Thonga Beach Lodge - Activities

Snorkeling

Mabibi offers superb snorkeling opportunities with a great diversity of underwater seascapes and marine flora and fauna. The shallow reefs along this protected stretch of coastline are home to an array of brilliant sub-tropical fish including Moorish idols, parrot fish and blue surgeons. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean make this the ideal spot to snorkel or guests can simply soak up the sun and savour the tranquility of this pristine, sandy beach.

Scuba Diving

This is an adventure activity with boats launching straight through the surf. Scuba diving at Mabibi is also phenomenal, with reefs located a short distance from the lodge. Shoals of game fish, sharks and schools of bottlenose dolphins are often seen. Our professional lodge diving team accommodates all enthusiasts; from the beginner to the veteran wanting a tour of the very best our reef’s have to offer. 1250 fish species (Great Barrier Reef has 1500) occur on the reefs in this area. Dives are from a semi-rigid dive boat which accommodates a maximum of 6 divers at a time. The boats launch straight off the beach through the surf. This can be exciting and strenuous so a reasonable level of fitness is required. Diving is limited by weather and the tides and cannot be guaranteed. Guests must have proof of their diving qualifications. We regret no children under 12 years or adults over 65 years.

Open Ocean Experience

This adventure activity offers guests rare opportunities to experience the variety of marine life that lives along the Elephant Coast. An exciting launch through the surf in front of the lodge takes you beyond the breakers to a world of Dolphins, Whales, Whale Sharks and snorkelling. The warm Indian Ocean supports a myriad of fish and marine life. Guests can sometimes swim with Dolphins or Whale Sharks or snorkel with Manta rays and giant turtles. No experience is required for this activity, but the launch through the surf can be strenuous. We regret no children under 12 years or adults over 65 years.

Lake Sibiya

The lake is 6km from the lodge, a 20-minute drive.

• Sundowners are offered on the shores Southern Africa’s largest fresh water lake – Lake Sibiya (70 square km), the Ramsar Convention assures its international conservation status. The lake has 125km of untouched shoreline, good bird watching, and a great diversity of fauna and flora.
• Guests can also explore parts of the lake by guided canoe with the chance of seeing hippo and crocodile en route. A reasonable level of fitness is required.

Bird Watching

Birding at Mabibi and its surrounds is excellent and the variety of habitats attracts a great diversity of species. Typical coastal species include Livingstone’s and purplecrested lourie, green twinspot, grey waxbill and green coucal. Waders are common along the shoreline, and pinkthroated longclaw and rufousbellied heron frequent the marshy areas. Lake Sibiya has recorded 279 bird species including the Palmnut Vulture, the only fruit-eating vulture in the world. Pel’s fishing owl and pygmy goose.

Guided Wilderness Walks

Guests can head out on foot and explore this natural wonderland through coastal dune forests, unspoiled sandy beaches and grasslands. The wild beauty of Maputuland will enthrall naturalists and photographers alike.

Turtle Tracking

In summer, nocturnal walks and drives along the beach in search of egg-laying turtles can be arranged. Guests can witness the culmination of an incredible journey as Giant Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in carefully prepared nests. Turtle tracking is offered in the evening from mid-November to mid-March. Every precaution is taken to ensure these magnificent creatures are not disturbed during the laying process.

Fishing

The Maputuland coastline is renowned as one of South Africa’s most popular fishing destinations. Guests can try their hand at surf fishing or fly-fishing. Hully Point at Mabibi, is a well-known fly-fishing spot. The enthusiastic angler can experience the thrill of bagging the catch of a lifetime from these brilliant waters. Thonga Beach Lodge encourages guests to “catch & release”.

Thonga Cultural Experience

Visit a traditional Tsonga homestead and learn about their unique heritage and culture. Visits to a traditional healer (sangoma) or iLala Palm wine tasting can also be arranged(subject to availability).