Travel Blog

A Guide for First-Time Visitors Kruger National Park covers nearly 20,000 km² of stunning wilderness — so naturally, first-time visitors often ask: Which part of Kruger is the best to explore? While each region has its own appeal, the southern section near Hazyview is frequently recommended for first-timers. Why? It combines excellent wildlife viewing, accessible…

Hazeyview – the gateway to Kruger National Park’s best wildlife, activities & accommodation Planning a safari to Kruger National Park is one of the most exciting adventures in South Africa. But with so many towns and lodges around the park, one key question comes up again and again: Where should I stay for the best…

 The Top Ways to Keep the Kids Entertained During Your Next Kruger Trip Taking your kids on safari is one of the most memorable gifts you can give them – and Kruger National Park is one of the best places in the world to do it. With a bit of planning, your family safari can…

Kruger National Park All Year Round: Find the Perfect Time for Your Adventure Kruger National Park is magical any time of the year, but the best time to visit depends on the kind of safari experience you’re after. From dramatic wildlife sightings to lush green landscapes, each season offers its own unique charm. Planning your…

A road trip through The Garden Route is packed with unforgettable adventures and hidden gems There are road trips that offer convenience, and then there are road trips that stay with you – routes that combine beauty, character, and the kind of unexpected stops that become your favourite memories. South Africa’s Garden Route is one…

Forest Wedding Venue in Kokstad   If you are looking for a destination wedding venue in KZN to tick all your boxes, then welcome to Anew Hotel Ingeli Forest & Spa! We cater for small to medium weddings and our events team is standing by to assist you in every way possible. Anew Hotel Ingeli…

Imagine the striking beauty of having winter as the backdrop to the most magical day of your life. There are many reasons to consider having your wedding in winter… A vision of pale blue skies and gentle sunlight streaming through a green and wooded forest… a winter wonderland setting to exchange vows and celebrate love…

Weddings are a joyous occasion and these days you are not confined to the four walls of your childhood church. There are so many different types of wedding venues made available to brides and grooms now. Today, the sky is the limit – and that may even be to low for those skydiving enthusiasts. However, before…

ANEW Hotels & Resorts offers accommodation in Hluhluwe – a small town in northern Kwazulu-Natal situated on the elephant coast, known for its national parks and cultural heritage. The area is popular with tourists and locals alike and continues to grow and expand while still preserving the natural surroundings. The area produces 90% of South…

During your stay at ANEW Hotel Hilton, you’ll be spoilt for choice with a variety of activities in and around the Midlands Meander in KZN. The Midlands Meander covers over 80kms and is a sight-seeing network of routes through the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Soak up all the local sights and sounds in the form of canopy tours,…

This quaint little town lies on the border of the Eastern Cape and Kwa Zulu Natal, two major provinces of South Africa. The area is known as East Griqualand and lies just under Mount Currie on the slopes of the famous Drakensberg. It is ideally located between major cities Durban, East-London, and further South to…

The Midlands Meander, nestled in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, is a breathtaking destination that effortlessly combines natural splendour with timeless charm. Renowned for its rolling green hills, picturesque landscapes, and serene atmosphere, it provides the perfect backdrop for any dream wedding. With its enchanting scenery and myriad of unique settings, the Midlands Meander is a…

The Safari Personality Test You Didn’t Know You Needed Ever wondered what your favourite safari animal says about you? Whether you’re the type who packs binoculars and a backup power bank, or you’re just here for the sundowners and the selfies, there’s a Kruger creature that matches your vibe. Explore our safari-style guide and find…

Budget-friendly safari escapes in KZN you’ve probably never heard of! The Kruger might be the go-to when you think safari, but KwaZulu-Natal is quietly doing the most, and for way less. Scattered across the province are wild escapes that give you the Big 5, dreamy wetlands, and even a bit of beachside wildlife… all without…

The call of the wild is often what draws travelers to the captivating landscapes of Kruger National Park. The thrill of encountering majestic wildlife and exploring untamed terrain is an experience unlike any other. Yet, beyond the realm of safari adventures, lies another facet of exploration—one that goes deep into the heart and soul of…

Table of Contents The Panorama Route: Revel in Nature’s Majestic Canvas Elephant Interactions: An Intimate Encounter with Gentle Giants Shangana Cultural Village: A Living Tapestry of Tradition Sabie Valley Coffee: A Journey into the World of Aromatic Perfection Perry’s Bridge Reptile Park: Unravelling the Mysteries of the Reptilian World Adventure and Outdoor Activities Welcome to…

Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s breathtaking wilderness, Kruger National Park stands as a testament to the country’s rich natural heritage. A haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike, this sprawling expanse of protected land is home to an astonishing variety of avian wonders. In this blog post, we invite you to embark on…

Key Takeaways 1. Accessibility and Connectivity: Prime locations ensure easy access for attendees traveling by air, train, or road, reducing logistical complexities and saving time. ANEW Hotels & Resorts are strategically located to maximise convenience for government conference participants. 2. Seamless Commuting: Hotels in bustling areas offer excellent integration with public transportation and local amenities,…

Key Takeaways 1. Location Matters: Choose hotels near business destinations to save time and reduce travel stress. Proximity to transportation hubs and local attractions enhances convenience and productivity. 2. Business-Friendly Amenities: Look for high-speed Wi-Fi, well-equipped workspaces, and comprehensive business centres. Hotels like ANEW Hotels & Resorts offer tailored services for business travellers. 3. Leverage…

Key Takeaways Define Your Event Requirements: Clearly outline the type of event, number of attendees, budget, and preferred location to streamline your search for the perfect venue. Research and Shortlist: Focus on hotels with state-of-the-art facilities, flexible event spaces, on-site accommodations, catering options, and recreational amenities to enhance the attendee experience. Conduct Site Visits: Visit…

Key Takeaways 1. Strategic Location: Choose a hotel near your business meetings, conference venues, or corporate offices to save time and reduce commuting stress. ANEW Hotels & Resorts are strategically positioned in bustling business districts for maximum convenience. 2. Seamless Connectivity: High-speed Wi-Fi and modern connectivity options are essential for staying productive. ANEW Hotels ensure…

How to Host a Successful Conference at a Hotel with ANEW Hotels & Resorts Key Takeaways 1. Choose the Right Venue: Select a venue that aligns with your event size and requirements. ANEW Hotels & Resorts offers versatile spaces equipped with cutting-edge audiovisual technology and customizable layouts. 2. Plan Ahead: Define clear goals and create…

Convenience and Efficiency: Why Staying at a Hotel Near a Highway Exit is Ideal for Business Travelers Key Takeaways 1. Strategic Locations: ANEW Hotels are conveniently located near major highway exits across South Africa, offering easy access to urban centres and serene countryside locations. Examples include ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe (N2), ANEW Hotel Capital (N3), ANEW…

Embarking on a thrilling wildlife adventure in South Africa’s renowned Kruger National Park is an experience like no other. Located in close proximity to this natural wonder lies Hazyview, a picturesque town that serves as an ideal base for exploring the park. ANEW Resort Hazyview, with its comfortable accommodations and convenient location, offers an unforgettable…

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa, Hazyview serves as an enchanting gateway to one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations; the Kruger National Park. With its proximity to the park’s southern regions, Hazyview offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of the African wilderness. From thrilling safaris and outdoor…

Key Takeaways 1. Pleasant Climate: Pretoria enjoys comfortable temperatures year-round, with mild summers and winters, making it an ideal destination in any season. 2. Rich History and Culture: Explore Pretoria’s historical significance through landmarks like Freedom Park and the Transvaal Museum, which offer insights into South Africa’s past. 3. Beautiful Gardens and Parks: The city…

How To Make The Most Out Of Your Hotel Loyalty Program Do you love to travel? If so, you should be taking advantage of hotel loyalty programs! These programs offer a variety of benefits, including free nights and elite status. In this article, we will focus on ANEW Hotels & Resorts’ Loyalty Programme, Wena Bucks.…

Pretoria is a great city to live in, and it’s also perfect for a day out with the family. There are plenty of things to do that will keep everyone entertained, from theme parks to nature reserves. If you’re looking for something fun to do this weekend, why not check out one of these activities?…

Looking for something fun to do with the family in Pietermaritzburg? Look no further! The Midlands Meander is home to a variety of family-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained. From hiking and biking trails to animal sanctuaries and museums, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region of South Africa. Here are some…

If you’re looking for something fun to do with your family, look no further! Johannesburg is home to many exciting family-friendly activities. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best activities in Roodepoort and JHB Central. Whether you’re interested in exploring nature, going on adventures, or simply having a day out at the…

The Mother City is a treasure trove of activities for the whole family. From outdoor adventures to educational outings, there’s something for everyone. So, whether you’re looking for things to do in Cape Town with toddlers or want an exciting day out with older kids, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to find out more!…

Table of Contents What is The Vulintaba Golf Course Vulintaba Amenities About Vulintaba Newcastle Pricing & Rates Food & Drinks @ Vulintaba Accommodation at ANEW Hotel Vulintaba How to Make a Booking If you’re looking for an excellent golf course to test your skills, the Vulintaba Golf Course in Newcastle, KZN is a must-play. This…

From helping you disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, to providing a unique serenity and tranquillity, the African bush offers the perfect opportunity to press pause, rejuvenate, and indulge all the senses.   Hluhluwe Lodge by ANEW offers a tranquil escape, filled with all the modern luxuries needed for a comfortable and…

Situated in the foothills of the Magaliesberg Mountains lies the idyllic ANEW Resort Hunters Rest in Rustenburg. Surrounded by indigenous fauna and flora, this country resort is the perfect place to relax and indulge in adventure. Only a 90-minute drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria our rural resort is an oasis for city dwellers. Escape the…

Table of Contents Where to Stay When in Kwa-Zulu Natal Mountains in the Midlands The Great Race Resort Sea, Sand, and Nature at its Best Hit The Coastal Road Or Go Wild!   Where to Stay When in Kwa-Zulu Natal Much has been written about all the amazing vacation experiences that await travellers to the…

Durban vs. the Kwa-Zulu Natal North Coast It’s a little like comparing apples with pears because both of these iconic vacation destinations offer travellers so many incredible experiences. Without a doubt, Durban is more suitable for the family as it is an amazing fun-filled place in which every member of the family can find exactly…

Key Takeaways 1. Safety Tips: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, flashing valuables, or leaving belongings unattended. Keep car windows closed and doors locked when driving in the city. Consult your hotel concierge for advice on safe areas and guided tours. 2. Areas to Avoid: Stay away from high-crime areas like Mitchell’s Plain and certain…

Key Takeaways 1. Packing Essentials:  Pack light, summer-friendly clothing, but include a warm jacket for winter or night safaris. Bring a universal power adapter and plenty of sunscreen. Carry a good camera for capturing wildlife and scenic views. Consult your doctor about malaria prevention if visiting malaria-prone areas. 2. Travel Preparation: Research visa, vaccination, and…

Key Takeaways 1. Safety Tips: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing flashy jewellery to minimise the risk of petty theft. Consult your hotel concierge for advice on safe areas and times to explore the city. Be cautious in areas like Hillbrow and avoid unaccompanied visits to township areas unless on an accredited tour.…

Key Takeaways 1. Safety Tips: Be vigilant in Durban’s inner city; avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep car doors locked. Avoid venturing out alone at night, even in safer areas, unless they are well-known tourist spots. Only visit township areas with accredited tour guides for a safe and enlightening experience. 2. Must-Visit Areas:…

The town of Newcastle is steeped in history and delivers spectacular natural beauty. The perfect place to explore for history lovers with the many battlegrounds and historical sites in the area. There are plenty of hidden gems to discover. Read on and find something interesting to do the next time you’re in Newcastle.   Visit old…

ANEW Resort Hunters Rest sets the scene for the ultimate relaxing family holiday. This amazing property looks out to the stunning Magaliesberg mountains, allowing you to breath in the fresh air, and enjoy the peace and quiet far from the noise and pollution of the city.   The resort offers families tranquility with a dose…

Experience the rare and wonderful during a visit to the breathtaking Weza Forest. A bird-watching must on the South Coast of KZN, ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest is located within the incredible Weza-Ngele Forest where nature lovers can delight in all that this magical landscape has to offer. From hiking through the serene forest to indulging…

The Dolphin Coast is a beautiful place to explore, with an amazing climate and laid-back vibe it’s the obvious choice for your next beach escape. ANEW Hotel Ocean Reef caters to your every need to sit back, relax, and enjoy the peace and quiet. Feel like a little more adventure? We’ve composed a list of…

When the sun rises on the Elephant Coast one of the world’s most diverse regions bursts into life. The Elephant Coast got its name from the indigenous African elephants that have lived in the sand forests of this region for centuries. With the peak of the Drakensberg mountains in the distance, the bush teeming with…

Key Takeaways 1. Historical Significance: Hluhluwe-Imfolozi is the oldest game reserve in Southern Africa, once the exclusive hunting grounds of King Shaka. Established in 1895, it spans 96,000 hectares and is rich in cultural and natural history. 2. Rhino Conservation: The park played a pivotal role in saving the white rhino from near extinction through…

Looking for a list of exciting and relaxing activities to do in and around Rustenburg? You’ve come to the right place! We have compiled a comprehensive list of exciting activities that were made for kids and adults to enjoy in and around the Rustenburg area.  Here are 7 activities that you can consider while visiting…

ANEW Hotels & Resorts has acquired the African-owned hospitality management and marketing company, Fortis Hotel Group. “We’re thrilled to announce that we have found our match in the Fortis brand and concluded an agreement this week to acquire an additional six properties, bringing the ANEW stable to 10 hotels and resorts countrywide. We feel this…

Traveling During COVID-19 Traveling during the pandemic is a daunting experience, especially now that things are starting to return to normal. Although we’re all sitting with our bags packed and ready to head out to travel the world, COVID-19 is still a large threat. While our borders are still closed till further notice, South Africans…

We don’t know about you, but we can’t wait to travel again and explore the beauty of South Africa. Thanks to the lockdown however, many of us had to drastically cut down on our travel budget; causing most of us to relook at how and where we spend our travel bucks.  Newsflash: You don’t have…

Lockdown Offers Great Opportunities for Local Hotel Management Company “While the Covid-19-induced lockdown has severely affected our operations and business in general, we see tremendous opportunities for growing our business at the same time,” says ANEW Hotels and Resorts (ANEW) chief executive officer, Clinton Armour. “The state of the hotel sector as a result of…

“Is it day 8? Or maybe day 28? Has it been the weekend yet? Wait, is my banana bread burning?” We’ve all been locked indoors to help fight the good fight against COVID-19 by staying put; something that’s quite difficult for those with wanderlust in their hearts. Although our April and Easter travel plans have…

KwaZulu-Natal offers all nature lovers the perfect back drop for a stunning South African holiday experience. With lush vegetation creeping up the mountains and a picturesque countryside, to the shimmering Indian Ocean, bird life and safari views, this is a must do on your list if you’re an avid traveller. Perfect outdoor family getaway in…

ANEW Hotels & Resorts is piloting a wonderful new initiative at the ANEW Hotel Hilton location called the Barista Project. We have partnered with CIRO and eDeaf to employ a deaf barista. Essential Deaf sensitization training was completed with all staff at ANEW Hotel Hilton to encourage positive communication and a compassionate working environment for…

Ever wonder how everyone on your Facebook friend’s list seems to be on a permanent holiday? While you’ve been staring at your vacation picture flooded timeline, we’ve cracked the code on how they do it. Follow our handy guide on how to make the most of public holidays for 2010 in South Africa.    …

From the king of the jungle catching its prey, to adorable baby elephants taking their trunks for a spin, South Africa provides some of  the most beautiful landscape scenes in the world. No wonder it’s become a haven for photographers and tourists alike, looking to capture some of nature’s most beautiful moments. Check out some…

On the 5th of August 1962, Nelson Mandela was arrested outside Howick, KwaZulu-Natal. After his capture, Mandela spent 27 years of his life in prison. The Nelson Mandela Capture Site commemorates this moment in history. A powerful sculpture sits at the end of a long, peaceful walk, symbolizing Mandela’s long walk to freedom. The Capture…

South Africa has a very rich cultural population, which embodies the meaning of “diversity”. This speaks true for the various slang words that almost every South African knows and loves. Taken from the eleven official languages of South Africa, these slang words are some of the funniest and most expressive phrases in the world! Aikona:…

The Midlands Meander is a beautiful weave of routes that takes you through the magnificent Zulu Kingdom.  The region stretches through the most spectacular parts of KwaZulu-Natal, highlighting the fascinating features of this region. From Wildlife conservations, to extraordinary local events, the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands Meander is a must-see destination when visiting the region. View some…

Some may say that there’s nothing more exciting than seeing the day break as the sun illuminates the sky with its orange and pink hues – and we totally agree. Witnessing this one-of-a-kind phenomenon is just one of the various things that you’ll get to experience on your safari through the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi bush. Find out…

South Africa: The Ultimate Travel Destination A country filled with culture, diversity, and adventure; South Africa is the perfect destination for any traveler. The country is home to some of the most interesting destinations, delicious cuisines, and even some strange adventure activities. Stuck between being a developed and first-world country, South Africa offers the perfect…

Situated below the majestic Ingeli Mountain range lies a hidden gem for you and your family to enjoy, ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest. A popular getaway for couples and families, ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest is a holiday resort in KZN on the South Coast that promises to give you the break you and your family deserve.…

The Hluhluwe-imfolozi Safari Park is well known for its conservation of Black and White rhino has the largest population of white rhino’s in the world.  The Hluhluwe Game reserve can be explored by booking a Day Safari with various options such as a 3hr day safari, half day safari or a full day safari experience…

Dreaming of a fairy tale wedding is easy but planning it, not so much! Everyone deserves a perfect day that they will remember and celebrate throughout their happy marriage.  The venue you choose will define not only the aesthetics of your event, but also the vibe and mood of your dream day. With so many…

The holidays are officially upon us and oops! You forgot to book your getaway early and holiday accommodation is filled to the brim. Before you tell the family to unpack their cozzies, take a look at our handy tips for finding last minute festive season accommodation… Sign-Up for Newsletters Most festive season accommodation providers offer…

Finding time to spend with your family is getting harder and harder. Everyone might be technologically connected, but when last have you made an actual emotional connection? Between carpool, after school activities, and just casually juggling the nine to five in between, it can be difficult to even remember what you had for breakfast, let…

It’s that time of year where we all get to plan those illustrious holidays and big festive season get-together. But, before deciding who will host the family this year, the all-important year end function must take place. Yes, we know that to some this can be the most dreaded day of the year, but check…

Think of an African Safari, it’s quite impossible not to picture someone dressed in the full khaki attire clutching their hat as the wind tries to blow it away, while their binoculars rest softly in one of their utility pockets. Luckily for us, you don’t have to look like a 1980’s National Geographic explorer to…

There is a saying in the English language that goes ‘better late than never’. This is most definitely not  the case when it comes to booking a holiday! Remember that the early bird catches the worm (or in this case, the room with the best view). No one wants to spend Christmas in the only…

Whether it’s getting away from your busy schedules, or finally managing to arrange a sitter for the little ones, there’s nothing more special than taking a wonderful couples weekend away with your significant other. Every couple deserves a personal paradise that caters to their every whim, with activities and gorgeous views galore. Searching for the…

Poolside lounging bore you to tears? Need to get your adrenaline fix during your holiday? Adventure travel is definitely for you! Check out how you can combine your love of all things adventurous with your love of getting away as we unravel the growing trend of adventure travel. What is Adventure Travel? Adventure travel is…

Ever wonder how everyone on your Facebook friend’s list seems to be on a permanent holiday? While you’ve been staring at your vacation picture flooded timeline, we’ve cracked the code on how they do it. Follow our handy guide on how to make the most of public holidays for 2019 in South Africa.    …

Craving a holiday but can’t leave your desk for longer than 2 days? We’ve got your back! Take a look at these handy tips and tricks to maximize every getaway opportunity and make every day feel like a mini vacation.   Plan a Couple of Short Getaways Make every public holiday count and see where…

Parents travelling with kids deserve an award. From shouty car rides to luggage overflowing with favourite toys and blankets, family travel is no easy feat. As if these aren’t hard enough, nothing compares to the mammoth task of keeping your little one entertained while on holiday. Need some help? Check out our favourite list of…

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve is one of Africa’s oldest reserves and one of the few parks in KwaZulu Natal where you’ll find the Big 5. The park has a variety of landscapes – thick forests, dry bushveld and open savannah – that are home to a number of animal species. What is truly magnificent about the…

Feel like you’re reliving the same holiday over and over again? Just stop. In KwaZulu-Natal, there is no need for repetition – you are spoilt with sea, mountains, wildlife and much more. But what we really want to discuss with you today is a getaway in KwaZulu-Natal that’s probably not even on your radar. ANEW…

The most important thing you can do for your staff is keep them uplifted and feeling valuable in your company. There are many ways you can accomplish this and one such way is planning a team building outing for the day. Today, managers are spoilt for choice and there are plenty team building ideas to consider…

Finding Good Food Suppliers Working in the hospitality industry does not begin and end with good friendly service. Although this is a massive part of running a successful hotel or resort, many guests will admit that one of the most exciting parts of their holiday is indulging (and sometimes overindulging) in delicious food and meals. It…

Winter Holidays in South Africa The summer sun has set, soup is on the stove and cosy winter socks envelope your feet. Welcome to winter – nature’s perfect remedy to balance body, mind and spirit. Be warmly embraced by a comforting season of rest and relaxation, where fire side living takes centre stage. So where will…

ANEW Resort Ingeli Forest is the perfect hideaway for a peaceful break from city life when you are looking for Kokstad accommodation. You and your family can unwind in the heart of the Ingeli Forest, with a selection of rooms which all have their own verandas, en-suite bathrooms, flat screen TV, DSTV as well as tea…

When looking for a wedding venue near Durban, look no further than ANEW Resorts Ingeli Forest. Situated just outside of Durban between Kokstad and Harding, Ingeli provides the perfect forest hideaway for a picture perfect intimate wedding. Situated below the Ingeli mountain range, ANEW Resorts Ingeli Forest is the perfect setting for any bride deciding…

The planning leading up to saying “I do” is one of the most exciting and nerve wracking times in a brides life. For those brides in KwaZulu Natal for example, finding affordable wedding venues near Durban and surrounds is just one such stress when trying to keep within your budget. However, there are many tips and tricks brides…