Kwa Zulu Natal
Thonga Beach Lodge
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Thonga is an intimate, luxury lodge nestled on the pristine Northern coast of Kwa-Zulu Natal, within the Isimangaliso World Heritage Park. Thonga was refurbished in 2022.
With only 12 suites built on stilts to protect the dunes, it is the ideal place to discover one of the most unspoilt wilderness beaches left on the African continent. Mabibi is a magical destination, blessed with coastal forests, grasslands, shimmering lakes and wild beaches, all encompassed by some excellent dive sites and the opportunity to witness turtles nesting in Season (mid November – mid February).
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Facilities & Activities
Carefully constructed into the coastal dune forest, Thonga Beach Lodge takes full advantage of its incredible position while being in complete harmony with the environment. The lounge, with its comfortable couches and a cosy fireplace, is the perfect place to unwind after a day at the beach.
To beat the midday heat, guests can take it easy besides one of the lodge’s two swimming pools.
For those needing a little pampering, the lodge also has a rejuvenation centre where guests can revitalise body, mind and soul.
There is a Diving and Open Ocean Experience available for the more qualified. This is more suitable for older guests (age 12+).
A variety of guided tours offering a variety of activities and services (some at a charge) including guided snorkelling trips, forest walks, birdwatching, fishing, sundowner trips, cultural tours and kayaking on Lake Sibaya with the chance of seeing hippo and crocodile en-route! From November to February nocturnal walks and drives can be taken along the beach to see the Giant Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs (mid November – mid February).
Get In Touch
Feeling inspired? Start planning your next adventure by contacting us today.
Dining
The dining area – a large thatched ‘rondavel’ – opens on to an expansive wooden deck, where guests can enjoy Maputuland’s sultry weather and the lodge’s sumptuous meals. Most meals will be served al fresco. Guests can head for the beach deck, with unique ‘ocean’ counter or dine by candlelight on the shores of the Indian Ocean.
Rooms
The spacious, thatched suites with private decks are hidden in the coastal dune forest and raised on wooden stilts to ensure no harm comes to the sensitive dune soils. Inspired by Thonga architecture, the rooms have been carefully positioned to guarantee guest privacy.
There are 3 room types to choose from 2 Deluxe Ocean View Suites with private plunge pool and deck, 3 Ocean View Suites and 7 Forest View Rooms.
Luxuriously decorated, the air-conditioned rooms exude a romantic ambiance. Bleached wood, glass and natural materials have been wisely used to create an open, airy feel. The en-suite rooms have a bathroom with bath, shower and twin vanity.
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Family
Do note that Thonga is located in one of the few malarial regions of South Africa.
All children welcome, although numbers are limited to retain the peace! Earlier meal times (18:00 – 19:00) are given for children under 10 years.
Whilst one child can share a Forest View Room, the lodge also features 2 Family Forest Suites incorporating two en-suite bedrooms alongside a Family Deluxe Ocean Suite which also benefits from a private plunge pool.
Sustainability
Isibindi Foundation – make a difference, journey with a purpose. Conservation partnering with communities.
The Isibindi Foundation was established in 2019 to consolidate our 23 years of community and conservation projects, and to also create a purpose driven entity to assist these initiatives. The Foundation allows the guests to be philanthropic travellers and to journey with purpose. Isibindi administer these funds and collaborate with our communities and conservation authorities on all projects.
Location
Set above a secluded bay, Thonga Beach Lodge is nestled into beautiful coastal dune forest with sweeping views of the stunning beach below. With only metres from the beach and a 25 minute drive from Lake Sibaya (Southern Africa’s largest freshwater lake), the location couldn’t be any better!
The road journey from Richard’s Bay is 3.5 hours whilst the drive from Durban Airport is 5 hours.
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