Umgazana River Lodge - Spa & Conference Centre — Hotel in Port St Johns Local Municipality

Review of Umngazana River Lodge – A Sanctuary of Excellence

Rating: *

As a leader constantly traveling for urgent missions, I rarely take time to review accommodations—but Umngazana River Lodge deserves exceptional praise. When my original plans fell through for a critical family/cultural mission (involving 9 demanding delegates, including children), Mama Rona and her team not only saved our trip but turned it into a rejuvenating, unforgettable experience.

Why Umngazana stands apart:

✅ Effortless Complexity: From room configurations for mixed genders/ages to observing cultural protocols, Mama Rona and Cindy handled every intricate detail with grace and discretion. ✅ Midnight Miracle: After an 8-hour delay, we arrived exhausted at midnight. Mama Rona tracked our journey with genuine concern (not annoyance!), arranged seamless access, and even ensured security guided us through Port St Johns’ hills. ✅ Rooms Fit for Royalty: My children refused to leave their "feast of the nobles" rooms! Spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed—perfect for recharging after intense days of family negotiations. ✅ Beyond Hospitality: When our mission required an extra day, Mama Rona secured us upgraded rooms despite full bookings. Her background as a health management matron shines in her meticulous care. ✅ Unmatched Setting: The river views, private decks, and lush atmosphere offered renewal and joy. My team reconnected with history here; my boys now campaign to host their events at Umngazana!

Final Thoughts: This lodge isn’t just accommodation—it’s a partner in meaningful moments. Impeccably maintained, ethically managed, and staffed by heroes (special thanks to Mama Rona, Cindy,Hlengiwe, Maneo, and security personnel Shebo). We’ll return not for work but to savor all we missed: the jetty, event spaces, and their legendary hospitality.

It is worth every cent for peace, value, and soul-deep...

1. The warmth of the reception given to each person as we arrived at the venue.
2. The fantastic quality of the food served as well as the more than sufficient quantity of the food served.
3. The really good and appropriate accommodation we had was excellent.
4. The personnel employed by the Lodge are to be given the highest recommendation as they were exemplified by their courteous and well mannered behavior and service offered to all.
5. Lastly but with exponential thanks and gratitude to Kurt and Ali Jackson for the personal warmth of their attitude and communication offered to us during our stay....NO item or subject was too great or too small to give their utmost and undivided attention to. Gods richest Blessings to you all with love . Harold Snr....

If you need to really get away, I mean get away from the hustle and the bustle.This is the place to be and I won't hesitate to visit again and again. Let alone being on a farm which is my absolute dream life. The peace,tranquility, the smell of greenery in the morning is something to die for. The place is so clean. The staff are so friendly and helpful.The food is devine. You can even cook for yourself if need be. There's a fully fitted kitchen if you feel like cooking up something different but the kitchen staff are absolutely versatile and cook up anything for your tasetbuds.Thank you so much to the staff of The Umgazana River Lodge. You were just amazing God bless you all and here's wishing you grow from strength...