SEASARA FARM: A DIFFERENT KIND OF VENUE

Six kilometres from the Mamashia turn- off on the A1, exists one of the most unspoiled pieces of paradise. The paradise is none other than a new offering when it comes to the hospitality industry. The place in question is Seasara Guest Farm and Resort. Ideal for weddings, picnics, and all types of lifestyle events, and celebrations, this right here is something that might possibly take over the Gaborone venue industry. Driving up to the farm is not so much about how fast you can get there. But for those with a bit of time on their hands, and are not in hurry, it is the right opportunity for them to be in tune with nature, and acquaint themselves with the surrounding areas. This past Sunday, the farm was the perfect venue for a picnic dubbed the Gauteng Tourism ‘ s Made in Gauteng Fashion Lifestyle Picnic. For some who were coming through for the first time, they were literally blown away by the atmosphere, and the vibe of the Farm. Calming and serene, one can be forgiven for losing track of time, and just being mindful of the venue and what it offers. Giving invited guests with a front row seat on what the farm is all about, it was such a delight to walk through the gates of the 14- hectare farm and see and experience a very unique offering. Those wishing to experience the bush life, or to have a picnic or a celebration away from the ever busy Gaborone, this is the perfect getaway that will live up to their expectations. Driving or walking into the Farm House, you are greeted by this big Leobo ( Gazebo). In fact, we are informed that this is one of the biggest Leobo in this part of the country. Moving away from the Leobo, there is a lawn, which is ideal for an array of activities. The farm also has a pool. Even more impressive is that those who wish to de- plug from their every- day life, they can book for a night or two in the close to 20 rooms found here. It is manned by a staff of 7, including two house keepers, a cook, receptionist, manager, mixologist and a Sales and Marketing Executive. Group General Manager for Cycad and Seasara Guest Farm and Resort, Peter Bagwasi gave Style an insight about how this place came to be. He explains that it started off as a getaway place for the Directors of the company when they needed to go off grid. They would host family and friends, and turned it into a home away from home during holidays such as Christmas and New Year. Soon, they started to plough various crops/ plants such as Oranges, and lettuce. It soon dawned on them that this place had a big potential. The Directors have footprints in the hospitality industry with product offering in Serowe ( hotel), Palapye, where they started their first business in hospitality which is still running, and then there is Cycad in Block 8, Gaborone.

It was just a matter of time before they tapped into the potential of this gold mine, and turned it into what it is today. Breathtakingly beautiful, with a lot of thoughts having gone into conceptualising and breathing life into Seasara, venues do not come in the shape like this one. Seeing as the farm is almost in Gaborone, they decided to put that to their advantage, and they have absolutely nailed that part. The name Seasara has sentimental value to the Directors, as it is derived from the first part of their mother’s names. “Seasara is your ideal Home away from home,” he says adding that the fact that it is 6 kilometres from the main road gives one the assurance that they are close to Gaborone. “We are offering our guests with an unparalleled service,” says Bagwasi. He also notes that they pride themselves in adding little personal touches to guests’ experiences, and that when it comes to hygiene they don’t cut corners. “On top of this, we have impeccable landscapes, which our Directors take great pride in,” explains Bagwasi. He shares that when they started, they only had 3 standard rooms and a king room, alongside 2 rooms. The vision to see this place become a dream for those who want something different, saw them expanding and building more to add onto the product offering of the farm. Today, he notes that they have about 21 rooms in total which is inclusive of 10 standard rooms. The lawn, itself, he explains can accommodate up to 350 people, and can easily adhere to Covid- 19 protocols. On top of this, they also have three braai areas, and a pool for those who might wish to cool themselves when the temperatures are soaring. “Activities include quad bike, snooker and dart games in our games rooms,” he explains. He further says that depending on the season, guests can tour their orchard, and also have an opportunity to pick a few fruits while they learn more about Oranges. Even more fascinating, he shares that in winter, they have a place where guests can enjoy some camp fire, and roast marshmallows.

One of the new addition that will expand their offering will be a drive through golf, which is in the pipeline. Something to look forward to for those who will be holding their celebrations here is a man- made dam, that has an island for the main guests/ bridal couple. Interestingly, there is also a demarcated seating arrangement around that island, bringing the guests closer to each other.

“This is one of our unique features,” says Bagwasi.