





ROYAL THONGA
Royal Thonga Safari Lodge, is the culmination of a dream of the local community and private investors to create a natural paradise for visitors to this unique reserve.
This 4 star lodge is architecturally designed to emulate the local Thonga building style, and each of the 14 chalets are uniquely positioned to offer guests total privacy and luxurious comfort within a sand forest in Tembe Elephant Park.
Natural materials and timber give a warm organic ambience and invite the outdoors in. All rooms are appointed with quality furnishings and bathrooms come complete with an indoor and private outdoor shower.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together”
– African Proverb
RATES
DETAILS RATES
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DETAILS

Accommodation & Amenities

- 9 Bush Chalets - Sleeps 2 Guests
- 1 Deluxe Bush Chalets - Sleeps 2 Guests
- 2 One Bedroom Family Bush Chalets - Sleeps 2 Adults and 2 Children (bunk-beds for Children)
- 2 Two Bedroom Family Bush Chalets - Sleeps 2 Adults and 2 Children
- Restaurant, Lounge & Bar
- Lap Pool
- Laundry service
- Child minding service (children of all ages are welcome)
- Mobile phone signal (strength varies)
- Pets welcome with special request (provided pets are trained and behaved)
Guests are accommodated in 14 comfortably furnished chalets individually situated and hidden within the surrounding sand forest. Their orientation creates cool shady interiors and the covered verandas provide respite from the African sun. The designs are tailored to suit the topography by fragmenting the built form and threading it around the natural features.
All rooms are furnished with king size beds that can be converted into two singles upon request and mosquito nets are standard in all rooms.
The privacy of the suites also invites guests to enjoy their delightful outdoor showers in addition to indoor shower facilities. The interiors are designed to offer guests uncluttered views of the forest, allowing nature in. Local materials and construction methods have been used to minimize the impact on the ecological processes of the environment.
Main Lodge
The main lodge building is finished in a contemporary stripped back style with plenty of natural materials, textures, raw and recycled wood and African hues. Some sculptural features and earthy tones complete an overall chic and relaxing space.
The area accommodates a comfortable lounge, library and a restaurant area, where guests can sit back and enjoy a chilled beverage whilst savouring the view from the lounge deck. In addition to the bar, the lodge provides guests with a 24/7 self-serve hot drinks station.
The restaurant focuses on creating innovative and delicious meals by combining traditional home style cuisine infused with a local twist, and avails of a fully stocked wine cellar offering fine South African wines.
The lodge places a strong emphasis on responsible tourism and strives to ensure the protection of Africa's spectacular natural heritage in a manner that is beneficial to the people who inhabit the land. The lodge celebrates traditional Thonga and Zulu culture; customs and their pastoral way of life.

Important Information

Check-in: 2pm
Check-out: 10am
Game Drives:
- R450 per person per trip excluding park entrance fees (valid until 31 December 2021)
Enquire for pricing on additional meals and activities
Terms & Conditions:
All meals are set menu’s, please ensure you include special dietary requirements upon booking, we will gladly cater for all special diets upon special request
Family Villa bookings require a minimum of 3 guests
50% deposit upon ALL reservations Full pre-payment is required 15 (fifteen) days prior to date of arrival, unless alternative arrangements have been made. We reserve the right to cancel the reservation should we not receive this payment timeously.
Bank Account Detail
Name: Royal Thonga Safari Lodge PTY
Bank: Standard Bank
Branch: WINDERMERE
Code: 051001
Account No.: 051 483 653
Swift Code: SBZA ZA JJ
CANCELLATION POLICY
The cancellation policy applies to all confirmed bookings.
- All amendments and cancellations must be done in writing by e-mail (info@royalthonga.com)
- Cancellation more than 60 days prior to arrival will be 10% cancellation fee of the full accommodation charge.
- Cancellation more than 30 days, but less than 60 days, prior to arrival will be 25% cancellation fee of the full accommodation charge.
- Cancellation less than 30 days, but more than 7 days, prior to arrival will be 50% cancellation fee of the full accommodation charge.
- Cancellation less than 7 days prior to arrival will be 100% cancellation fee of the full accommodation charge.
- All guests shall settle any outstanding balances and any extra charges prior to departure from the lodge.
Cancellation Policy for Group Bookings
- A group booking applies to a booking for 8 or more full paying guests.
- A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm a Group Booking.
- Full pre-payment is required 60 days prior to arrival.
- Cancellation more than 60 days prior to arrival will be 50% cancellation fee of the full accommodation charge.
- Cancellation more than 30 days, but less than 60 days, prior to arrival will be 75% cancellation fee of the full accommodation charge.
- Cancellation less than 30 days, but more than 7 days, prior to arrival will be 100% cancellation fee of the full accommodation charge.

Maps & Directions
Royal Thonga Safari Lodge
Tembe Elephant Park
Sihangwane, Maputaland, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Email: info@royalthonga.com
Cell: +27 (0)79 668 9753 (24 Hours)
Emergencies: +27 (0) 72 620 4704 This number is for the lodge reception so is not manned at all times
GPD Co-ordinates
27°02’33.3”S 32°27’51.5”E
The lodge is accessible by normal car.
Tembe Elephant Park is situated about 1hr45mins north of Hluhluwe, and a comfortable 4hr15mins drive from King Shaka International Airport near Durban. It sits on the doorstep of other superb destinations, including: Kosi Bay, Ndumo Game Reserve, Sodwana Bay, Lake Jozini, Usuthu Gorge, Border Caves and the pristine beaches and dive spots in Southern Mozambique.
The lodge is located:
- 385 km north of King Shaka International Airport - 4hr15mins drive
- 419 km north of Durban - 4hr45mins drive
- 20km east of the Phongolo River
- 30km west Manguzi (Kwangwanase) - the nearest town with a full range of services.
- 72km east of Jozini
- 160km north of Hluhluwe
- 260km north of Richard's Bay - 3hr drive
From Durban:
From Durban, drive north on the N2 for about 270 km. Then turn right onto the R22 to Hluhluwe and travel about 150 km to a T-junction at Phelindaba Circle and turn left. After a few kilometres, look out for the signs to Royal Thonga Lodge turning to your right.
From Johannesburg:
Travel along the N17 to Bethal and Ermelo, then onto the N2 past Piet Retief. Continue past Pongola (roughly 466ksms. Take the Pongolapoort / Jozini Dam off ramp and continue though the mountain pass and over the Jozini Dam wall, you will the come to a T junction, turn right (this turning is 58kms from the N2 off ramp). The lodge is roughly 36kms from the point (approx. 33mins drive). Look out for Tembe Elephant Park on your left. Roughly 3 kms after the main Tembe Elephant Park Gates look out for the signs to Royal Thonga Lodge turning to the left.

Weather & What to Pack

Day Temperatures
Time of Year | Average Min | Average Max |
Spring: Sept – Nov | 17°C / 63°F | 27°C / 81°F |
Summer: Dec – Feb | 21°C / 69°F | 30°C / 87°F |
Autumn: Mar – May | 18°C / 64°F | 28°C / 82°F |
Winter: Jun – Aug | 13°C / 56°F | 25°C / 77°F |
Sea Temperatures
Time of Year | Average |
Spring: Sept – Nov | 23°C / 74°F |
Summer: Dec – Feb | 27°C / 80°F |
Autumn: Mar – May | 26°C / 79°F |
Winter: Jun – Aug | 23°C / 73°F |
October – April:
During the day, the weather can get very hot. Light summer clothing and hats are recommended, preferably cotton. Bright colours, black and white clothes are not recommended as they can attract insects. Neutral/natural tones are preferred. Always pack a light jersey/sweater for when the temperature drops in the evenings. It can also get chilly sitting on an open safari vehicle on the early morning game drives.
May – September:
The daytime temps are mild but pleasant. The evenings can get very cold. Winter blankets are provided but additional blankets are also available on request. Pack a warm jacket and long pants for the evenings and early morning excursions.
Depending on the time of year you are visiting, make sure you include the following items in your suitcase:
-
- Walking shoes/trainers/sneakers. Some activities such as Turtle Tracking and Raffiaforest walks require a fair amount of walking and you will want to be comfortable. Sandals are not suitable for some of the activities
- Sandals. For relaxing by the pool and beach excursions
- Swimming gear such as costumes, hats, sun screen. Beach and pool towels are provided
- Sufficient medication (if required) and mosquito repellent. While we are not considered a malaria area, it is always good to take precautions and to protect against being bitten while sitting outside.

Enquire/Call me Back
ACTIVITIES

TEMBE ELEPHANT PARK GAME DRIVE
Home to the biggest Tuskers in South Africa, a game drive inside Tembe Elephant Park is not to be missed. This is a big 5 reserve so there is plenty to see.

3 LAKES BOAT TRIP
Explore the lake system from the Festuary mouth through to the third great lake and see along the way an abundance of wildlife. From crocodiles, hippo’s and birds, this is a great way to observe nature from a water perspective.

BEACH DAY AND SNORKEL KOSI MOUTH BEACH
An easy shallow snorkeling experience for those looking to spend some time on the beach, the mouth is home to a host of smaller tropical fish and wildlife.

BIRDING
With over 360 species inside Tembe Elephant Park, this is a paradise for the keen birder. Many species frequent the lodge and can be viewed from the deck of your private bush villa.

CANOE ON KOSI SWAMP
The Kosi swamps are teaming with wildlife and are a fascinating interlinked network of water, this is a great way to observe nature while doing something active.

FISH TRAPS AND BEACH BRAAI
Explore the award winning historical fish traps which have been preserved by the locals for 100s of years, catch your own fish to be enjoyed on a barbeque along the sand banks of the Kosi Bay estuary.

SCUBA DIVING SODWANA
PADI certified excursions are offered for all levels, Sodwana is a globally recognized diving spot, renowned for its diverse ocean wildlife.

RAFFIAFOREST WALK
This forest is considered sacred by locals, enjoy a guided walk through the area where you might get a glimpse of the rare Palm Nut Vulture.

BUTTERFLY OBSERVATION
Due to the variety of habitats found inside Tembe Elephant Park, many narrow and fragile transitional habitats occur. This is where some of the most rare and fascinating butterflies can be observed.

JOZINI BOAT TRIP
Enjoy a unique game viewing experience as you journey by boat along the Jozini dam where you will look out for game in the Pongola reserve from the perspective of the water.

COMMUNITY VISIT
These visits vary but may include a school, a homestead and a Sangoma (witchdoctor). An interesting cultural experience for those who want to see an authentic rural way of life.

SAND FOREST GUIDED WALK
A leisurely one hour walk through the sand forest area surrounding the lodge, guests can do this alone or as a guided activity where they will enjoy what nature has to offer within this fragile ecosystem.

SNORKEL OCEAN EXPERIENCE SODWANA
Snorkel directly off the boat or from the beach in the warm tropical Indian Ocean.

TURTLE TRACKING
Endangered and protected Leatherback and Loggerhead turtles return to the beach of their birth to lay the eggs for the next generation. Observe these magnificent. giants in their natural habitat, something that can only be done in a few select locations around the world.

PALMWEAVERS - PALMWINE
Visit the talented weavers who create intricate products from the palm leaves such as baskets and mats. For the brave, one can sample the palm wine made from fermented palm juice, not the faint hearted!

MARKET VIST DAY
Buy some fresh produce or simply go visit the market to experience the hustle and bustle of trade in a uniquely African context.

MARULA FESTIVAL
This seasonal festival is the most important event for the local people. Celebrated by everyone in the area, the locals enjoy the beer made from the first fruits of the season. Led by the Royal Family, this is an annual historic event.

NDUMO GAME RESERVE
A neighboring reserve to Tembe Elephant Park, with its own wonders and attractions, Ndumo is great for those interested in a bush walking experience through a reserve, game drives are also offered.

REED DANCE
An annual historical event, where Zulu virgins participate in a procession before the King in traditional attire.
GALLERY
ACCOLADES
REVIEWS
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A place with true hospitality and deep caring I’m not sure we’ve found a place like this
The warmth and caring is really genuine
Nothing is ever too much to ask for
Rooms and bathroom with outdoor shower - amazing... read moreI’m not sure we’ve found a place like this
The warmth and caring is really genuine
Nothing is ever too much to ask for
Rooms and bathroom with outdoor shower - amazing (just a little fridge is missing)
Raised walkways - amazing
Lodge facilities - amazing
Pool - amazing
Seeing the tuskers was a dream come true for us (Sicelo tries hard but needs to know a touch more)
New Year’s Eve was a night to remember
Breakfast was great, hearty and set us up for the day. Dinner needs to be a little more varied and ‘vertical’ to cater for your travelers who are foodies like us.
Wendy, Prince and ‘Mom’ - a heartfelt thank you.
To all your people, thanks for being so hospitable
We really loved our stay ️ More read lessKatprangley1/03/2020True bush experience We stayed at Royal Thonga with our 3 year old twins for one night. Venue gives one a true bush experience with the chalets isolated from each other so you... read moreWe stayed at Royal Thonga with our 3 year old twins for one night. Venue gives one a true bush experience with the chalets isolated from each other so you truly feel like you are in the bush. Girls loved the wooden walkways through the indigenous bush which connect the chalets, dining area, pool etc. Staff were friendly and accommodating, meals tasty and wholesome, well stocked bar and the game drive was a highlight. The lodge shares a boundary with Tembe Elephant Park and has its own gate so once you get on the game drive vehicle you are basically in Tembe. Great sightings of elephant up close as well as a number of other species. We will most certainly visit again. More read less
ZeeDbn4/06/2018Peaceful and beautiful We had a wonderfull stay at Royal Thonga.
The rooms are spacious and special. Although no airco or fan, the temperature at night was good to handle.
Staff is friendly and helpful... read moreWe had a wonderfull stay at Royal Thonga.
The rooms are spacious and special. Although no airco or fan, the temperature at night was good to handle.
Staff is friendly and helpful and do take interest in you.
There is no WIFI but we did not mind. Actually it was quite nice and enhanced our quality time. There are plenty books to read and games to play. read lessDman19844/22/2019 -
Great location. Very friendly and attentive service Wonderful accommodation and an excellent adventure for kids. Even braved the pool in the winter, very refreshing after a long but successful game drive, thank you Wesi. The food was... read moreWonderful accommodation and an excellent adventure for kids. Even braved the pool in the winter, very refreshing after a long but successful game drive, thank you Wesi. The food was excellent and sitting by the log fire finished off the day brilliantly. read less
Carl H5/02/2018Intimate and Beautiful A favorite stay on our safari made very special by GuGu, Vesi, Caesar, Bongo and Beutelai. Though a small staff, they took very good care of us. Dinners and breakfasts... read moreA favorite stay on our safari made very special by GuGu, Vesi, Caesar, Bongo and Beutelai. Though a small staff, they took very good care of us. Dinners and breakfasts alike were delicious, beautifully presented and graciously served. Fantastic game drives with Vesi. Our guest chalet was beautiful, clean, and very comfortable. With only 14 guest chalets we enjoyed the privacy and intimacy of this safari camp. We arrived as guests and departed as friends/family. read less
madygar4/28/2019When the stars come out tonight…… Lots of email correspondence before visit about game drives and any dietary problems with Carrie – arrived early – 11.15 – room ready - welcomed by Fezile who is a... read moreLots of email correspondence before visit about game drives and any dietary problems with Carrie – arrived early – 11.15 – room ready - welcomed by Fezile who is a star in my book – checked-in – walked down the boardwalk to our chalet… Stayed in Chalet 3 “Knobwood” for one night on a half board basis from 29 March 2017 It is a large thatched building – bedroom – large comfy bed with mosquito netting around it – 2 easy chairs – hanging and storage space – a fan that only works during the 4 hours when there is electricity from the generator – through a door to large open roofed bathroom – large walk-in shower - toiletries – out another door into the open air shower which was very good well controlled temperature and pressure – no in room Wi-Fi There is a deck with 2 chairs and a table – just right for your sundowner and viewing the stars after lights out at precisely 9.00 pm – a battery operated lantern is provided as light source after the electricity goes off Each chalet is separated from its neighbour by a thick thicket of vegetation giving an almost like being in the bush like experience There is also a reasonably large sized pool with chairs under shade and again surrounded by bush There is a large open sided restaurant area – with bar – comfy chairs – pit fire – and dining tables and chairs - we had lunch and despite the lack of electricity the cook managed to deliver a good cheeseburger and chips for R65 per head plus reasonably cold beers – dinner – 3 courses – soup meat and pudding – good food well cooked - breakfast – cooked breakfast – again well done – started the day early and very satisfied Game drive – pm – left at 2.00 pm back just after 6.00 - only us on the safari vehicle – Lodge has its own private entrance to the Park less than 5 minutes away – a real bonus – windy afternoon – prognosis for game sightings not good – changed guides at one of the hides at a waterhole – saw our first elephant having a drink – then with Vezi at the helm tootled around following another safari vehicle for a while until they pulled off for their sundowners - we continued as our guide had an elephant in his sights – made contact but it turned tail – and then turned a corner to find a herd of 30+ elephants including some impressive tuskers – we went round a bend in the road only to have a very close encounter with 10 or so elephants including a baby from the same herd – earlier our guide had picked up some lion tracks – he followed his instincts and in the dying light of day we found 2 immature male lions just hanging out close to a small waterhole – we might not have had our G and T sundowners but we had an excellent afternoon’s entertainment for R750 - thank you Access to the Lodge is from the main road and then onto a sandy road for about 3 kms. to the gatehouse and about 500 metres to reception – we drove it in 2WD vehicle and had no problems One of the main benefits of being without electricity is the lack of light pollution in the night sky – there are a myriad of stars filling the sky that we can’t see at home – my photo does not do it justice On the face of it this appears to be a basic hotel with the lack of electricity i.e. no ac no fridge – no kettle – no Wi-Fi - but this lack of modern “essentials” is made up by so much more – friendly staff and great service – good food well-cooked – great game drives – easy access to the Park – big night skies – bed at 9.30 awake with the dawn – a feeling of coming back to nature – a recommended experience – thank you read less
PeteD604/07/2017
CONTACT DETAILS
Central Reservations: +27 0861 010 347
Lodge Reception: +27 072 620 4704
Address: Tembe Elephant Park
Email: info@royalthonga.com