The gogos enjoy Mpumalanga

WWe think everyone should get to enjoy all that South Africa has to offer, most of all the wisest of our nation – the gogos. The “Gogos on Tour” initiative aims to treat our senior citizens to some awesome experiences at various places across their provinces.

This week, the lovely gogos from Mpumalanga were treated and delighted, and this is what they got up to…

Shangana Cultural Village

Midway between the Blyde River Canyon and the southern Kruger National Park, the residents of the traditional villages of Shangana invited guests to share in their way of life. The picturesque villages are set in the shade of ancient trees in a reserve of forest and grassland, and are open every day. A bustling African market village forms the centre of Shangana, where local craftspeople make and trade their craft. From here, trained guides lead guests down to villages on daytime tours, midday tours with lunch, and the famed Festival in the Chief’s Kraal.

The people of this village warmly welcomed the gogos on their tour!

Here the gogos had a much deserved pampering session, enjoyed a dance show and all sat together for a traditional African lunch at the Cultural Village. Such a busy day for the gogos!

Contact: + 27 13 737 5804/5 or reservations@shangana.co.za

Wheelchair accessible and child-friendly

Kruger National Park Game Drive

The gogos’ morning was all about wildlife and fun when they went on a game drive departing from the Numbi Gate in the Kruger National Park, which is one of Africa’s largest game reserves. Its high density of wild animals includes the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes. Hundreds of other mammals make their home here, as do a diverse range bird species such as vultures, eagles and storks. Mountains, bush plains and tropical forests are all part of the landscape.

Contact: +27 12 428 9111 or reservations@sanparks.org

After all the game viewing and fun, the gogos were ready for lunch, which they enjoyed at the Cattle Baron Restaurant in the Skukuza Camp in the park.

With so much excitement during the day, the gogos were ready for a peaceful night’s sleep at their accommodation…Stay Easy Emnotweni Hotel

The StayEasy Emnotweni Hotel is situated in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, and offers visitors a very comfortable and budget-friendly alternative to traditional bed and breakfast accommodation, in one of South Africa’s most picturesque areas. The hotel’s 115 spacious en suite rooms are comfortably furnished and are equipped with amenities that include air conditioning, free WiFi, TV with DStv channels, in-room tea and coffee facilities and more.

Contact: +27 11 461 9744

We truly hope that the gogos enjoyed their experiences and realise that South Africa offers friendly service and activities that accommodate everyone – old and young.

For any information on child-friendly and family-friendly accommodation, please visit the SA Venues website.