter what work you do, be it physical or mental, you can still be a lady. Finally, my mom, Caroline, has taught me that I’m stronger than I think.

It is August – which means we celebrate National Women’s Day on the 9th of August! Our celebrations are not limited to just one day – we are toasting all the Women of Morukuru all month long.

Meet Masego Thebyane, who is part of our behind-the-scenes scullery team at Morukuru Family  Madikwe.

Who is the hero in your life or a woman you admire most?   God and my mom

Where there is a woman, there is magic. What’s your magic talent?   I treat other women as friends and respect and honour them.

Morukuru Family is set in an amazing natural environment – do you have a favourite animal? Yes, Springbok

Being part of the Morukuru Family kitchen team can be pressurised – but it is also fun. So how do you bring the fun every day?  I ask God to guide me, and I joke with my co-workers.

Is Women’s Day important to you? Yes, especially as it is a day to celebrate those who  brought us into this world.

Suty Mogorosi works alongside Masego – we also sat down with her in between service to chat to her about what Women’s Month means to her.

What does Women’s Day mean to you?  It means celebrating the achievements of women in the world. An occasion where you show women how much their existence means. Acknowledging and honouring (Imbokodo) women worldwide for our contribution each day to society. Wa thint’abafazi Wa thint’imbokodo

When you were growing up – which women did you look up to?  My grandma. She was a very hardworking woman and always did her best to provide for her children and grandchildren. She also gave me much guidance and shared her wisdom. I have learned to be strong and hardworking from her life experience.

Tell us about the favourite recipe that you learnt from your mum.  That has to be Umngqusho, which is samp and beans. In a three-leg (potjie pot) pot, she boils samp together with beans until soft, then adds beef stock cubes, brown onion soup, Cremora and oil. She likes preparing this for the whole family, especially on cold rainy days.

How long have you worked at Morukuru Family Madikwe?  I’ve been here for seven years.

What three new skills have you learned since joining the lodge?  Teamwork, flexibility, and multitasking

What’s your favourite time of day and why?  Late afternoon around 17:00-19:00, when the sun is setting. The weather is nice and. cool, a great time to do my house chores and during this time when I am at home, I get to bond with my son.

Morukuru Family is set in an amazing natural environment –  which animal in the reserve is your favourite?  The Impala

 When you were growing up – what did you want to be?  Growing up, we frequently visited a game reserve, and my parents were good friends of the owners. So whenever we were there, we were invited to join in things such as rhino darting and cheetah collaring and monitoring. From then, I knew I had a passion for wildlife and that one day I would work with these animals in one way or another.

As a female ranger – you work in a pretty male-dominated environment. What special talents does a female gaze bring to the world of nature conservation? Women always work much harder to get to where they want to be in their respective industries. There is no difference in nature conservation. I think this is why female rangers pay more attention to detail, as they want everything to be perfect, and they show more empathy in certain situations.

Morukuru Family De Hoop is set in an amazing natural environment – which animal in the reserve is your favourite?  The Great White Pelicans are not often seen, so I do appreciate them when I see them.

Morukuru Family De Hoop is famous for being a birders’ paradise. Share some unique sightings with us.  The cape vultures are a rare sighting in the reserve, but the only time I saw one, was a unique and special sighting.  My favourite pelican sighting was seeing about 100 of them landing in the Vlei and floating down the water, only to return up the Vlei and fly off again.

Whale season is here – is this a time of the year you look forward to? Very much so, as seeing the whales breaching out of the water is always a fantastic sight to see.

August is Women’s month – and then it is downhill to Spring. What are you most looking forward to with the change of season? Tell us about changes in the environment – animals and plants. Definitely the warmer weather, which means the flowers are starting to bloom as we head into spring. This will be my first time being here at this time of the year, but I have heard it is absolutely beautiful!

Is there a woman who has inspired you the most, and why?  Definitely. My partner Julia!  Every day she inspires me to keep moving forward and pursue my goals, and I will always be grateful to her.

What is your message/advice to young women wanting to follow in the same footsteps as you?  Don’t give up, it may seem difficult initially, but it is always worth it in the end. Just keep pushing through.

August is Women’s Month in South Africa and we are celebrating the women of Morukuru Family by getting to know some of them a little better. Rose Mlambo is head of housekeeping at Morukuru Family Madikwe, and we managed to squeeze into her busy daily schedule of keeping the lodges in tip-top shape and chat with her.

You have achieved long service at Morukuru Family Madikwe  – with ten years under your belt. Can you tell us how you started out and how you worked your way up to the position of Head of Housekeeping?   From the very beginning, I have always been a very hardworking person. With ten years of being one of the dedicated housekeepers, I have been on a journey of learning and understanding the job.  I have always done my best, even if the road was not easy because I love and respect my managers and colleagues. I’m proud to say that I have succeeded at Morukuru Family Madikwe.

Keeping the lodges in perfect order is not an easy task. How do you plan your work schedule to get everything done before guests arrive? Being able to manage time and a set schedule properly is a key skill I have. I complete all cleanings in time. I also believe in teamwork because I know working together facilitates idea generation and boosts employee morale and motivation.

Tell us about other women in your life who have supported you? My mom and my managers, Esmaralda & Anne-Marie. They have always backed me in this position. They never doubted me and always believed in me.

What is the most important lesson your mother taught you? Respect and love and always believe in myself and be humble.

You live and work in a game reserve – do you have a favourite wild animal?  Most definitely the lioness!

Your husband, Shimmy, is one of the trackers here at Morukuru Family. Does he share exciting stories of what he saw on the game vehicle?  Yes, he tells me about his game drives. That makes me happy because I can see he really enjoys and loves his job.

When you are not at work – how do you spend your time?  I’m a homebody at heart and love to hang out with my family.

What do you love most about being part of the Morukuru Family?  Morukuru Family looks after their employees. Our employers know exactly how to take care of their staff.

Do you have a hidden talent? I not only have excellent knowledge of cleaning procedures and materials, but I am also reliable, well organised, a good communicator and able to learn from constructive criticism. I believe these are my hidden talents and why I am in the position of Head of Housekeeping.

The 9th of August is Women’s Day commemorating the 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings on the 9th of August 1956 in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women. Morukuru Family is blessed with beautiful, bright and brave female colleagues. Therefore, we have decided to celebrate our Women of Morukuru Family for the entire month of August, which has become known as Women’s Month. Let’s get to know the individuals behind the title and name.

To kick off our month of womanhood, we sat down with our owner Anka Zeeman:

Beyoncé said that a woman’s most alluring thing is confidence. Do you have any words of wisdom for women to build their confidence? Rather regret the things you did do rather than the things you didn’t do. So many women are very hard on themselves, which contributes to a lack of confidence – whether tackling a new job or pitching a great idea. The only advice I can give is based on personal experience – go for it – just jump in and reject the notion of failure. I’ve found that women are much stronger and more capable than they think.

Women are recognised as great communicators, negotiators, and analysers. What other important skills do Morukuru women add to the business?   I think the Morukuru women add refinement to our product. They are the ones elevating the experience. Our team of ladies bring exceptional creativity – adding little touches to give guests a memorable experience. I rely on these skills to augment special events and special guest anniversaries.

When creating Morukuru Family, tell us your top three learning experiences. My biggest takeaway is that I didn’t comprehend the investment required in marketing and building relationships with travel agents. Even if you have the best product out there – generating sales requires an enormous push. But now, I’m executing a straightforward mission; making our guests happy. And I do that in an elementary way – I analyse my own experiences, expectations and wishes and translate those into the Morukuru concept. It’s not rocket science – but it works.

All Morukuru Family properties have beautifully created spaces. When you visit each location – what are your favourite spots to enjoy your morning coffee?  When I’m in the Madikwe – I love the new pool pergola at the Owners’ house The inner courtyard veranda of Ocean House is my sanctuary in De Hoop and  AtholPlace gives me the veranda of the villa.

Morukuru Family caters to every need of guests -the experiences are incomparable- but sometimes you need a little something extra  – what are some of your home comforts you bring along when you travel?  To be honest – none. I have the privilege to create my own homes from home at Morukuru. I like to be surrounded by my books. I can spend hours in the bathtub, especially in the outdoor ones, catching up on reading.

 Johannesburg is the location of AtholPlace House & Villa. You find yourself with a whole day to yourself. What would you like to do? Take a walking tour of the City. Scout out a favourite art gallery? Or spend the day at “home” enjoying the delightful garden, library and pool?   A combination of it all. I like to visit Joburg artists and art galleries. I feel I am in Africa, surrounded by all cultures in Johannesburg. I know the reputation of the city, but the city is so resilient. I love to learn about its history but also – with my real estate background – I’m keen to learn about the developments to revive the city. That said, I also love to hang around “at home” on the veranda or at the pool, and I am always keen to discover excellent new restaurants in town.

What is your favourite season in South Africa and why?  My favourite season is spring/September. That’s when all the properties show off. Johannesburg has balmy weather, and the Jacaranda trees blossom at the end of that month. The bush is open, dry and hot but still some crispness in the air at night, and in De Hoop, we have the whales in front of the house and the fynbos flowering. Plus, the canola fields flower, highlighting the drive to de Hoop.

Morukuru Family has a reputation for carefully stocked wine cellars – do you enjoy red, white or bubbles?  My favourite is definitely white wine and especially Chardonnay and Chenin wines.

Morukuru Family Madikwe is a wilderness paradise with the chance of excellent game spotting. What would your wish list include if you hopped on a game vehicle and could choose just three animals to spot? Number 1 – definitely the elephant, and luckily we have plenty. Rhino is also in the top 3. Both elephant and rhino give me the sense they are from a different era, from pre-historic times. And for the 3^rdone, I will go for zebra. Of course, I love many more animals, but I like the zebra’s grace and black and white stripes.

Morukuru Ocean House and Beach Lodge are situated in the magnificent De Hoop Nature Reserve. Would you agree that “life is better at the beach”?   Life is great at the beach! I am definitely not a beach baby, but I love the sea and the coastal environment. When the water is calm, and it’s low tide, I will snorkel in our rockpools. For me, De Hoop is more about nature than just the beach. Although …. Nothing can beat our lunches with your toes in the sand and the food served on a stretch of beach just for you.

 What would your message be to all the Morukuru women – this women’s month? My general message for women is to believe in themselves, don’t waste too much time being insecure and try to make sure they are independent in their lives.

On 23 July celebrate World Whale and Dolphin Day 2022! Could there be a better time to plan a whale and dolphin watching trip? Here at Morukuru Ocean House and Morukuru Beach Lodge, there’s not an official start to the whale watching season – but  June to October offers excellent whale watching opportunities. So we can say…It’s Official…Whale Watching Season is here!

Whether it’s a fin slapping the water, a tail diving into the deep, a spy hop look at the scenery, or the immense mammals hurling their entire bodies out of the water, seeing a whale in the wild is magical. Dolphins are one of the most loved animals in the world and are also known for their jumps near the beach or on the side of ships. Dolphins are famous for being energetic and having fun with each other, and these lovely mammals also play with whales.

Situated along the Southern Cape coast, Morukuru Family De Hoop is the perfect location, giving guests extraordinary land-based whale and dolphin watching. Our expert rangers will introduce you to daily displays of raw power and elegant water acrobatics of the whales and the smiling and cheerful appearance of their sidekick dolphins.

The Cetacean family incorporates whales and dolphins, and other sea mammals. World Whale and Dolphin Day shines the spotlight on threats to dolphins and whales, including fishing net entanglement, captivity, whaling, industrial pollution of the oceans and military use of intense sonar waves known to harm and even kill cetaceans. Morukuru Family is deeply committed to conservation, and we support an urgent ban on all forms of capturing and exploitation of dolphins and other sea mammals from the Cetacean family.

The Southern Right Whale is arguably one of the most widely recognised species, but 37 different species of whales and dolphins have been recorded along the Southern Cape coast. Morukuru Family de Hoop guests can also look out for other types of whales like Humpbacks, Bryde’s and even the occasional Killer Whale (Orcas), as well as diverse marine species like the African penguin; porpoises; Cape Fur Seal, the Black Oystercatcher and of course their special playmate, dolphins.

Dolphins have a form of communication to interact with each other. They recognize the other members of the group through distinctive sounds. Echolocation allows dolphins to see through sounds. It informs the dolphin about their distance and size.

Dolphins are known to be selfless and help other species. Marine scientists have discovered that these intelligent animals are known for assisting other animals like whales and sometimes even humans.

Ranger and Guide Riehan Groenewald says, “Whale watching season is a special time of the year for all of us here in the de Hoop Nature Reserve – and we are all excited about experiencing excellent whale sightings – and of course, we can’t forget their pals, the playful and friendly dolphins”.

This World Whale and Dolphin Day 2022, we mustn’t forget that whaling is not the only threat to these animals. With the whaling ban still in place, whale meat sales are not allowed. However, catching whales, dolphins, and other marine species for dolphinariums, oceanariums, and circuses presents the most danger to their existence.

Irish actor and film producer Pierce Brosnan is vocal on environmental issues and has said “We owe it to our children to be better stewards of the environment. The alternative – a world without whales, is too terrible to imagine.”  All of us at Morukuru Family agree!

We welcome Mauritz Greeff to Morukuru Family De Hoop as GM and Head of the F&B offering! Whenever we say hello to a new family member, we like to get to know a little more about them and pick their brains for some of their insights.

Do you identify as a chef, a foodie or a gourmand…explain? Look there’s nothing wrong with those other categories – ha ha ha – but I’m firmly in the chef camp because that is where I have learned and applied my trade for most of my career.

As Head of Food & Beverage – you need an excellent knowledge of wine…tell us about your training and your journey to this point in your career. Growing up in Franschhoek and being surrounded by excellent wine farms and wines and all the great chefs, gave me lots of opportunities to learn and grow. But learning is not finite and there are always new innovations and products to swot up on.

When guests ask you for wine recommendations – is that a bit like mind-reading – what skills do you call upon to understand someone else’s taste in wine? It’s all about the guest really. It’s amazing what you can discover with a few good questions. I start by finding out what they gravitate toward; match that up with our cellar selections and work from there. Morukuru Family De Hoop is well stocked with great variety so hitting the jackpot is easy. Many guests are knowledgeable too so that makes for a healthy discussion.

What is your ultimate food & wine pairing? And why? Fish and chips with a glass of chardonnay!  Actually, it was something we had recently! We were lucky enough to go to the Test Kitchen Carbon and Luke Dale Roberts paired black cod, truffle brandade ravioli with a Momento Grenache Gris 2017.

Which chefs inspire you? I don’t really follow any specific chefs but the people who have inspired me are the guys in Franschhoek where I grew up. Local legends like Pete Goffe Wood, Matthew Gordon, Margot Janse and Ruben Riffle. Now chefs like Luke Dale Roberts are really influential with their cutting-edge food.

Must have cookbook in your kitchen? Too many to mention, but the ones I really enjoy are the Charlie Trotter range – a chef well before his time.

Morukuru Family is an award-winning property – what has most impressed you about the food and beverage team – can you share any special compliments.   The accolades are well deserved. The first thing I noticed was the dedication and passion, of the entire team. Everyone is totally committed to giving the guest the best experience they can and it is always done with a smile.

Must have ingredients in your pantry? Fresh lemon for your seafood, chilli, garlic and Gabrielskloof olive oil of course!

Being at the coast means seafood is always a popular choice – give us your top three seafood recommendations. You can’t go wrong with, fresh oysters, catch of the day line fish and a mussel pot.

 We are currently in the middle of winter here in De Hoop – what can we expect on the menu? The Morukuru Family philosophy is based on seasonal and fresh produce. So our attention moves to what is available during the chilly months. Plus we are committed to supporting local producers. Cooler weather means more robust and hearty dishes.

Have you got any exciting plans for the food & beverage offerings and experiences in the months to come?  Definitely! We are looking at restructuring our kitchen staff and moving people around to make it more exciting and dynamic. I am sourcing some new suppliers which will add some new offerings.

Morukuru has well-established local suppliers and is 100% focussed on the freshest ingredients – have you discovered anything new since moving to the Overberg – any secret suppliers etc? This part of the world is totally different. We are blessed with people who show a genuine willingness to help and make plans for the best product. That said, I have been exploring and have uncovered some hidden gems.

You live and work in a remote area – tell us about some of the work challenges and share some of the lifestyle benefits you enjoy – working in a nature reserve? Work-related it is nothing new to us, we are well experienced in remote work and love every second of it. The real value is safety and security and REAL quality family time in a pristine location with amazing people.

When you are not working – what do you do for relaxation?   I walk into my backyard and hit the sand dunes, beach and sea. Then I drive down the road and visit local wine farms and great restaurants …… need I say more!

Meet Lynette Greeff our new GM at Morukuru Family De Hoop. She started her hospitality journey in the heart of the Kalahari (Tswalu Kalahari Reserve) which made her realise the exquisiteness of nature combined with the taste of the industry.  From there the passion only grew bigger. She had leading management positions at Sanctuary Makanyane and called Madikwe Game reserve home for many years.  We are delighted to welcome her and her family to the De Hoop Nature Reserve.

Welcome to de Hoop and our Morukuru Family!  We know taking on a new role means you are getting to understand many aspects of the lodges and the business – and you are very busy settling in your new home and new job and connecting with a new team.  We also want to get to know you and learn about the path that led you to our Morukuru Ocean House and Morukuru Beach Lodge here in the De Hoop reserve.

Thank you so, so much! I’m super excited to be here!

On seeing the view of the ocean for the first time – from the verandah of Morukuru Beach Lodge – what were your thoughts?  Glad you asked about my thoughts, and not my verbalized comments – because words cannot nearly describe or justify the beauty and pristine setting Morukuru Family De Hoop has to offer.  Having the opportunity to join Morukuru Family just in time to witness the arrival of the whales, made waking up each day a race against time to see the first one.

Luxury exclusive use – what does that mean to you? With Luxury exclusive use, you can relax in the knowledge that you‘ll be able to create your day, your way. From your menu choices to your daily activities offered by our very knowledgeable team.

What’s your advice for someone wanting to get into the hospitality industry and work towards a senior position as a General Manager? It’s essential you get relevant industry experience if you want to work in the hospitality sector.  The hospitality industry values someone who has actually worked entry-level jobs and understands the front end of the business. If you want to be a manager, the best way to do that is to start at the bottom of the ladder.

You are a wife and a mum – how do those roles help you in your work life and vice versa?We’re getting the definition of life balance wrong. It’s not a maths problem. It’s not doing everything for an equal amount of time. So don’t try to be superwoman and attend every work event, every school activity or social engagement.

On a scale of 1 – 10- how important is communication – and how do you keep channels open between all your stakeholders – guests; staff and outside suppliers?   Effective communication is essential for both individual and team success as it can help reduce misunderstandings, develop strong relationships and establish yourself as an active team member. Learning to communicate effectively requires time and practice to master – therefore an 11 for me!

Staff development is a pillar of Morukuru Family – share your experience in training up the next generation of hospitality gurus. Basic skills include communication and ways to interact with the hotel guests. It also involves teamwork training and diversity training, because our staff is perceived as one unit by guests.  To do this, we encourage staff to enrol in different studies/programs etc – Training helps our staff feel valued and appreciated.

Food is a huge part of Morukuru Family experience and you are supported by an amazing team of Chefs- which menu items have you flagged for a tasting.  Quite right when you say we have an amazing team on the food side  – making sure that each and every dish is prepared with the utmost care and passion!  The options are endless, but if I had to pick one, it surely has to be the Tastes of Africa – (Chocolate & Caramel sponge, Amarula & Nutella mousse, brûléed banana, candied Pistachio nuts accompanied by homemade Vanilla Ice cream) – YUM!

Morukuru Family De Hoop – has so much to offer guests who want to get outdoors and enjoy a variety of activities. Have you had a chance to get out and walk, mountain bike or explore? What would you suggest to guests visiting the area for the first time? With our exceptionally talented and passionate team, you should let yourself enjoy all activities on offer – mountain biking for one gives you the freedom to explore and still be safe in the outdoors.  For the marine walk, the possibilities are endless, almost like opening presents on your birthday, you never know what you will find.  Not to mention the nature drives, where you get smothered with information about the fauna and flora on the de Hoop nature reserve. The stand-out activity is definitely the sand boarding – I dare you, come and see for yourself!

You have been lucky to work at a number of top-notch establishments – in your view – what sets Morukuru Family De Hoop apart and what are the top 3 wow factors the property has to offer? That’s very easy – Family, Passionate and Professional: You arrive as a guest, and you depart as part of our Family.  We are passionate about EVERYTHING we do and offer, nothing is too small or too big.  We are warm and intimate and we pride ourselves on delivering a professional service at all times.

In a parallel universe – you get the day off and have the entire property to yourself – you are a guest for a day – what your plan – food, drink, activities – basically the perfect day at Morukuru Family De Hoop? Gosh, I already feel like that in my daily working environment LOL!  Essentials first, there would be a scrumptious breakfast planned with a view to die for in the dining room.  A picnic basket for an outing to the Hippo pool. The day spent at leisure next to the ocean with fresh air and rolling views of the tides. On my return, a visit to the Dutch tub would be really enjoyable, whereafter a few cocktails from our amazing butlers around the boma fire pit outside Beach Lodge.  Dinner of course under the Pergola next to the pool.  To be honest, I think I would need more hours in my day to complete all the treats on offer.

June 25th is World Sand Dune Day! This day was created to spotlight the importance of sand dunes and is celebrated annually by coastal communities and projects across the world.

Beaches are made up of different parts, including the berm – the flat part good for things like beach cricket – and the dune – the tall ridge of sand covered with grass and other vegetation. Sand dunes are the first line of defence against coastal storms and beach erosion — they form a natural barrier to the destructive forces of wind and waves.

How do dunes form naturally? Sand on the beach is subjected to high winds and is blown in every direction throughout the year. Where vegetation can get a foothold in the dry, infertile sand, the windblown sand grains get batted down to the base of the plant, and the sand surface incrementally rises, one grain at a time.

Corné Lamprecht, Manager at Morukuru Family Ocean House and Morukuru Beach Lodge, says, “We must focus on the importance of conserving these vital coastal habitats – not just here in the beautiful, unspoilt De Hoop Nature Reserve – but all around the world”.

Sand dunes are far more than just beautiful coastal landscapes. They’re important sanctuaries for plants and animals. Plus, sand dunes provide natural coastal protection against storm surges. Corné explains, “Here in the De Hoop Nature Reserve our pristine white sand dunes are not just gorgeous to look at, but crucial natural barriers and form a rich habitat for indigenous vegetation and wildlife. To protect the dunes, the government has implemented the planting of Rooikrans on the dunes’ edges. These trees help stabilise the dunes, but on the flip side, they have crept into the reserve, creating an imbalance in the fynbos biome.”

Rooikrans is needed to protect the dunes but is unwanted in the reserve, where it causes damage to the natural environment. The Morukuru Goodwill Foundation (MGWF) foundation recognised and responded to this tricky dilemma by committing to a new conservation project. Corné outlines how this works, “We identified the need to control the growth of Rooikrans within the reserve to protect the fynbos. We tapped into the resources of the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation to begin a new and exciting project. MGWF has employed two local men to remove Rooikrans in our immediate area and further inland in the reserve. We use this wood in our lodges’ fireplaces and sell the wood to local retailers in our area. Any cash is returned to the MGWF for future projects.” Dunes are especially sensitive resources. So for dune protection efforts to be successful, conservation efforts must continue. However, with the help of the MGWF, the future of De Hoop dunes is looking bright and will continue as a major attraction for guests who visit us, especially to make a personal connection with nature.

The perfect white sand of our dunes is ideal for Dune boarding! This is one of the most exciting outdoor adventure sports, with plenty of opportunities for daring tricks and high speeds. Dune boarding is exhilarating, fast, fun, and super-safe, with sit-down options on offer. Experts tell us it is easier than snowboarding, wakeboarding and surfing and the most fun you can have in the sand of the De Hoop Nature Reserve.

Preservation is crucial for a number of ecological reasons but also just because dunes are breathtakingly beautiful. We can’t think of a more romantic set-up for early evening sundowners. Enjoy a coastal sunset between the dunes and the ocean – protected from any wind – with views for miles.

Africa is a romance in itself, and for those celebrating love, it’s a place to enjoy a magical and memorable honeymoon.

Jetting into South Africa gives you a pit-stop opportunity in Johannesburg. Enjoy a couple of nights at AtholPlace House & Villa to set the scene for your bush and beach adventures. Book into the exclusive use house or villa and decompress after your long flight. Unwind in the private garden and swimming pool and enjoy the indoor and outdoor dining spaces. If you are keen to explore South Africa’s largest city, our team gladly assists in finding the perfect excursion for you. Then, with the urban buzz of the City of Gold ringing in your ears, it is time to move on to your next destination – Morukuru Family Madikwe and 75 000 hectares of unspoilt wilderness.

For your safari honeymoon (or a romantic getaway) Morukuru Family Madikwe is the choice location to whisk away your partner. Think. laid-back luxury in the middle of the bush. Total privacy, every desire attended to and the opportunity to experience an adventure together.

You and your partner will set the agenda to include what you are in the mood for. Make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime escape with an early morning game drive, stunning African sunrise and an intimate bush breakfast for two.

Enjoy a couples massage in your private, exclusive use house; some downtime by the pool with a great holiday read or some gentle game-viewing from your private verandah.

Evenings out in the wild under the experienced watch of your ranger and guide are sure to be a highlight. This time of day lets you spot wildlife as they awake from sunny slumber, watch the magnificent fireball dip in the west, and enjoy a specially prepared sundowner stop with your favourite early evening aperitif and some delicious game drive nibbles. This sets the scene for a truly enchanting evening.

Food and wine are a big part of any visit to Morukuru Family, and a special dinner just for two under the African night sky awaits. Our team will put together a personalised three-course menu paired with hand-selected wines in your favourite varietals. Enjoying a meal outside next to the boma fire is always special, and never more so than for a passionate pair of food and wine lovers celebrating a romantic occasion.

After dinner, why not allow our team to drive you to a sleep-out in the private Hide. This secret gem overlooking a waterhole from an elevated platform is the epitome of luxury time together – thanks to the quality bed, thick duvet, warm blankets and hot-water bottles! What is more romantic than listening to the call of the wild while cuddled up together. Our team will get you settled with everything you could need – snacks, drinks and hot beverages in Stanley Flasks. Enjoy glorious stargazing since there is absolutely no light pollution in the area – track the Milky Way, the Southern Cross, Scorpio and a few other constellations. Late summer or early autumn is a lovely time to sample a night under the stars since it is the end of the rainy season and the temperatures are moderate.

Sorry to disturb you. It’s time to head to the Southern Cape and the splendour of the De Hoop Nature reserve. Here, surrounded by 34 000 hectares of protected space, discover Morukuru Ocean House and Morukuru Beach Lodge.

On arrival, you will discover that our beach is the perfect place to reset your mind and body. This is your time to indulge in a delicious glass of chilled bubbles and a platter of fresh oysters? Long romantic walks along pristine beaches or some adrenalin infused dune-boarding. If the season is right, enjoy some whale and dolphin watching. Afternoon drinks enjoyed to the soundtrack of the waves, morning tea on your private balcony overlooking miles of indigenous fynbos or the ultimate outdoor bubble bath with nothing but candles, moonlight and your beloved. Is there anything more romantic than the warm flicker of firelight – we don’t think so – so snuggle up with a book, a board game or a glass of wine? There is mountain biking through the De Hoop reserve, setting off on a marine walk or getting in some bird-watching if the urge to get moving calls. What more could you ask for? Oh, except for excellent food and a world-class wine cellar!

Africa is a vibrant yet serene backdrop for anyone seeking to make a profound connection. Cement your love while bonding with nature. Marriage is full of many ups and downs, adventures, and incredible memories with the person you love. So let Morukuru Family deliver an unforgettable romantic holiday to add to your everlasting memories.

Meet Host, Anadia Scheepers. She is our maestro who works tirelessly and creatively to deliver unforgettable bush experiences to our guests. We chatted to her about her passion for her job and how happy visitors are her ultimate goal.

You live and work at Morukuru Family Madikwe. Does this beautiful environment inspire you to tackle your job with greater enthusiasm than if you were working from an office park? Working in the bush dictates that you have a passion for your environment. I grew up loving the bush, so it feels like home. My purpose is to allow our guests to have a similar experience.

Your husband, Dohan, is a guide/ranger and you work together as a team. Do you have any tips for juggling home and work life? Do you schedule in downtime – and what are your favourite things to do to counterbalance life at the lodge?  Working with your spouse is challenging, but we have firm boundaries. We have a rule that we only discuss work at work, but we take only 30 minutes to discuss it at home if necessary. We love to relax by appreciating where we are – enjoying a casual barbecue or catching up on tv shows.

You don’t work alone – you are part of a team. How important is cooperation between colleagues, and how do you support each other?For any team to be successful, communication is the most important thing. I’m committed to keeping my team up to date – and sometimes, there isn’t time for a meeting, so I need to be creative about looping everyone in. My experience is that happy team members deliver their best at work. So communication, empathy and agility are what I aim for.

Morukuru Family Madikwe is a special place. For some guests, this is their first bush experience. What impressions do you hope to stay with them? I hope that guests leave with wonderful memories and a new awareness of the bush and what an exceptional environment it is. I hope that guests leave having enjoyed the whole bush experience and had a wonderful holiday.

Explain how you create individual touches for each guest party. One of the perks of this job is that I get to meet so many different guests and personalities. As Morukuru Family is an exclusive-use property, we can be flexible and respond to each guest as an individual. We are committed to treating every single guest like a VIP and welcoming them into our special Morukuru party.

If you could give out advice to your guests before they arrive  – what would you tell them? Number one – the bush is not like the movies! LOL!  Remember that out in the bush; anything can happen. Mother Nature runs the show.  I would encourage guests to submerge themselves into nature as a whole and enjoy learning from our experienced guides, who can interpret and explain every detail.

Living and working in the bush makes you a bona fide bushbaby – but where do you like to visit when you get some vacation time? Being a nature lover, I love heading to the beach. The priority for any down time is to spend time with Dohan and reconnect with our families.

Tell us about your most memorable bush experience/sighting? I was still a student and had never been out in an open game vehicle. I got the opportunity to go on a night drive with a guide. It was already dark when we found a full mane male lion just relaxing in the middle of the road. We got really close, and we could hear other lions vocalising in the distance. The roar from this male was so mighty that I felt the vehicle rattle. It was clear to me right then and there that my destiny was to leave the city lights behind and work in the bush.

You have a fabulous food and beverage team  – is food a passion? How involved do you get with sharing ideas and recipes with your team, and do you have a favourite cuisine? Both Dohan and I love food, but I’m not a big cook. Baking is my thing, and I love experimenting with new recipes. I enjoy all types of food, so it’s hard to narrow it down – but I have a soft spot for traditional South African dishes. I have shared some of my favourite recipes with our excellent chefs. 

Each meal at Morukuru Family Madikwe is remarkable and an experience.  Is it a team effort, and what goes into planning a bush breakfast, a hide lunch or a dinner with a view? It is a 100% team effort; each department puts in so much effort to make it the best meal. Those spaces present the perfect backdrops; we rely on good weather, bring our A-Game, and our guests have a fabulous time.

What is your favourite drink to enjoy while watching a perfect Madikwe sunset? I prefer the classic South African liqueur Amarula on the rocks or a glass of white wine.

On the 6^th October 2021 a weak turtle was found on the beach in front of Morukuru Beach Lodge. Cape Nature transported it to the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town where it received treatment.

Fast Forward to now – Litchi as she was fondly named by her team who cared for her is back home in De Hoop!

It’s taken Litchi 700 km to get back to De Hoop and it appears she truly does love being here. With her spending the last 300 km frolicking around in the bay of Skipskop.

The team have received 209 satellite transmissions from Litchi thus far and it seems her tag is going strong!  De Hoop is an incredibly valuable location for sea turtles in the Western Cape. “We are so grateful for the amazing humans along this coastline, from CapeNature, De Hoop Collection, Morukuru Family De Hoop to the SpillTech clean up team. We know that Litchi is not far away from some remarkable conservation hero’s” said Two Oceans Aquarium representative.

We are delighted to have a played our part in her rescue and are even more delighted she is back home.

Sunday 5th June is World Environment Day. We celebrate our beautiful natural world every day at Morukuru Family, but this particular day means we are doubling down on our efforts to raise awareness and action to protect the environment.

Last weekend Morukuru Family De Hoop joined forces with our neighbours De Hoop Collection along with Cape Nature, Denel Air Force and Two Oceans Aquarium, staff and guests in a massive beach clean-up operation.  Many energetic hours were invested cleaning up the beaches, and the results are clear to see. What a difference!

Corné Lamprecht, one of our professional and experienced marine guides, worked alongside a gang of 45 beach warriors to collect 120 bags of debris.

Corné told us that he is thrilled that this initiative is ongoing and gets bigger and better each time. “The energy on the day was amazing, and this was an excellent experience. Many volunteers have already raised their hands to be first in line for the next event. I’m signed up to join our neighbours, friends and guests to keep this project going from strength to strength. We all have a responsibility to preserve our environment”.

Ed and Anka Zeeman owners of Morukuru spearheaded a beach cleanup last November, but the job is never done, and regular tidy ups are needed to maintain the unspoilt De Hoop beaches. “Morukuru Family is committed to making a difference to the environment, and The Morukuru Goodwill Foundation is determined to make a difference for the better wherever we can. This joint operation perfectly fitted our intention to protect and preserve our environment. It was a joy to see various stakeholders, guests and staff getting down to the business of picking up trash! We recognise the need for ongoing efforts, and we are planning another such event later this year”.

Liaan Jansen, one of our guests, rose to the challenge and signed up to join the clean-up. “As a nature lover, it is tragic to see how much rubbish is washed up onto the beaches. I jumped at the opportunity to get involved, and even though the day involved plenty of hard work – at the end of it – and the 11km’s walked – the sense of satisfaction was definitely worth it. The camaraderie and teamwork were great, and it was amazing to see how much could be accomplished with determination. I didn’t expect to be picking up trash on my holiday, but this will be a fabulous memory and a lovely story to share with friends. We all have a role to play in protecting our natural environment, and I salute the Morukuru Family and everyone involved for making this a reality”.

The ocean takes care of us – so we are determined to do our best to return the favour.  We will keep you posted on our ongoing efforts to maintain and preserve the South Cape coastline.

I go to nature to be soothed and healed and to have my senses put in order. (John Burroughs)

Today, Wednesday, 25 May, is Africa Day! This is a special day for everyone who has an affinity with the continent. Today, we celebrate the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), established on 25 May 1963.

John Burroughs (1837 – 19210) was an American naturalist and nature essayist, active in the conservation movement in the United States. He was famous for his observations of the world around him. He especially loved to write about nature, describing the natural beauty of places like the Catskills in upstate New York, which he found peaceful and inspiring. He wrote, “I go to nature to be soothed and healed and to have my senses put in order.”

Where better than Africa to be rejuvenated and have your senses restored. We are taught about our five senses from childhood: sight, smell, taste, touch, and hearing. Even from a young age, we know to “use our senses” to investigate the world around us. But our senses do more than just identify the world we live in. Deeper down, our sensory brain areas are involved with emotion too.

Visiting Africa is an all-encompassing emotional experience. You don’t just experience one feeling when out on your first game drive, but many. You may think that a trip to Africa is simply just a trip, a holiday. However, until you actually arrive and fall into the experience, you won’t understand the complex impact on your mind, body and soul. There is raw adrenalin, there is deep appreciation, there is electric excitement, there is harsh realisation, and there is understanding. Your wildlife experiences in the veld, the moments shared with loved ones, the moments enjoyed with new friends, the moments connected with oneself, are endless.

To celebrate Africa Day 2022, we are tapping into our five senses to share some of our favourite tangible Morukuru Memories.

Sight: Africa is a classroom, and the safari is its teacher. At Morukuru Family, you learn how important it is to reconnect with Mother Nature. You know more about human nature; through animal sightings and observing how animals reflect our emotions and actions. Watch how a mother lion protects her cubs, witness how elephants mourn the loss of a herd member, focus on a leopard carrying her young through treacherous landscapes to safety and observe how clan members stick together. You will see how connected you are to nature without even knowing it.

Smell: A vital sense that adds to the enjoyment of the safari experience is the sense of smell. Here are some of our favourites. We are sure catching a whiff of any below will bring back memories and reignite a desire to return to Africa. Rain after a thunderstorm: that beautiful aroma when raindrops hit dry earth, bringing relief to barren soil. The pungent and aromatic scent of  the Cape Fynbos. A smoky campfire and how it clings to your clothes: That smell sparks a flurry of emotional memories for many. Catch a faint whiff, and you are immediately transported back to a long evening around the campfire. Animal dung: The tang of fresh, musty dung as you head out on a walking safari. You will soon learn that your nose can be a handy tracking tool from your ranger and tracker. Those safari smells are all part of the experience and the memories.

Hearing: Sound is a particularly emotive part of the bush experience. Wildlife themes remind us of thrilling excitement and profound emotion. The echo of these moments stays with our guests for a lifetime, often sending them back to the Madikwe and the unforgettable experience of being immersed in raw, unfiltered nature. Bird Sounds One of the first things guests hear upon waking, usually just before sunrise if they’re going on a morning game drive, is the dawn chorus, a charming combination of chirps, whistles and sing-song calls that herald the new day. While out in the bush, the distinctive squawk or chatter of a bird can give away its species and location and be a valuable tool for alerting us to the presence of a well-camouflaged predator moving through the area. Some calls are as iconic as the bush itself – the haunting cry of the African Fish Eagle, the raucous screech of a Hadeda Ibis and the characteristic “churring” of a Fiery-Necked Nightjar under a full moon.

Many of the sounds associated with an African safari are heard while exploring the wilderness on a game drive. The crunch of tyres on the sand and the low rumble of the engine soon fade into the background as the symphony of nature is dialled up. A drive along the water is often accompanied by grunting hippos, trumpeting elephants and twittering waterfowl. At the same time, the deep-throated crack of an afternoon thunderstorm is followed by the pitter-patter of raindrops on the Land Rover’s canvas roof.As night falls, Africa’s crepuscular and nocturnal wildlife lend their voices to the medley of nature sounds – a lion bellowing to his pride across the veld, a pack of hyena giggles and whoops, and a scops owl makes monotonous, quivering chirrups in the distance.

It’s no surprise that ocean waves are a popular choice for soothing sleep sounds. For many people, the rhythmic crashing of water onto sand and rock can be quite calming.

And don’t forget the voices. The warm heart of Africa is perhaps best expressed by her people. Listen to rangers’  and guides fireside storytelling.; sharing the day’s adventures, and learning from each other. The gentle hospitality of our staff checking in on you, the joyous song of our teams welcoming you to our properties.

Taste: We are not sure anything beats the flavour of freshly brewed coffee enjoyed with homemade rusks while watching an African sunrise? And why not treat yourself to a decadent Amarula Coffee. Your rusk will be even more delicious! Amarula is a cream liqueur made from the Marula fruit and pairs perfectly with a deep, smooth coffee.

Maybe the waft of a bush breakfast tops that – there is nothing like eating outdoors surrounded by nature. Our breakfast potjie 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). Who can resist?

Gin & Tonic: Nothing tastes more refreshing than a G & T sundowner. We love to prepare a generous Gin Bar featuring a selection of locally produced gin with all the fragrant bits that go toward making the perfect sundowner. Depending on the gin, savour flavours of rich botanicals and gorgeous citrus flavours, balanced with a touch of herbs and wildflowers. Add some fresh cucumber and mint, and you have the perfect end to your day on safari or exploring the De Hoop Nature Reserve.

Biltong: Biltong is a South African legend. No sundowner would be complete without a taste of this tradition wherever you are. In case you don’t know, biltong is a dried, cured meat originating with the indigenous Khoikhoi, who pioneered this technique which became the process used to preserve all kinds of meat in South Africa before introducing refrigeration. Biltong is South African for “the greatest beef jerky you’ve ever had in your entire life”. So make great tasting memories …pass the biltong!

Touch: All Morukuru Family properties offer the finest thread count, 100% cotton sheets and duck-down duvets so you can snuggle while catching your forty winks. The feel of cotton is soft, lightweight, on your skin but also breathable and warm.

Imagine snoozing under an African night sky. Enjoy a sleep-out in the private hide at Morukuru Family Madikwe, overlooking a waterhole from an elevated platform. What is more romantic than listening to the call of the wild whilst drifting off embraced by the highest quality bed linen, ensconced by warm blankets and embraced with hot-water bottles!

There is no place quite like Africa – the untamed bush, the abundant wildlife, the people, the magnificent scenery  – it captivates with its sights, scents, sounds, tastes and touch. A magical place like no other. That’s why we are celebrating Africa Day!

Co-Founder and Co-owner of Morukuru Family, Ed Zeeman has a passion for South Africa, as demonstrated by his groundbreaking vision that has resulted in the three magnificent properties under the Morukuru Family umbrella. Ed also has great enthusiasm for wine – drinking it, sharing it, collecting it – and for local wine farms and producers, which are showcased in the cellars of the Morukuru Family.

When Ed starts talking about wine, it is clear that the pursuit of this hobby is only surpassed by his devotion to his wife, Anka, Co-Founder and Co-owner) and his deep appreciation for South Africa and wildlife conservation. Luckily for us, Ed was recently in South Africa, and we chatted to him about all things wine.

Do you remember when you first discovered your passion for wine? Fortunately for me, I grew up enjoying excellent wines during dinners with my parents. Back then, it wasn’t really a passion – but a lovely way to connect with my family – around a table with a glass of something delicious in hand.

Which varietals would you put at the top of your list? I really enjoy the Bordeaux style wines. In general, Bordeaux wines are red wines made with Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, resulting in full flavours. But don’t forget the region also produces white wine made out of Sauvignon blanc and Semillion for both dry and sweet wines. I don’t think you can go wrong with a pinot noir that is light to medium-bodied and super food-friendly on hot summer days. It’s so easy to fall in love with a Pinot Noir, even if you don’t fancy yourself a red wine enthusiast.

Are you a local wine devotee, or do you turn to German and French wines for something special? I generally drink the wine of origin wherever I happen to be. Spain, France, South Africa, and Italy all have great wines. But I do have a slight bias towards South African wines.

When you are back at your home base in the Netherlands, do you serve South African wine, and how is the wine received by your Dutch friends? Yes definitely. I have a nice mix in my cellar. When we just started with our lodges, I also imported a lot of wine from SA to the Netherlands, and this gave me a chance to “show off” South African wine to our guests.

What are you eating for lunch, and what will you choose as your wine pairing? My vote is for a delicious Caprese salad with a lovely rose.

Evenings around the boma fire are better with …. A great shiraz!

Morukuru Family has a coastal property in the De Hoop Nature Reserve, Morukuru Family Ocean House and Beach Lodge. Does the sea air change your choices in wine? I always think the beach lends itself to rose or white wine, and if we are celebrating or welcoming friends or guests, I select some bubbles.

What are your most important tips for setting up a lodge wine cellar? My view is that we must have something for everyone – in terms of palate and budget. So variety is the key.

What are your must-visit wine farms in SA? I always recommend first-time visitors go to Delaire, Babylonstoren, and Grande Provence. Obviously, the wine is exceptional at these farms, but they also offer lovely add-ons like restaurants, art galleries, or gardens.

Explain your association with Clouds Estate.  Clouds Wine and Guest Estate is a boutique hotel and working wine farm owned by a Dutch couple who we know well. The Dutch synergy is strong, especially as their bottles have a touch of our unique orange national colour. However, more than that, they are committed to creating the best wines under the leadership of a very ambitious owner and winemaker.

Do you have a favourite glass to drink your wine out of? I must say I do like big red wine glasses.

Do you decant your wine or not? That depends – but I would definitely recommend that for older wines.

Tell us about some of your most memorable wine moments? I enjoy visiting the wine auctions of Cape Winemakers Guild or Nederburg Auction. Of course, the biggest reason to bid at an auction is to get rare bottles and old vintages that aren’t readily available in retail shops. But these auctions are an opportunity for me to indulge my passion, meet like-minded people and talk to knowledgeable experts. Going to these events keeps me on my toes and learning about this fabulous thing we call “wine”.

And what about bubbles? Do you enjoy a glass or two or only on special occasions? There is nothing like bubbles to elevate any moment. Bubbles are festive, and we regularly open a bottle. I can be persuaded to bring out the Dom Perignon for a really special occasion.

Today is set aside to honour all Mums. A time to thank them for all they do and all they’ve done. An occasion to honour, celebrate, and remember. We sat down and learned a little more about our Morukuru Mums.

Our first stop was our Reservations Department, where we caught up with Michelle Anderson and Melanie Murdoch.

Michelle has two children, Micke Anderson (aged 9) and Sebastian Anderson (aged 3). Michelle believes being a working mum sets a positive tone and has established her as a good role model for her little ones.

“My Mom has been the greatest influence in my life. She taught me how to be independent, make strong family connections, and set goals to become a strong woman” Michelle adds that her parenting goals include raising healthy, happy children who have the skills and confidence to explore and venture into the world. Her greatest reward so far is that Micke and Sebastian have taught her not to sweat the small stuff and let her hair down and dance like nobody is watching. This Sunday, Michelle will celebrate Mother’s Day with a delicious Sunday lunch that she prepares and cooks herself. Like the famous saying, “a mother’s job is never done”

Melanie is blessed with her daughter Maddison Murdoch. At just fifteen-months old, Maddison is learning and growing every day. Melanie says that she is humbled by watching Maddison hitting her milestones and that walking the path of “growing up” alongside her daughter brings her great joy. “There’s a saying that if you have a daughter, you’ll have a friend for life, and I am very grateful to have my mom as a friend and to have a daughter of my own to continue walking through life with.” Melanie’s greatest hope is that Maddison follows her dreams and knows she is always loved.

There are also Mums at Morukuru Family Madikwe.

Three-year-old Gerbrand Willem Steyn is super lucky to call Anne-Marie Steyn (GM) his mum, and he calls out Mamma, Ma or Moeder when he needs her to find something, fix something or help him in any way. Gerbrand is already part of the Morukuru family and has had plenty of opportunities to explore the bush. Anne-Marie says,” I’m amazed at what he finds, and I’m privileged to be able to teach my son about nature. It is a thrill to experience life through his eyes and share his excitement of seeing something for the first time. Being a working mum is never easy and getting a work-life balance is particularly challenging when you live and work in the wilderness. However, Anne-Marie says that her parenting journey has allowed her to assist mothers that travel to the bush since she is raising her son “out in the wild”. And that being a Mum has taught her greater patience and understanding.

Suzan “Nanki” Rakobane (Housekeeper) has two children; Lahome, the baby of the family at twelve years old and Cresswell, who has already celebrated his thirtieth birthday. Nanki told us that she has high hopes that her children will embrace every opportunity to continue their education. She says, “My kids have taught me so much, especially about being humble and celebrating self-love. My own mother set a powerful example for me; she always emphasised having respect for others. This lesson has strongly influenced my personal and professional life.”

Gloria Mlambo in Housekeeping has 3 girls Otshepeng (16), Reneilwe ( 14) Reaotshepa (4 months). Her greatest wish for her children is that they will be happy and healthy and do well at school so that they have good futures ahead of them.

Rosemary Mlambo (Housekeeper), has two children; Lelhoqonolo, the eldest at eighteen, and Lefa, who is nine, going on ten. Rosemary believes in the African proverb that “Children are the reward of life” and is a devoted mother.

Another of our Morukuru Madikwe mums is Masego Salvation Thebyane. When she’s not focussed on bringing her A-Game to her scullery job, she is going the extra mile to be a devoted mother to Ofentse ( 9 years old ) and Kaboenthle ( 6-months old). Mma is how you say “mum” in her language. “All I want for my kids is that they grow up with integrity and appreciate the value of a strong family unit and go on to fulfil their true potential.,” Masego told us. We know that Masego taps into her people skills at work and carries out her responsibilities with purpose and passion. Her example of dedication and commitment is setting the standard for her children to follow.

Our team in De Hoop is filled with marvellous mums like Sinegugu Mgxgxwa (sculler), who has three children Anomsa (7 years), Amandla (4 years) & Yibanathi (8 months). Sinegugu says for her, the most challenging part of being a parent is watching your children going through something really tough and not being able to fix it for them.

Chef’s Assistant,  Rebotile Noko turns to the advice and guidance of her own late mum on how to be the best mum possible. “She was a huge influence. When my mother was still alive, she took care of my daughter. She taught me how to care for my daughter Dithoriso Lesedi who is just six years old”. When Rebotile is not creating magic in the kitchen, she spends as much time as possible with Dithoriso, her favourite little person and is always happy to see her mum. “Dithoriso must follow her own dreams and know that I will always support her.”

Manager Kayleigh Lamprecht is double blessed with two children, Chloé (10) and Leland (7 months). Kayleigh calls Chloe her “bonus daughter” – the family does not use the word step-child. That positive and progressive sentiment is carried through in everything Kayleigh does as a mother.  “The thing that gives me the most joy as a mother is seeing my children accomplish something for themselves. When they learn something new or get something right, they have been struggling with it. I am filled with joy every day when I get home from work, and my little boy gets overly excited to see me, or when we pick up my bonus daughter from school, and she smiles when she sees I’m there waiting for her. “Being a parent brings new skills, and Kayleigh says that having a baby herself has given her more confidence to interact and care for little ones visiting De Hoop. “I’m definitely growing in my role now that I’ve had a child and am happy to share my new experience with guests and families.”

Chef’s Assistant Bongi Nadabeni says seeing her two children happy is a dose of sunshine after a long day at work. “I have two boys Lilitha, who is 21 but still needs his mum and Likhanye, who is my gorgeous 10-year old.” Bongi doesn’t see her children every day but is confident that they are being well cared for, and when she does see them, she spoils them with a traditional treat she learnt from her own mum. Homemade Vetkoek! Nothing beats traditional family recipes. “I love my children more than anything, and if it wasn’t for them, I don’t think I would be working anymore.”

Congratulations to all our Morukuru Mums, and Happy Mother’s Day!

Our entire Morukuru Family is mourning the tragic passing of Admire Brown, friend and colleague who has been part of the Morukuru Family for 10 years. Born in Zimbabwe, he joined the team in Madikwe as a sculler and then into the maintenance department on a temporary basis and never left! In 2014 he moved to De Hoop to be a part of the original team that started Morukuru Ocean House. He moved quickly up the ranks to butler and then more recently to a ranger/marine guide. And what a guide he was – guests loved their Marine Walks with him. He was passionate, knowledgeable and patient, always full of fun and giving 100% of himself at all times. Young and old were drawn to him. He was loved by guests and staff alike.

This is what some of our team had to say about him:

“Tuesday night our Morukuru Family lost a legend. He was handy and hands on and could assist wherever needed and someone with the potential to become a lodge manager one day. A person that gave our Morukuru Family colour and juice, making the difference for our guests. Outspoken in his looks – always with funky dreadlocks – and charming in his manner. Some people say it not about the amount of years of your life, but about the life you put in your years. We are sure that Admire did that to the fullest. We can still hardly believe this all really happened and that we won’t see his naughty smiles anymore. We hope his soul rests in peace and we wish all who loved him the strength to cope with this devasting loss.” – Ed & Anka (Owners)

“Some people you meet are hard to forget and will be remembered forever. Service and attention to detail was one of his strong points and nothing would escape his watchful eyes. But his ever present big naughty smile will be remembered most of all. We have lost a wonderful person, gone way too soon.” – Rinse (Marketing Manager)

“Rest in peace Admire. Morukuru has lost a legend!” – Nadia (Chef)

“Never without a smile and that big booming voice. Go well dear Admire” – April (Reservations Manager)

“A legend indeed. I only knew him for a few months but I saw a brother and a friend. RIP Admire” – Doreen (Housekeeper/Sculler)

“Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is a success.” from the little time we had the privilege to get to know Admire, this is what we learnt from him. You will be missed ! Lynette & Mauritz (General Manager)

“As we grieve the loss of our beloved friend, our spirits must rejoice in what he has left behind. We must rejoice at all the memories that will be with us forever. Grief is not a sign of weakness but rather a sign of love for what we lost” – Ellliot (Ass. General Manager)

Farewell Admire, you will never be forgotten and you will be forever missed by your Morukuru Family

Today is International Hyena Day, and we celebrate Africa’s most common large carnivore. Hyenas are neither members of the dog nor the cat family. They are unique and have their own family: Hyaenidae, which has four members: striped hyenas, the “laughing” spotted hyenas, brown hyenas, and the aardwolf (which is not a wolf). The Madikwe is one of the only places in Africa where you can see Brown Hyena and Spotted Hyena together in one reserve. Morukuru Family Madikwe has 76 000ha of unique African wilderness to explore and we have regular sightings of both species of hyena—another Madikwe highlight.

Did you know the laugh of a hyena is not for fun? According to scientists, the tone and pitch of an individual’s laughter can indicate their social status and age.

The Brown Hyena ( Parahyaena brunnea ) differs in appearance from the three other hyena species by its pointed ears and long shaggy coat . This aggressive animal is famous for its weird howl, sounding like a hysterical human laugh. It is a dishevelled looking animal with a large head, muscular shoulders, sloping hindquarters and an untidy, shaggy brown coat.

Brown hyenas are nocturnal, and during the day, adults will take the opportunity to sleep under the cover of bushes, trees, or rocks to avoid getting too hot. The Brown Hyena lives either nomadically or within a clan, and the adults hunt independently, following trails they used previously and have scent-marked. Brown hyenas are generalist carnivores and, being scavengers, are highly opportunistic feeders. They typically eat carrion and hunt live prey such as small mammals, birds, fish and insects. They will also eat fruit, vegetables and eggs.

It is estimated that approximately one-third of males are nomads, having left their birth clan and searching for a new clan to join in the alpha male role. The females are sometimes nomadic, but only when there are no cubs to look after. Clans number 3 to 5 individuals related to each other, but alpha males have usually come from another clan.

The brown hyena uses faeces to communicate between members of a clan and scent markings. They defecate in latrine sites throughout their territory, mostly near their den and other important locations such as killing grounds and territorial boundaries.

The Brown hyena is often killed due to misconceptions, myths and an unjustified bad reputation. Due to the amount of poisoning, hunting, and trapping, the overall range of brown hyenas is possibly declining. In the south part of its range, it is now rare and perhaps even.

Did you know that a hyena is the only predator who has jaws that are strong enough to rip elephant hide and crush elephant bone?

The Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta) is also called the laughing hyena. It looks like a dog, but it is closer to cats, civets, and genets. It is a highly misunderstood animal with the reputation of being cowardly and sly, but it is actually a fascinating and intelligent creature with an intriguing social system. It is a capable and robust hunter and the largest member of the hyena family. Females and males look exactly the same, except that the females are slightly larger.

Spotted hyenas are considered close to the same level as certain primates in terms of their social intelligence. They have excellent night vision, being primarily nocturnal, hunting at night and sleeping or staying near their den in the daytime. They have a matriarchal social order of related individuals that are called clans. One alpha female leads the clan. These animals mark their territory by scratching the ground and secreting an oily substance from their anal glands. Areas far away from the den are their “latrines”, another way of marking their clan’s territorial boundary. Spotted hyenas have an extensive vocal range and communicate with clan members with whoops, yells, grunts, growls and giggles. The giggling sounds like manic laughter, hence their other name.

The Spotted hyena is an omnivorous animal that hunts and scavenges. When hunting alone, they prey on smaller animals such as hares, foxes, jackals, birds, fish, snakes, and carrion. However, in a group, they are more confident. They hunt medium to large-sized hoofed animals like zebra, wildebeest, Grant’s gazelle, Thompson’s gazelle, topi, waterbuck, eland, hartebeest and impala. They also eat eggs, fruit and invertebrates.

Whilst most populations of Spotted hyena in protected areas within southern Africa seem to be stable, the ones in western and eastern Africa, including those in protected areas, seem to be declining. The main reason appears to be human persecution through shooting, poisoning, trapping and snaring. An additional threat is a decline in habitat quality outside of protected areas.

Now that you are have read about Hyaenidae and discovered so many fascinating facts about Africa’s most widespread scavenger come and visit Morukuru Family Madikwe and see for yourself why hyenas are unique and vital components of most African ecosystems.