Maputaland | Big Skies

Maputaland has been described at southern Africa’s last true shot at combining community-based tourism, environmental conservation and an outstanding guest experience. We’ve taken those words to heart in creating Gugulesizwe Camp.

Don’t worry if “Gugulesizwe” is something of a tongue-twister; within minutes of arriving, you’ll be referring to the camp as “Gugs” – everyone does.

Gugs is actually two camps – Gugs and Little Gugs. Perched on a breezy hilltop just 4km from the sea, they are a breath of fresh air in every respect. With commanding views out over the coastal forest and across the ocean, you’ll soon settle into the slower pace of life.

There’s a wonderful clarity to the afternoon light and the openness of the surroundings adds an real sense of freedom. As night falls, the song of the crickets promises a rejuvenating rest.

A short drive leads to the world-class Lala Nek snorkelling site, while the low tide reveals rock pools that call out to be explored by kids and the young at heart.

Big Skies’ Gugulesizwe camps are our love letter to connecting with nature and allowing for the seasons and wildlife to guide how you choose to spend your time with us.

OUR CAMPS

Gugulesizwe

In season, passing humpback whales can be spotted from Gugulesizwe Camps’ lofty location, just 4km inland. Noted for its’ beautiful morning and afternoon light that shimmers upon the surrounding sea of grass, Gugs is our more affordable option.

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Little Gugs

Little Gugs is our smaller, more intimate camp and it’s imbued with a sense of tropical bliss with the dense trees separating the dining area and lounge from the upper part of the camp; and silhouettes of palm and wild banana trees against the view of the ocean.

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Dining

Informed by Michael Pollan’s ‘Omnivore’s Dilemma’, we watch carefully over where our food comes from. We only serve food from places we have visited to sustain an ethical and organic kitchen. We offer three meals a day, with menus reflecting our plant-based approach to cuisine.

Activities

The beauty of Maputaland is that you can do as much here as you wish – or as little. Relax on the beach, stroll through the trees in search of brilliant butterflies and birds, or head to Lake Sibaya, the largest freshwater lake in southern Africa.

Depending on the season, you can watch prehistoric loggerhead and leatherback turtles dig their nests in the sand, and humpback whales migrate along the coast.

For a fully immersive experience, take the plunge and enjoy some of the world’s best snorkelling with qualified, experienced instructors. The flourishing reefs are home to amazingly diverse marine life, including mention octopus, eels and nudibranchs.

Back on dry land, spend time with our neighbours at the KwaMpukane community centre and learn more about the culture of the people and the stories and traditions that pass magic on to the next generation. Or simply watch a movie at our beautiful outdoor cinema situated under the stars.

Whatever you choose to do, you can be sure of a fulfilling and enriching time.