Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa, 06 June 2025 – Morukuru Family has announced the reopening of two of its exclusive-use safari houses, Morukuru Owner’s House and Morukuru River House, planned for 1 September 2025.
In February of this year, unexpected flooding from three months of extreme rainfall caused the overflow of the Molatedi Dam. This in turn caused the Marico River to rise by as much as 10 meters in only 12 hours, impacting the interiors of Morukuru Owner’s House and Morukuru River House. Fortunately, Morukuru Farm House was not affected by the flooding and has remained open. While the event was a deeply emotional moment for the Morukuru Family team, it also presented an opportunity: the chance to reimagine and reinvigorate two of Madikwe Game Reserve’s most treasured private safari retreats.
“In line with our commitment to timeless design, comfort, and a deep sense of place, Morukuru Family has partnered with acclaimed interior designer Amy Kidger of Hinterland Studio to lead the refurbishment. Amy brings a wealth of experience in high-end lodge design, with a signature style that merges refined elegance with natural textures and a contemporary African aesthetic,” said Anka Zeeman, co-owner of Morukuru Family.
For the redesign, Amy has drawn inspiration from the lush canopy of Tamboti trees (with ‘Morukuru’ being the Tswana word for Tamboti) that surrounds the houses, the vibrant African bush, and a striking series of photographic artworks selected by the owners.
Guests can expect interiors that are both bold and serene, layered with rich colours, natural textures, and handcrafted details that echo the landscape outside. A palette of ochres, rusts, deep greens, and blues will be woven through luxurious fabrics, grasscloth wallpapers, and tactile finishes, creating a warm and inviting haven that feels both elevated and deeply personal.
Guests can also look forward to the addition of a brand-new fitness room, when staying at Morukuru Owner’s House and Morukuru River House.
“While the flood was a moment of sadness for our team, it also reminded us of the resilience of nature and ourselves,” says co-owner Ed Zeeman. “The reopening of Morukuru Owner’s House and Morukuru River House is a celebration of renewal. We cannot wait to welcome our guests back to experience these soulful homes in a fresh new light.”
Both properties, along with Morukuru Farm House, will continue to offer the signature Morukuru Freedom Concept: exclusive-use stays with no fixed schedules, private staff teams, and tailor-made safari experiences for families and friends of all generations.
Bookings are now open for stays from 1 September 2025 onwards, with existing rates and promotions applied.
-ENDS-
For bookings, contact reservations@morukuru.com
For more information, contact Marketing Manager, Rinse Wassenaar rinse@morukuru.com
Morukuru Family
“Reconnecting family, friends, nature, and you” is the promise of Morukuru Family, a renowned award-winning hospitality group and member of Relais & Châteaux. Morukuru Family’s three exclusive-use houses in Madikwe Game Reserve, as well as Morukuru Ocean House in De Hoop Nature Reserve, all offer the ‘Morukuru Freedom Concept’ for guests to create a personalised holiday. Morukuru Beach Lodge in De Hoop Nature Reserve can be booked per suite, or on an exclusive-use basis. AtholPlace Hotel & Villa in Sandton, Johannesburg, comprises a 9-room boutique hotel and a 4-bedroom private villa. Morukuru Family is also dedicated to securing a sustainable future for the reserves and protecting the planet through specialised travel packages, namely ‘Safaris with a Purpose’ and ‘Coastal Conservation with a Purpose’.
www.morukuru.com
Morukuru Goodwill Foundation
Established in 2007 by owners Ed and Anka Zeeman, the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation reflects Morukuru Family’s commitment to conservation, community, and sustainability. In partnership with the Parks Board, CapeNature, and local communities, the foundation supports nature-based initiatives while educating, mentoring, and empowering efforts to protect Africa’s wildlife sanctuaries.
https://morukuru.com/morukuru-goodwill-foundation/
Relais & Châteaux – A Movement with Meaning
Relais & Châteaux, established in 1954, is an association of 580 unique hotels and restaurants throughout the world, owned and operated by independent entrepreneurs (most often families) who are passionate about their craft and deeply committed to forging warm, lasting relationships with their guests. Relais & Châteaux members protect and promote the wealth and diversity of the world’s culinary and hospitality traditions, ensuring they continue to thrive. They are equally dedicated to preserving local heritage and the environment, as articulated in the association’s Vision presented to UNESCO in November 2014.
www.relaischateaux.com
