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Bulungula is a unique eco-lodge that is 100% owned and managed by the local Xhosa community, offering a rare opportunity to experience authentic rural life on the stunning Wild Coast of South Africa. Set on a hillside overlooking a pristine beach and a river mouth, the lodge consists of 10 traditional rondavels (round huts) that are cosy and colourful, with solar-powered lights and paraffin lamps. There’s no electricity or running water at Bulungula, but plenty of charm and character. You can relax in a hammock, enjoy delicious home-cooked meals, join in various activities led by local guides, or simply soak up the beauty and tranquility of this remote paradise.
Sustainability
Bulungula is committed to being eco-friendly and socially responsible. The lodge uses solar power for lighting and water heating; rainwater harvesting for drinking and washing; composting toilets for waste management; organic farming for food production; and recycling for waste reduction. The lodge also supports the local community by providing employment opportunities, training programs, education scholarships, health services, and cultural preservation. Bulungula is certified by Fair Trade Tourism and has won several awards for its sustainability efforts.
Rooms
The 10 rondavels are dotted around the hillside, each with a different name and theme. Some have sea views, some have river views, and some have both. They are all spacious and comfortable, with double or twin beds, mosquito nets, shelves, hooks, rugs, cushions, and paintings by local artists. The walls are made of mud and cow dung, and the roofs are thatched with grass. The floors are polished concrete or wooden. There are no windows, but wooden shutters that can be opened or closed. Each rondavel has a private composting toilet and an outdoor bucket shower with hot water. There’s also a communal ablution block with flush toilets and showers. The rondavels are ideal for couples, families, or groups of friends who want to experience a simple and sustainable way of living.
Food and drink
The lodge has a communal kitchen and dining area where you can enjoy delicious meals prepared by local women using fresh ingredients from their gardens and the sea. Breakfast is usually pancakes with homemade jam or eggs and toast. Lunch is a light meal such as soup, salad, or sandwiches. Dinner is a hearty affair with dishes such as chicken curry, fish stew, or samp and beans. Vegetarian options are available on request. You can also order snacks and drinks throughout the day from the bar, which stocks cold beers, soft drinks, juices, tea, coffee, and homemade ginger beer. There’s also a braai (barbecue) area where you can grill your own meat or fish if you prefer.
Things to do
The lodge has a lot to offer in terms of activities and entertainment. You can join guided walks to nearby villages, waterfalls, forests, or caves; go fishing or canoeing on the river; learn about Xhosa culture and traditions; take part in drumming or dancing workshops; visit the local preschool or clinic run by the Bulungula Incubator (a non-profit organisation that supports the community); or book a massage or yoga session. There’s also a games room with books, board games, cards, and puzzles; a TV room with DVDs; a craft shop selling local products; and a fire pit where you can socialise with other guests and locals. The lodge also organises special events such as full moon parties, beach bonfires, or movie nights.
- Actively reduces consumption
- Certification
- Recycling
- Solar powered or renewable energy
- Employs local people
- Local or organic food
- Education
- Preservation of cultural heritage
- Respect for culture
- Nature
- Culture
- Beach or coast
- Restaurant
- Up to 2
- Up to 4
- Up to 8
- Family
- Lodge
- Hiking
- Watersports
- Cultural visit
