A lot of hard work goes into Pesach retreats

The transformation of a luxury resort like Zimbali, in Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal, into a strictly kosher l’Pesach sanctuary is no small feat. It is, as organiser Eli Feiglin describes it, a massive logistical operation that begins at least six months in advance. 

His is just one of at least four such retreats in South Africa, and many around the world. 

Now in his 10th year of running Pesach programmes, Feiglin has established a strong rhythm with the team at Zimbali, which is hosting the retreat for the third consecutive year. He credits much of the success to that relationship. “Our team knows their team and they get really excited when we come,” he says, noting that the process also allows the hotel to “take a break from their regular, do a proper deep clean, and change it up”. 

Once the hotel’s non-kosher events conclude, Feiglin’s team steps in. “They never really understand what a deep clean means,” he explains. “You have to be able to essentially wipe your finger across a bench and come out clean”, with not a trace of grease remaining. Only once the mashgichim (kashrut supervisor) and other supervisors are satisfied can the kashering process begin. 

From there, the operation becomes a high-level culinary production. A large team, including hotel chefs, external caterers, and Feiglin’s own staff, work around the clock. “We don’t do any frozen meals,” he says. “Everything is cooked fresh on site.” Over the course of 10 days, guests are treated to full breakfast spreads, buffet lunches, and elaborate dinners, along with details like a curated Pesach cocktail bar and local favourites such as biltong. 

But the experience is about far more than food. The retreat offers a strong spiritual and intellectual programme, with “engaging talks and shiurim” from a range of speakers. This year’s line-up includes international guests, among them a speaker from Australia sharing her personal story following the Bondi Beach attacks. 

For many families, the appeal of these retreats lies in their convenience. “They literally get to work normally till the last minute,” Feiglin says, “and just either drive six hours down to Durban or get on the plane for an hour, and they’re there.” What was once considered a luxury is becoming increasingly mainstream in South Africa, offering what he calls the “ideal kosher holiday without having to fly overseas”. 

It was Rabbi Ari Kievman who first came up with the idea of a Pesach retreat in South Africa, inspired by what he’d seen growing up in the United States. “As a teenager in the 1990s, I used to see all these Pesach programmes advertised,” he recalls. After moving to South Africa in 2009, he noticed the gap. 

That led to the launch of his own programme in 2014, with a clear purpose. “Any revenue, any proceeds would benefit the seniors programmes that I’m responsible for,” he says. The scepticism, including being told he wouldn’t be able to run it alone, became motivation. “You think I can’t do it? So I will.” 

Now in its 13th year, the programme has developed a strong track record and serves as a vital financial engine for Chabad Seniors services, from daily activities like meals, therapy, and social programming, to broader community care. 

The technical challenges of retreats are significant. Transforming an industrial kitchen for Pesach use is far more complex than preparing a private home. “It’s a lot more serious and intricate,” Kievman explains, describing the process as a tightly controlled, 24-hour turnaround overseen by the Beth Din. From the moment the kitchen is last used, a full day must pass before kashering can begin. 

Despite the scale of the operation, the philosophy remains consistent. “Everything else is made fresh on site,” he says, reinforcing the commitment to quality and authenticity. 

Ultimately, the success of these retreats comes down to what they offer families. Kievman sums it up simply, “Yomtov is a pleasure without the pressure.” By handling every detail, from seder plates and seating arrangements to childcare and entertainment, organisers allow guests to focus on what matters most. 

Every generation is catered for. Dedicated children’s programming, teen activities, and babysitting services are all part of the planning. “We make sure we book enough babysitters,” Kievman says. 

Jeremy Emanuel, who coordinates the logistics for the Soetdoring Kosher Game Reserve retreat, north of Pretoria, views the retreats as full-scale productions where every detail must align. “For me, the process begins six to eight months in advance,’’ Emanuel says. “We’re designing a full culinary programme from the ground up, sourcing from more than 20 suppliers, and assembling a team that includes everyone from chefs and kitchen staff to a rabbi, rebbetzin, and children’s programme leaders.” 

Because the Soetdoring property is owned, Emanuel notes a significant logistical edge. “Having full control of the venue allows us to bypass the usual 24-hour crunch; we can begin the intensive kashering process – overseen by an experienced mashgiach like Eli Goldman – days in advance.” This process involves everything from double-soaking glassware to high-heat cleaning of surfaces and the use of entirely new crockery. “It’s a two- to three-day operation that ensures we meet the highest kashrut standards set by the Beit Din.” 

Beyond the kitchen, the focus is on a seamless guest experience that balances relaxation and adventure. “We want guests to enjoy a stress-free yomtov with high-end service and a strong Jewish atmosphere,” Emanuel says. At Soetdoring, this includes game drives, bush walks, live entertainment like marimba bands, and even nearby excursions like cheetah encounters or ziplining. “Despite the challenges of global supply chains or regional safety concerns, our goal remains stable: providing a meaningful, successful experience where travel and community come together perfectly.” 

From logistics and food to spirituality and family experience, every element is carefully considered. The result is a Pesach that allows families to arrive, unwind, and fully experience the holiday, while also supporting meaningful communal initiatives.