Cultural excursion

Sheep & Stars
Monday, 17 June, 2019 - 13:03

Sheep & Stars Guest House

Rural huts in Coffee Bay with a touch of luxury

We started building our huts in 2008. I am a German doctor married to Alicia, a Xhosa woman from Coffee Bay. We are staying on this and the neighbouring property with our large family. We started hosting a hut via AirBnB since 2014, reviews can be found there. Since 2016 we have got two round huts available for visitors, but we will only have one private group at a time visiting.

The two huts have got a thatched roof, tiles on the floor and electricity. The third hut is for Alicia and me. The main building has got a fully functioning bathroom and kitchen in it. There is an outside shower, the jungle shower, which runs on a water system, which sligthly heats up during sunny days. It is surrounded by banana plants.

We have got a large property of about 70 x 70 meters on a small hill inside a valley with a 360 degree view in the village. We are about 600 meters to the sea, which can be seen from the the hut and the kitchen terrace. It is about 30 minutes and a beautiful walk through the village to reach Coffee Bay main beach. We have got a group of 10 to 15 sheep who do the lawn mowing. I have got a passion for palms, fruit and indigenous trees which slowly grow and can be seen on the property.

Our place is very quiet and usually free of mosquito. Our visitors will stay in their private hut, but will feel like part of our large African family and our village. You will see children preparing and going to school and men ploughing their gardens. You can just sit next to your hut or on the kitchen terrace watching the village or to take small walks. We can organize a guide for you to show you around or to walk with you to Hole in the wall.

Alicia has a passion for cooking. She can prepare meals for you. You can book a local group of girls, doing a traditional dance for you. 

The access road to our hut is very bad and crosses a small stream. It can be only managed by a high clearance car and if rainy only with 4x4. Our visitor usually park next to the main road, which is safe. We will fetch you there.

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Turn Inn
Tuesday, 26 June, 2018 - 05:15

Situated in a quiet cul-de-sac overlooking the Incarha lagoon, Turn-Inn offers you privacy, comfort and relaxation. In addition to our large fully-fenced garden, guests have the use of paddle skis, canoes and children's play area.

There is abundant bird life in the garden and on the lagoon, waking up most mornings to the call of the African Fish Eagle. A private path along the edge of the lagoon leads to the sea approx. 400 metres away.

Accommodation includes a large upstairs lounge / dining room and well-appointed kitchen, leading onto two undercover patios with breathtaking views. Turn Inn can sleep 20 people - A great venue for a family reunion.

Our units include:

  • Fridge, microwave and a 2 plate stove with oven
  • Braai facility
  • Tea & Coffee making facilities
  • Hair dryer
  • DSTV & combination safe
  • Direct access to the lagoon, with its abundant bird life
  • All patios have access to the garden and lagoon
  • Wireless Internet

2 x Luxury Double Units (2 adults): 
Bed & Breakfast: R1000 per night 
Self Catering: R900 per night

1 x Family Unit (2 adults + 4 children): 
Bed & Breakfast: R900 per night + R200 per child 
Self Catering: R800 per night + R200 per child

Main House (4 adults + 6 children): 
Self Catering: R2500 per night (out of season) 
Self Catering: R3800 per night (in of season)

RATES OVER EASTER, CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR ON APPLICATION.

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Wild Lubanzi
Saturday, 8 October, 2016 - 07:16

This is Lubanzi, a little Xhosa Village in the middle of nowhere of the former Transkei. This is where the road ends, this is where the sea and the sky meet, where the sun kisses the waves and the rhythm of life is still pure and undisturbed.

Kick off your shoes, check your Ego in at the baggage counter. Free yourself, climb into your skin, open up, be at one, breathe. Lubanzi is as "away from everything" as you can possibly be.

Enjoy delicious home cooked meals, freshly baked bread, vegetables and fruits straight out of the local gardens. Learn about alternative energy and a different way of life, off the grid, self-sustainable, close to the heartbeat of this beautiful planet.

Let yourself be carried away by the sound of the waves, blink into a marvelous sunrise from your bed, and watch the dolphins catch the perfect Lubanzi wave while sipping coffee on the deck.

We offer accommodation for whoever has a desire to escape the rat race for a while and collect themselves in a beautiful, serene space. Our rooms include a a plug point, and some have a little desk. The kitchen and bathrooms are shared. Let us know if you want to come work here (and need good WiFi for that), so we can make sure you get your ideal set-up! Book for 7 days or more and get 40% discount; book for a month or more and get 55% discount!
High season rates apply! Discounts do not apply to high season, which is from December 15 to January 15.

Facilities
We are off the grid, running solely on solar. At night we switch off the main lights and the place is illuminated by the soft light of paraffin lanterns.

Hot water is provided by a simple solar heating system.

There is a fully-equipped self-catering kitchen with gas stove. The organic garden provides a lot of the vegetables for our delicious home cooked meals.
We have FREE INTERNET/WiFi.

See http://www.wildlubanzi.co.za/accommodation.html for more info.

 

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Swell Eco Lodge
Friday, 30 September, 2016 - 11:51

Swell Eco Lodge offers exclusive Transkei Wild Coast accommodation with modern stylish interiors and traditional Xhosa exteriors. Our newly renovated lodge offers self-catering accommodation, ideal for couples, groups and families

who want to experience the true beauty of the Wild Coast while enjoying the comforting luxuries everyone deserves on holiday!

(Full catering can also be provided on request.)

The lodge consists of 1 Sea facing Honeymoon/Family unit, 3 Sea facing Duplex units each consisting of 2 Rondavels and 2 Garden View Rondavels.

Set within the rolling hills of Mngcibe (North side of the Mdumbi River), we invite you to enjoy pure relaxation and fun while supporting a green way of life.

Spectacular sea views,  jumping whales, roaming cattle and a view of rural life in this wonderful village is only a part of your holiday experience! We offer many activities for those who want to be a bit more active and explore the pristine beaches, rivers and ocean.

Our lodge is made up of traditional Rondavel structures which blend into its beautiful surroundings and our interiors are modern, calming and artistic.

Join us now for a South African holiday with a personal touch you will never forget!

Contact person: Lee-Ann

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Mdumbi Backpackers
Friday, 30 September, 2016 - 11:39

Set on rolling green hills above the beautiful and pristine Mdumbi Beach (which is one of the best surf spots along the Wild Coast, and indeed, the coast of South Africa), Mdumbi Backpackers is a laid back, rustic and relaxing getaway for all travelers and eco-friendly tourists. 

Mdumbi Backpackers is well integrated with their community, and most of the activities - such as kayaking around the islands on the beautiful Mdumbi Lagoon, horse riding and hiking trail guides, fishing, etc. - are directly run by the local villagers. 

  • Surfing: The Mdumbi point offers - five star, classic point break surf - rated 1 of the best in SA. At its best, when the banks are on - expect a wave running for almost one kilometer.
  • Snorkeling and Fishing: Beautiful rock pools and reefs stretch out for kilometers North and South of the beach and offer amazing snorkeling and spear fishing opportunities. Then there's also Mdumbi River, and its rock mussels, lagoon islands and mangroves.

  • Hiking: Set in breathtaking Wild Coast scenery - The hiking potential is endless.

Activities on offer: - river canoeing - paddle skiing - windsurfing - kite surfing - paragliding - snorkeling - surfing - horse riding - cave, waterfall and Hole in the Wall hikes - cultural visits - village tours.

Support Eco-Tourism and stay at the "African Pot" village-based accommodation. 100% community owned and run - while Mdumbi Backpackers promote them and assists with reservations and general logistics.

Accommodation Mdumbi offers simple & comfortable accommodation - set in traditional style Xhosa huts.

  • Level lawn Camping sites
  • Well equipped communal kitchen for your self catering needs
  • Hot water showers, flushing toilets & the warm Indian Ocean
  • Chill out hall & restaurant - otherwise known as the "Mdumbi Cafe"

Pls NB! Mdumbi backpackers does not have a liquor licence and do NOT sell alcohol - instead - they promote cultural exchange: a 2min walk, just up the road to the local 'shebeen'.

In addition to the above: 'The African Pot' is a pleasant self catering guest house which sleeps 10.

'The African Pot' is located in the heart of the village, nearby & above Mdumbi, and is 'community owned/Mdumbi managed'. 'Out of season' rates do apply - pls enquire before hand.

NB. Mdumbi does not accept credit cards - cash or internet transfers preferred. THX!

PS. 'out of season' - Pls ask about special rates for group bookings etc

Pick up from Coffee Bay: R50 - per trip.

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Nqabara Eco River Lodge
Friday, 23 September, 2016 - 12:33

Nqabara Eco River Lodge is sited on a remarkably beautiful promontory overlooking the confluence of the Nqabara and Nqabarana Rivers at their mouth, separated from the beach by a beautiful girdle of indigenous bush with the Indian Ocean beyond that.

Nqabara Eco River Lodge can comfortably accommodate 20 people in three cottages and the main house.

EACH COTTAGE HAS THE FOLLOWING:

  • Two furnished en-suite bedrooms with two single beds
  • A lounge area
  • A fully equipped kitchen
  • Lounge & Dining Area
  • Ablution Facilities
  • Large Deck

THE MAIN HOUSE FEATURES:

  • A fully equipped kitchen
  • Lounge, DSTV, Dining Area
  • Ablutions
  • Large Deck

As a low-impact eco-lodge, the entire place is run on solar technology and water is harvested and stored in tanks. 

The Nqabara area is pristine, one of the few places along the Wild Coast that has not been developed. It is designated “environmentally sensitive” and the Nqabara community proudly treasure this status. The people of the area are determined to preserve the beauty and natural heritage that they know is their greatest asset.

Nqabara Eco River Lodge is the perfect fishing and/or family holiday destination, a getaway for the leisure tourist, the volunteer traveller, a team-building experience, or for conferencing with a difference. Nqabara Eco River Lodge welcomes those wanting a quiet and beautiful “away-from-the-crowds-and-noise experience”.

Designed as a low-impact facility, Nqabara Eco River Lodge is fully off-the-grid. It harvests water from the heavens and innovative technology is used throughout the lodge to ensure that its environmental footprint is as small as possible.

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Morgan Bay Hotel
Wednesday, 21 September, 2016 - 11:05

Enjoy magnificent Wild Coast accommodation, here at the family friendly Morgan Bay Hotel. Situated a short 45 minute drive from East London and nestled between a mile of unspoilt beach and breath taking cliffs, you will be spoilt for choice on ways to spend your day.

Established in 1946, our newly renovated, third-generation, family-run hotel offers comfortable and relaxing accommodation in 40 tastefully decorated en-suite bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms, ceiling fans, free WiFi, DSTV and kettles. Family inter-leading rooms and cots on request. We offer both Bed & Breakfast and Dinner, Bed & Breakfast options, except during the December school holidays, when our rates are All Inclusive.

Our facilities include a large outdoor swimming pool, beauty spa, beach boutique, an à la carte restaurant and pub, a residents lounge and dining room, a wedding and conference venue, braai facilities, a games room, playground, climbing wall, kiddies TV lounge, childminding services, in-room safes and a laundry service. Beach towels and umbrellas are included, while surfboards, sand boards, body boards, SUPs and canoes are available to hire.

Activities and attractions include a mile-long beach, majestic cliffs criss-crossed with hiking and moutain biking trails, fishing, surfing, canoeing, horse riding, bird watching, rock climbing and abseiling. Within a 15km radius you can enjoy an 18 hole golf course, township tours and a tranquil coastal nature reserve, where you can comb the beach for Ming Dynasty Porcelain, Money Cowries and Carnelian Beads from a 16th century Portuguese shipwreck.

Morgan Bay is a special place which somehow allows those who go there to exchange the cares of the world for the more important things in life. This is South Africa's magnificent Wild Coast at its best! Surround yourself with good friends, great food and create long lasting memories. Discover why the Morgan Bay Hotel is fast becoming one of South Africa's favourite family holiday destinations.

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Knot Far
Wednesday, 21 September, 2016 - 10:51

Knot Far is a newly renovated home situated up on the hill, just 600m walk from the Morgan Bay beach. The house sleeps 4 and 9 in two separate self contained self catering units, each with sea views.

The home is owned by the Morgan Bay Hotel and furnishings meet the same high standards as their hotel rooms and family suites.

 

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Morgan Bay Caravan Park
Wednesday, 21 September, 2016 - 10:39

Right on the Inchara Lagoon's edge you can set up camp under a shady tree with the beautiful beaches just a short walk away. All sites have electricity, picnic benches and braai facilities, and are in close proximity to the separate ladies and men's ablutions which are serviced daily. Coin operated washing machines and tumble dryers are available. A lovely bowling green is situated at the heart of the park and all visitors are welcome.

All bookings made at the Morgan Bay Hotel.

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Jungle Monkey Backpackers
Saturday, 17 September, 2016 - 06:26

The Jungle Monkey has been hosting travellers since forever, and the rooms and dormitories are first class.

Thoughtful, colourful designs and fun furnishings reveal the depth of experience of the management and staffers at Jungle Monkey.

Jungle Monkey has expanded it’s offerings steadily, and is firmly established as the go to place for fun times and great entertainment.

Port St. Johns lures you in slowly and before you know it, you have been here for a week, then two…and even three! It’s called Pondo Fever by some, but as you invest more and more days into the area, you will be this rewarded with scenic vistas and adventures never to be forgotten.

PSJ is surrounded by indigenous nature – forests and plains straight out of hundreds of years ago. Untouched and virgin. Wild and untamed.

Fortunately, access to these thrilling experiences is made possible by committed operators and staff at Jungle Monkey itself. Whether you head out to sea hoping to never come back, or entering the ancient nether world through enchanting forests and gorges that leave you breathless with stark beauty…just ask the Jungle Monkey crew and they will hook it up for you…

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Mtentu Lodge
Friday, 16 September, 2016 - 08:06

Mtentu Lodge is a perfect escape from the rat race, while not being too isolated. Just a 20 km beach horse ride/hike/cycle or 48 km drive from Wild Coast Sun lies the untamed paradise of Mtentu, which is undeniably one of the most wondrous Wild Coast destinations.

With the Mkambati Game Reserve just next door, pristine beaches, waterfalls (one of which falls straight into the sea), and a turtle-filled estuary, lots to do awaits you at Mtentu. Take a canoe up the estuary and glide under waterfalls, go horse riding along the beach, stay over in a traditional village, go fishing, swim in the Indian Ocean, relax in a natural spring pool, go hiking, or just relax and enjoy all nature has to offer.

The Mtentu River is the heart of the Pondoland Centre of Endemism, and home of the Mtentu Palm, which only grows here.

Mtentu has gained the reputation of being one of the most unique travel destinations on the Wild Coast and in South Africa as a whole. Foreign guests frequently comment on what a special destination it is. The lodge is a welcoming place that becomes home for the duration of your stay and staff members become your best friends

As a community partnership, Mtentu Lodge is dedicated to promoting sustainable development and eco-tourism.

Mtentu is not just a holiday but an ecological and cultural experience of a lifetime and is rated by The Guardian as one of the "Top 10 Backpackers in South Africa's Eastern Cape".

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Coffee Shack Backpackers
Saturday, 27 August, 2016 - 16:45

Explore, discover and enjoy a unique taste of rural Africa!

Coffee Shack is a backpackers tropical paradise located right on the beach at the Bomvu River mouth on the Transkei Wild Coast, a deeply traditional area of South Africa where you'll experience a way of life far removed from Western culture.

 Coffee Shack has a reputation for being a fun, good-value hostel with excellent facilities and the most amazing, friendly staff.

Most visitors rate Coffee Shack as a highlight of their SA tour...

Learn to surf at Coffee Shack with professional surfing lessons!

African Responsible Tourism Award Winners 2017

Please note that due to South African law you will be required to provide ID when checking in; this can either be a passport, drivers license or identification document.

Drive safely through Mthatha: We recommend taking the bypass. Be aware of scammers posing as traffic officials -anyone who tries to direct you to an ATM to purchase a ticket for a road toll, detour, parking fee is a fake. You cannot buy tokens/passes/tickets at any ATM in South Africa.

Truck bypass on Google Maps

From N2 to Coffee Shack on Google Maps

Surfing is high on the agenda at Coffee Shack – owner Dave was a Pro-AM World title holder and still continues to surf competitively. Coffee Bay has pristine beaches that cater for all levels of surfing. The Indian Ocean provides us with warm, blue sub-tropical conditions with a pleasant average water temperature of 20.5C/69F. Coffee Bay main beach consists of a point and beach break. Coffee Bay Point usually offers a gentle smooth ride right breaking wave which is ideal for beginners looking to catch their first green wave. 

Coffee Bay has good point and beach breaks, and Coffee Shack also run day trips to Mdumbi, an amazing beach with a long point break for accomplished surfers. Dolphins are plentiful. If you're doing a surf trip, there are many other spots up and down the Wild Coast. Dave's surfed them all and is a good source of info on local conditions.

For write-ups on Wild Coast surf spots, see www.wavescape.co.za

Coffee Shack Backpackers

Coffee Shack Adventure Backpackers Lodge
1 Coffee Shack way
Coffee Bay, 5082
South Africa

Tel: +27-(0)475752048

Mbl: +27-(0)836564350

Email: happydaysatcoffeeshack [dot] co [dot] za (subject: Coffee%20Shack%20enquiry%20from%20WildCoast.com)

www.coffeeshack.co.za
www.sustainablecoffeebay.org.za
www.facebook.com/CoffeeShackBackpackers

POSTAL ADDRESS
PO Box 19231
Tecoma, 5214
South Africa

Proudly accredited by Fair Trade Tourism(FTT)

"The Coffee Shack...is a genuine and unaffected mecca for fun-loving travellers."- LONELY PLANET

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Bulungula Lodge
Friday, 13 March, 2015 - 16:54

Situated on one of the world's most beautiful, unspoilt beaches in the heart of a traditional Xhosa village, the eco-friendly Bulungula Lodge has been described as "spectacular" by the Lonely Planet and "one of the World's ultimate ethical travel experiences" by The Rough Guide.

This Fair-trade lodge is co-owned by the local traditional community and loads of cool activities run daily.

Spend the night in one of the ten traditional thatch huts (doubles, triples and dorms) or in a safari tent (with beds, bedding and electric light) with beautiful views. There is a affordable restaurant with three delicious meals per day and a help-yourself bar. The entire lodge runs on solar power and makes use of a range of innovative, sustainable technologies which protect our environment.

Activities running daily include: * horse-riding: 2 hour horse rides through the village and along the beach * canoeing: up the beautiful Xhora river * Woman Power: spend a day with the local women learning how to harvest and cook local food, make mud bricks, balance water on your head and just having fun. * Herbalist Forest Tour: wander through the ancient forest with the traditional herbalist and learn about weird and wonderful remedies. * Massage * Village Tour: a walking social history tour of our friendly community. * Fishing: learn how to fish in the sea with a local fisherman. All the above tours are owned and run by members of our local community - so all your money goes where it is most needed. We hope to see you here in paradise.

To make a booking: * Call +27 47 577 8900 (047 577 8900 for South Africans) * or call +27 83 391 5525 (083 391 5525 for South Africans) * Email: paradiseatbulungula [dot] com * Visit our website: www.bulungula.com

At the Bulungula river mouth your will find the isolated and stunningly beautiful Nqileni village, home to the award-winning Bulungula Lodge and the pioneering rural development NGO, the Bulungula Incubator. See www.bulungulaincubator.org for more information on the Bulungula Incubator. READ THIS: https://thesweepingswallow.blogspot.co.za/2013/04/i-stayed-in-one-of-mos...

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Mdumbi Backpackers
Wednesday, 1 January, 2014 - 01:01

Set on rolling green hills above the beautiful and pristine Mdumbi Beach (which is one of the best surf spots along the Wild Coast, and indeed, the coast of South Africa), Mdumbi Backpackers is a laid back, rustic and relaxing getaway for all travelers and eco-friendly tourists. 

Mdumbi Backpackers is well integrated with their community, and most of the activities - such as kayaking around the islands on the beautiful Mdumbi Lagoon, horse riding and hiking trail guides, fishing, etc. - are directly run by the local villagers. 

  • Surfing: The Mdumbi point offers - five star, classic point break surf - rated 1 of the best in SA. At its best, when the banks are on - expect a wave running for almost one kilometer.
  • There are other breaks in the area, with a sense for adventure, go explore & tell no-one! Snorkeling and Fishing: Beautiful rock pools and reefs stretch out for kilometers North and South of the beach and offer amazing snorkeling and spear fishing opportunities. Then there's also Mdumbi River, and its rock mussels, lagoon islands and mangroves. Hiking: Set in breathtaking Wild Coast scenery - The hiking potential is endless.

Activities on offer: - river canoeing - paddle skiing - windsurfing - kite surfing - paragliding - snorkeling - surfing - horse riding - cave, waterfall and Hole in the Wall hikes - cultural visits - village tours Support Eco-Tourism and stay at the "African Pot" village-based accommodation. 100% community owned and run - while Mdumbi Backpackers promote them and assists with reservations and general logistics.

Mdumbi Backpackers also runs a well equipped community resource center and a gorgeous pre-school on their premises for the village children. If you would like to assist with these initiatives (donate books, toys, time or money) please contact them at mdumbiatmdumbi [dot] co [dot] za, for attention Johan.

Over and above all that, Mdumbi Backpackers founders also started the Transcape NPO (Non-Profit Organization) in 2002, which assists with AIDS awareness and treatment clinics, ABET education, and much more. For further info please go to: www.transcape.org.

Accommodation Mdumbi offers simple & spacious accommodation - set in traditional style Xhosa huts.

  • Level lawn Camping sites
  • Well equipped communal kitchen for your self catering needs
  • Hot water showers, flushing toilets & the warm Indian Ocean
  • Chill out hall & restaurant - otherwise known as the "Mdumbi Cafe" See http://www.mdumbi.co.za/a_accommodation.htm for current rates

Pls NB! Mdumbi backpackers does not have a liquor licence and do NOT sell alcohol - instead - they promote cultural exchange: a 2min walk, just up the road to the local 'shebeen'.

In addition to the above: 'The African Pot' is a pleasant self catering guest house which sleeps 10. 'The African Pot' is located in the heart of the village, nearby & above Mdumbi, and is 'community owned/Mdumbi managed'. 'Out of season' rates do apply - pls enquire before hand.

NB. Mdumbi does not accept credit cards - cash or internet transfers preferred. THX! PS. 'out of season' - Pls ask about special rates for group bookings etc Pick up from Coffee Bay: R50 - per trip.

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Lambazi Lodge
Monday, 2 December, 2013 - 09:47

Situated in the protected Lambazi Bay (Port Grosvenor) on the remote and spectacular Wild Coast, this Lodge offers the ultimate in remote beach getaways.

The Lodge offers the outdoor enthusiast / family a unique world of exploring opportunities.The surrounding area offers unbeatable hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, surfing, angling, village visits and much more. The sandstone shelves of Lupatana and the unique Waterfall Bluff and Cathedral Rock a great full hiking day outing.

The Lodge itself is comprised of traditional rondawels accommodating a maximum of 24 guests in twin bedded en-suite rooms. A large thatch boma covering a kitchen, lounge and dining area leads onto a viewingdeck overlooking the pristine beach. The entire Lodge is hidden in a grove of indigenous coastal Milkwood trees which offer protection from the wind and sun. facilities are rustic but comfortable and encourage a relaxed beach holiday.

The rate is Full Board.

We look forward to ensuring that your stay on the Wild Coast is most relaxing.

Lambazi Bay – Port Grosvenor – Northern Wild Coast

This is the ultimate adventure holiday. Take a backpack or a mountain bike and traverse this incredible stretch of coastline while staying at the Lodge.  Telephone +27 81 815 1510 to arrange your perfect adventure holiday.

E-mail: adminatlambazilodge [dot] com
GPS: S31°22'35.41"E29°54'14.94"

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Freedom O Clock Backpackers Retreat
Sunday, 3 March, 2013 - 13:27

Experience Rural
Living At Its Best

We will help you experience the WILD COAST life in its true sense. From exploring the beautiful Mdumbi river to eating authentic seafood delicacies, you are sure to go home with memories and wonderful moments.

This small, family-run gem of a holiday spot lies on the northern side of the Mdumbi River mouth and is located in the rural Pondo village of Mngcibe, Eastern Cape, Wild Coast.

Freedom O Clock is owned and managed by Otto, Lu and little (not so little anymore)  Coral-Bella, who all have a great love for nature and the ocean. “We love hanging out with guests, sharing info on the area, enjoying a cold one on the deck while watching astonishing sunsets and sharing stories about the days adventure around the fire.”

Wake up to mind-blowing views of the ocean, beach, rare mangroves and forest-lined Mdumbi River! 

The incredible views and access to the beach and river in this un-spoilt rural area makes this an ideal laid back place to visit for families, friends, couples and all nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.  Freedom O Clock can sleep 17 people indoors and also offer camping space.

Discovering the safe, secluded, pristine beaches, river estuaries, rare white mangrove swamps and other Wild Coast treasures make the 2 hour trip from the main road well worth it.  Coffee Bay is just 45 minutes drive away and there is a very scenic 3 hour hike between Coffee Bay and Mdumbi.

Need to know more?  We recommend you check out FOC NEED TO KNOW  to ensure that you know all there is to know before underatking one of the best holidays EVA!

 

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Bulungula Homestay
Tuesday, 24 April, 2012 - 16:18

Village Based Accomodation

Nqileni is home to a vibrant rural community where times have sometimes been tough; migrant labour has taken its toll on family structure and health service & education have been difficult to access. But in spite of these challenges, the typical scene at sunset is children singing beautiful harmonies as they walk up the hills together on their way home,

Mama’s laughing together as they collect water from nearby springs while men and boys effortlessly herd their cattle home to their kraals. The Xhosa traditions are strongly adhered to and are respected by Traditionalists and the Religious alike. Email Reservations to: 

  • nkuliatbulungulaincubator [dot] org
  • samuelatbulungulaincubator [dot] org

More info at www.bulungulahomestay.com. For information about the Bulungula Incubator, log on to www.bulungulaincubator.org.

Unlike visiting a cultural village, where guests are offered an insight into a culture through fake, rehearsed performances, a homestay allows a guest to experience traditional village life in an authentic way. The person who’ll appreciate this experience is someone who is interested in enjoying the simplicity and slowness of village life and who does not expect a multitude of traditional dances/events to miraculously occur all at once for their benefit. There are often ceremonies in the village (about once every 2 weeks) which are fun to join and experience, but they are not scheduled in advance and it is not possible to plan your visit to coincide with one. They happen when they happen, and you can join it with everyone else and will be welcomed as a special guest.

Delicious meals are also available; but needs to be arranged as early in the day as possible.

A visit to a shebeen can be fun. Umqombothi (Xhosa beer that is brewed over 5 days to a week) is mostly brewed for traditional ceremonies.

Beautiful Lush Forest & Gently Flowing Streams Check Out The Local Wildlife

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Mountain View Inn - Port St. Johns
Thursday, 1 October, 2009 - 13:52

OVERVIEW:

Mountain View Inn is a centrally located Port St. Johns self-catering accommodation establishment situated in close proximity of majestic Mount Thesiger & the mighty Umzimvubu River.

We pride ourselves on offering a friendly hospitality service and affordable accommodation options.

You can see everything from Fish Eagles to Sunbirds on our property.

If you want something more adventurous you may consider going up to the airstrip to take in the gorgeous scenery of the Indian Ocean flowing into the Umzimvubu River, or spend the day at Mpande, Umgazana, First, Second or Third beaches fishing, walking, swimming and hiking.

Silaka Nature Reserve is also worth a visit and your entry point to Third beach - a lovely long open sandy beach which is more private and quieter to visit than the other beaches, especially during peak holiday periods.

Bulolo and Magwa Waterfalls are also a sight to behold as is the Magwa plantation - a local proudly South African tea leaf grower / manufacturer.

For something else interesting to do head down to Isinuka Mud Caves and Sulphur Pools …

For the Daredevils give The Gap & Blowhole a visit -

Water is forced into a narrow gully which ends in a natural chimney-like hole from which the water, at the incoming tide, shoots into the air for about 20 meters. A warning to the venturesome: Do not try to look into the Blow Hole.

Please be careful though, the blow hole is at its best when seas are rough.

Other adventure options include kayaking the river, horse riding trails, enjoying the amazing butterflies and walking the mountains, beaches and cliffs, a cruise on the Bobalong barge along the Umzimvubu River etc.

End your day off with a spectacular sunset and a locally sourced fresh seafood braai or potjie.

PET FRIENDLY by special / prior arrangement.

SPECIAL RATES for long term rentals / contractor bookings are also available.

 

PROPERTY / ROOM CONFIGURATION:

Mountain View can comfortably accommodate a maximum of 17 Guests in total as follows:

 

PROTEA (ROOM 1): 4 -5 Guests

1 double bed & 2 single beds OR 1 double bed, 1 single bed & 1 double bunk bed.

En-suite - shower, basin, loo.

The double bed area & bathroom are slightly partitioned off from the area with single beds.

Own kitchenette with small stove/oven, fridge, microwave, pots, crockery, cutlery etc.

 

NGUNI (ROOM 2): 4 Guests

1 double bed & 1 double bunk.

Off-suite privately allocated ablution very close to the unit – shower, basin, loo.

Kindly see additional notes further below (general room information & cooking) regarding cooking etc.

 

 

The Protea and Nguni rooms are situated next to each other and share a common public sitting and braai area which may be used by any Mountain View Inn Guests.

 

 

PONDO (ROOM 3): 4 Guests

1 double bed & 1 double bunk.

Off-suite privately allocated ablution very close to the unit – shower, basin, loo.

Kindly see additional notes further below (general room information & cooking) regarding cooking etc.

 

There is a standalone braai and washing up / basin area situated outside the Pondo room.

 

ALOE (ROOM 4): 2 Guests

1 double bed.

En-suite: shower, basin, loo.

Kindly see additional notes further below (general room information & cooking) regarding cooking etc.

 

The Pondo and Aloe rooms are situated opposite each other and separated by the communal kitchen area which may also be shared by Guests from the Nguni room.

 

INTOMBI (ROOM 5): 2 Guests

1 double bed. En-suite: shower, basin, loo

Own kitchenette with small stove/oven, fridge, pots, crockery, cutlery etc.

 

The Intombi room is a more private standalone unit which is separate from the other 4 rooms and situated on the other side of the Mountain View Inn main property. It is still however in very close proximity of the other units and is less than a 30 second walk away.

 

 

ADDITIONAL IMPORTANT INFORMATION -

CHECK IN & CHECK OUT TIMES:

Check in time is strictly between 14h00 and 19h00. Check out time is strictly no later than 10h00 on departure day. This is to enable the room to be prepared in time for new arrivals.

In the event that Guests need to check in earlier or depart later than the above a half day rate payable directly to Mountain View Inn may apply.

GENERAL ROOM INFORMATION & COOKING:

It is kindly to be noted that all our units are open plan and are equipped for basic self-catering needs;

Open view TV is provided in all units;

The Nguni, Pondo and Aloe rooms each have their own fridge / freezer, kettle, coffee mugs & glasses however have access to a communal kitchen area which is well equipped with a variety of pots, pans, crockery, cutlery, cooking utensils, gas stoves, microwave etc. for cooking purposes.

In instances where Guests may prefer a bit more privacy it may be arranged by prior agreement that cooking may be done within the unit if more than 2 of the above mentioned units are booked out over the same period.

BREAKAGE / LOSS / THEFT DEPOSIT:

Especially in the case of the above mentioned (cooking in rooms), and in general, a refundable EFT deposit of R1, 000.00 due minimum one day prior to arrival MAY be requested. Refunds are processed via EFT to the Guests bank account within 7 days of departure. No cash refunds will be issued on departure. Group rates/fees and conditions may differ and will be quoted separately.

All missing items such as keys, blankets, scatter cushions, breakages in and damage to rooms, furniture, fittings, soft furnishings, roads, fencing, gardens, extras costs will be charged to the Guest. No dispute discussion regarding breakages or damage will be entertained unless a guest reports same within one hour of checking in. Where the value of loss or damage may be more than the deposit value requested Guests will be liable to settle Mountain View for the additional amount within a maximum period of 7 days of invoice after departure.

SMOKING:

No smoking is permitted in the apartments. Smoking is permitted on the deck area and in the gardens/outdoors.

SELF-CATERING:

As Mountain View Inn is a self-catering establishment please kindly remember to bring along your own bath / beach towels, toiletries, groceries etc.

Housekeeping / cleaning of rooms can be arranged with prior notice at an additional daily rate payable directly to Mountain View Inn.

PARKING / ACCESS / NOISE:

Only one vehicle is allowed per room and is parked at own risk. Should you need to bring more than one vehicle per room please do inquire about the availability of parking.

One set of keys per room is provided. The cost of replacement keys is R150.00 per key lost / not returned.

Rooms must be locked, windows closed and keys handed in prior to departure.

No external visitors will be permitted without permission. We do not accept any responsibility for any loss or damages.

Guests are asked to keep other guests in consideration at all times.

SECURITY & STORAGE:

Although the establishment takes reasonable steps to ensure the safety and security of guests and their possessions, guests retain final responsibility for their own safety and security. Please always keep rooms locked when not in use and retain all valuables.

The main entrance gate to the parking lot at Mountain View Inn is locked in the evenings and re-opened early in the mornings. If you will not be at the property before 21h00 in the evenings or need to leave earlier than 07h00 – 08h00 in the mornings please kindly make the relevant arrangements with the Owner.

BRAAI/FACILITIES & COMMON AREAS:

There are common areas at Mountain View Inn and we ask that guests keep other guests in consideration when using these areas. All areas are used at own risk and children always need to be under responsible adult supervision. Please do be considerate when it comes to noise levels. No loud music is permitted after 21h00 unless otherwise arranged with fellow Guests out courtesy and with prior consent of the Owner.

PERSONAL CONDUCT OF GUESTS:

Problems connected with abused substances such as drugs and alcohol will not be tolerated, and we respectfully request the “Booking Principle” to take ownership of the Personal Conduct of their guests.

We respectfully request guests to respect the neighbourhood, next door neighbours and other guests.

PLUMBING/ELECTRICS/POWER/WATER/GAS & ENVIRONMENT:

Please be considerate when it comes to the use of the plumbing, gas and electrics. We operate on a septic tank system - please do not through or flush any foreign items down any drains. Guests will be liable for any cost or damage as a result of this. Kindly switch of most lights when not in a room and ensure the outside lights for your apartment are switched off in the morning.

We operate on a gravity feed water system - please use water sparsely as we are in a water scarce area with water restrictions. Should the water pressure become low please turn off the taps and wait for a few minutes so that the gravity feed may be restored and water returned to pipe lines.

We respectfully request guests to respect our natural environment and wildlife and not to pollute, litter or disturb it.

If making use of gas for cooking please ensure that you switch off the gas correctly on the stove as well as on the gas bottle. If you are unsure of how to use a gas stove or need any assistance please consult with the Owner as soon as possible.

DANGEROUS ITEMS / SUBSTANCES:

No fireworks, dangerous materials/substances or weapons are allowed on property.

LOSS OR DAMAGE TO ESTABLISHMENT PROPERTY:

The guests are liable for any loss or damages (excluding wear and tear) to the property of the establishment.

GENERAL INCAPACITY:

This Establishment, its employees, representatives, subcontractors, agents, successors, cannot be held liable if any of the following events or conditions prevents us from fulfilling our obligation to guests. We will take all reasonable steps to minimize disruption and discomfort to guests under these conditions:

Unanticipated interruption to the electricity, water, sewage to, from or on the establishment’s property.

Industrial action, civil uprising or criminal activity.

Fire, frost, flooding, subsidence or any other force major event.

Government & Municipality local servicing, upgrades and actions.

Limited / erratic cellphone signal or internet connectivity.

 

The Right of Admission will apply.

Enter & use of premises and facilities at own risk.

Please take note that floors are slippery when wet.

 

LIMIT TO LIABILITY:

The maximum liability of the establishment for any event or condition for which a guest may institute a claim is limited to the value of one day’s accommodation.

 

DISCLAIMER

Please note that you enter the Mountain View Inn – Port St. Johns premises at your own risk. The owners and/or their employees are not liable for any injury/death to any persons whether caused by their negligence or not, nor for loss or damage to property, by theft or any other cause whatsoever.

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Ntafufu Eco Lodge
Monday, 14 May, 2007 - 11:01

High on a hill with awesome panoramic views of the sea, Ntafufu estuary and river valley. Surrounded by indigenous forest, you will find the Ntafufu Eco Lodge.

If you want to get off the beaten track to a place that is unique for its beauty and unspoilt surroundings, you will love Ntafufu Eco Lodge, which  is located in Pondoland on the Wild Coast, just 10 km up the coast from Port St Johns.

There is no village, town, shops or anything else to detract from the beauty of one of the most spectacular and unspoiled traditional tribal rural areas in South Africa.

A pristine 2 km beach, accessible by the Ntafufu River awaits your discovery with our canoes.

We offer unique self-catering accommodation, comfortable and clean.

Spacious Rondavels / Rooms and living areas. 

The lush garden surrounding the lodge is perfect for birding or just relax and enjoy nature at its best. 

Ntafufu Eco Lodge is off the beaten track and as well off the grid.

We collect rainwater for our water supply. For our guests we provide a small solar system for charging phones, cameras etc. No TVs. We use candles and bio-fuel oil lamps, which creates a calm romantic atmosphere in the evenings.

With no electric lights to interfere, star gazing on the hill is an easy way to pass laid back evenings. Our lodge comes fully equipped with all the immediate luxuries of modern day living and rural hospitality.

We promote eco-friendly tourist accommodation and activities.  Living so close to nature makes us respect our natural surroundings, and so, we try to minimise the impact on the environment.

Occupancy is limited, as a rule we do not accommodate more than 14 people at a time. Unless you wish to book the whole lodge, in which case, we can accommodate up to 26 people. 

Hide away, relax and unwind! Paradise. Right Here, Right Now.

Built in the early 1900s the lodge was most probably the first hotel type accommodation on the Wild Coast.

 

... Read more