Thonga beach lodge

Thonga Beach Lodge is set on the pristine shores of the Maputuland coast,

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Thonga Beach Lodge is situated only metres from the beach and a 25 minute drive from Lake Sibaya (Southern Africa’s largest freshwater lake), which is part of the Isimangaliso Wetland Park, now internationally recognised as a World Heritage Site. Set above a secluded bay, Thonga Beach Lodge is nestled into beautiful coastal dune forest with sweeping views of the stunning beach below. This 24-bed luxury lodge is the ideal place to discover one of the most unspoilt wilderness beaches left on the African continent. Mabibi is a magical place of coastal forests, grasslands, bush, shimmering lakes and exquisite sandy beaches. Its crystal clear, warm waters offer South Africa’s best snorkelling and fantastic off-shore scuba diving.

 

The accommodation

The thatched bush suites provide guest privacy and were carefully constructed to ensure minimal

impact on the environment. The lodge offers luxurious accommodation, mouth-watering meals and one of the best dive sites in the South Africa. Thonga Beach Lodge takes full advantage of its incredible position while being in complete harmony with the environment. The large thatched rondavel dining area opens on to an expansive wooden deck, where guests can enjoy the South African weather and the lodges sumptuous meals. Most meals are served al fresco, or, guests can head for the beach and dine by candlelight on the shores of the Indian Ocean.

For those needing a little pampering, the lodge also has a rejuvenation centre where

guests can revitalise body, mind and soul. Thonga's lounge, nestled high in the canopy of the dune forest, offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, alternatively enjoy sundowners in the bar lounge or the cool deck under the Mdoni trees. The 24-bed lodge also has 2 family suites and 2 sublime honeymoon suites. The thatched en-suite rooms have been carefully constructed in the coastal dune forest to ensure minimum impact on the environment and guest privacy as well as offering breathtaking views of the natural surroundings. Some rooms have sea views, whilst the others are set within the dune forest. Each room has a private balcony and all suites are air-conditioned.

 

Things to do

Turtle Tracking

In summer Thonga Beach Lodge offers nocturnal walks and drives along the beach

in search of pre-historic turtles laying their eggs. Guests can witness the culmination of an incredible journey as Giant Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in carefully prepared nests. Turtle tracking is offered in the evening from mid-November to mid-March. Every precaution is taken to ensure these magnificent creatures are not disturbed during the laying process.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Mabibi is regarded as one of the best snorkeling sites in Africa. The coral reefs along this

protected stretch of coastline are home to several species of tropical fish including blue surgeons, Moorish idols and parrotfish. Scuba diving at Mabibi is also phenomenal, with reefs located a short from the lodge. Game fish, sharks and schools of bottlenose dolphins are often seen. Thonga Lodge's professional diving team accommodates all enthusiasts; from the beginner to the veteran wanting a tour of the very best the reef’s has to offer.

Boat trips

Lake Sibiya Boat trips and sundowner cruises are offered on Africa's largest fresh water lake. The lake has 100km of untouched shoreline, brilliant bird watching, and a great diversity of fauna and flora. Guests can also explore parts of the lake by guided canoe.