As South African expats return home for family reunions, milestone celebrations, business, their visit is more than just a trip – it’s a homecoming. It’s a chance to reconnect with their roots, relive cherished traditions, and rediscover the country’s evolving landscapes and innovations. Two destinations stand at the heart of this experience: Sanctuary Mandela, an intimate retreat celebrating the legacy of Nelson Mandela, and Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge, a groundbreaking hospitality concept that reimagines safari travel.
With 65% of expats returning for personal and family-related reasons, immersing themselves in South Africa’s rich heritage and innovative tourism offerings is a vital part of the journey. Whether through a heritage tour at Sanctuary Mandela, a visit to the Nelson Mandela Foundation, or iconic stay at Kruger Shalati, these experiences offer a profound reconnection to home.
Sanctuary Mandela: Honouring legacy, exploring heritage
A visit to Sanctuary Mandela is more than just a luxury stay – it is a pilgrimage to the heart of South African history. Back to the roots of a leader who helped shape South Africa’s future, and inspired the world. Located in Houghton, Johannesburg, in Nelson Mandela’s former home, this boutique hotel offers an intimate setting for reflection, storytelling, and inspiration.
Why it’s a must-visit for returning expats:
- Heritage Tour and The Nelson Mandela Foundation visit: A guided tour through the home-turned-hotel, coupled with a visit to the Nelson Mandela Foundation, provides an immersive journey through Mandela’s legacy.
- A space of reflection and celebration: For expats celebrating intimate weddings, milestone birthdays, and reunions, Sanctuary Mandela’s tranquil setting is ideal for gatherings infused with history and culture.
- Authentic South African cuisine: Guests indulge in an African inspired menu, curated by Nelson Mandela’s cook extraordinaire, featuring wholesome, sustainably sourced ingredients, paired with the finest South African wines! A true taste of home.
- Landmark jazz venue: Lovers of live jazz music would be hard-pressed to find a more intimate, relaxed venue than the weekly live sessions held on Sundays. The lunchtime performances showcase the very best of local and international jazz musicians and sets the perfect backdrop for a leisurely get-together with friends and family.
Kruger Shalati: An iconic homecoming safari experience
For those looking to combine nostalgia with innovation, Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge delivers a one-of-a-kind South African safari experience. Suspended over the Sabie River in Kruger National Park, this luxury train safari experience pays homage to the pioneers of the 1920s Round In Nine Tour, when visitors first explored the park by rail.
Why it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience:
- A proudly South African innovation: Kruger Shalati is a groundbreaking concept that redefines safari hospitality, allowing guests to stay in luxurious train carriages atop the historic Selati railway bridge.
- Track-side dining with a story: Much like travellers in the 1920s, guests enjoy gourmet cuisine inspired by South Africa’s diverse culinary heritage, paired with top-tier local and international wines.
- Wildlife like never before: Wake up to elephants and hippos beneath your Carriage Suite, embark on exclusive safari experiences, and witness the unparalleled beauty of Kruger National Park from a completely new vantage point.
- Community empowerment and responsible tourism: A stay at Kruger Shalati directly supports local communities through employment, skills development, and eco-conscious tourism initiatives.
For returning South Africans looking to celebrate their heritage, enjoy world-class hospitality, and experience the country’s most extraordinary landscapes, Sanctuary Mandela and Kruger Shalati stand as pillars of heritage and innovation, inviting travellers to honour the past while embracing the present.
In solidarity with encouraging South Africans to enjoy their visit to their home country, Sanctuary Mandela have created the promo code EXPATSA for all expat bookings.
