Didima Camp closed

 KZN WILDLIFE CLOSES DIDIMA
For immediate release
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife has decided to close the Didima camp in the Cathedral Peak area of the Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park World Heritage Site from 18 -25 March 2008 due to the ongoing unrest amongst the two communities along the route to the Camp.
"Although these communities have indicated that they have no interest in the tourists who use the route, we are nevertheless concerned that the ongoing tension might involve tourists moving along the road through the community area," said Mr Khulani Mkhize, EKZNW CEO.
"The safety of our visitors is not negotiable and closing Didima at this time is purely a precautionary measure in case there is an escalation of violence that could spill over into the Park," he added.
"Our reservations staff are contacting people who have confirmed bookings at Didima during the affected period and we are doing our utmost to place these folk in alternative accommodation," said Mr Mkhize.
"This conflict comes at one of our busiest times when most of our accommodation facilities are fully booked, so closing the Didima Camp is not going to be a popular decision,"addded Mr Mkhize.
"We have a responsibility to our guests and we will do our best to ensure their safety while trying to ensure that their holidays are not spoilt by this dispute," he added.
Didima is scheduled to re-open on 26 March 2008 unless the situation in the area remains volatile in which case EKZNW will re-assess the opening date.
 Visitors with confirmed bookings for Didima camp from 18 - 25 March and who have not been contacted with regard to the provision of alternative accommodation may contact the following senior staff during office hours:
The Hospitality Manager at Didima Camp - 036 488 1332
The Regional Ecotourism Manager - 084 556 9198
The Executive Director of Commercial Operations - 033 845 1515