Aha – curating ideal venues

AHA Hotels & Lodges is continually enhancing its MICE capabilities and curating ideal venues for conferences and events. The group has properties across the country, many of them popular with South African corporates due to their accessibility, versatility and strong experiential appeal, says Ruzandri Stoltz, Marketing Manager at aha Hotels & Lodges. “Our diverse portfolio supports everything from small executive breakaways to large-scale conferences, ensuring flexibility across segments.” New venue Aha’s Ivory Tree Game Lodge is home to the company’s new conference venue, Durga. It can accommodate up to 200 delegates and is equipped with state-of- the-art technology including presentation screens, Yealink video conferencing cameras, and an integrated Yealink sound and microphone system. This technology allows for a high-quality experience for both in-person and hybrid events in a bush setting that is less than a three-hour drive from Johannesburg. Variety At the premium end of the incentive market, Ivory Tree and Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodges are ideal choices. Close to Johannesburg, they combine five-star accommodation, professional conferencing facilities, and Big Five safari experiences, making them ideal for executive strategy sessions, leadership retreats, and high- end incentive travel. In KZN, aha Gateway Hotel is particularly popular for conferences and training sessions due to its prime Umhlanga location, with direct access to Gateway Theatre of Shopping and its well-equipped, modern conference facilities. Kopanong Hotel & Conference Centre in Gauteng remains a firm favourite for conferences and corporate gatherings. Its extensive conferencing capacity, flexible venue configurations, and convenient access to OR Tambo International Airport make it a practical choice for multi-day events. For organisations seeking a culturally rich experience, Lesedi Cultural Village in the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng is highly sought-after for unique conferences, incentives, and team-building events. Its authentic African setting, cultural performances, and traditional cuisine create memorable, purpose-driven experiences that go beyond the conventional meeting environment. Beyond the conference room, aha Hotels & Lodges also offers a wide range of value-added experiences tailored to MICE groups, including guided game drives, cultural interactions, bush dinners, wellness treatments, adventure activities, and team-building exercises. Going green “MICE travellers are increasingly prioritising venues that align with their environmental and social values, and aha responds by offering authentic experiences that actively promote sustainability and conservation,” says Stoltz. Guests and delegates can engage with sustainability initiatives through in-room information that encourages responsible practices, as well as guided nature walks and wildlife conservation talks that foster a deeper understanding of the surrounding environment. Cultural heritage experiences and local craft markets further connect guests to local communities, supporting small businesses and preserving traditions.