CONFERENCE GUIDE

South African Large Herds 2026 will be held at The Capital Hotel in the Zimbali Resort from 31 May – 2 June 2026.

See SA Large Herds programme for full details.

General Enquiries 

Lorraine de Ronde, Events & Sponsorship Manager (MPO)
Contact number: 082 797 1444 or 082 886 9450
E-mail: lorraine@mpo.co.za
Wesbite: www.largeherds.co.za

Conference information guide

We are delighted to welcome you to the upcoming conference at the Capital Hotel and Resort. This event has been carefully planned to provide not only valuable sessions and discussions but also opportunities for networking, relaxation, and enjoyment.

Whether you are joining us for the full program or attending as a day delegate, we are committed to ensuring that your experience is both rewarding and memorable. Please take a moment to read through this guide, which contains important information about registration, social events, hotel facilities, emergency contacts, transportation, leisure activities, and expected weather conditions.

Entry into the resort

Once you have successfully registered for the conference and paid your conference fee in full, you will be issued a personal entry code. This code will be sent to you one week prior to the start of the event. It is to be used at the main gate of the resort to gain access to the premises. For security reasons, and to ensure that only registered delegates are admitted, you are kindly requested not to share this code with anyone else. The code is strictly personal and serves as your official authorisation to enter the Zimbali resort

Registration procedures

Upon arrival at the resort, all delegates are required to proceed directly to the registration desk, which is in the main foyer of the hotel. At this desk, you will complete the registration process and receive both your delegate identification tag and your conference bag. The delegate tag must always be worn throughout the duration of the conference. It is your proof of registration and payment, and it will grant you access to all areas of the conference. Without the tag, entry into conference sessions and social events will not be permitted.

Main registration session: Sunday, 31 May, between 15:00 and 17:00.
Delegates who have pre-booked day attendance, daily registration will be available on Monday, 1 June, and Tuesday, 2 June, between 07:00 and 08:00.
Please note that walk-in delegates will not be allowed. All delegates must complete their registration and payment in full at least one week before the commencement of the event.

Social events

Your conference fee includes access to several social events:

Sunday, 31 May, a Meet and Greet will be held in the conference foyer area.

Monday, 1 June, a Happy Hour will take place in the conference foyer area. A selection of beers, ciders, and soft drinks will be available to delegates at no additional cost. Should you wish to order other beverages, these may be purchased at the Poison Ivy Bar for your own account.

Tuesday, 2 June, a Cocktail Evening will be hosted at the Sunken Gardens Pool area. To reach this venue, you should take the elevator to Level 1 and then walk outside to the pool. This event will provide a more festive atmosphere and is an excellent opportunity to unwind after the day’s sessions.

In addition to these scheduled social events, delegates are invited to visit the exhibitor stands during tea and lunch breaks. These stands will be located just outside the main conference area and will showcase a variety of products and services relevant to the conference theme.

Hotel facilities

The hotel offers a range of facilities for your convenience and enjoyment.
The Copper Restaurant is situated on Level 3 and provides a variety of dining options.
The Poison Ivy Bar, located on Level 5, offers a wide selection of beverages in a stylish setting.
The Spa can be found on Level 1 in the East Wing, where guests may enjoy treatments and relaxation services.
The main reception area is located on Level 5.
The Sunken Garden Pool is situated on Level 1, providing a tranquil outdoor space for leisure.

Emergency information

A duty manager will always be available to assist with any emergencies or urgent matters. In the event of an emergency, please report immediately to the front desk. Alternatively, you may contact the conference organizer directly on her mobile phone: Lorraine de Ronde, 082 797 1444.

For medical assistance, the nearest hospital is Netcare Alberlito in Ballito, which is open 24 hours a day and located less than five kilometres from the hotel. The hospital is situated on Kirsty CI, Ballito, and can be reached by telephone at 032 946 6700.

Pharmacy services are also available within five kilometres of the hotel. Options include Dischem at the Lifestyle Centre (Tel: 031 612 0321), Clicks at the Ballito Junction Centre (Tel: 032 586 1514), and Spar Pharmacy at the Zimbali Oasis Centre.

Transportation and parking

Please note that there will be no complimentary shuttle service provided for the conference. Delegates are responsible for arranging their own transport to and from the venue. Ample parking is available in the undercover parking garage, which is located to the right as you approach the main entrance of the Capital Hotel.

If you require assistance in booking a shuttle service or arranging for a taxi, please speak to the staff at the front desk. They will be able to provide guidance and make the necessary arrangements on your behalf, ensuring that your travel needs are met with ease and efficiency.

Leisure activities

For delegates wishing to enjoy leisure activities during their stay, the concierge team is available to assist with bookings and arrangements. Activities include tennis, padel, golf at the Country Club, and hiking trails within the estate. These options provide excellent opportunities to relax, exercise, and enjoy the natural surroundings of the resort.

Weather expectations

During the period of the conference, the weather is generally mild and pleasant. Daytime temperatures typically range between 22°C and 24°C (72°F to 75°F), while nighttime temperatures are cooler, averaging between 11°C and 15°C (52°F to 59°F). Rainfall during this time of year is minimal, and delegates can expect clear or mostly clear skies. Sunshine is abundant, with an average of approximately seven hours per day. For those wishing to swim, the sea temperature is around 22°C (72°F), making it comfortable for water activities.

We sincerely look forward to welcoming you to the conference and trust that your time with us will be both enjoyable and enriching. This event has been designed to provide meaningful opportunities for professional growth, collaboration, and relaxation. Please make use of the facilities, participate fully in the sessions, and take advantage of the social events and leisure activities available. On behalf of the organizing committee, we wish you a successful and memorable conference experience.