New Member - Kateka Safari and Wellness Experience
Kateka Safari and Wellness is a 5 star graded luxury game lodge situated in the big five Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park. Founded in 2021 by Joel Ospovat, Kateka offers immersive wildlife experiences combined with purpose-built wellness programming Blending an authentic safari game viewing experience with restorative spa, movement, and nutrition services, targeting discerning international and domestic travellers seeking active, restorative, and sustainable travel.
Mission: To reconnect guests with nature, wildlife and themselves by delivering exceptional safari experiences paired with a comprehensive wellness offering. Vision: To be a leading African safari and wellness destination recognized for meaningful wildlife encounters and holistic guest wellbeing.
Ownership & Management
Owner / Founder: Joel Ospovat General Manager: Trevor Savage Wellness Director / Head Therapist: Natalie Howes Head Guide / Lead Ranger: Darren Renzke Accommodation The lodge consists of 3 Rooftop Suites, 2 Deluxe Suites and a Private Villa and can accommodate up to 16 guests.
Room features: All air-conditioned suites feature private decks, en-suite bathrooms, outdoor showers, heated plunge pools, Wi‑Fi, filter coffee machines, craft teas, snack drawer, minibar and smart lighting.
Safari Experiences Twice daily guided game drives with experienced, certified guides and trackers. Typical duration is 3–5 hours including sundowner stops. Our approach will always be a wildlife-first approach with the emphasis on quality over quantity at a photography-friendly pace. Guided bushwalks focus on tracking, birds, ecology and low-impact interpretation (age and fitness appropriate; led by armed, licensed guides where required).
Wellness & Spa Offerings The Wellness philosophy is a holistic approach combining movement, mindfulness, restorative treatments and nutrition to complement safari activities and recovery. Facilities include spa treatment rooms, outdoor massage, yoga and meditation, an F45 gym, ice plunge pool and a Himalayan Salt Sauna. Treatments include head neck and back massages, full body massage, crystal massages, cupping and sound bowl therapy. Sustainability & Conservation Renewable energy integration (solar), water conservation measures, waste reduction and recycling programs, responsible procurement and low-impact construction.
We partner with the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve on local conservation initiatives (anti-poaching, habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring). Where possible staff are sourced from local communities. We offer skills training where necessary and procureme local goods and services where possible. Sales, Marketing & Partnerships We have representation on South Africa, the USA and the UK.
Direct bookings are via word of mouth and the website. Sales calls are conducted to include DMC's, international tour operators and international travel agents. We have a strong social media presence which is mainly content-driven storytelling (wildlife & wellness). Press trips, trade show attendance and targeted digital campaigns form the balance of our marketing efforts. Awards & Recognition Kateka is a Virtuoso member and recognized by Andrew Harper.