The region has diverse landscapes ranging from coastal forests, grasslands, bush, lakes and the shores of the Indian Ocean.
Getting to Thonga Beach Lodge
By Road From Johannesburg
Head to Piet Retief and Pongola then proceed on the N2 south towards Mkuze. Approximately 45km from Pongola and 10km before Mkuze turn left towards Jozini.
Please note that the Jozini route often has cattle wandering across it and there are a few pot holes, some of the signs sometimes fall down so caution and slower driving speeds are necessary.
We recommend that you fill up with fuel in Jozini as there is no fuel available at the lodge. This is also a good time to have a toilet break and get some snacks for the road ahead.
On leaving Jozini, take a left turn towards the "Coastal Forest Reserve and KwaNgwanase" (signposted), ensuring that you are proceeding over the Pongola dam wall. After 45km at a T-junction, turn right towards "KwaNgwanase".
Proceed for another 34 km and at the circle turn right towards "Coastal Forest Reserve" on the R22 to Hluhluwe. After 15km turn left onto a dirt road marked as "Coastal Forest Reserve". Take care as this sign post is easy to miss!
By Road From Durban
Proceed on the N2 North to Hluhluwe. Turn off the N2 at the Hhluhluwe/Sodwana offramp, turn right across the bridge towards Hluhluwe, proceeding through the town until you reach the last traffic circle (there will be 4 in total).
Please note that there are many speed bumps through and after Hluhluwe, so take extra care when driving on this road. We recommend that you fill up with fuel at Hluhluwe as there is no fuel available at the lodge. This is a good time to have a toilet break and get some snacks for the road ahead.
Turn left at R22/Sodwana Bay signpost, proceed for 0.7 km and turn right at R22/ Sodwana Bay signpost. Cross over the railway line. Proceed for 87 km bypassing Mbazwana on your right. Proceed straight through the circles following the signs to "Coastal Forest Reserve".
Proceed for 33 km after Mbazwana (passing the Mseleni turn-off) turn right onto a dirt road marked as "Coastal Forest Reserve". Take care as it is easy to miss this sign. You will see a sign indicating directions to Mabibi, Rocktail Bay etc. It is 4.7km along this road to the Coastal Cashew Factory on your right hand side, where you will be collected.
Upon reaching the Coastal Cashew Factory, two-wheel drive vehicles will park and guests will be transferred to the lodge in a Thonga Beach Lodge vehicle (approximately 1 hour). The parking is secured and the entrance guarded.
