Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa has unveiled its private Reception & Welcome Lounge next to the Welgevonden Game Reserve gate in the Waterberg. Designed by the owner, Dutch interior designer Myriam Vogel, this facility introduces the style, luxury, and unique African-European blend that defines the 5-star lodge.
Guests will arrive at this new Reception area to check-in, relax, and refresh after their journey. They will start their Mhondoro experience with a freshly prepared organic lunch, providing a first taste of the exciting culinary experience awaiting at the lodge. Departing guests may also enjoy the new facility’s comforts to freshen up or relax before their onward flight.
The new venue features a contemporary design with a spacious lounge, terrace, dining area, kitchen, shower-equipped cloakrooms, and covered parking for self-drive guests. Built as a community project, local laborers were trained and upskilled as professional construction workers over several months. Additionally, a local team of service and kitchen staff, including a dedicated chef, was trained for the new facility.
Mhondoro stands out with its fresh, home-grown food, showcased in a vibrant, modern African style. With a food philosophy of ‘fresh, simple, and organic’, the chefs proudly deliver ‘healthy fine food,’ merging international culinary trends with local flair.
Operating off the grid, the new Reception & Welcome Lounge is situated on Mhondoro’s Eco-Farm, and showcases its organic produce, free-range eggs, and farmed sheep and cattle. Guests can tour the farm, pick fresh ingredients, and see the chefs at work. The Welcome lunch features homegrown herbs and vegetables, deli products, freshly baked bread, and homemade jams and ice cream.
After lunch, guests will join their guide and be transported in an open game viewing vehicle through the Welgevonden Game Reserve, enjoying their first game drive on the hour-long journey to the lodge.
Myriam Vogel describes the new Reception & Welcome Lounge: ‘In a bush setting, architecture should complement the natural environment. The interiors, inspired by earth, plants, and animals, create a sense of immersion and texture. The natural wood accents, steelwork, and African design elements blend with minimalist European pieces to create a rustic, yet high-end feel, making guests feel instantly at home.’
Fritz Breytenbach, CEO of Mhondoro, says the new facility further elevates the guest experience. ‘Our lodge, known for luxury and fine cuisine, now offers a unique arrival at Welgevonden. With thrilling game drives, guided walks, warm hospitality, and dedicated service, we ensure an unforgettable Big 5 safari for couples and families alike.’
Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa: The Ultimate Luxury Safari Destination
Located in Welgevonden Game Reserve, Limpopo, Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa offers a luxury safari experience just 2h45 minutes from Johannesburg. Spanning 35,000 hectares, the reserve hosts the Big 5, including a large, protected white rhino population. Guests can enjoy guided walks and daily visits from a resident herd of elephants at the natural salt-water swimming pools.
Mhondoro’s luxurious accommodations include Family suites, a Honeymoon suite, and a 2-bedroom Executive Suite, each with full bathrooms, outdoor showers, private decks, and most with private plunge pools. The exclusive Mhondoro Villa offers ultimate privacy and luxury with a master suite, two additional bedrooms, a private gym, yoga/massage room, heated pool, personal safari vehicle, guide, chef, butler, and housekeeping staff.
All operations at Mhondoro are based on sound, sustainable environmental principles and the its solar power installation has successfully taken the lodge off the grid.
The new Reception & Welcome Lounge near the Welgevonden entrance gate sets the stage for the adventure that awaits. Unique features at the lodge include an underground hide for day and night photography, a custom-built stardeck, heated pools, and a gym with an infrared sauna. The Spa offers a range of treatments on a private deck overlooking the reserve.
With its blend of African chic and European influences, Mhondoro promises an unforgettable Big 5 safari, complete with indulgent spa treatments, fine cuisine, and passionate service for couples and families alike.
