Your Hosts
James Steyn
James Steyn has been working full-time in the Conservation and Game Lodge industry since 1994.
James is affiliated to FGASA, and serves as an Executive Committee member and Chairman of the Lowveld North region of FGASA. He regularly trains field guides and is a FGASA appointed assessor.
During his career he has worked in several of South Africa’s game reserves in various fields including guiding, anti-poaching, game capture and general reserve management. He was also employed as a trails ranger by both South African National Parks (Kruger National Park) and the Natal Parks Board (Umfolozi Game Reserve), and has logged almost 7000 hours on foot in dangerous game areas.
Outside of conservation, James enjoyed playing rugby, has a passion for horses and golf, but the latter does test his patience.
Corlia Steyn
Corlia completed her BCom degree in Marketing whilst working at the University of South Africa.
After moving from the city to Senalala in 2008 Corlia has become an integral part of the Management team. She is responsible for the bookings, administration, housekeeping and logistical support related to the general operations of the lodge.
Corlia enjoys regular exercise and is a keen amateur photographer. She is also an avid rugby and Blue Bulls supporter.
James & Corlia will be your hosts during your stay. They have been married since 2008 and together with the rest of the team they will ensure that guests have a memorable stay at Senalala.
History
Prior to acquiring Senalala, each of the current owners had been privileged to have invested separately in the greater Kruger National Park. However, a common passion and desire for a more pristine and exclusive bush experience brought them together. After many years of research and looking for the “perfect” lodge, Senalala was acquired by the current owners in 2006.
The owners are all close friends and have a like-minded and common approach to conservation and wildlife. On a limited basis they make the lodge available to known groups, including family, friends and their associates in the corporate network, so that they too have the privilege of sharing this wonderful experience and “jewel” in the lowveld.
In the interests of providing a more environmentally friendly experience, in 2007 the owners invested in Eskom electrical connection. This included the laying of an 8km underground cable and transformers, eliminating the lodge’s reliance on diesel generators, reducing both noise and air pollution.
In 2009 a major renovation, refurnishing and redecoration project was completed. An additional boma and viewing deck was built to overlook the waterhole. The lodge facilities were significantly modernized whilst maintaining its character and setting amongst large trees.
The lodge conducts all its activities in a responsible manner and wishes to limit the impact of owners and guests on the surrounding area. To this end we endeavor not to disturb the wildlife and vegetation unnecessarily. We provide separate bins for plastic, glass and cans and ensure that these are returned to recyclers. All waste is removed to the municipal dump in Hoedspruit.
Visitor Feedback
“We had a wonderful time and our overseas visitors were “blown away”. James & Corlia were very professional and friendly and made the perfect hosts. Everything was first class from the game sightings, weather, food and accommodation.”
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