A coastal scene with waves crashing against rocks and a green grassy area with small buildings near the shoreline, under a partly cloudy sky.

Hidden away on the unspoilt Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape lies an insider tip for adventurers and nature lovers: GweGwe Beach Lodge. As the first safari lodge directly on South Africa's coast, it combines the best of two worlds - wilderness and ocean. Here, where the waves of the Indian Ocean meet endless beaches and the neighbouring Mkambati Nature Reserve beckons with its rich wildlife, a journey off the beaten track begins. Natural Selection's sustainable lodge is ideal for anyone who wants to experience South Africa from a new perspective - be it on coastal walks, game drives or a relaxed sundowner with a sea view. GweGwe Beach Lodge is not just a place to stay, but a place to arrive, marvel and immerse yourself. Discover a wild, almost forgotten region where time plays no role.

Details

  • Country

    South Africa

  • Location

    Mkambati Nature Reserve

  • Price

    from 410 € per person/ night

  • Best time to travel

    year-round

Zimmer

The nine stylishly furnished rooms at GweGwe Beach Lodge are cosy retreats in the middle of the untamed nature of the Wild Coast. Inspired by the surroundings, they combine clean design with natural materials - light colours, wood and stone elements and large windows create an airy, relaxed atmosphere. Each room has its own bathroom and a private veranda with a view of the sea or the surrounding bush landscape - the perfect place to enjoy the sunrise or end the day with the sound of the sea. Despite the secluded location, you don't have to compromise on comfort here: The lodge has been sustainably designed and offers well thought-out amenities for those seeking relaxation and adventurers alike.

A luxurious beachfront bedroom with a large bed, decorated with cushions, overlooking the ocean and waves through open glass doors leading to a deck with a pool.
A luxurious bedroom with large glass sliding doors opening to a balcony overlooking a scenic landscape during sunset. The room features a bed, seating area, fireplace, and wooden decor elements.
A bathroom with a large window showing a sunset over the ocean, a freestanding bathtub, and modern decor with a mirror above a long sink.
A cozy outdoor patio at dusk with chairs, small tables with candles, plants, and a view of a starry sky, connected to an indoor space.

Culinary

At the GweGwe Beach Lodge, culinary delights become an experience - fresh, regional and with a love of nature. The cuisine follows the ‘farm-to-table’ principle and uses seasonal ingredients from the region as well as freshly caught fish. The team works closely with the local community to create authentic dishes with a modern twist. Enjoy your breakfast with a view of the Indian Ocean, a relaxed lunch by the river with a pizza oven and barbecue area or an atmospheric dinner under the stars. An open show kitchen invites you to watch the chefs at work. Picnics in the midst of nature or sundowners at the beach bar make for unforgettable moments of pleasure. The well-stocked wine cellar also offers exquisite South African wines.

A relaxing outdoor setting with a table and chairs beside a swimming pool, overlooking the seaside at sunset, with rocks and grass on the shore.
An outdoor patio with wooden flooring and a thatched roof, overlooking a sandy beach with dunes and the ocean at sunset, furnished with modern seating and a large wooden table.
Elegant restaurant interior with a view of the outdoor landscape, featuring wooden furniture, large windows, and a bar area with staff behind it.
A cozy indoor bar area with a curved counter, surrounded by seven bar stools, inside a rustic wooden structure. There are shelves of bottles behind the bar and glass pendant lights hanging from a wooden beam. An open sliding door reveals a deck with chairs overlooking a lakeside sunset.

Activities

At GweGwe Beach Lodge you can experience South Africa's unspoilt Wild Coast actively and intensively. A natural paradise begins right on your doorstep, inviting you to explore it in a variety of ways. Go on guided game drives through the Mkambati Nature Reserve and discover zebras, elands and other wild animals in their natural environment. Those who prefer to discover the landscape on foot can look forward to exciting nature walks with experienced guides - including picnics at hidden waterfalls. The sea also plays a major role: snorkelling in protected coastal areas, fishing or whale watching (June to October) will reveal the fascinating side of the Indian Ocean to you. For active guests, the lodge also offers kayaks, stand-up paddling, cycling and hiking opportunities - or simply the perfect place to switch off with a view of the sea.

A cozy lounge area with a sofa and pillows on a wooden deck overlooking the ocean, under a thatched roof with the sunset in the background.
A safari vehicle crossing a shallow river with rocky banks, overlooking the ocean under a clear blue sky.
Two people riding bicycles along a grassy terrain near the coast, with the ocean visible in the background.
A lush green cove with a river flowing into the ocean, surrounded by trees and some structures along the riverbank, with sandy beach and waves near the coastline.
A group of people on a black inflatable boat moving swiftly across the ocean waves during daytime, with clear sky above.

Location

GweGwe Beach Lodge is situated on a 5,000-hectare private concession in the Mkambati Nature Reserve on South Africa's famous Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape. This malaria-free region is one of the most spectacular coastal landscapes in Africa - with warm ocean waters all year round and a natural backdrop that is second to none. Gentle grasslands, deep gorges, crystal-clear rivers, dense swamp forests and secluded beaches characterise this extraordinary environment. Particularly impressive: waterfalls that not only flow inland, but directly into the sea. Situated between Port Edward and Port St Johns, the lodge offers the perfect combination of secluded wilderness and easy accessibility. And best of all, the wildlife is abundant but not dangerous - ideal for relaxed nature experiences without the classic ‘Big Five’ safari. A place that combines tranquillity, adventure and natural beauty in a unique way.

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