Dinner at Ennies in Naas Township

Once a month, the Kruger Park Hostel family hits the road for an evening that guests talk about long after they’ve dried off from the water fights…

What’s a “Township”?

In South Africa, a township is a historically under‑developed neighbourhood on the outskirts of a town or city. Originally created during the apartheid era to segregate communities, today these areas are vibrant, culturally rich spaces full of music, family, small businesses, and daily life.

Naas, where Ennie lives, is one such community—a small town in the Nkomazi region of Mpumalanga with a few thousand residents.

The Journey to Naas

Every month we leave the hostel for the 45‑minute drive to Naas. Guests quickly learn that we aren’t just going anywhere—we’re going to the home of Ennie, our head housekeeper, and her daughter Truddy, our front‑office star and newly qualified field guide.

Toys, Kids & The Shabeen Ambush

Before stopping at Ennie’s, we collect the toys purchased by guests (with extra from the hostel) and head to the local shabeen. The moment local kids spot the Kruger Park Hostel vehicle, an excited entourage forms—they know what's coming.

Water pistols dominate in summer, and once distributed, a massive water fight erupts. Guests don’t stand a chance—outnumbered and outgunned by expert tiny warriors. Within minutes everyone is completely drenched, laughing nonstop.

Back to Ennie’s for Music & Dancing

After the battle, we return to Ennie’s place. A speaker from the hostel is quickly commandeered by one of her relatives, and the dancing begins.

Guests dance. Kids dance. People walking by dance. Even toddlers who have barely mastered walking move with a rhythm that leaves adults in awe. One young girl—about five—dances like she’s been training for a decade.

The Meal Worth the Trip

At 7pm, the music softens and out comes the feast. Ennie and her family have been cooking all afternoon, preparing traditional dishes that are always exceptional. Guests gather, share stories, taste homemade recipes, and enjoy a proper South African family dinner.

The Goodbyes

After dinner, with new friendships made and smiles all around, we say our goodbyes. The drive home is quieter—everyone reflecting on the laughter, the dancing, the food, and the warmth of the community.

Why Naas Feels Like Home

The people of Naas know our hostel well. They see our vehicle daily as staff commute. We visit monthly, and we often pass through on the way to Eswatini. Ennie and her large family are well‑respected in the community, making her home a safe, welcoming space for every guest who joins us.