“Tshepo served us both nights, he was so attentive and provided amazing service. So kind and such a pleasure to talk to. Thank you! The staff were all very polite and accommodating… The staff are wonderfully friendly and welcoming, the rooms are spacious, and the food is magnificent. This is one of the nicest places we’ve stayed.”
“The service throughout our stay was warm, friendly, and incredibly kind – we felt welcome from the moment we arrived. Our kids (6 and 9) were completely enchanted, and everything from start to finish was smooth, welcoming, and unforgettable. Huge thanks to Kurt Safari and Kruger Gate Hotel for an amazing family adventure! The location, the super friendly staff, the spacious and beautiful rooms – we loved it all.”
Most of the staff at the Kruger Gate Hotel come from our surrounding communities. Mpumalanga is home to Tsonga, Shangaan and Mapulani peoples who have lived in the area since the 1800’s. Tsonga and Shangaan people share a common origin and linguistic traditions with other Southern African peoples such the Zulu, Xhosa and Swazi, while the Mapulani people have Northern Sotho origins.
Today, as is typical for modern South Africa, the communities neighbouring the Kruger National Park are a melting pot of cultures, languages and traditions that share common ground. Visitors will find a decidedly human-centred approach to life – enjoyment of shared community experiences, exceptional music, dance and storytelling, and a particular generosity of spirit towards children and the elderly.
Many of our guests take the opportunity to visit the Shangana Cultural Village in nearby Hazyview to have immersive experiences that elevate their safari holiday. Here you can shop for authentic arts and crafts at the Marula Market, watch dancers and singers tell the story of the Shangaan people, and even participate in a traditional feast at the Royal Kraal.
Whether you choose to deep-dive into a local cultural experience or just enjoy engaging daily with our friendly staff, you will be touched by the warmth of your welcome into the world of South Africa’s greatest National Park.