Opera Cake served with Chocolate Mousse – Chocolate Parfait – Spiral Chocolate and Chocolate Ice Cream
Sponge
Eggs x 5
Ground Almonds x 140g
Powder Sugar x 140g
Flour x 30g
Melted Butter x 30g
Egg Whites of 5 eggs
Sugar x 30g
Salt x 1 g
Coffee Butter Cream
Egg yolks x 5
Sugar x 150g
Water x 45ml
Coffee x 4ml
Butter x 250g
Sift flour and almonds then cream sugar with eggs until light and fluffy
Fold in the almond mixture and the egg white mixture together then transfer to baking tray and bake at 180 degrees for 10 minutes
For the butter cream, mix the eggs in a heat proof bowl until creamy over bain-marie style
Simmer in sauce pan and pour egg white mixture at 115 degrees then add the butter until well incorporated.
For the glaze melt 200g of dark chocolate with 30ml of canola oil, stir until well incorporated.
Layer your sponge with coffee, cream butter then repeat until the desired thickness is achieved then glaze the cake.
Chocolate soil
Unsalted butter x 25g
Plain flour x 30g
Walnuts x 25g
Brown sugar x 25g
Ground cinnamon x pinch
Combine all the ingredients together then add melted butter and mix until a crumb is formed, bake at 180 degrees for 15 minutes while stirring in between every 4 minutes.
Chocolate Cream
Egg yolks x 4
Castor sugar x 100g
Vanilla pod 1 1 whole
Cream x 125ml
Milk x 375ml
Chocolate x 80g
Whisk the yolks and sugar in a bowl until almost white then boil the milk with the vanilla pod in a thick based pan.
Whisk the eggs and sugar well then return to the cleaned saucepan and place on low heat.
Stir continuously with a wooden spoon until the mixture coats the back of the spoon.
Add the chocolate chips until melted then pass through a strainer into a bowl and churn in the ice cream maker.
Chocolate Mousse
Egg yolks x 80ml
Stock syrup x 125ml
Bitter couverture x 250g
Leaf gelatine
Whipping cream
Boil the syrup, place yolks in food mixer, add syrup while whisking util thick
Add all the couverture at once and fold in quickly then drain the soaked gelatine, melt in and fold it into the chocolate sabayon mixture.
Add the whipped cream at once and fold it in carefully then place the mixture into the prepared moulds, refrigerate or freeze immediately.
Gently saute the onions in olive oil until translucent
Add garlic and all the spices, fry for a few minutes.
Add vinegar and sugar, stir until sugar is dissolved.
Simmer and reduce for couple of minutes
Add salt and pepper too taste
Place a layer of cooked fish in a suitable dish, pour a little hot sauce over it until all the fish is covered, let cool then chill until ready too serve
• Mix the crushed biscuits with melted butter and press into the tart tin. Chill for 10 minutes.
• Stir the sea salt into the caramel treat and spoon into the centre of the biscuit base. Gently spread so the base is evenly covered but a visible 1-2cm border of biscuits remains around the edge. Chill while you are making the chocolate layer.
• Melt the chocolate and then stir in the cream until smooth. Shift in the icing sugar and stir in the vanilla essence. Pour the chocolate mixture over the caramel, covering the edges first, sealing the caramel in the middle; gently shake to smooth the surface.
• Chill for at least 5hours or 24 hours, until firm.
• Remove torte from the tart tin and serve
Speckled eggs to decorate
Surround yourself with people who believe in your dreams, encourage your ideas, support your ambitions, and bring out the best in you.” (Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart)
Meet Evanz Marope, one of our beloved team at Morukuru Family Madikwe. Evanz first got into the hospitality business when he worked as part of the maintenance crew at an adjoining property. Luckily for us, in 2007 he became part of our very own Morukuru Family. Evanz was training up as a butler within six months and has never looked back. We caught up with Evanz and found out more about the man, the job and why for him, the Leopard will never change its spots!
As a butler at Morukuru Family Madikwe, one of your jobs is to create unforgettable experiences for your guests…what tricks do you have up your sleeve? My main secret is to always create a relaxed environment for my guests. I find a genuine, warm smile a powerful secret weapon.
What is your favourite part of your job? I have a true passion for creating new cocktails for my guests. So, Tom Cruise could learn a thing from me (Cocktail the Movie, 1988)! Ha Ha Ha!
What is the biggest challenge in your job? With so many international guests from all over the world -sometimes there is a language barrier. But I find sincerity and a positive attitude smooths the way.
Morukuru Family Madikwe often hosts families with young children – how do you make holidays the best for your little guests? I find kids respond well to a casual atmosphere, freedom and fun. One trick I use is giving pet names, and my favourite pet name is “Princess”.
Have you had the opportunity to travel in our country – have you visited any other Morukuru properties? Over many years at Morukuru Family, I have had the opportunity to visit all the properties in the group. I consider myself very lucky and appreciate each property’s exceptional beauty and atmosphere.
Have you ever travelled outside South Africa? I have had the opportunity to travel to the Netherlands and found it a beautiful country and would easily revisit it.
Morukuru Family Madikwe is an award-winning property – does it make you proud to work somewhere which has received so many accolades? Nothing beats working for one of the best in the business!
Morukuru Family Madikwe is well-known for its excellent food – tell us your favourite dish off the dinner menu and why? Hands down, the winner is Bobotie – due to it being a traditional South African dish.
What’s your favourite animal? Definitely, the Leopard because it is a very successful hunter in the African bush. Did you know: Leopards can run at up to 58km/h! They’re super flexible and can leap 6m forward through the air.
Share some compliments guests have given you? I often get asked if I can fit in a suitcase – LOL!
What keeps you motivated, and where do you see yourself in five years? I will be here, ready & waiting to make my next guests a cocktail and maybe by then, I will have cracked the secret to fitting in a suitcase.
A seasoned safari-goer once told me that the Morukuru Marine Walk had been one of her top ‘safari’ experiences. Ever. High praise indeed – and somewhat intriguing. Like many Brits, I have grown up poking into rock pools on the south coast of England (and we certainly had no end of opportunity to do so in the last 2 years with all the restrictions on long-haul travel). So, needless to say, I was agog to experience such a highly-acclaimed element of the coastal activities on offer when I stayed at Morukuru Beach Lodge last month, and to see for myself what ‘rock-pooling with a difference’ would be like.
It certainly lived up to the billing…
After a leisurely, fresh breakfast in Morukuru’s dining room, with its glorious, expansive view of the Indian Ocean, our small group gathered to meet Admire, who would be guiding our walk, and helping us to interpret (and, indeed, admire) the landscape and its marine life. We set off, ahead of the heat of the day, with the tide well out, making our way across the fynbos, stopping on the way to learn about all species which make up this extraordinary ecosystem, part of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Fynbos takes up only 0.04% of the world’s land area yet contains a mind-boggling 3% of the planet’s plant species – one of the densest in the world. We also heard of some of the challenges it faces from invasive species, such as Rooikrans, and how Morukuru takes steps to address these, via the work of its Goodwill Foundation.
Our group comprised myself and a small family group of a 3 year old, Pippa, and her parents. As we made our way to the shoreline through the fynbos, it was clear the intrepid Pippa could safely amble ahead or behind us, with no fear of getting lost, and the only traffic to encounter would be industrious insects crossing our path. It was immediately striking how much Morukuru has to offer people of all ages.
After about a mile we swung south to meet a beautiful beach, where in the winter months, guests will be able to take a ringside seat watching the southern right whales birthing in the safe waters just off the shore – (it is a Protected Marine Area so no boating or other human disturbances are allowed) -in staggeringly vast numbers. This phenomenon is certainly a bucket-list trip for anyone who loves wildlife.
On this February day however, the whales were still many miles off, and our business was with the smaller marine life, sheltering in the myriad of rock pools created by the tide’s twice-daily retreat.
Under Admire’s expertise, these still, seemingly calm pools, glistening in the sun, soon transformed into marine underworlds teeming with life and activity. We saw Sea, Spiny and Cushion starfish, Cape Urchin and Sea Anemone. Creatures that can seem comparatively non-expressive under casual observation became fascinating once Admire translated their differing behaviours.
I was impressed not only by our guide’s knowledge, but his ability to handle a group of differing ages. Morukuru is known for its family-friendly ethos, and this was so apparent in how Admire would assist Pippa traverse the shore safely, whilst also focused on our endless questions.
Our appetites truly whetted, we started to think big. Having been blown away by ‘My Octopus Teacher’ last year, top of my marine ‘Big Five’ was to see an octopus, and so Admire led us to the deeper pools towards the shore. Our eyes had started to attune to movements within the pools and I’m proud to claim one of my best ever safari spots, when I caught a quick, fluid movement out of the corner of my eye, as a suckered protrusion from the shadows swept gracefully into the sunlight, as if beckoning to us.
At first the octopus teased us, then he became bolder, and we stood speechless as this beautiful creature traversed the pools before us. It was as if he was dancing for us – I am quite sure he was basking in the attention!
I could have stayed there literally all day watching this extraordinary sight. In fact we probably watched for an hour, but it felt like minutes. Mindful of the need to return for lunch we reluctantly tore ourselves away, only to discover another octopus in an adjacent pool, this one a little more shy.
As if we hadn’t marvelled at the wonders of nature enough, we then came across an enormous beehive, hanging on the underside of the roof of a cliff, safe from the honey-badgers. Such beautiful, effective architecture – and not a CAD computer in sight.
The short walk across the shore back to Morukuru Beach Lodge was replete with birdlife, and though we kept an eye out for seals and dolphins, I think they had got word that the octopus had well and truly stolen the show, so they were saving themselves for another matinee, a different audience.
Morukuru Beach Lodge sits gracefully and unobtrusively, just set back from the dunes, in this incredible landscape, where the worlds of sea and land meet. The dunes shift and change; as does the shore with the tides; and the wide skies with the rhythms of night and day, and weather. The strong, clean lines of Morukuru’s contemporary architecture, with its optimisation of views, juxtaposes this sense of fluidity beautifully, and gives a place of comfort and repose from which to feel a privileged observer of Nature on the grand scale.
It is easy to see why Morukuru has won Conde Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Choice Award for the last two years: the food and hospitality is exceptional; the interiors and accommodation are excellent; and the many experiences on offer (of which the marine walk is just one) are fascinating and memorable. And all this is enjoyed within a place of such pristine wilderness and natural grandeur as is the De Hoop Nature Reserve – such a quiet, little-known gem of a coastal reserve.
So, to return to the expectation: was Morukuru’s marine walk one of my safari highlights?… I’d go further, as to say that in fact my moments with the octopus will be all time life highlight!
And with Morukuru’s specialism at offering the perfect family friendly stay – where style and individuality is not compromised by that flexibility – I hope to one day return with my children to share this extraordinary marine world with them.
Are you concerned about our planet? Do you want to make the world a better place for all?
If your answer is “yes”, join Morukuru Family this Earth Hour (26 March at 8.30 pm) to save the planet! During Earth Hour, millions of people worldwide will consciously turn off the lights for one hour, setting an example for a living planet, climate protection and a sustainable future.
Armand Steyn, GM Morukuru Family Madikwe says, “Nature is one of our strongest allies against climate change. But it is being destroyed at an unprecedented rate. We are already seeing how climate change is causing more extreme weather events, such as droughts. We will use Earth Hour to remind us all of our natural environment and the threats it faces.”
In the bush, you can celebrate Earth Hour every night. If you are out on a night drive, there is no artificial light – just you and the stars and the occasional beam of your ranger’s torch to spot nocturnal animals. We think nothing beats turning the vehicle’s engine off, flicking the switch on the spotlight, and being present in the dark. This is the perfect time to observe Earth Hour.
Earth Hour was started in 2007 by The World Wildlife Fund (WWF). The first-ever Earth Hour was a symbolic lights-out event in Sydney, Australia, to raise awareness of climate change. This event saw 2.2 million homes and businesses turn their lights off for one hour, taking a stand against climate change. Fast forward to 2022, when 100’s of millions of people will participate in Earth Hour and global landmarks will be shrouded in symbolic darkness,
Louis Jansen van Vuuren, GM from Morukuru Family De Hoop comments that “Morukuru Family is committed to our environment and we all do our bit every day to protect our planet. Here, we embrace principles of sustainability, eco-design and environmental sensitivity. We are 100% off-grid. For electricity, we rely on solar panels (with a generator for those cloudy days); for hot water and underfloor heating, we use pellet burner boilers. For heating, we have fireplaces (using local invasive Rooikrans trees). Our water is from a borehole. We have our own sewage plant and a Biorock system for gas cooking.”
Here in the de Hoop Nature Reserve, we will be supporting Earth Hour by encouraging our guests to mark the occasion with a candle-lit dinner or a candle-lit bath. What could be more romantic than enjoying a bath under the stars with just lanterns and candles for company – you could take it up a level by inviting your partner and adding a bottle of beautiful bubbles.
WWF, which organises the annual Earth Hour event, aims to stop the degradation of the Earth’s natural environment. It also focuses on building a future where people live in harmony with nature. Since 2007 the WWF has encouraged people worldwide to switch off their lights and think about climate change.
Ryno van der Elst from AtholPlace House & Villa adds, “It feels like the world has been standing still for two years now, and the climate crisis remains and is being worsened by the rapid loss of biodiversity and nature. Things that we had previously taken for granted by many have become a rare commodity. The rapid spread of the coronavirus has severely restricted our freedom and leisure time. Earth Hour 2022 seems an apt moment in time to pause and reflect. We will celebrate 60 minutes of darkness – to shine the light on climate change.”
Probably never before has the sense of community been greater than in the current situation. We all live on one planet and national borders really only exist in our heads. Therefore, we are all collectively responsible for our planet. The Earth Hour campaign is not about “just” saving energy but about setting a peaceful example for more environmental and climate protection. In this case, saving electricity is just a nice side effect. Above all, the campaign is intended to show that we have to take better care of our planet.
Science agrees: if humanity does not succeed in limiting global warming to 1.5°C, catastrophic consequences for humanity and nature are imminent. One in six species could become extinct. Forest fires are becoming more frequent, droughts and floods more severe. The climate crisis is – corona or not – still the greatest threat to our planet.
Join Morukuru Family and be part of the Earth Hour 2020! Turn off your lights for one hour on 26th March at 20:30. Unite with millions of people worldwide in sending a strong signal for a living planet. It’s become clear that what we do to our planet, we do to ourselves. As a collective, humans have the chance to reshape history by the actions we take. To stop runaway climate change and shape our future. All of us have a choice, and we must act now.
“I’m so good at sleeping that I can do it with my eyes closed.” — Anonymous
World Sleep Day is today, Friday 18th March, and is a reminder to celebrate the importance of a good night’s rest. The World Sleep Society is the organisation behind the drive to highlight why quality sleep is important for a sound body and mind. Getting a good night’s sleep is necessary for your health. In fact, it’s just as important as eating a balanced, nutritious diet and exercising.< Though sleep needs vary from person to person, most adults require between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night. Yet, up to 35% of adults don’t get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation can put your health at risk, which is why it’s essential that you prioritise and protect your sleep. Getting a good night’s rest under stressful conditions is hard enough, but sleeping well during an ongoing pandemic seemed impossible some nights. Stress-related insomnia due to COVID-19 is a real thing and it even has a name: coronasomnia.
This type of sleep deprivation is more complicated than normal stress-related sleeplessness because it is not just about the virus but also about everything that has changed since the world has turned upside down. Stress levels skyrocketed during the pandemic for many reasons, including loneliness, economic hardships, juggling work and school, and navigating parenting challenges. Something that hasn’t changed is that here at Morukuru Family is that we are still all for sleeping, napping and dreaming and offer guests plenty of opportunities to indulge in this ultimate form of relaxation.
Celebrate World Sleep Day by embracing these five tips to improve your sleep.
Make sleep a priority – even with the jam-packed leisure schedules on offer at Morukuru Family – set aside at least 8 hours to get some quality shut-eye. There’s always tomorrow to go game watching, enjoy some dune boarding or sip on a cocktail beside the pool.
Take a nap if you are tired. Our modern world sees resting as time-wasting, but we see it as an important investment in your rejuvenation so that you have the energy to tackle the important business of the next day like mountain biking through the fynbos, rhino tracking in the bush or enjoying a great read in the library at AtholPlace House & Villa. According to experts napping works to keep you from forgetting things like motor skills, sensory perception, and verbal recall, too.
Select a magical setting. Imagine snoozing under an African night sky. A sleep-out in the private Hide at Morukuru Family Madikwe, overlooking a waterhole from an elevated platform, is the perfect antidote to insomnia – 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, whilst drifting off? Research suggests that sleeping on a medium-firm mattress, promotes comfort, proper spinal alignment, and quality sleep. All the Morukuru Family properties offer extra sized beds in length and width.
Make sure you have comfortable, inviting bedding. All Morukuru Family properties offer the finest thread count, 100% cotton sheets and duck-down duvets so you can snuggle under the highest quality bed-linen while catching your forty winks. Cotton is soft, lightweight, and breathable, which allows air circulation to your skin and down is lightweight, breathable and warm.
Block out noise and eliminate as much light as possible. No problems here as Morukuru Family De Hoop and Morukuru Family Madikwe are immune from excessive unnatural light sources as both are situated in nature conservancies where you might only be disturbed by the crash of the waves or the roar of a lion. Darkness is essential to sleep. The absence of light sends a critical signal to the body that it is time to rest. Light exposure at the wrong times alters the body’s internal “sleep clock”—the biological mechanism that regulates sleep-wake cycles—in ways that interfere with both the quantity and quality of sleep. All Morukuru Family properties have block out curtains in all the rooms.
Use our tips to improve your sleep in general and make tonight, World Sleep Day, your best forty-winks ever. We agree with the anonymous person who wrote “Don’t give up on your dreams so soon, sleep longer.” And here at Morukuru Family, we are all about rest, relaxation and rejuvenation.
For a weekend with a difference, where you can make a difference, Morukuru BeachLodge has joined forces with De Hoop Collection and CapeNaturefor a beach clean-up in the world renowned De Hoop Nature Reserve from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 May 2022.
“We are excited to be working together with Morukuru Beach Lodge and CapeNature on this very necessary project,” says William Stephens, owner of De Hoop Collection a member of Cape Country Routes, “and we’re offering a special rate for guests wanting to be part of this joint effort – a fabulous 50% discount.”
Accommodation on offer for the Beach Clean-Up Weekend:
De Hoop Collection: four sleeper/six sleeper Cottages – R1 450 per person; Suites one/two guests – R3 400 per person. (A minimum two-night stay on a Dinner, Bed & Breakfast basis). Rates are per person for the weekend (Friday and Saturday) and include two nights’ accommodation, two breakfasts, two dinners and Saturday packed lunch
Morukuru Beach Lodge: Suite for one/two guests – R2 900 per person per night sharing, includes accommodation, all meals and soft drinks. 50% single supplement. The 5 suites can accommodate max 10 guests.
To qualify for the special rate guests must commit to the clean-up on the Friday from 16h00, and full day clean-up on the Saturday. Own transport to be used to and from Koppie Alleen.
Morukuru Beach Lodge will provide a packed lunch for guests on Saturday 28 May 2022, while De Hoop Collection will provide a delicious boma dinner (Beef or Vegetable Potjie and dessert) at 18h00 for guests on Saturday 28 May 2022; and should guests participate in a clean-up on Sunday, Morukuru Beach Lodge can provide a packed lunch at R150 per person. Transport will be provided for Morukuru Beach Lodge guests to and from De Hoop Collection for the boma dinner.
“The De Hoop Nature Reserve is one of the most beautiful and unique places in the world and it’s a privilege to be situated in this protected area. However, like anywhere in the world, sea debris and litter wash up on our shores. With Beach Clean-Up weekends such as this one, we can make a difference to ensure our beaches remain as pristine as possible” says Trevor van Laun, GM Morukuru Beach Lodge.
CapeNature will provide black bags and gloves and the area to be covered is from Koppie Alleen to Skipskop.
Adding support to this initiative the well-known Marine Conservation photographer Jean Tresfon, after a recent visit to De Hoop had this to say… “De Hoop Nature Reserve is one of my favourite places to connect with nature – a unique mix of deserted coastline – whales frolicking just offshore – undulating sand dunes, fields of fynbos – bontebok, zebra and eland – a huge vlei that is a birder’s paradise – the Potberg mountain range with the last breeding colony of vultures in the Western Cape – this is a very special spot indeed. My wife and I took a walk westwards along the beach from Koppie Alleen – this is a completely deserted beach with very few people ever exploring it and apart from the unbelievable birding opportunities it offers, it also almost always, presents a surprise or two. The surprise we got turned out to be a rather shocking one! The entire 8km stretch of beach we walked was covered in plastic rubbish, old slipslops, plastic needles, discarded fishing nets, broken crayfish traps, ropes and a myriad of bottles – a literal rubbish dump. Definitely time for a serious beach clean-up!”
Morukuru Beach Lodge
Reservations: reservations@morukuru.com or +27 11 615 4303, www.morukuru.com
Morukuru Beach Lodge is situated at Koppie Alleen, along the unspoilt coastline of the De Hoop Nature Reserve. Considered to be the ultimate place in South Africa to view southern right whales, De Hoop Nature Reserve also offers towering white sand dunes, limestone cliffs, rock pools and coastal fynbos. Morukuru Beach Lodge has been built with the greatest sensitivity to the environment. Due to our remote location we are fully off the grid. Guests are able to enjoy lazy days by the pool, sundowners on the first floor rooftop terrace or intimate moments in our sheltered courtyards. Or embrace adventure and get involved in a wide range of activities which can be pursued with or without a guide, like dune-boarding, mountain-biking, nature trekking or a marine walk. Request a picnic basket and blanket, head off and savour a secluded lunch on the beach, in the dunes or amongst the fynbos. Guests at Morukuru Beach Lodge enjoy complimentary use of outdoor equipment (like snorkels, masks, water shoes, wetsuits, mountain bikes, sand boards, ponchos, gumboots, beach umbrella, towels). So no need to pack any of that. We do recommend a minimum stay of 2 nights, to fully appreciate the location and all the activities on offer. Just 3 hours drive from Cape Town, Morukuru Beach Lodge is ideally situated halfway between Cape Town and Knysna/Plettenberg along the Garden Route. Morukuru Family De Hoop was awarded Best Resort in South Africa by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice in 2020 & 2021 and World Travel Award for Best Beach Hotel In South Africa 2020 & 2021.
De Hoop Collection
Reservations: 021-422 4522 or res@dehoopcollection.co.za, www.dehoopcollection.com
The De Hoop Collection – a member of Cape Country Routes – and the first private/public partnership in the South African hospitality industry opened in the De Hoop Nature Reserve in the Western Cape in 2007. The Reserve in the Overberg region, a short three hour drive from Cape Town along the world renowned Garden and Whale routes is the perfect holiday destination for families, couples, groups, honeymooners and wedding parties, family reunions and birthday weekends and an ideal stop-over en route from the Cape Winelands to Plettenberg Bay. De Hoop Collection offers a wide range of accommodation designed to suit all budgets. Overlooking the beautiful vlei with its spectacular bird life is the staple of De Hoop’s dining scene, The Fig Tree Restaurant and the Silo Wine Cellar where an exceptional variety of wines can be enjoyed. De Hoop, a World Heritage site, offers world-class whale-watching and is a paradise for bird enthusiasts with its more than 260 species of birds including the endangered Cape Vultures. A colony of almost 200 vultures roost and nest in the Potberg Mountains and exciting Vulture hikes and viewing opportunities are offered. Other activities include interpretive marine walks, hiking and mountain biking trails, eco boat cruises on the vlei, nature drives and tennis or boules. De Hoop is a nature lover’s paradise of unparalleled peace and tranquility and may well be one of the last of the Cape’s unspoiled gems.
Today is the 3rd of March which means it is World Wildlife Day. Each year Morukuru Family chooses to celebrate the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which was signed on 3 March 1973. The CITES convention is a vital tool in our pursuit of conservation, and this year’s theme is Recovering key species for ecosystem restoration.
Every day is wildlife day at Morukuru Family. Still, today, in particular, we stand in solidarity with everyone around the globe, both government and civil society organisations, who are harnessing experience and resources to safeguard our natural world.
At Morukuru Family Madikwe and Morukuru Family De Hoop, we are highly privileged to be surrounded by an abundance of wilderness and wild animals. However, sometimes we have to remind ourselves that even here in the sanctuary of the 680 km2 Madikwe Game Reserve, which is a conservation area, and the De Hoop Nature Reserve, which is 34 000 hectares of protected space, the animals we see every day are in danger. It is unthinkable that we are surrounded by species that are Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN) and Vulnerable (VU), all of which are considered to be threatened with global extinction.
“Worldwide, more than 40,000 species are threatened with extinction. When I look at the numbers, I’m shocked, and everyone who cares about the environment should be too. This global list makes for scary reading! 41% of amphibians, 26% mammals,34% conifers,13% birds, 37% sharks & rays, 33% reef corals, 28% selected crustaceans, 21% of reptiles and 63% cycads,” says Evan Vermeulen, Ranger, Morukuru Family Madikwe.
So what does each category mean? In descending order of threat, the categories are broken down into:
Extinct or Extinct in the Wild
Critically Endangered, Endangered and Vulnerable: species threatened with global extinction.
Near Threatened: species close to the threatened thresholds or threatened without ongoing conservation measures.
In Madikwe, the Black Rhino is Critically Endangered. In addition, endangered status includes the White Rhino,Cheetah, African Elephant, Pangolin and the Lappet-faced Vulture. On the vulnerable list is the African Lion, Leopard, and the Baboon Spider are on the vulnerable list.
Morukuru Family Ocean House & Beach Lodge in the Southern Cape is not immune from environmental challenges. De Hoop Nature Reserve is home to over 260 bird species, making this the perfect destination for birding enthusiasts, but certain species are at risk. For example, the Cape Vulture(Gyps coprotheres), which has already been classified as extinct in Namibia, Swaziland and Zimbabwe, is documented as Vulnerable as it has a small population experiencing a rapid decline. Corné Lamprecht, Marine Guide tells us: “The Cape Vulture had been nearly wiped out due to the destruction of their natural habitat, an increase in farming, as well as poisoning. However, conservation efforts over the past ten years, conservation efforts mean this colony has grown from 100 vultures to about 200”. Morukuru Ocean House and Beach Lodge offer guests a unique opportunity to see the rare Cape Vulture in its natural habitat. The steep Potberg Mountains provide the perfect habitat for the Cape Vultures who have taken sanctuary in a deep gorge where they roost.
Two other avian species found at De Hoop also face an uncertain future. The African Penguin population has declined to approximately 50,000 birds and is dwindling further, meaning that it is listed as an endangered species. In 1998, due to a diminishing population, the African Black Oystercatcher was declared a threatened species. Luckily now the numbers are on the rise due to the efforts of the Oystercatcher Conservation Programme and increased food availability. Thankfully this species is currently listed as Near Threatened.
Abalone is a common name for any of a group of small to very large marine gastropod molluscs in the family Haliotidae. Overfishing and disease led to the collapse of many abalone populations in the 20th century. A series of environmental catastrophes led to a ban on recreational diving for red abalone in 2018. This moratorium was recently extended to 2026. Guide Riehan Groenewald says, “White abalone is endangered, and there is much work ahead of the conservation community to stabilise and prevent the extinction of this unique species.”
Setting out on a marine walk is an exhilarating adventure for both young and old. The Southern Cape is situated in a transition zone where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans merge. The binding of warm and cold seawater creates a unique habitat where magic is made. “Each day is different and presents special opportunities, but guests will likely spot a variety of species including starfish, octopus, mussels, sea cucumber and sea & sand anemone. Oh, and my favourite – hermit crabs,” says Guide Admire Brown. Unfortunately, two sea creatures, sometimes spotted, are in jeopardy, the Leatherback Turtle and the Green Sea Turtle. The leatherback sea turtle, sometimes called the lute turtle or leathery turtle or simply the luth, is the largest of all living turtles and the heaviest non-crocodilian reptile, reaching lengths of up to 2 metres and weights of 600 kg. “this giant of the ocean has a declining population and is listed as vulnerable, and the Green Sea Turtle is even worse off at endangered status” adds Admire.
Edward Abbey, the American environmental advocate and author said: “sentiment without action is the ruin of the soul”. In response to guests expressing similar views, the owners of Morukuru established the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation (MGWF) back in 2007. One of the aims of the MGWF is to support wildlife protection in the Madikwe Game Reserve and to spearhead various nature conservation initiatives in the De Hoop Nature Reserve. MGFW is specifically interested in rhino conservation and assists with other conservation efforts such as elephant collaring, cheetah collaring, lion collaring/contraception, and rhino notching/chipping. MGWF is also dedicated to protecting all inhabitants ( flora and fauna) of the De Hoop Nature reserve. Recently MGWF organised an alien vegetation clearing project in the reserve as exotic vegetation is a threat to the natural wilderness and consequently the indigenous wildlife.
The Morukuru Goodwill Foundation is firmly committed to conservation. Today, World Wildlife Day is an important opportunity to reflect on the work we have successfully undertaken and to recommit ourselves to the critical ongoing challenges our environment faces.
World Bartender Day is celebrated every year on 24th February. The day gives us an opportunity to toast these creative mixologists behind the bar.
We chatted to some of our bar staff and bartenders across all 3 of our properties and asked them what some of their favourite cocktails are and a tip or two on how to serve them.
Enoch at AtholPlace House & Villa says the one of the most popular cocktails he gets ask to make is the Caipirinha. This refreshing sweet and sour cocktail hails from Brazil and is the perfect sundowner on a hot summer’s evening in Jozi.
Enoch’s Caipirinha Recipe
2 tots Cane
1tot Tripple sec
1tot lemon juice
1 tot sugar syrup
Fresh limes
Served in a whisky glass
Enoch’s top cocktail tips
Chill glasses ahead of time
Use quality spirits and fresh fruit in your cocktails
Prepare them with style and love
At Morukuru Family De Hoop our guests love a cocktail. Being by the sea definitely brings out the guest fun side and we are regularly asked to whip up a cocktail or two and of course a lot of G&T’s!
Barman Nico says a firm favourite of his is what we call a “Vodka Still Works” because it’s just so refreshing.
2 shots vodka
Tsp bitters
Gingerale
Ice, ice and more ice
Garnish with fruit, flowers or cherries
Simple and easy and perfect for a hot summers day!
Cocktail hour in Madikwe often happens out in the bush whilst guest are on a game drive. The drinks stop is often a surprise for our guests and we try and do things a little bit differently. A G&T stop, cocktails with a view and a sunset or a full bar experiences at one of our dedicated spaces like Ed’s View. We often host families so we love to spoil our young guests with their very own mocktails that they can enjoy whilst their parents enjoy their alcoholic ones.
Pimms is a favourite on safari and we love to serve them on ice in glass jars. Refreshing, but still has that boozy kick.
50ml PIMM’S No.1
Lemonade
Add strawberry, orange & cucumber
Finish with a sprig of mint
Cheers to our wonderful team of barman on your special day and we can’t wait to see what they mix up next!
“The greatest accomplishment of a bartender lies in his ability to exactly suit his customer”. Harry Gordon Johnson.
Meet Jokoniya Tembo, who is fondly known as Jockey. Jockey fills the tempting role of chef at Morukuru Ocean House and Morukuru Beach Lodge. Read on to find out how he got started on his journey into the culinary arts, what his favourite local produce is and how “Play Has No Limits” when he picks up his gaming console.
Where did your journey to becoming a Chef at an award-winning lodge begin – tell us how you got started? My late mother was a domestic worker, and she worked extremely long hours. This meant that my sisters and I had to fend for ourselves. In addition, we had to prepare our own food – which led to some unusual (and sometimes inedible) pairings! Together with keeping things running at home and trying things out in the kitchen, I also had a passion for art. Unfortunately, my high school was an academically based school which meant the opportunity to explore art was limited. My tertiary education was focused on Consumer Studies, where I hoped I would tap into my artistic interests, but that didn’t work out. So, I made a change and got into the food industry to turn food into edible art. Since then, the plates have been my canvas, and food has become my “paintbrushes” to demonstrate my version of “edible art”.
Food is about memories, feelings and emotions – what do you think? Yes definitely. My take is that life is basically about memories, feelings and emotions. Food is part of life. I also reflect on food – as a way to measure how far I have come on my journey.
The best food is often comfort food – what is your favourite comfort food? McDonald’s Big Mac Cheeseburger and 6piece McNuggets. After some long shifts, I enjoy myself in front of the PlayStation with junk food. If I have time – put some effort into a braai or a homemade pizza with lamb shank, beef mince and lots of cheese.
Do guests ever request comfort food – if so, what types? Yes, they do. Something as simple as plain rice with a vegetable sauté infused with a touch of garlic and ginger. Or an array of seafood consisting of mussels in a velouté, pan-seared fish, prawns, calamari and rice.
Tell us about a signature dish you have created, especially for Morukuru Family. My Ravioli/Tortellini with a parmesan infused bechamel and herb cream cheese with any vegetable addition. I love creating butter emulsified courgette twirls, and sauteed broccoli tenders finished with a vegetable espuma. This dish is elevated by immaculate plating.
Spice it up! Are you good at creating spicy rubs, curries – something with a bit of heat? Tell us some of your secrets? Yes, indeed, but I can’t really tell you my secrets! As a chef, I can say that I have to evaluate the tolerance of spices for each guest. Some people can eat fresh chillies for breakfast, like fruit, and for others, just a hint of heat brings tears to their eyes. So it is a delicate balancing act.
What local ingredients do you like to work with? I’m blessed to have access to only the freshest seasonal ingredients. At the moment, kohlrabi and nasturtiums are getting plenty of air-time.
Many different cultures influence the food we eat – which global flavours are your favourite to work with? Being South African, I have been exposed to various cultures because of how diverse our country is – experiencing other countries’ food is accessible here. However, I must say my favourites are Mexican and Asian cuisines.
What are some of your favourite seasonal ingredients for Summer? I love the saying “Summer is a state of mind” At Morukuru Family, we focus on the freshest, seasonal, local produce – whatever the season, but right now, I’m loving naarjties, watermelon, radishes and heirloom tomatoes.
Best piece of advice you would give a home cooking enthusiast? Check your seasoning as it amplifies flavour to great heights, but not too much as you don’t want it to be too salty. Nowadays, home cooks are really upping their game – mainly because of food orientated reality shows and social media. Everyone can become a foodie!
Tell us about your dream four-course meal to prepare? And who would you like to prepare it for? I can definitely say it would be elaborate dishes. Using fresh earthy produce, homemade cheese, fresh catch from the sea, a tender cut of meat and a dessert that will have you licking your fingers. And I would love to cook for my late mother as she never had the opportunity to taste my food since I have been on my culinary journey.
Of all the dishes you have created for Morukuru De Hoop- tell us which one has proven the most popular? Pan-seared pork fillet with garlic butter and thyme, confit pork belly, onion tarts, corn puree, and mustard velouté.
What do you like to do in your downtime? Watch anime, play PlayStation, work out, read, hike and reflect. A balanced combo of tech, nature and non-screen time.
Which chefs do you admire most? My first chef. Chef Gracious Phakamani from Balducci restaurant was a dishwasher who worked his way up to the top of the ladder in that kitchen. He is by far the best motivation to believe the sky is the limit.
Favourite cookbook? First edition Alinea by Grant Achatz.
Trevor van Laun our General Manager at Morukuru Ocean House and Morukuru Beach Lodge in the De Hoop Nature Reserve, reports back on the creation and success of the alien vegetation clearing project underway in the reserve.
On 5th December 2021, Morukuru Family De Hoop, in conjunction with the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation (MGWF), launched an Alien Vegetation Clearing Project in the De Hoop Nature Reserve.
Previously Cape Nature employed woodcutters to come into the reserve and remove the alien vegetation. But due to the Covid pandemic and slashing of funds, this was stopped. After two years of no one controlling the species, it has started growing back rapidly. After taking a drive through the reserve, we noticed an opportunity to work alongside Cape Nature to control the park’s alien vegetation.
Our project aims to clear out the Rooikrans (Acacia cyclops), a highly invasive plant species. Used as a dune stabiliser in Australia, this tree was introduced to South Africa in the 1830s. By 1975 it occupied around 300,000 ha (740,000 acres) of coastal lowlands and sandy river valleys of inland areas forming dense thickets. It retards the fynbos from growing in that area. The De Hoop Nature Reserve is world-famous for its fynbos, and this unique plant kingdom must be conserved.
Even though Rooikrans is alien vegetation, it makes for excellent firewood, which will be used in our lodges for heating. Between Morukuru Ocean House and Morukuru Beach Lodge, we burn two thousand pieces of wood in fireplaces per week in the winter months. By harvesting the Rooikrans, we can make a positive dent in this species on the reserve. Our carbon footprint will be reduced as the wood used for fires will be from the reserve, and we are assisting with reducing the invasive species. This will help both Morukuru Ocean House and Morukuru Beach Lodge be even more sustainable in the future. It also reduces the risk of bringing in other invasive and destructive pest species such as the Bora Beetle. We will mulch the twigs that cannot be used for firewood and spread these back onto the reserve as fertiliser, and cover the ground to ensure minimal water evaporation. By mulching the leftover twigs, we will also enable the fynbos to regenerate quicker. We are restoring the reserve to its former glory.
The Morukuru Goodwill Foundation supports this project by supplying the necessary equipment such as chainsaws, safety gear and specialised training. The training was a two-day course offered through a local company. Morukuru Family Madikwe generously gave us their Kubota vehicle (affectionally renamed: “Linkuni”, which is the Xhosa word for “wood” by our staff) to get into those unique spots on the reserve to clear out the Rooikrans.
Morukuru Family De Hoop has also invested in two additional staff members who will work full-time for this project. Danny Manala and Amos Mgqomo were successful candidates. Danny was retrenched back at the beginning of the Covid pandemic, and this project has allowed us to create a position to reemploy him and upskill him. He is excited to be back with the company and be part of a project that helps the environment. He comes from a lumberjack background and is thrilled to share his bush knowledge with us. Amos worked as a forklift driver and CAT operator for 11 years before joining us. He is happy to be able to help the environment where he can. Both Danny and Amos have embraced the goal of eventually selling harvested wood to locals in the area.
We are proud to say that we managed to cut 3500 pieces of wood from the Rooikrans that were cleared within the first week of having the project operational.
When Shimmy joined our family 7 years ago, he was part of our maintenance crew, making sure everything was kept in tip-top shape. From simple DIY jobs to comprehensive projects, Shimmy was our go-to guy to get things done. At Morukuru Family we have an ethos of continued training and self-development for our staff, and when Shimmy decided that he wanted to upskill and take his career to the next level we supported him all the way. Today he is a qualified Tracker Level 3 with his FGASA 1 Theory Exam successfully under his belt and his Practical assessment now awaits him. The Fields Guides Association sets the standards and the level of professionalism for anyone wanting to get into nature guiding and is a highly respected brand within the tourism industry. We are so proud of Shimmy for seizing this opportunity to advance in the tourism industry and we count ourselves lucky that he is now part of our guiding team. Congratulations Shimmy all your hard work has paid off!
Where did you grow up? I grew up in a small village called Obakeng in rural North-west province. I am from a family of five and we were all lucky to be raised by two loving, strong parents. Life was not easy but they were always there doing their best to put food on the table and to build a better future for us. I am where I am today because of them.
Explain how you took the decision to train in a totally new field – and commit to getting your FGASA 1 qualification. I made the choice to change my career path because I love challenges and enjoy learning because that is how we humans grow. Most importantly, I want to thank my loving beautiful wife who encouraged and supported me in this industry. Before I started working at Morukuru Family, I had a dream; I wanted to achieve something like becoming a lawyer, but because of financial challenges, I couldn’t fulfil such a dream. However, I did not give up wanting to grow and I committed to getting my FGASA 1.
What were some of the challenges you faced – working full-time and studying? Juggling work and studying is never easy. I had to keep up with my job responsibilities and hit the books. I was determined that neither work nor studies would suffer – so I cut back on my sleep and managed to keep on top of everything.
Did the guiding, ranger and trackers at Morukuru Family Madikwe support your new journey? I am very grateful and blessed to have such a loving, encouraging team in my corner, it really helped. My managers were especially supportive.
What was the favourite part of your studies? I really enjoyed expanding my digital literacy and getting stuck into research as well as learning the tracks of the animals.
Now that you have the initial training under your belt – what part of your new role do you enjoy the most? It means a huge amount to me to be a professional – someone who has signed up for a qualification and completed it successfully.
Can you share your favourite guiding moment to date? It was when we were on game drive with Evan and I was on the tracker seat. An elephant came straight towards us and was so close. I didn’t flinch. It was then that I realised I was born to be a guide!
Do you have a mentor at Morukuru Family Madikwe – and how much have you learnt from the team of wilderness experts? Yes, I do have mentors. Working with a group of experienced people is a great help when you are building your career. The team here has definitely contributed to my skills and knowledge.
What’s next for Shimmy – are you planning to continue with other courses? I have got the studying bug and next on my radar would be qualifications in agriculture and tourism from a leading academic institution.
What do you say to others who want to make a change in their career – and do you have any tips for those hoping to take a new work direction? Never give up on your future! Take a step and face all your challenges. Just bear in mind that it’s okay to fail nine times and get up the 10th time. Life is a gift so make the best of it.
The sky’s The Limit – is this true for Shimmy? Yes, there are no limits and everything is possible. You can achieve anything if you really want if you really believe in yourself.
What is your favourite animal and why? The lion. It is much sweeter than it appears and is fiercely loyal. The King of the Jungle marches to the beat of its own drum.
How is your bird-spotting – any tips for those guests who are keen birdwatchers? My bird spotting is good, I can observe by using my naked eye. Binoculars are brilliant to assist with spotting as well as on-line resources to help with recognising bird sounds and calls.
We hope 2022 is going to be an epic year for travel and we can’t wait to welcome you to Morukuru Family. We think this is a kind of vacation retaliation against COVID-19 and it’s a response that, psychologically, makes sense. “Stress … is defined classically as, ‘no way out,’” said clinical psychologist and travel writer Scott Haas. “We were afraid that the trap … was permanent. That’s how our mind works.” Once the metaphorical “trap is sprung,” Haas explained, and we discover we are free — from, say, a relationship or a global pandemic or another major stressor — “all that pent-up energy explodes.” The best revenge is planning your next trip. Let us ignite your wanderlust so that you can start crafting your holiday plans.
We know ‘friendcations’ are on the rise. If the pandemic has shown us anything, it’s the importance of friendship and that real-life hugs are the secret to happiness. So, no surprise that 2022 is gearing up to be the year of grand in-person reunions. People are keen to travel in groups consisting of their extended family or close friends and their families. The pandemic has led to many of us working from home, swapping face-to-face meetings for Zoom call after Zoom call and, with hours spent on our laptops interacting in this strange remote world, there’s no wonder so many are suffering from digital burnout. We understand that travel is important for mental and physical health and that many need a holiday to help alleviate pandemic-related stress of burnout from work. Travelling with a group of people who are known to each other allows for in-person interactions and creates a safety bubble.
This means Multigenerational travel will be a popular option for families and friends who want to reconnect whilst on holiday. Travelling together as a group, made up of mixed ages and extended family can be challenging but heaps of fun too. Remember different age groups will have different objectives and you need to look at those. Some will be looking to explore new places, others might be seeking cultural experiences or adventure. It is important to get the balance right between everyone’s needs. And don’t forget about rest and relaxation! Start your planning by discussing as a group what your destination will be. Get everyone involved and listen to the different motivations.
Booking an exclusive-use property is a great start as everyone gets their own space and privacy which is perfect for individual expectations, routines and social distancing. Morukuru Family pioneered the exclusive use concept in South Africa and there is no surprise this is extremely popular with groups. This option offers a dedicated general staff as well as specialised personnel like a private chef, knowledgeable rangers and even a butler. All meals and drinks are inclusive and you can work with our chef to prepare food experiences tailor-made for your group. Sometimes children need menus to be tweaked for their preferences or perhaps one of the parties has specific nutrition requirements. All of this is taken care of.
Morukuru Family is committed to a unique Freedom Concept – which means there are no set agendas when it comes to having fun and spending quality time with your immediate and extended family and friends. If there’s one thing we’ve all missed it is freedom because our daily liberties slowly suffocated under the pandemic’s tight clutch. The Morukuru Freedom Concept has been designed to offer guests total freedom with regards to the activities and the meals they prefer to enjoy, meaning guests can decide what they want to do, when they want, with no fixed time schedule. Each day is customised by you to satisfy the interests and abilities of the whole group.
No one knows the future, of course. But plenty of signs are pointing to 2022 being the year of travel. We see 2022 shaping up to be a year for make-up vacations with guests already planning extensive bucket list trips. You have waited to get out and travel. Don’t wait too long to make your holiday plans for the year.
The meetings & events industry has suffered from the coronavirus pandemic alongside every travel-based market. Nevertheless, we are all finding our footing in this strange new time. We are learning what meetings and events will look like, at least in the near future. And while it will be different, we’re happy to say that we have found ways to facilitate a return to in-person meetings.
In 2020, we quickly recognised that the meetings and events landscape had changed in the middle of the pandemic. We responded by transforming the concept of AtholPlace Hotel & Villa to that of AtholPlace House & Villa. This allowed us to create two separate, exclusive-use houses in Johannesburg, both of which continue to be proud members of Relais & Chateaux.
We are ready to safely welcome you to AtholPlace House & Villa, our two exclusive-use properties in Johannesburg. Both can be used separately on an exclusive-use basis for meetings, small conferences, product launches, photoshoots and corporate getaways.
We started navigating this ever-changing meeting, small conference and event landscape in 2020 and have earned some valuable experience along the way. We understand that there’s a high level of bottled-up anticipation to get some face time with each other and enjoy some quality events. However, the desire for connections needs to be balanced with recommended health protocols. So here are our top tips for hosting a meeting or conference during these uncertain times.
We understand this is a difficult time to plan. Our professional and experienced team is here to help.We always, follow guidance issued by local public health authorities. We help your guests follow COVID-19 prevention measures and supply alcohol-based hand sanitiser. Take your event outside and consider hosting your corporate event in the open air. AtholPlace House & Villa both offer outdoor spaces. Think spacious verandas and gardens.
Our indoor spaces are well ventilated – we champion an inside/outside approach and can open all the doors and windows, allowing fresh air circulation.
Prioritise social distancing – our properties are set within a lush, shaded garden – the perfect green space, and our indoor spaces offer plenty of elbow-room.
Hybrid is the new meeting standard, so plan for a combination of in-person and remote guests. Both properties are supported by stable WIFI, and our expert team is on hand to assist with all tech requirements. Our chef is also on hand to create the perfect menu to suit each and every event.
AtholPlace House & Villa is determined to make your event as safe as possible for your guests, and we adhere to all Covid-19 protocols, including:
● Keeping at least a 1.5m distance from others
● Wearing a mask
● Avoiding crowded or poorly ventilated areas
● Covering coughs and sneezes with bent elbow or tissues
● Cleaning hands frequently
AtholPlace House & Villa is ready, open, and we are committed to creating and hosting a memorable meeting experience for you in 2022.
It’s that time of year when we look into our crystal ball and about what the future holds. We want to focus on what is yet to come rather than what’s been and gone. The last two years have been a roller-coaster, and we believe it is finally time to begin looking forward to new adventures. But how has travel changed in the past 18 months? And how will our post-pandemic psyche affect how we travel in 2022. Here are some of our predictions for how our guests will choose to travel in the New Year and beyond.
Savouring the now: don’t postpone.
The adage “trip of a lifetime” has never been more appropriate. Forced to sit at home for months on end, we’ve all had some time to reflect on what matters most. The pandemic and the lockdown have made people realise that the future can be uncertain and many of us realise that there’s no time like the present to take that trip of a lifetime. In 2022 many people will finally book those meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime trips and make their travel dreams come true.
Travel Less Travel Better: undertourism.
In ordinary times, you wouldn’t expect to see tourism operators telling people to travel less, but these are no longer ordinary times. “Travel Less, Travel Better” is a new way of travelling. Clients want philanthropic holidays, responsible travel, slow travel, and sabbatical itineraries. They want those trips to be longer, better-planned and more meaningful. This represents a huge opportunity because it means that when people do travel, they want it to be absolutely perfect. Undertourism champions sabbaticals, off-the-beaten-track destinations, eco-friendly holidaysand slow travel.
Philantourism: a focus on purpose-driven travel.
People around the globe have endured months under lock and key, months of stress, feeling overwhelmed, mental health challenges and many months of adapting to change. So it’s no wonder we’re all feeling so hard done by and ready to take back what’s ours: freedom of movement, calm, contentment, and a sense of ‘normalcy. So with the return of travel, we will see an immediate rise in meaningful escapes. Philantourism is all about travel as a force for goodand represents a natural evolution of voluntourism, but are less of a commitment; you don’t need to do anything after you arrive, other than enjoy the culture, buy localand put your spending money into the tourism economy.
Friendcations: Smiles, memories, adventures created with friends = priceless
For years now, researchers have said that strong social relationships are the key to happiness. Suppose we didn’t know that before 2020; we sure know it now. The past couple of years would have been infinitely harder without Zoom, Microsoft Teams, FaceTime and WhatsApp, but they are no substitutes for seeing friends in real life. So, no surprise that 2022 is gearing up to be the year of grand in-person reunions. People are keen to travel in groups consisting of their extended family or close friends and their families. One, because after living a digital life for almost two years, most are yearning for in-person interactions. Second, travelling with a group of peoplewho are known to each other creates a safety bubble. Hence ‘friendcations’ are on the rise. If the pandemic has shown us anything, it’s the importance of friendship and that real-life hugs are the secret to happiness.
A rise in Active Ecotravel: including purposeful elements to holidays.
Wanderlusters worldwide are trying to square their environmental and social concerns with their passion for travel. They want to go beyond carbon offsetting and offer a measurable and positive impact on their holiday environment. In 2022 we will see a rise in responsible travel to natural areas, focusing on sustainability and education. This type of travel will be undertaken with an interest in conserving the environment and improving the well-being of local communities. In addition, travellers will be looking to support businesses that align with their values.
People will travel longer: to gain a different perspective on life for a month or two.
Having the freedom to travel is a fundamental part of being human. Unfortunately, during the last 18 months, things have been increasingly difficult for individuals and the tourism industry. Great news for digital nomads, those who can ditch the 9-5 office life and anyone who fancies a change of scenery is that those who can work remotely now have the opportunity to log on from anywhere in the world with WiFi or a cellular signal! Whether you wish to write a novel, create a world-class music track or paint a masterpiece, there are hotels and design spaces to enhance your creativity.
Secluded getaways.
2022 will be a year of change, with people opting for secluded mountains, rural escapes, and waterfront getaways over urban/city experiences.
Slow-Paced & Immersive Travel.
In 2022, we will focus on the quality, not the quantity, of our travel experiences. A safari is a soul-restoring adventure, but too often is squeezed into a couple of days, with twice-daily game drives. Instead, embrace the ‘slow safari’ way, staying at least four nights at one camp, trackingthe behaviour of a particular lion pride by day and engaging in campfire conversation by night.
The pandemic has caused everyone to lose out on the opportunity to enjoy life to the fullest for well over a year, whether that meant having to put much-anticipated adventures on hold or not being able to spend time with loved ones living far away. So our favourite trend for 2022 is “revenge travel”, which refers to a heightened desire to get out and about, spread your wings, explore beautiful new destinations, and make up for lost time. It’s about getting “revenge” on the virus and the many unfortunate and unpleasant consequences brought about due to lockdown restrictions.
Chef Vasco will be serving a delicious slow roasted beef rump on his Christmas menu – we hope you enjoy!
Ingredients
Beef Rump x 250g
Thyme x 10g
Garlic x 2 cloves
Crushed pepper to taste
Sea salt to taste
Sear the beef in hot pan then caramelise with butter and roast at 150 for 20 minutes and allow to rest for 5 minutes.
Textures of carrots
Slice the carrots into ribbons using a peeler and refresh in iced water.
Cook yellow carrots(200g) in 400ml of cream chicken stock of 200ml with a pinch of nutmeg and ginger and a sprig of thyme with 1 onion until tender then blend and strain. Then add the puree into a cream charger to make a chiffon crème.
Retain some of the puree to be used in a squeeze bottle.
Cider barley
Chop a shallot with 2 creamed garlic cloves and a sprig of sage, fry in butter until translucent then add barley( 100g) with 250 ml of beef stock and half a bottle of preferred cider. Cook until tender then reduce to a risotto consistency then finish off with butter and a dash of cream.
Char the leek directly on the gas fire until charred then roast for 8 minutes in an oven of 180 degrees.
Christmas is always a special time at Morukuru Family Madikwe as it’s time for family, for sharing and making memories. On Christmas morning we will be hosting a brunch with a buffet table filled with delicious treats for the whole family. Because it’s all about family, we have decided to make everything to share, including a giant pancake oozing with blackberries and dripping in Nutella sauce.
Ingredients for the Blackberry Pancake
4 Large Eggs
3 tablespoons white Granulated Sugar
1 Cup Cake flour
1 Cup Full Cream milk
10 ml Vanilla Essence
2.5ml Salt
45g Butter, cubed
2 Cups Fresh Blackberries
Icing sugar for dusting
Method
Pre-heat the oven to 220 °C
Combine the eggs, sugar, flour, milk, vanilla essence, and salt in a food processor.
Blend on low speed for 30 seconds or until combined
Allow the batter to rest
Prepare the casserole dish while the batter is resting
Place the casserole dish in the oven for 20 minutes
Remove from oven
Add the butter and swirl to allow butter to coat the bottom of the dish
Pour in the Batter, sprinkle with one cup of blackberries
Bake for 20 minutes or until puffed up and golden brown
Remove from oven
Dust with icing sugar, top with the remaining blackberries and drizzle with Nutella sauce
Two steps forward, one step back. The global road to recovery has taken longer than hoped. We are still extremely grateful for the year that has passed. South Africans were able to explore and discover our beautiful country and experience Morukuru. We hosted some amazing events at AtholPlace House & Villa and our properties were again recognised by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards with Morukuru Family De Hoop voted Best Lodge in South Africa for the 2nd consecutive year.
We have chosen to end 2021 by acknowledging everything that is important to us, what makes us who we are and the work we will continue to do in 2022 – we hope you enjoy the A-Z of Morukuru Family, the experiences we offer, our people, our wildlife and our beautiful regions.
A: is for Amarula. This is a cream liqueur made from the Marula fruit and pairs perfectly with a deep, smooth coffee. Whether it is on an early morning game drive or an after-dinner nightcap – treat yourself to a decadent Amarula Coffee.
B: is for Beach Lodge in the De Hoop Nature Reserve. One of our favourite places on earth. And for our brilliant Butlers who make sure our guests have everything they need help with creating our magical experiences like bush-dinners and bush-breakfasts.
C: is for Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards! Morukuru Family Madikwe scooped 4th position in South Africa (11th in the world) and Morukuru Family de Hoop retained its 1st position as the Best Resort in South Africa (2nd in the world). C is also for conservation which is more than a word to us – it is a way of life that we live every day through our Morukuru Goodwill Foundation.
D: is for De Hoop Nature Reserve with 34000 hectares of Fynbos, beaches, dunes, vlei wetlands and the Potberg Mountains. And Dune Boarding, which is exhilarating fast fun. Experts tell us it is easier than snowboarding, wakeboarding and surfing and the most fun you can have in the pearly white sand of De Hoop.
E: Is for elephant and exclusive use. We love this quote about ellies, “We admire elephants in part because they demonstrate what we consider the finest human traits: empathy, self-awareness, and social intelligence. But the way we treat them puts on display the very worst of human behaviour.” – Graydon Carter, Editor of Vanity Fair. 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’, allowing guests to do “whatever they want, whenever they want”.
F: is for Fynbos and Flamingo. Ocean House and Beach lodge are surrounded by The De Hoop Nature Reserve, a geographical area of vast diversity – fynbos, a rugged coastline, forests, and an impressive vlei. De Hoop Nature Reserve has the largest conserved fynbos area in the Western Cape with an estimated 1 500 species. The 16-kilometre vlei is famous for being home to The Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus), the only locality in South Africa where The Greater Flamingo has bred successfully.
G: is for our Goodwill Foundation and G & T. The Morukuru Goodwill Foundation
( MGWF) is dedicated to finding vital solutions to ongoing conservation challenges contributing to the Madikwe Reserve’s diverse wildlife. We thank our guests for generous donations, which are invested in ongoing initiatives. We think a classic gin and tonic is the ultimate cocktail. It is simple, delicious, and refreshing.
H: is for Hyena and Honeycake. This year we were privileged to welcome some super cute Hyena cubs into the Madikwe. Spotting cubs of any species is always a highlight, and this pack of little guys pulled at our heartstrings. But, as with all things at Morukuru Family Madikwe, tea is a leisurely event taken whenever and wherever the mood grabs you. In fact ….anytime is tea time, and our famous Honey Cake is the perfect accompaniment.
I: is for Impala which is one of the most common and most graceful of all Africa’s antelopes. The impala is an animal that you shouldn’t have too much trouble spotting as they’re pretty common with their nonchalant looks and elegant yet epic high jumps. Did you know, that males are known as rams, while females are referred to as ewes?
J: is for Johannesburg and her magnificent Jacarandas. In Johannesburg, we have two separate exclusive-use houses, namely AtholPlace House & Villa, situated in Atholl, one of the city’s most prestigious neighbourhoods with large properties and elegant tree-lined streets. Johannesburg is believed to be the largest cultivated urban forest in the world with over 10 million trees, and the Jacaranda’s contribute substantially to this number, AtholPlace has a couple of magnificent examples right on-site. Why not take tea in the garden, relax and bask in the purply glory.
K: Kids and Kudu. Kids are central to Morukuru Family and we welcome children of all ages. We support exploring, learning and discovering and believe immersing children in nature is the way to go. Here’s a fabulous fact – the Kudu got its name from the indigenous Khoikhoi language. They are highly alert and notoriously hard to approach.
L: is for lion. Our MGWF works closely with the Predator Research Project in Madikwe. Under their leadership, excellent conservation work is carried out including a contraception programme for female lion. This prophylactic will prevent unwanted cubs for up to a year and will assist in maintaining a healthy lion population in the Madikwe.
M: is for Madikwe Game Reserve and Marine-walk. The Madikwe Game Reserve is the fifth largest game reserve in South Africa and is also one of the lesser-known parks. This makes it a hidden- gem and the home of Morukuru Family Madikwe that offers three individual bush properties; Farm House, Owner’s House and River House. A marine walk is a very popular activity at Morukuru Family De Hoop, and guests get to enjoy everything from the fynbos to the dunes to the rock-pools to the actual beach and ocean. We love organising marine walks – there is so much exciting stuff going on.
N: is for night drives. A night drive safari has a unique and exciting atmosphere; different types of animals (nocturnal) are active at night, from the big cats to smaller mammals. With varying behaviour, nocturnal animals are bolder at night and shy during the day; this increases your chances of witnessing that elusive Leopard.
O: is for Ostrich. The De Hoop Nature Reserve is a birder’s paradise and home to over 260 bird species, including Ostrich. Here’s a fun fact, Spring is ostrich mating season and the male ostrich’s beak and legs turn bright pink or even red to attract the female. If all goes to plan, under natural conditions, a female ostrich lays 12–18 eggs.
P: is for Pack-with-a-purpose. Morukuru Family is an official supporter of Pack with a Purpose! This international initiative makes it easy for our guests to make their trips even more meaningful. The concept behind Pack With A Purpose is very simple; use a small amount of space in your luggage to pack supplies needed for community projects near our Morukuru Family locations.
Q: is for Quality time with family and friends. Multigenerational travel has emerged as one of the defining travel trends and is a great choice for families and friends who want to reconnect whilst on holiday. Travelling together as a group, made up of mixed ages and extended family, can be challenging but heaps of fun too.
R: is for Rhino. Statistics reveal that Rhino are currently being poached at a rate of three per day which translates into the terrifying prediction that this species will be extinct by 2023! Our Morukuru Goodwill Foundation ( MGWF) invests substantially in combating rhino poaching within the Madikwe game reserve by supporting and assisting with many critical initiatives.
S: is for South Africa. We are ready, we are open, and we are committed to showcasing our unique destinations to the rest of the world. Wamkelekile! Let us welcome you.
T: is for Thank you. Thank you to our Teamwho have worked so hard this year to make sure our guests had the most wonderful stays across all our properties. Thank you to the Travel Trade for your continued support. It’s true – teamwork really does make the dream work!
U: is for ubuntu. This word defines the essential human virtues; compassion and humanity. Morukuru Family strives to live the values of Ubuntu every day.
V: is for vaccinated staff. We are proud to confirm that we are 100% vaccinated!
W: is for Whales and Wildogs. During the South African Winter, guests at Morukuru Family De Hoop can enjoy land-based whale watching when our expert rangers introduce daily displays of raw power and elegant water acrobatics. The African Wild Dog ( Lycaon pictus) which also goes by the names Cape Hunting dog or Painted Dog, is a highly endangered species. Spotting Wild Dog is very special, and many reserves do not have this species. But there is a resident pack on our backdoor in the Madikwe Reserve.
X: is for Xmas blessings from our Morukuru family to yours.
Y: is for YOU! Thank you for visiting our Morukuru Family. We hope you treasure your #morukurumemories and look forward to welcoming you back.
Z: is for Zebra and we are lucky to have two Zebra ambassadors. Moru & Kuru are cheer-leaders for nature conservation and they are all about creating environmental awareness – one of MGWF’s main goals – and helping our young guests develop a passion for our natural world.
