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What to Expect When Visiting Umngazi for the First Time

Posted on: June 2, 2022, in Activities, DID YOU KNOW, Latest News

We always strive to offer attentive and efficient service to each of our guests, so they leave feeling appreciated, relaxed and content with their Umngazi experience. If you are planning your first trip with us, we can’t wait to welcome you! We have put together a list of essential information and what you can expect during your stay.

Mealtimes
Each day, you can look forward to thoughtfully prepared, fresh and healthy meals. Enjoy your meal in our spacious dining room or sit out on the deck and take in the gorgeous river views. Meals are served at the following times:

Breakfast: 07:00 – 09:00
Mid Morning Tea: 10:30 – 11:30
Lunch: 13:00 -14:00
Afternoon Tea: 15:30 – 16:30
Dinner: 19:00 – 20:00

Kids Dining Room:
Breakfast: 07:00 – 08:00
Lunch: 12:30 -13:30
Dinner: 17:30 – 18:30

Booking the River Cruise
A tranquil meander down the Umngazi river is the perfect way to experience its beauty and marvel at the rich biodiversity. You can book this afternoon cruise at reception. Please note there is a maximum of 19 pax per cruise.

Booking a Hike
The local hikes offer nothing but breathtaking scenery and rich ecosystems for you to discover. Enquire at reception for the daily hike schedule, and you can then book the one you would like to go on. If you would like to embark on a guided hike, there is a small per person charge.

Booking a Nanny
If you require a nanny to assist you during your stay, please ask at reception, and you will be provided with a contract with the rates. Please note that the nannies are not au pairs.

Booking a Gilly
Should you wish to book a Gilly during your stay, you can do so at reception, and they will provide you with a contract with the rates.

Renting a Kayak/SUP Board
On a warm day, a leisurely kayak or SUPing along the Umngazi river is a must! You’ll find the kayaks and SUP boards down next to the bar deck, and the Boatman on duty will assist you with hiring the equipment.

Where to get Beach Towels and Umbrellas
Our reception will happily provide you with beach towels and umbrellas should you need them. Please note a deposit will be charged to your room and reversed upon return of beach towels and umbrellas. A usage rate is also charged for the use of beach towels.

How to Access the Beach
You will need to get the water taxi across the river to access the beach. To do this, head down to the jetty, and the Boatman will take you across. When you are ready to return to the hotel, you can hit the gong by the jetty a few times, alerting the Boatman, and he will come and collect you.

Drinking Water
The tap water is potable and tested safe to drink. There is also bottled water available at the hotel for you to purchase.

WIFI Issues
Please note that the hotel is in a remote location which does present WiFi connectivity issues. WiFi is generally accessible in the public areas of the hotel, however, it is not available in the hotel rooms.

Polani – Crafters Market
There is a crafters market located in the parking lot at the hotel. Most of the items on sale are made by the housekeeping ladies. You’ll find a beautiful selection of locally made baskets, placemats, floor mats and even lovely Shwe-Shwe shirts.

Fully Licensed
Umngazi Hotel & Spa is a fully licensed resort and does not condone guests bringing in their own alcohol. The bar is very reasonably priced, with a wide variety of cocktails, beers and wines to choose from.

Available Facilities
Please note that there are no TVs in the rooms, but they are available in the public areas. Should you forget to bring a book to read, there is a library of books that you are welcome to use when visiting. All rooms have a tea/coffee station and a hairdryer. Should you need to use an iron, please speak to the reception, and they will be able to assist. There is also a well-equipped gym at the hotel for guests to use.

Essentials to Bring with You
Please don’t forget to bring your costumes, beach towels, suntan lotion and hats. If you love the outdoors and plan on going for hikes and walks, please don’t forget to pack comfortable walking shoes too. In winter, it can get chilly in the early morning and evening, so don’t forget to bring warm clothes.

Dress Code
There is no dress code at Umngazi. We are a barefoot establishment and want our guests to relax and feel at home when staying with us.

Children
There are daily activities planned for children to enjoy. Please have a look on the boards outside of reception for the times. There is also a Creative Corner for younger children (up to 4 years old) to spend time in, and the Pavillion is perfect for older children with board games, table tennis and a TV to enjoy a movie in the evenings. There is also a well-equipped jungle gym and trampoline to keep children active and busy.

We look forward to having you stay with us and hope that this list has helped you understand what to expect. Most importantly, we want you to have an unforgettable experience, so if you have any questions or requests, please don’t hesitate to email our reservations team directly at requests@umngazi.co.za or call the hotel on 047-564 1115/6/8/9.

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