International tourists can now have their PCR test done at two private game reserves in the Greater Kruger Park area.

Kapama Private Game Reserve in Hoedspruit and Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve offer travellers leaving South Africa the opportunity to test conveniently before departing.

Kapama introduced the feature for guests who will be leaving the country after their stay at the lodge, and who may be unsure about where to go for testing.

“It just aligns with the Kapama brand to make things as convenient and comfortable for our guests as possible,” said Brand Manager, Nicole Walker.

She told Tourism Update that the lodge booked the test for guests the day before they were due to leave. “All bookings are made for before 10am and we then take the guests into Hoedspruit where the tests are done.”

Following the short drive, guests don’t even have to leave the vehicle, as the mouth swab test is conducted as a drive through.

“Guests will then receive their results the next morning, either via text or email, whichever they have selected. Should they need assistance in printing out hard copies of the actual document, we are also able to assist,” said Walker.

In the event that guests test positive, Kapama will have suites available where they can self-quarantine at their own cost.

“The test costs R850 (€46), which will be added to the guests’ bill,” said Walker.

At Sabi Sabi, guests can test on-site and swabs are then sent to the local laboratories that have partnered with the game reserve. The tests have an expected turnaround time of 24 hours.

The cost of the test is also R850, but an additional laboratory delivery fee will be charged. Should a party contain multiple members, the laboratory delivery cost will be shared.

“I just really hope that this shows tour operators that properties in South Africa care about their tourists, and that we are implementing measures to prove that,” said Walker.