The Outpost doesn’t just sit in one of South Africa’s most extraordinary wilderness areas – it’s deeply rooted in it. Nestled in the remote Makuleke region of the northern Kruger National Park, The Outpost is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a community that has called this place home for generations.
This Women’s Day, we’re shining a light on some of the remarkable women who are the heartbeat of this beautiful property. The vast majority of them are from the Makuleke community itself, meaning the experience we offer here is not just immersive, it’s deeply authentic. The people you meet, the stories you hear and the service you receive are all part of something real; something lived.
Long-standing leaders who grew with us
One of our longest-serving team members is Winnie, who has been part of The Outpost family for an incredible 22 years. She began her journey as a waiter and today serves as the Head of Department (HOD) for Front of House, welcoming guests with the same warmth and generous sense of hospitality that have always defined her approach.
Another inspiring story is that of Betty, who started 18 years ago working in the scullery. Her eagerness to learn and grow led the kitchen team to teach her how to cook, and over time she trained as a chef. Today, Betty is HOD of the kitchen, leading her team with skill and pride. “I enjoy being a chef,” she says. “I was willing to be a leader, and now I am.”
What stands out across the board is a collective ambition; not just to grow in their roles, but to keep learning and building their craft.
Guides, caretakers and future entrepreneurs
Christa, one of our exceptional guides, is often singled out by guests for making their safari experience truly unforgettable. Her deep knowledge of the land and its inhabitants brings every game drive to life. One of Christa’s most memorable sightings? Over 200 elephants gathered in the Fever Tree Forest, and two black eagles soaring overhead in Lanner Gorge.
Nompie, who now serves as Assistant HOD, began her career in housekeeping before moving into a guest-facing hospitality role. She shares a beautiful sentiment: “It is always my wish that every guest who visits can feel very special about the way we treat them – and very happy about seeing the beauty of the Makuleke Concession.”
And while each woman here is already remarkable in her own right, many are also thinking ahead. Vidah, our spa therapist, began as a waiter and is now dreaming of opening her own spa one day – and training future staff of her own. Supporting women like Vidah means supporting entire communities, and we’re incredibly proud to be part of that ripple effect.
Looking ahead
While Charmaine, our Lodge Manager at The Outpost, prefers to stay out of the spotlight, we’d be remiss not to acknowledge her strong, steady leadership and the invaluable role she plays in guiding the team and setting an example of how to live our vision and values with grace and humility. Charms is also one of our most long-serving team members, a kind and compassionate colleague and someone who is intricately involved in the Makuleke community – a walking, breathing embodiment of everything we stand for.
This Women’s Day, we celebrate these women and the many others who make up our Outpost family, for their ambition, their heart and their dedication to both their craft and their community. They are the reason a stay at The Outpost feels so layered, meaningful and unforgettable. We are honoured to have them on our team and inspired by all that they continue to build.
Got Northern Kruger on your bucket list? Stay at The Outpost from just R4,950 per person per night sharing, including luxury accommodation, two game drives per day, all meals and selected beers, house wines and soft drinks. Discover our Special Offers at The Outpost »