nguni river lodge
Tucked into the Addo Elephant Park, located a mere one hour’s drive out-side of Port Elizabeth, Nguni River Lodge is
a haven of tranquility, natural ele-ments and luxurious delights. A magnificent floodplain provides a playing ground
for the inhabitants of the bush, while the majestic Zuurberg Mountains set the perfect backdrop for the superbly
positioned lodge. Malaria-free and boasting lavish accommodation, Nguni is one of South Africa’s most sought after
destinations combining eclectic architectural designs, textures and colours with modern individually styled interiors.
Enter the reserve and begin your foray into the deep foliage of the Addo Elephant Park while you observe the finely
tuned ecosystem, which is sanctuary to over 450 elephants, Cape Buffalo, a variety of antelope species as well as the
unique flightless dung beetle, found almost exclu-sively in Addo. The bio-diverse reserve, comprising 240 000 hectares
of terrestrial and 120 000 hectares of marine zones, is home to the Big Five, as well as smaller animal, bird and
reptilian species. Let your excitement overtake you as you enter the Nguni River Lodge homestead where game walks,
horseback safari’s and open game drives are just a few of the safari activities available to the leisure traveller.
Be greeted by smiling, trained staff who will ensure your stay is one you remember forever, then retire to your suite,
which will leave you breathless.
What’s in a name?
The name Nguni, which was given to this lodge, refers to a collective group of people who migrated from Central Africa
heading south in search of fertile grazing ground for their cattle. They eventually settled along the eastern seaboard
and adjacent hinterland of southern Africa. This group divided into three broad divisions based on linguistic and
cultural differences and comprise the Zulu, Swazi and Xhosa. Today it is the ancestral cattle breed of the forefathers
which carry the Nguni name. This breed of cattle is endemic to southern Africa and is known for its fertility and
resistance to diseases. Characterised by their multi-coloured skins, they are symbolic of wealth, status and respect
among the Nguni descendants and play an integral part of the labola process during cultural matrimonial ceremonies.
Each of the guest suites at Nguni have been named after the colour pattern of a specific Nguni cow that inspired the
individually created interiors.
Special offer
Nguni River Lodge is offering Skyways readers a special rate between 1 March and 30 September 2008. Pay for two nights
and get a third night for free. The cost is R2 840 per person for a single room, or R1 890 per person for a double room.
This price includes three meals daily, two game drives and the tourism levy.
To book your stay, call Three Cities central reservations on 0861 000 333.
Nguni doesn’t just offer accommodation – it offers guests a complete experience, which begins the minute you enter
the park and ends only when you wish for it to. Each of the seven standard suites and one King Suite boast romantic
en suite bathrooms equipped with rustic-inspired stone baths where weary bodies can soak and soothe tired limbs amid
bubbles and steam. An outdoor shower, private balcony and plunge pool completes the magnificent ensemble afforded
to each guest, while air conditioners and mini bars add to the feeling of total comfort. Bathe your body in the
afternoon sunlight rays while you watch the hordes of animals congregate at the watering hole to enjoy their sundowner
while you enjoy yours – a cocktail with the colours of the sunset around you permeating through the glass. A large
main lodge area is equipped with a themed lounge and spacious dining facility, which is linked via pathways to the
luxurious suites. Dinner is an intimate affair and is served in the spacious dining area with views across the
floodplain and enables diners to mingle and chat among themselves. Open fire African fusion cooking is always the
order of the day and guests are invited to participate from the interactive kitchen. The unique design of the river
lodge incorporates the various elements of the culture and style of the Xhosa people, as well as colours inspired
by the Nguni cattle, after which the lodge is named. Earth-inspired tones abound throughout the lodge and a warm
African ambience permeates every nook and cranny.
Artifacts reminiscent of the surrounding cultures have been positioned to strike a chord within the guest, reminding
them of all that the environment holds. Forming part of the Three Cities Management LTD portfolio, Nguni River Lodge
promises an unrivalled experience characterised by five-star game viewing, excellent hospitality and service as well
as lavish accommodation. The ideal getaway for all travellers as both a romantic or exclusive destination, Nguni
promises the holiday of a lifetime. For further information or to confirm your reservation, contact the Three Cities
central reservations office on 0861 000 333 or via e-mail on ceres@threecities.co.za.
Visit the website at www.threecities.co.za.
Airlink offers direct flights from Bloemfontein and East London to Port Elizabeth. Visit
www.flyairlink.com or contact your local Travel Agent or SAA Central Reservation
011 978 1111.