Sashwa River of Stars: A Plant-Forward Safari Experience
/This article was written by Hayley Cooper, COO of Vegan Hospitality
Recently, I had the pleasure of attending the soft launch of Sashwa River of Stars, a remarkable new safari lodge in South Africa. This lodge is making history as the first plant-forward safari lodge in the country, serving primarily plant-based meals with a wellness-centered ethos. It’s also one of the latest properties to achieve Vegan Hospitality Certification! I’m thrilled to share my experience and highlight aspects that might inspire other lodges to follow a similar path.
Arrival: A Warm Welcome with Unique Touches
Our journey began with an enchanting drive through the reserve, where we were lucky enough to spot a herd of elephants before reaching the lodge. On arrival, we were greeted by the owners and treated to a thoughtful hand-cleansing ritual using essential oils and river sand, followed by a refreshing homemade iced tea. It was a warm and memorable way to transition from travel mode to relaxation.
Accommodations: Thoughtful Design Meets Comfort
The lodge’s attention to detail was evident from the moment we stepped into our river-view room. The room featured eco-conscious amenities like hats and bags for safaris, as well as yoga mats and meditation cushions, aligning with the lodge’s wellness philosophy. Small touches, like intricately folded elephant towels on the bed, added a sense of playfulness and care.
Dining: Creative, Sustainable Plant-Based Cuisine
The dining experience at Sashwa was a true highlight. Meals were buffet-style, showcasing creative, plant-based dishes with a focus on minimizing food waste. Leftovers were repurposed into grab-and-go salads stored in glass jars, a brilliant and sustainable solution for guests needing a snack or missing a meal. The chefs’ pride in their craft was palpable, and the open kitchen allowed us to feel part of the process.
Wellness and Nature: An Immersive Experience
Sashwa’s wellness offerings extended beyond yoga and meditation classes to tranquil spaces perfect for reflection. From sun loungers and daybeds to serene riverside spots, the lodge is designed for guests to connect deeply with nature. A guided bushwalk, which included a meditation session overlooking the river, was a standout moment, blending physical activity with mindfulness.
Community Impact: Supporting Koru Camp
One of the most inspiring aspects of Sashwa’s mission is its partnership with Koru Camp, a nonprofit initiative providing immersive bush experiences for students. During our visit, we toured the camp and learned how Sashwa’s profits contribute to environmental education and conservation, ensuring a positive impact on local communities.
Why Vegan Hospitality Certification Matters
As a Vegan Hospitality Certified property, Sashwa exemplifies the benefits of incorporating plant-based offerings into a luxury travel experience. Certification ensures staff are trained to meet the needs of plant-based guests while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality. From menu creativity to sustainability practices, this certification helps properties differentiate themselves in the market and appeal to a growing segment of conscious travelers.
Lessons for Other Lodges and Hotels
For lodges and hotels looking to achieve Vegan Hospitality Certification, Sashwa’s approach offers valuable insights:
Guest Experience: Thoughtful touches like plant-forward menus, wellness activities, and eco-conscious amenities enhance guest satisfaction.
Sustainability: Creative solutions to reduce waste, like repurposing leftovers, show commitment to environmental stewardship.
Community Engagement: Partnering with local nonprofits aligns with values-driven tourism, appealing to guests who seek meaningful travel experiences.
Training: Staff education is key. Vegan Hospitality Certification provides essential training to ensure every team member can deliver an exceptional experience for vegan guests.
For those looking to explore this unique plant-forward safari lodge, I highly recommend visiting Sashwa River of Stars. And don’t miss learning more about their inspiring nonprofit work at Koru Camp.
CLICK HERE to learn more about the benefits of applying for Vegan Hospitality Certification for your hotel or lodge.
Photo Credit: Photos in this article were provided by Sashwa and by Hayley Cooper