A Visit to Heia Safari Ranch
Situated in the South African bushveld, only 40 kilometers from Pretoria and Johannesburg, the three-star Heia Safari Ranch beautifully captures the essence of Africa. Giraffe and zebras roam freely around the hotel property in between the 45 spacious two-bedroom thatched bungalows, at times stopping off at the sparkling blue swimming pool for a drink of water.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely guided game drive through Heia Safari Ranch’s 650 hectare game reserve which lies at the foot of the Swartkop Mountains. Animals that may be spotted during a game drive include rhino, hippo, buffalo, wildebeest, kudu, impala and giraffe. Bird watchers can look out for some of the 176 recorded species of birds among the indigenous trees and shrubbery.
Sundays at the Heia Safari Ranch are a festive occasion. Day visitors are welcome and can start or end their day with a game drive. Lunch is a traditional South African barbeque (braai) served around the swimming pool area. After Sunday lunch, in an authentic Zulu kraal, the Mzumba African Dancers act out the ancient tribal legends of Africa by means of dance accompanied by the chanting of women and the throbbing of African drums. The program includes the re-enactment of the sacrifice of a tribal princess in a rain-making ceremony as well the sacred python dance, which is the Venda tribe’s maiden initiation song. Visitors will also witness the Zulu War Dance and hear the unique traditional Xhosa “Click Song” as well as Shosholoza, the Shangaan message of “go in peace”.
Lake Heritage is located on the Heia Safari Ranch property and is perfect for canoeing and fishing. A number of fish eagles have made the lake their home and it is not uncommon to see one of these magnificent birds swoop down and, with unfailing accuracy, catch its dinner.
The Heia Safari Ranch restaurant offers a variety of delicious dishes served in a cozy thatched building or outside at the pool. The restaurant setting is also perfect for private functions, such as weddings. Conference facilities for up to 100 delegates are available and the hotel grounds are ideal for corporate team building exercises. The authentic Zulu village is also an excellent venue for corporate year end functions.
Whether you are a visitor to South Africa or you are a resident South African, Heia Safari Ranch offers a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
