When travellers think of a safari, the idea of vast savannah plains, free-roaming elephants, roaring lions and dry landscapes dotted with acacia trees comes to mind. But another type of safari experience offers something truly magical in a completely opposing setting, for lovers of the ocean and all its beautiful creatures. Marine safaris allow coastal visitors to embark on both onshore and offshore excursions led by knowledgeable guides, where staying in beautiful oceanside lodges and discovering incredible species are par for the course. From the tropical coast of KwaZulu Natal to the wild waters of the Overberg, South Africa has abundant marine escapes offering informative expeditions and luxury accommodations.
Marine Safaris Western Cape
The Western Cape‘s Overberg and Walker Bay region is renowned for its sprawling coastline dotted with small towns, private nature reserves and scenic ocean-fed lagoons. Spanning 16 kilometres in length and up to 2 kilometres in width, the Hermanus lagoon and river provide a sanctuary for over 120 bird species, as well as natural wonders of breathtaking sunsets over the lagoon, coastal forests, and sweeping mountains. Further along, lies the famed De Hoop Nature Reserve, perhaps best known for its incredible marine reserve stretching 5 kilometres into the ocean, making it one of Africa’s most substantial marine protected areas – even having earned the esteemed distinction of being designated a World Heritage Site.
Mosaic Lagoon Lodge
Mosaic Lagoon Lodge can be found tucked behind a grove of Milkwood trees in the midst of over a thousand hectares of fynbos between the towns of Stanford and Hermanus. Situated less than a stone’s throw away from the Hermanus Lagoon, the lodge enjoys uninterrupted views across the water to the magnificent mountains located just beyond. Mosaic Lodge features five luxury rondavel-style suites, each with its own private deck and a spectacular view, offering an intimate escape in nature. During the winter months, the warming wood burners are a cosy addition to each suite. Given its surroundings, the activities available at Mosaic Lagoon Lodge are primarily nature-based. Guests are invited to join one of the guided Nature Walks or embark on a 4×4 excursion through the fynbos to a secluded beach in Walker Bay with one of Mosaic’s knowledgeable guides.
Coot Club
Found on a spit in the midst of a milkwood forest, and bordered by the Walker Bay Nature Reserve, Coot Club is a nature lover’s paradise on the Hermanus Lagoon, alongside Mosaic Lagoon Lodge. The Coot Club Boathouses, Port and Starboard, feature a modern yet understated design with an underlying nautical theme. Each of the four Coot Club Stone Cottages offers its own unique position, design, and configuration. Suited to families, or groups of friends, these quaint cottages enjoy peace and quiet, while also being close to the main Clubhouse. Whether guests wish to sit back, relax, and watch the birds go by, or enjoy all the activities on offer, Coot Club offers the best of both worlds. For those interested in activities, there is plenty on offer – slip into the lagoon for a refreshing paddle, or try SUPing, sailing, and kayaking.
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is an innovative and sophisticated eco-reserve located near the southern tip of Africa in the Western Cape. Nestled amidst mountains, forests, and the sea, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve showcases a wealth of biodiversity, cultural heritage, and natural marvels, with stunning views of Walker Bay’s marine sanctuary. The accommodations blend seamlessly into the pristine natural environment without compromising on luxury and comfort. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve offers a diverse range of experiences inspired by the surrounding natural beauty, with a strong focus on conservation and community. Guests can embark on 4×4 botanical tours, marine safaris, horseback riding adventures, scenic walks and hikes, or simply unwind and embrace the tranquil surroundings at their own pace.
Lekkerwater Beach Lodge
Steeped in rich history, Lekkerwater Beach Lodge in De Hoop is suited to the traveller who enjoys life’s simple luxuries – time spent together, embracing the natural beauty of their surroundings, and immersing themselves in true tranquillity. The lodge focuses on a new type of luxury; disconnecting from the everyday. With just seven available suites, Lekkerwater Beach Lodge provides guests with an intimate experience shared among travellers from all over the world. Known as the birthplace of all humankind, the reserve is steeped in ancient heritage and an abundance of spectacular natural beauty. Its coastal position provides a unique combination of ecosystems – from flora and vlei to dunes and the ocean, where passionate and extremely knowledgeable guides lead a tidal rockpool walk and gorge walk – both designed to promote the unique magic of the two adjacent ecosystems.
Morukuru Beach Lodge
Considered one of South Africa’s leading beach hotels, Morukuru Beach Lodge embodies exceptional service, setting, and overall experience. This luxurious lodge offers guests a secluded escape in the Cape Floral Kingdom, located in the De Hoop Nature Reserve. Surrounded by flourishing flora, fauna, and fynbos, it’s a nature-lovers paradise. With just two Family Suites, two Ocean View Suites, and a Honeymoon Suite, Morukuru Beach Lodge is an intimate escape. Some exciting features of the property include a firepit, an outdoor hot tub, a swimming pool, and a rooftop terrace ideal for watching the sunset over the ocean and a large expanse of white sand beach. A short walk from the lodge is a seemingly endless stretch of pristine beach, perfect for lounging in the sun, taking a long walk, or whale watching from July to December.
Marine Safaris KwaZulu Natal
KwaZulu Natal is often considered a traveller’s dream with its subtropical climate and natural environment that lends itself to adventure and exploration. It is located in the southeast of South Africa, with a long shoreline on the Indian Ocean. Within the KwaZulu Natal coastline, lies the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa’s first World Heritage Site. It’s a wetland wilderness comprising a truly unique ecosystem of waterways, intertwined lakes, grasslands and ancient forest, where visitors can explore this untouched African wilderness either by canoe, boat or on foot. There’s also the spectacular Lake Jozini – a natural paradise within this scenic region, primarily fed by the Pongola River and surrounded by a selection of game reserves home to an incredible array of wildlife, including white and black rhino, elephant, buffalo, hippo and crocodile. Lake Jozini is also home to an abundant selection of Tiger Fish and over 350 bird species, with waterbirds flocking to the muddy plains and reed banks.
Shayamanzi Houseboats
Embark on an unforgettable adventure and explore the natural landscapes of Lake Jozini in KwaZulu Natal when you stay aboard the one-of-a-kind, 20-sleeper Shayamanzi Houseboat. Situated at Jozini Tiger Lodge in Northern KZN, Shayamanzi is the first and only cruise-like houseboat of its kind in South Africa, offering an exceptional escape to the wonders of the wild surroundings with all the comforts needed for a fuss-free getaway. Shayamanzi Houseboat features six spacious and comfortable luxury cabins, each with en-suite bathrooms, and four smaller pontoon cabins offering porthole views. Each cabin has been designed with a beautiful indoor-outdoor flow, where large sliding windows frame the water and offer uninterrupted views of the Lebombo Mountains and the diverse wildlife of the Pongola Game Reserve, which inhabits the shores of Lake Jozini, also known as Pongolapoort Dam.
Thonga Beach Lodge
Thonga Beach Lodge lies deep in a wilderness of white beaches, blazing corals and freshwater lakes. Remotely located on the shores of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find it’s one of South Africa’s most pristine beach destinations. With just 12 luxurious thatched rooms, Thonga Beach Lodge is the perfect place to escape and discover an unrivalled marine wilderness. Guests have the option of staying in a Forest View or Ocean View suite/family suite, each of which is equipped with en-suite bathrooms, luxurious beds, and a view-drenched private patio. When visiting Thonga Beach Lodge in KwaZulu Natal, guests can explore the pristine beaches, go snorkelling and scuba diving to discover the vibrant marine life, take guided beach walks to witness the beauty of the coastline, embark on ocean safaris and forest trails, enjoy birding, kayaking, cultural experiences, and indulge in relaxation amidst a stunning beach and marine wilderness.
Gugulesizwe
Gugulesizwe, affectionately known as ‘Gugs’, is an immersive retreat located in the magnificent Maputaland region of KwaZulu Natal. Located 4km inland from a wild stretch of beach atop a scenic hill above the famed Lala Nek snorkelling site, the camp provides spectacular views over the seaside forest to the ocean beyond. Wake up to the sound of birds chirping and the smell of fresh coffee being brewed as you marvel at the morning sun shining on the camp’s sea of grass – the perfect place for a rejuvenating getaway. Gugulesizwe has just seven standard en suite rooms and one family room, ensuring an intimate retreat for couples, solo travellers and families or groups of friends alike. The camp also features a fully-stocked bar, dining area where all meals are served, a spacious lounge, sweeping pool deck and boma for campfires under the stars. Maputaland is perhaps one of the most spectacular regions in the province, providing a sense of being far removed from daily life and immersed in a tropical paradise.
Little Gugs
Little Gugs is a rustic, secret hideaway, beautifully positioned between the forest, grassland and ocean in the scenic Maputaland region of KwaZulu Natal. Located a short distance away from the larger Gugulesizwe camp, Little Gugs is a separately run escape offering guests a more intimate and peaceful getaway experience. In addition to this, Little Gugs offers the perfect base from which to experience the magical surrounds of the area. Little Gugs features just four units, four two-sleeper Tented Rooms each suited to couples and families alike. Each unit offers comfortable, homely interiors and amazing views from private decks, while the shaded braai area is ideal for relaxed coastal evenings under the date palms and starry skies. There’s also a swimming pool deck, bar area, and of course, an abundance of activities to be enjoyed. Guests of Little Gugs can embark on nature drives with the camp’s 4×4 and enjoy the endless beach, swimming in the rockpools, and wildlife-spotting.
Makakatana Bay Lodge
Makakatana Bay Lodge is a truly unique escape situated on the banks of Lake St. Lucia in the heart of the scenic KwaZulu Natal province. Part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, guests of the lodge can experience one of the few natural wonders left on earth. Surrounded by lush greenery, free-roaming wildlife and white sand beaches, Makakatana Bay Lodge offers a traveller’s trifecta. Host to just eight private, wooden suites with their own decks, king-size beds, luxurious bathrooms and spacious living areas, Makakatana Bay Lodge offers an intimate experience suited to couples and families alike. By staying in the luxury safari lodge, guests get to experience Africa’s largest marine estuary with all the creature comforts of home. Embark on a variety of exciting activities that showcase the area’s diversity and uniqueness, especially that of iSimangaliso Wetland Park. These include daily game drives in an open vehicle, informative boat safaris, and unforgettable beach experiences – to name a few.
Kosi Forest Lodge
Located within iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa’s first World Heritage Site, Kosi Forest Lodge offers guests an opportunity to experience this wetland wilderness; a truly unique ecosystem of waterways, intertwined lakes, grasslands and ancient forests. Explore this untouched African wilderness either by canoe, boat or on foot. Kosi Forest Lodge has been created in an eco-conscious way, where the lodge facilities are designed to help you make the most of the natural surroundings throughout your stay. They take full advantage of Maputaland’s sultry weather, and most meals are served al fresco under a canopy of magnificent trees. The rooms are rustic yet comfortable, each raised on a wooden platform with a private deck and tucked away between the trees. Listen out for the abundant birdcalls and perhaps catch a glimpse of the rare palm-nut vulture which is regularly seen in the forest canopy. Experienced and passionate guides will delight in showing you all that this pristine natural area has to offer.
Experience the magic of a marine safari when you book with Conservio today!
