Location

Smithfield is a historic town located in the Xhariep District of the Free State province, South Africa. Established in 1848, it is the third-oldest town in the province. Situated approximately 132 kilometers southeast of Bloemfontein, Smithfield lies along the N6 national route, providing strategic connectivity between Bloemfontein and East London. This positioning makes it a pivotal junction for transportation and logistics within the region.

Smithfield is accessible via the N6 highway, facilitating north-south travel between Bloemfontein and East London. Additionally, the R701 route connects Smithfield to neighbouring towns such as Bethulie and Wepener, enhancing regional mobility.

The town’s economy is predominantly driven by agriculture, with a focus on wool production and cattle farming with a gradual diversification with the emergence of tourism and artisanal enterprises, contributing to the local economy.

Smithfield presents promising opportunities for investment, particularly in the sectors of agriculture, tourism, and small-scale manufacturing. The town’s strategic location, combined with its cultural assets and natural beauty, positions it as an attractive prospect for sustainable economic development initiatives.

Summary

Established Revenue Streams:

Accommodation: The lodge provides various lodging options, including luxury thatched chalets and secluded bush camp tents, catering to different guest preferences.
Outdoor Activities: Guests can engage in activities such as game drives, hiking, mountain biking, paintball, and visiting the petting zoo.
Events and Functions: The lodge hosts weddings, conferences, and team-building events, offering tailored packages and facilities to accommodate various group sizes and requirements.
Hunting Safaris: Through Letsatsi Hunting Safaris, the lodge offers trophy and biltong hunting experiences, attracting both local and international hunters.
Dining Services: An on-site restaurant and bar provide meals and beverages, enhancing the guest experience and generating additional revenue.

Strategic Growth Potential:

Local and Regional Tourism: The Free State is becoming a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists seeking nature-based experiences
Eco-Tourism and Conservation: Letsatsi Game Lodge leverages its proximity to regional attractions and partners with local tourism boards to increase visibility and attract more visitors.
Sustainability and Green Initiatives: Investing in solar energy or other sustainable energy sources can reduce operational costs in the long run while aligning with the global trend towards sustainability.

Investment Viability:
This opportunity is a unique investment opportunity in a luxury game lodge, located in a pristine, wildlife-rich environment. With the global tourism sector continuing to embrace eco-tourism and conservation-focused experiences, this lodge presents a profitable and sustainable investment, combining luxury, conservation, and nature tourism.

Situation

Letsatsi Game Lodge, located near Smithfield in the Free State province of South Africa, is a well-regarded private game lodge offering a variety of accommodations and amenities.

Situated outside Smithfield, approximately 165 km from Bloemfontein and 90 km from Gariep Dam, nestled in the grasslands of the Free State.

Description

Letsatsi Game Lodge is a serene retreat nestled in the heart of the Free State, offering guests a blend of natural beauty and comfortable accommodations.

The lodge holds a 4-star grading with options that have been designed to cater to different group sizes and preferences. Thoughtfully integrated into the natural surroundings, providing guests with a comfortable and immersive bushveld experience.

Accommodation:

12 x Double Chalets:
Each chalet features a king-size bed, an en-suite bathroom with a corner bath, and a small adjacent room equipped with a single bed suitable for a child.
5 x Four-Sleeper Chalets:
Each chalet comprises two spacious double rooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom. Additionally, there is a small kitchenette and a lounge area.
5 x Six-Sleeper Chalets:
Each chalet includes three comfortable double rooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom, a small kitchenette, and a lounge area, making it ideal for family getaways.
21 x Bush Camp Tents:
Each tent is furnished with twin beds, wardrobes, electricity, and electric blankets. The tents are covered with thatched roofs and are connected via stone and wooden walkways.
Total guest capacity – 128 guests.

Facilities:

A restaurant and bar serving à la carte and Full English/Irish breakfasts
Year-round outdoor swimming pool
Conference facilities accommodating up to 50 delegates
Wedding venue with a capacity of up to 170 guests
Free Wi-Fi in designated areas
Children’s playground

Activities:

Game drives
Hiking trails
Mountain biking
Hunting facilities
Paintball
Petting zoo

Tenancy

Letsatsi Lodge is offered for sale on a vacant possession basis, providing the incoming purchaser with full control and operational flexibility from the date of transfer. The lodge is currently owner-operated, with the existing owner actively involved in day-to-day management. This ensures that all operational systems, staffing structures, and guest services are well-established and maintained to high standards. The sale presents an opportunity for a seamless handover or repositioning under a new hospitality brand or operator, depending on the investor’s strategy.