Lodges in Limpopo’s Welgevonden Game Reserve – which has been closed since March 1 due to flood damage – have applauded the reserve’s management team for the precautionary measures taken to ensure the safety of guests, staff and wildlife.
The 36 000ha private reserve, situated in the Waterberg region, recorded more than 320mm of rainfall in February, causing extensive damage to primary access roads.
“With most of our roads severely compromised and, in many cases, unsafe, this decision was taken to ensure the safety of all those involved in the reserve,” Welgevonden’s COO Neil Davison said in a statement. The reserve will remain closed until March 21 when a reassessment will take place under the guidance of a specialist roads consultant, he said.
Essential reserve operations, conservation projects and guest experiences, along with emergency response access, have also been heavily impacted.
“Our highest priorities have always been the safety and wellbeing of our guests and staff, conservation of our wildlife and preservation of the wilderness. Unfortunately, under these conditions, all three are at risk. We must take the necessary steps to prevent further damage and ensure a sustainable recovery for the reserve.”
Lauren Davies, CEO of Rare Earth Retreats – owner of the five-star Tshwene Lodge in the reserve – commended management for their response to the floods.
“The reserve has been amazing in terms of keeping us updated and always ensuring the safety of our guests and team members as well as mitigating the environmental damage,” she told Tourism Update.
Tshwene’s guests had been given a choice of refund, postponement or relocation to the portfolio’s sister properties.
“A lot of bookings needed a full refund as they were international clients who wouldn’t be back for a while. Luckily our properties were not damaged so we are just waiting for the reserve to give us the green light and we will open again,” said Davies.
The higher-than-normal late summer rainfall in the region has also impacted the Madikwe Game Reserve.
