Angelique van der Hoogen

Disappointing and Unwelcoming Experience

I stayed at SisoDwana Lodge with a group of friends and unfortunately had a very unpleasant experience. Before our arrival, the owners made many promises about how accommodating and welcoming the stay would be—but the reality was completely different. From the moment we arrived, we felt more like intruders than guests. The owners were extremely rude and unapproachable, showing no flexibility or willingness to accommodate a group booking. We weren’t allowed to move tables to sit together for meals, even though we were a group and wanted to share time together. Despite it being a beautiful day, we were told we had to sit inside, even though there were outdoor tables available on the veranda. Any request we made was met with hostility and unreasonable responses. We were spoken to in a condescending and demoralising manner, as if we were being scolded rather than communicated with. It created a very uncomfortable and tense environment, which completely overshadowed what should have been a relaxing and enjoyable getaway. To be fair, the staff did their best to make up for the lack of hospitality from the owners—but their efforts couldn’t undo the overall atmosphere of unwelcomeness and tension. Sadly, I would not recommend SisoDwana Lodge to others. If you’re looking for a warm, friendly, and accommodating place to stay in Sodwana, this is not it.