HERITAGE VENUE

Sanctuary Mandela celebrates Heritage Month

The Sanctuary Mandela has officially opened its doors to the public with up to 45 per cent off on all the available rooms, for bookings commencing now until the end of October and for stays from now until 31 December.

In celebration of Heritage Month in September, South Africans are able to stay and experience Johannesburg’s newest hotel in the leafy suburbs of Houghton. People are invited to an experience of tranquillity, heritage and mindfulness at the home where the country’s first democratically elected President, Nelson Mandela, lived after his release from Robben Island.

The Sanctuary Mandela was officially opened at the beginning of September 2021, to mark this year’s Tourism Month. The reimagined home commemorates the country’s dynamic political heritage, by celebrating the life of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, best and globally known for his role in the fight against Apartheid South Africa. It harmoniously curates his life, from when he was a boy, to when he fought the human rights injustices of the Apartheid regime, his 27-years imprisonment, his presidency, and to becoming a Nobel Peace Prize winner, father of the nation, peacemaker and Tata Madiba.

Dimitri Maritz, general manager of the Sanctuary Mandela, said: “It has been a work of dreams and, after so many years of planning and building, we are finally ready to welcome people to this home. We would like everyone to experience this. From the food, the rooms, to the personalised experiences; we would like people to stay here and leave this sanctuary fulfilled and inspired by the spirit of one of the greatest human beings to ever live amongst us.”

Mam Xoliswa Ndoyiya, Nelson Mandela’s former private chef.

The Sanctuary Mandela also offers some very intriguing aspects of Tata that are not necessarily widely known. An itinerary at this remarkable home includes an educational experience of the Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory where South Africans are able to learn more about Tata. Mam Xoliswa Ndoyiya, Tata’s former private chef, continues to cook in the kitchen at the Sanctuary Mandela, serving his favourite dishes to the public at the Insights Restaurant.

“The most exciting aspect about the Insights Restaurant at the Sanctuary Mandela is that it is open for walk-ins. This means that both the people who stay and those who don’t, are able eat here. It makes me so happy because it allows us to cook for many more people, something Tata would’ve been very proud of,” said Ms Ndoyiya, chef de tournant at Sanctuary Mandela.

“And now that we are open to the public, we are eagerly looking forward to making all the traditional dishes Tata used to enjoy in this house,” Ms Ndoyiya added.

Beginning now, South Africans are able to book a stay and receive a 45 per cent discount on all rooms. Bookings may be made for stays between now and the end of December 2021. Sanctuary Mandela offers nine comfortable and spacious bedrooms with air conditioners and all modern conveniences in four room categories. Hotel amenities include a restaurant and a bar/lounge, outdoor heated pool, daily housekeeping, full breakfast, free Wifi, DSTV, 24-hour safe and secure parking and conferencing facilities.

To book, use the online tool or email reservations@sanctuarymandela.com