Eco-Tourism

Leave the smallest impact on the environment

Mashovhela Lodge is setting new standards for Eco-Tourism with its Green and Responsible Tourism policies, strict environmental and conservation policies, alternative energy usage and community development projects.

Detached entirely from Eskom's power-grid and in order to minimize the emission of green house gases, the lodge runs on alternative, renewable and sustainable energy. Our hot water is heated by solar energy, supplemented by (eucalyptus) wood-fired boilers. For electricity we rely on photovoltaic solar energy, supplemented by diesel generators. It is intended to eventually run our diesel generators on biodiesel and wood gas produced from combustible biomass.

With the ongoing eradication of invasive exotic eucalyptus and wattle trees from the reserve we have an ongoing supply of combustible biomass, firewood and timber. The timber is utilized for the woodwork, including almost all the furniture, at the Lodge.

Our guests are encouraged to support our environmental endeavours by using hot water and electricity sparingly, and to help us protect our natural heritage site.

The Venda styled lodge also has a local community development element to it, through employment of lodge staff and dancers, education and supporting their trade in Arts and Crafts. It is hoped that in the near future we will be introducing tours to their local village so that travelers can witness the day-to-day lifestyle of the Venda people.

The community is aware of the vision we have for the property and the community, making them aware of the environment and how to conserve it and ensure future generations can benefit from it. " Dr Hahn's harmonious relationship with the local chief and his people will ensure that the conservation efforts of the nature reserve will prevail for the benefit of the prosperity.

Our knowledge and skills in eco-friendly living are being passed on through training to the local community, and we are readily available to educate communities and resorts elsewhere in southern Africa.

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