Mbotyi River Lodge is a family resort on the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Experience the legendary, hospitalty and warm atmosphere. Become a member of the Mbotyi family who return year after year for the ultimate stress free holiday. Children have a jungle gym, special children’s swimming pool and trampoline. Friendly Pondo child minders are available from the Mbotyi community.
The grounds of the hotel are spacious with manicured lawns, indigenous garden, crystal clear swimming pool and sunny wooden decks.
The games room with 360 degree views has pool tables, table tennis, darts and much more.
The Long Bar is the place where many a friendship is formed, where fishermen tell tall stories about the catch of the day or the size of the fish that got away
Mbotyi is in the heart of Pondoland where one can experience true Pondo culture as well as the warmth and friendliness of these lovely people. Walk the along the hills and valleys of the village with a local guide/interpreter, meet the people and the local characters, or visit a Sangoma or a lively shebeen.
Approaching Mbotyi you will drive through a section of the magnificent Magwa Tea Plantation. This is known to be one of the world largest tea plantations. The ever green tea bushes, hugging the rolling hills and surrounded by borders of massive Eucalyptus trees are a sight to behold. Visits to the factory with antiquated, yet still operational, equipment are arranged from the lodge.
Mbotyi is situated 26 km from Lusikisiki. There is no need for a 4 wheel driven vehicle on the 19 km of gravel which needs to be negotiated slowly. Enjoy the very scenic drive and forgive the odd pot hole. Please contact the lodge for detailed directions.
- Fly in to Magwa Tea Corporation’s 1000 metre air strip, contact us for co-ordinates and details.
- Helicopter landing pad at the lodge.
- Weddings, the perfect unforgettable, romantic wedding.
- Conferences, smaller groups find this the perfect place to work and play.
- Small team building groups.
Accommodation
Mbotyi River Lodge has beautiful sea and lagoon facing rooms each with their own unique view and ambiance. Whether you prefer the rustic thatch or the log cabins, the rooms are comfortable, upmarket and cosy with en-suite bathrooms. The 12 upgraded log cabin rooms have air-conditioning, television and a refrigerator.
All the rooms have either a balcony or patio where guests can sit and hear the rumble of the ocean or the cry of the fish eagles while admiring the view of the forest, sea or lagoon.
Please contact the Lodge for rates and packages. We offer specials from time to time during quiet periods.
Campsite
The camp site is a joint venture between the Mbotyi Community and Mbotyi River Camp Site. It is managed by the Mbotyi Camp Site Trust. The Camp Site does not form part of the Lodge and is a separate business with its own shareholders. The Camp Site facilities and those of the Lodge are for the specific use of the guests of each venue and there are no reciprocal rights between the two.
The Camp Site opened on the 4th June 2002. It is an upmarket venue with electricity, water and 24 hour security. The property is fenced and provides safe, off- road parking. The Camp Site has been left as natural as possible and the tent sites have been terraced for campers. It is advisable to book a site suitable for the size of the tent you wish to pitch.
Mbotyi Camp Site has three Pondo Huts that sleep 6 people each. These have 1 double bed, 2 single beds and a double bunk. The huts are equipped with their own refrigerators, tables and chairs. No linen, stoves, pots, pans, crockery or cutlery is provided. Linen is available for hire. It is recommended however, that you bring your own.
The Camp Site also has two rooms that sleep 2 people each – one equipped with a double bed and the other with two single beds. Both rooms have a refrigerator and a cupboard
Kitchens: There are 8 kitchen areas with a hot and cold water sink. There is no additional charge for the use of the kitchens.
Ablutions: Spotless Gents and Ladies ablutions with hot and cold water.
Dining Area: There is a covered dinning area where guests can enjoy meals or get togethers. This area is for use by all guests at the camp site.
Braai Areas: There are braai areas around the camp sites with their own light and three prong power points.
Food and Drink
Mbotyi River Lodge cuisine focuses on taste and quality. The emphasis is on simple dishes that delight the palate and enhance your day and stay. Breakfast comprises nourishing English-style fare or continental, if you prefer something lighter to start your day. Lunches are light and include salads, most greens coming from our own vegetable garden. Dinners feature a wide variety of dishes to suit every palate with a legendary seafood platter on a Saturday evening. The long bar and games room, situated adjacent to the dining room enjoys awesome views of the Mbotyi beach and river mouth. Good wine, wicked shooters, tasty G & T’s, bitterly cold beers and mineral waters are but a few of the favourites served.
Mbotyi River Lodge
+27 (0)39 253-7200
+27 (0)39 253-7202
+27 (0)82 674 1064
