HOTEL CASE STUDY
ZWAHILI PRIVATE GAME LODGE & SPA | REVOLUTIONISING SAFARI HOSPITALITY WITH AUTOMATION
Zwahili Private Game Reserve, a luxurious bushveld retreat in South Africa, faced significant challenges with its server-based system during load shedding. Since transitioning to RoomRaccoon, Managing Director Betsy Gast has enjoyed streamlined operations and 24/7 access from anywhere in the world, even while travelling.
About Zwahili Private Game Lodge
Nestled in the tranquil wilderness of Limpopo, Zwahili Private Game Reserve offers an exclusive safari experience. Established in 2000, the reserve caters primarily to local couples seeking a romantic escape. The reserve is renowned for its stunning landscapes, exceptional service, and a variety of activities that immerse guests in the natural beauty of the African bush.
Managing Director Betsy Gast sought a sophisticated hotel management system to replace the outdated server-based solution, which was prone to disruptions during load shedding. RoomRaccoon’s cloud-based system proved to be the perfect fit, providing flexibility, ease of access, and comprehensive management tools.
Flexible, Remote Property Management
Challenge
Zwahili Private Game Lodge & Spa faced significant challenges with its previous server-based system, particularly during power outages which hampered reservation management and increased the risk of overbookings. What’s more, Betsy’s previous solution required manual intervention which made managing reservations very cumbersome. Betsy needed a solution that allowed her to manage the property around the clock from anywhere, whether from her office in Pretoria or while travelling abroad.
Solution
RoomRaccoon's cloud-based PMS provided Betsy and her team with 24/7 access to their system from any device. The intuitive interface made it easy for the team to manage reservations, communicate with guests, and handle daily operations seamlessly, regardless of their location. Because the system is on the cloud, Betsy can continue to manage reservations even during power outages, ensuring uninterrupted service and reducing the risk of overbookings.
Result
By adopting a cloud-based solution, Betsy can handle daily operations seamlessly, regardless of her location.
“I truly appreciate the accessibility RoomRaccoon offers across various locations. The real-time reservation feature means that I am constantly informed about bookings, enabling me to manage the property and my team efficiently even when I am away.”
BETSY GAST – MANAGING DIRECTOR OF ZWAHILI PRIVATE GAME LODGE
Enhanced Guest Communication
Challenge
Managing guest communication manually was time-consuming for Betsy. Because of their remote location, each guest needed the gate access code before arriving at the reserve, necessitating a flurry of emails or phone calls. Without a way to secure pre-payments from guests, the process became even more complicated when guests postponed their bookings at the last minute. This left Betsy scrambling to fill rooms on short notice, resulting in missed revenue opportunities.
Solution
RoomRaccoon’s automated communication tools streamlined these tasks, allowing for personalised and timely messages to guests. This ensured that guests received all necessary information, such as gate access codes, well before their arrival, enhancing their overall experience.What’s more, Betsy now enjoys the advantage of RoomRaccoon's pre-arrival document with online check-in. Not only can she capture guest details before their arrival, but they are directed to settle payments online, ensuring that Betsy is financially secure and can plan better.
Result
Automated communication has led to a smoother guest experience, allowing guests to enjoy a welcome drink by the pool upon arrival instead of dealing with paperwork.
Effortless Booking Engine Upgrades
Challenge
Previously, selling amenities relied heavily on staff, often resulting in missed revenue opportunities as many guests would only become aware of the lodge’s services and amenities close to the end of their visit.
Solution
RoomRaccoon's booking engine allows properties to market their add-ons, encouraging guests to book amenities such as bushveld picnics, spa treatments, game drives, and road transfers ahead of their stay.
Result
Thanks to more than 45% of bookings coming through the booking engine, guests are now more aware of the hotel's offerings, resulting in increased revenue for Zwahili Lodge.
See our customer stories:
RoomRaccoon offers a host of features to elevate hotel operations and boost revenue. Get to know what’s worked well for our hoteliers!
GLEN BOUTIQUE HOTEL | A LUXURY EXPERIENCE IN THE HEART OF CAPE TOWN
Cape Town, South Africa
BUFF AND FELLOW | WHERE UNIQUE HOSPITALITY MEETS NATURAL BEAUTY
George, South Africa
JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest hospitality knowledge & RoomRaccoon updates delivered straight to your inbox! You’ll be the first to know about new guides, blogs, events and more.
