Set on the pristine shores of the Maputaland coast, known as the Elephant Coast, Thonga Beach Lodge is the ideal place to discover one of the last unspoilt and undeveloped wilderness beaches left on the African continent.
Wonderful secluded lodge on the shores of the Indian Ocean, set in a sheltered bay
Crystal clear warm waters offer fabulous snorkelling and scuba diving
Private rooms with air conditioning, all with wonderful ocean views
Just a short drive to Africa's largest freshwater lake
Mabibi is a magical place of tranquil swimming bays and snorkelling reefs, coastal forests, grasslands, bush, shimmering lakes and sandy beaches. Its clear, warm waters offer snorkelling and offshore scuba diving, some of the best scuba diving in Africa.
Thonga comprises 12 Robinson Crusoe style 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. All suites are air-conditioned. The 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 Coastal Milkwood trees.
Activities include turtle tracking, fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving and guided wilderness walks. The snorkelling and scuba diving are incredible - with a wealth of underwater seascapes and prolific marine flora and fauna, the scuba diving here is really very special. Just off the shore is a shallow reef which runs the length of this protected coastline, and is home to a huge number of sub-tropical fish including parrot fish, blue surgeons, and moorish idols. The lodge offers scuba diving training in its own swimming pool with excellent instructors on hand.
The lodge is just metres from the beach, and is only a 30-minute drive from Lake Sibaya, which is Southern Africa's largest freshwater lake. The lake is part of the Isimangaliso Wetland Park, which is recognised as a World Heritage Site.
When to visit
Take a scuba diving course at the lodge in the brand new swimming pool before exploring the reefs offshore
Plan your trip
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Thonga Beach Lodge is situated right on the Maputaland Coast in South Africa's Kwazulu-Natal region, on the eastern side of the country.
10-hour overnight flight to Johannesburg, followed by a flight to either Durban or Richards Bay. It is then a road transfer of either 3.5-hours or 5-hours to reach the lodge.
South Africa Uncovered
Feel on top of the world as you road-trip through the Drakensburg Mountains, passing jaw-dropping scenery. Take to the trails on mountain bikes, go wild swimming in beautiful dams and waterfalls and hike through vast vistas, learning about the Anglo-Zulu battle in the heart of the Drakensburg. Track white rhino on foot with a renowned guide and explore the massive sand dunes and wetlands of St Lucia. This trip is ideal for second timers to Africa, wanting something truly unique.
