In its first appearance at Africa's Travel Indaba, the Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit has introduced an innovative approach to safari tourism in South Africa to the international market. Opened just over a year ago, the hotel aims to fill a gap between ultra-luxurious lodges and simple accommodations, offering comfort, resort facilities and more affordable prices – all just minutes from the legendary Kruger National Park.
“We are here to understand the market, meet tour operators and establish connections with local and international buyers,” explained Gerrit Jan Van der Grijn, who is responsible for the project. “We want to show that it is possible to have an authentic safari experience with the quality of a global chain like Radisson, but without the exorbitant prices of traditional lodges.”
The hotel, located just 30 minutes from the iconic Kruger National Park, presented an innovative proposal in the safari hotel segment: combining the quality of an international chain with the authentic spirit of the African savannah.
New faces, new proposals
“We opened a little over a year ago and came to Indaba to understand the market, meet local and international buyers, and establish new connections,” said Gerrit Jan Van der Grijn, who is responsible for the venture. “Yesterday was a good day, with lots of contacts. Today the event has just started, but expectations are positive.”
Between luxury and accessibility
In a scenario dominated by exclusive lodges costing up to 4,000 euros per night and simple guesthouses aimed at independent travelers, the Radisson Safari Hotel emerges as an intermediate alternative: high-standard comfort at more affordable prices.
“We bridge the gap between unaffordable luxury and extreme simplicity. We offer a spa, gym, two restaurants and all rooms with bush views, but with a more democratic approach,” explained Van der Grijn. “It’s a complete safari experience, with the Radisson seal of quality, but without the ostentation.”
Scandinavian design with an African soul
Inspired by the modern aesthetics of the Radisson chain, the hotel surprises with its horizontal structure integrated into the landscape, a choice designed to respect the surroundings and offer total immersion in nature. “We are not a 20-story building like business hotels. We are flat, open and close to the village of Hoedspruit, the safari capital of South Africa,” said the executive.
Van der Grijn also highlighted the creative freedom offered by the chain. “We are Radisson’s first ‘safari hotel’ in the world. We had the freedom to personalize the project, maintaining the brand’s standards, such as beds and breakfast, but with a unique design that combines light wood, soft lines and the African atmosphere.”
More than leisure, a corporate destination
In addition to leisure tourism, the hotel focuses on the corporate segment, with facilities for conferences and outdoor team building activities. “Companies from Johannesburg and Cape Town are looking to leave the concrete jungle for what we call the 'real jungle'. We offer trails, South African-style barbecues – the famous 'braais' – and authentic corporate integration experiences”, he highlighted.
Promising future
For Van der Grijn, participating in the Indaba is also a symbol of belonging. “We want to be where the future of African tourism is being shaped. Africa's Travel Indaba is not just a trade show – it is a catalyst for connections that move the continent forward.”
Report and photo: Mary de Aquino.