About Mike

Mike Lawrie is the owner of Aerotel Hoedspruit, South Africa's only aircraft hotel, and the founder of Safari Web Online, a tourism technology agency. He has worked in the Greater Kruger safari and hospitality industry for more than 20 years and lives in Hoedspruit, Limpopo.

Aerotel is built around a Boeing 737-200 and a former presidential Boeing 727-100 on the Zandspruit Bush & Aero Estate near Kruger National Park.

Experience

Owner, Aerotel Hoedspruit: the boutique aircraft hotel and The Runway restaurant in Hoedspruit, Limpopo.
Founder, Safari Web Online: a tourism technology agency serving safari lodges and hospitality properties.
20+ years in the Greater Kruger safari industry.
Co-host, Dagga Boys podcast: a podcast on conservation.

Areas of expertise

Aircraft hotels and themed accommodation
Safari lodge operations
Greater Kruger tourism
Boutique hotel management
Hospitality technology
Direct booking strategy
Wildlife conservation

Articles by Mike

Airplane Hotels: 6 Real Aircraft You Can Sleep In (2026) June 15, 2026

Find Mike elsewhere

Stays and enquiries

For stays and general enquiries, email reservations@aerotel.co.za or use the contact page.