We were invited to spend a weekend away in Jozini checking out a private luxury villa called Tandweni. Tiger fishing and sunset bush drives left us feeling very grateful for this SA life we live… here’s a review of our stay, covering some of the questions you guys asked – including; where on earth is Jozini?! There is also a discount code for you at the end of the post 😉
Location & Travel:
Tandweni Villa is located in the Pongola Biosphere Reserve and on the banks of the Jozini Dam. Jozini is a 3 hour drive from Ballito. It is north, towards Mozam. The road was absolutely perfect and made for very easy driving on a double lane freeway much of the way, but even where single lane it was all free flowing and a very well kept road. Be aware of the differing speed limits as you pass through towns – the cops are very present along that stretch of the N2.
Villa:
With five bedrooms and four bathrooms, Tandweni Villa accommodates 10 adults comfortably. It’s the ideal Mkuze getaway for couples or groups to enjoy a relaxing breakaway or an unforgettable Tiger fishing experience. Tandweni Villa has its own boma to enjoy outside fires under the stars, a private, well-stocked gym and a refreshing plunge pool. All bedrooms are airconditioned which is vital in Jozini because the heat is just unreal.
Two of the other 4 bedrooms are en suite and then there are two bathrooms down the passage.
Unfortunately the main area aircon has been disconnected because guests would apparently leave the doors open and the aircon just could not keep up with fighting the outside heat. The entertainment area does lend itself to being open to the pool so it’s not the worst thing, but just know that if you are in the villa over midday then you are likely going to live in the pool because it is just too hot to be anywhere else!
As the sun set and we made our way back into the villa we closed all the external doors and the bedroom aircons did help to drop the internal temperature of the main living area and Juzzy and I sat and drank red wine together and spoke of our plans and dreams for the year ahead. It was too divine.
The villa is fully functional, with everything you might need – including a water filter system and an ice machine. It is serviced daily and the staff are all very friendly and a pleasure to be around.
Dining:
Tandweni villa is fully self-catering and you need to bring all your food and drink with you. Other than all your food and drink the villa will cater for everything else – they have a braai, a gas stove (helpful during loadshedding), electric stove, and oven for cooking. The villa hosts multiple fridges and freezers, and all the dishes, pots, pans, dishes & things you might need.
Activities:
Game viewing:
Although we sadly didn’t see any of them (likely due to the intense heat), the reserve is home to 4 of the big 5. We did see Wildebeest, Ostrich, Giraffe, Kudu, loads of Impala and some antelope. The bird life was incredible and we had hornbills waking up every morning tapping on the glass doors with their beaks. We stopped for sunset drinks and just loved this special bonding time with our kiddies. Tip: pack as many snacks as possible! And when you think you have enough, pack more still!
Tiger Fishing:
This was literally one of the most incredible experiences we have had with our young family. Every one of us thouroughly enjoyed the first-time fishing experience, and seeing the kids’ faces as they each caught (and released) a Tiger fish of their own was just the best ever!
All activities are managed by the staff at Tandweni. Jabulani & Sibusiso took us out on the bush drive on an open bush vehicle. It was great to just be passengers and we could relax and not have to worry about knowing where to drive etc. Jabulani & Sibusiso also took us out on the boat, driving us to good fishing spots, showing us how to cast and baiting up all the rods. It was all the fun without any of the stress or mess attached to fishing – just the best! Jabulani was awesome with the kids and Sibusiso was a brilliant guide with an exceptional knowledge of bird life.
The Verdict:
A must do holiday!
I can’t even keep count of the amount of times we have sat and thought back fondly at our time spent at Jozini! Being away together as a family is always amazing, but having a villa to ourselves, fun and exciting activities and having loads of restful time around the pool and boma all just made for a perfect getaway that will stay with us for a long time to come. A highly recommended holiday from us – one we hope to re-do with friends one day soon.
If you would like to book a holiday at Tandweni Villa in Jozini in 2020 then quote code SHANFOURIE when booking to get 10% off your reservation.
Terms & conditions apply.
Contact & Booking:
Email: admin@tandweni.co.za
Website: https://www.tandweni.co.za
Get 10% off your booking by quoting code SHANFOURIE
Disclosure: we were given a weekend in exchange for a review of the Tandweni Villa. All thoughts & feelings are 100% honest and my own. #sponsored #hosted
