Research Camp at Gugulesizwe

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Accommodation Description


Discover the magic of an uninterrupted nature retreat at Gugulesizwe’s Research Camp.

Originally designed as a researcher’s retreat for delving into Maputaland's rich ecological and cultural tapestry, Research Camp now welcomes guests seeking an exclusive, self-catered escape in one of KwaZulu Natal’s most breathtaking natural areas.


Guests are able to enjoy the sole use of the camp on a self-catered basis, featuring four tented rooms accommodating up to two people each, with a maximum capacity of eight  in total. Perched above the sweeping Maputaland coastline, the four tented rooms at Research Camp offer stirring vistas and an abundance of activities waiting to be explored.


Setting Description


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. Guests of Research Camp can enjoy a range of unique activities, including a guided boat trip to explore Southern Africa’s oldest fish traps, or a relaxing beach day complete with beach shelters and a picnic basket. 


Experience the thrill of turtle tracking with a guided drive or walk along the beach to find leatherback and loggerhead turtles during season; opt for guided or unguided walks and hikes around the camp; or take a guided snorkel trip to the rock pools at nearby Lala Nek. Immerse yourself in community life with a guided trip to meet the KwaMpukane locals and enjoy traditional dishes like injemane and Shisanyama.

Activities

Snorkeling

Snorkeling

Swimming

Swimming

Nature Walks

Nature Walks

Community Visits

Community Visits

Location

KwaMpukane Maputaland, Mabibi, 3815

How to get there

Directions from R22 to Gugulesizwe Directions f rom R22 to Gugulesizwe Turn off the R22 onto the D1849 and reset your trip clock to 0. The D1849 has signs saying “Coastal Forest Reserve”. After 100m on the D1849, there is a sign for Manzengwenya, Mabibi, Lala Nek and Rocktail. Continue straight on this road for 18km. At 4.3km on the D1849, Coastal Cashews will be on your right, continue straight. At 18km there is another Manzengwenya, Rocktail, Lala Nek sign. Turn left here and go straight over the crossroads. Continue straight on this road. At 23.6 km you will see the first Gugulesizwe sign: a small pink sign on the lefthand side of the road. Turn left here, being careful in the thick sand on this corner. Continue through the forest along this road. At 27km, take the right fork. At 30km, keep left at the second Yjunction and keep straight. At 30.4km, go straight over the crossroads. At 30.6km, turn right at the bottom of the hill. At 31km, take a slight left at the crossroads. At 31.3km, turn right into Gugulesizwe.

Frequently asked questions

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