Universal Accessibility to promote Tourism for All

EEvery year on the 3rd of December, International Day for Persons with Disabilities is observed with the aim to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development. Universal access refers to the ability of all people to have equal opportunity and access to a service or product from which they can benefit, regardless of their social class, ethnicity, ancestry or physical disabilities.

This year, to observe International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) visited Ximuwu Lodge, a premier luxury safari destination nestled within the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. The lodge has been successfully graded as a 5-star game lodge with a Universal Accessibility (UA) Mobility 3 rating. This exceptional accolade places Ximuwu Lodge at the pinnacle of luxury and accessibility within the Greater Kruger National Park.

Situated over 6,500 hectares of private nature reserve, Ximuwu Lodge stands as the epitome of executive-level luxury safari travel. What sets Ximuwu apart is its exclusivity – offering an unparalleled experience where guests have the entire lodge to themselves. With four exquisite, spacious, and tastefully decorated private suites, Ximuwu Lodge accommodates a maximum group size of eight, ensuring an intimate and personalized safari adventure.

South African Tourism Chief Quality Assurance Officer Bronwen Auret commented that “It brings South African Tourism immense pleasure to recognize and celebrate the exceptional achievement of Ximuwu Lodge. The 5-star grading and UA Mobility 3 certification bestowed upon Ximuwu highlights their unwavering commitment to universal accessibility and inclusivity in the hospitality industry. We are proud to showcase Ximuwu Lodge as a beacon of excellence, setting a standard for luxury and accessibility that aligns perfectly with the principles of World Disability Day.”

Ximuwu Lodge is proud to be fully wheelchair accessible, embodying a commitment to inclusivity. The dedication to providing an accessible experience is showcased through the lodge's dedicated accessibility website, www.wheelchairsafari.com, where detailed information is available for guests seeking a truly accessible safari experience.

The Universal Accessibility Certification, launched in 2016, has recognized Ximuwu Lodge for its commitment to Mobility accessibility at the highest level – Mobility 3. This certification not only signifies the lodge's dedication to providing a welcoming environment for all guests but also contributes to the promotion of universal accessibility in the travel and hospitality industry.

"We are thrilled to receive this prestigious 5-star grading and UA Mobility 3 certification from TGCSA," said Elly Suverein, Founder and CFO of Ximuwu Lodge. "This achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional and inclusive safari experience. Ximuwu Lodge is not just a destination; it's a promise of luxury, exclusivity, and accessibility for every guest."

In celebration of this notable achievement, Ximuwu Lodge invites travelers to experience the magic of the Greater Kruger National Park in a setting that seamlessly blends opulence with accessibility.

For media inquiries and further information, please contact:

Thandiwe Mathibela

Tel: +2711 895 3177

Email: mediaq@southafrica.net

Email: thandiwe@southafrica.net

Website: www.southafrica.net