VOASA had the opportunity to sit down with Tania Steenkamp, the Resort Manager of Kagga Kamma, to gain deeper insights into what makes this resort truly special.
HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE TIMESHARE INDUSTRY?
I entered the hospitality industry in 2011 as an Administrator at Crystal Springs Mountain Lodge in Mpumalanga. Over the years, I gained valuable experience in all aspects of day-to-day lodge operations. In 2015, I took on the role of General Manager at Kagga Kamma and have loved every moment of the past nine years.
WHAT MAKES THIS RESORT A FAVOURITE OF TIMESHARE OWNERS?
Kagga Kamma is not just a holiday destination; it is an experience where time seems to stand still, offering an overwhelming sense of peace and quiet. Here, you can reconnect with nature and yourself. The clear, dark skies, relatively high elevation and the lack of light pollution make Kagga Kamma the perfect stargazing spot.
THERE WERE RECENTLY A NUMBER OF NEWS HEADLINES AND MUCH EXCITEMENT OVER THE REMARKABLE FIND OF AN ANCIENT KHOEKHOEN ARTEFACT AT KAGGA KAMMA. TELL US MORE ABOUT THAT.
Earlier this year on the 24th of April, two guests made an incredible discovery while hiking and exploring a remote area on the Reserve. They first found a rock art site with a number of hand print paintings, and as they explored further, they came across a ceramic pot, since confirmed to be an ancient Khoekhoen pot, that is estimated to be at least 500 years old. The information was provided by academics and archaeologists from Heritage Western Cape and the University of Cape Town, who have shared in our amazement and excitement over this remarkable find. This artefact has the potential to shed light on Late Stone Age history in the Cederberg region. Given the vast expanse of our Reserve, we imagine there must be other sites, with hidden treasures, here at Kagga Kamma.
WHERE IS THE POT NOW, AND WHERE WILL IT REMAIN?
The pot will remain at the resort, and we are committed to the careful preservation of this valuable historic artefact. It will be displayed alongside other artefacts for guests to view.
HOW DOES THE ABSENCE OF WI-FI CONNECTIVITY RESONATE WITH GUESTS?
It’s a digital detox, and guests love it, especially families who see it as a golden opportunity to re-connect while enjoying any of the many onsite activities. For those needing to “check-in” or share their holiday photos online, Wi-Fi is available at the restaurant and bar.
WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IS BEHIND KAGGA KAMMA’S CONTINUED SUCCESS OF ?
Without hesitation, I would say that our success is mainly due to our dedicated staff – they are the heart and soul of Kagga Kamma. It is their commitment to excellence and genuine hospitality that truly sets us apart. Moreover, their drive to learn and grow in their role is remarkable. Our Food and Beverage Manager, Lorensia Erasmus, started at the resort as a trainee cook and completed her formal training within two years. She was promoted to F&B Manager and has been part of our team for ten years – we consider her a fine feather in our cap. Chantal Jansen joined the team in 2015 as a receptionist and has over the years developed a close relationship with our owners and guests. Her warm and friendly hospitality led to her promotion to Head of Reception.
KAGGA KAMMA IS A MULTI-AWARD-WINNING RESORT. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR HIGHLIGHTS?
Achieving the RCI Silver Crown status and being named the RCI Resort of the Year in 2020 are among our proudest accomplishments. We have also won multiple Lilizela Awards from the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa, including National Best 4-Star Lodge in South Africa and Visitor’s Choice Best Scenic Resort in the Western Cape. We are particularly proud to have been awarded the Best Weekend Stay in the Western Cape in 2023 by KFM Radio’s 1.1 million listeners. Our resort has also been featured on TV shows such as Pasella and Kyknet.
