All Bets on the table with Windhoek’s Marvellous Safari Oasis at the Durban July

To close out the month let's reflect on one of South Africa’s most iconic cultural events – the Hollywoodbets Durban July – and Windhoek Beer took centre stage with an experience that was nothing short of marvellous.

The Marvellous Safari Oasis wasn’t just a marquee; it was a portal. Designed to transport guests from Durban’s urban energy into the raw beauty of the bushveld, the space offered a multisensory journey rooted in flavour, heritage, and storytelling. With the Marvels of Mzansi theme as its canvas, Windhoek created a world where every sip, sound and texture celebrated Southern African authenticity.

From Flavour to Feeling

The weekend experience was a playground for food lovers and culture seekers. Blind tastings and chef-led pairings gave guests a deeper connection to local ingredients, while the Bold & Refreshing Tasting Island introduced them to Windhoek Lager and Draught through the brand’s legendary Reinheitsgebot standard. Those who nailed the blind tasting challenge left with more than bragging rights, limited-edition Windhoek merchandise became trophies of a flavour adventure.

The Game Drive Photo Booth and Windhoek Sorbet Station added playful, immersive layers, while the Pamper Pit Stop gave guests a luxurious pause: warm towels, hand massages, and a quick touch-up before stepping back into the races.

A Space to Connect

With earthy tones, natural textures, and layered soundscapes, the marquee was a love letter to the natural world and Windhoek’s 100-year brewing legacy. The Pegasus Lounge elevated the experience with plush seating and intimate conversations over an abundant harvest table. Guests journeyed through a three-stop “game drive,” collecting branded Windhoek coins redeemable for exclusive items – from safari hats to heel stoppers – making the experience tactile and personal.

Authenticity at the Core

In a world of noise and spectacle, Windhoek’s Marvellous Safari Oasis carved out a space for something quieter – connection. Every design choice, from the Dune Gold and Iconic Black palette to the grounded textures, reflected the brand’s respect for nature and its philosophy of uncompromising quality.

At the Durban July, Windhoek didn’t just serve beer. They served Mzansi. They served authenticity. They served a marvellous, 100% real experience that reminded everyone why this brand – and this event – hold such a powerful place in our cultural landscape.

“Windhoek is brewed with nothing but barley, hops and water, and nothing else - a continued commitment to purity and craft - and this commitment guided everything we created for the event,” said Thato Mothibedi, Brand Manager Windhoek Beer SA. “The Marvellous Safari Oasis honoured the textures, flavours and rhythms that embody the spirit of South Africa, and it was a success. Guests were transported out of the race-day rush into a quiet, lavish space that gave them a moment to pause, sip and reflect.”