Bulungula Lodge - Xhosa Community Lodge

Situated on the breathtaking Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape, Bulungula Lodge is nestled in one of the most beautiful locations along South Africa's Coast. An eco-friendly, Fair Trade certified, affordable, multi-night destination for sustainability minded South African and overseas visitors alike; the Lodge is a superb accommodation for Wild Coast budget travelers, backpackers and cultural wanderers of this Earth. The Bulungula Lodge sustains local culture and the planet, and is 100% owned and managed by the vibrant, traditional Nqileni village, a Xhosa community in between Bulungula and Xhora river mouth. The Xhosa community is an integral part of daily life in and around the Lodge. With no fences, no crime, and no hassles, the village is full of friendly smiles and lots of animals. You are invited to be part of this community throughout your stay – becoming part of the Bulungula Lodge and village community is the whole point of coming here! The Lodge is a carbon neutral accommodation on the Wild Coast. It’s powered by the sun and includes the legendary ’rocket’ hot-water showers, our water comes from our own borehole and the virtually odourless compost toilets are the most colourful in Africa. 10 theme-painted traditionally built Xhosa rondavel huts have beautiful sea and forest views. Or stay in cabins under the trees. Whichever roof you choose, you’ll sleep well, to the sound of the Indian Ocean’s surf.

Area Info

Paradise is by definition hard to get to, but we reckon it’s a fun mission and it is oh so worth it. We are located on the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape, formerly known as the Transkei Region. Destinations like Coffee Bay and Lubanzi are only a hike along the beach away.

Units and Rooms

Forest Cabins - 2 Sleeper

Guests: 2

Our cabins in the forest are Bulungulas best-kept secret! If you are looking for a secluded place with sea views and a “magical forest” feel, book one of our simple but cosy huts. Shared ablution. You may spot dolphins and whales from your bed!

Traditional Rondawel 5 Sleeper

Guests: 5

Traditional Rondawels are cosy and traditional, to give you the full Xhosa experience. Shared ablution. If you leave the door open, you will see the villagers passing by. Please let us know if you would prefer a single or double bed configured on request.

Mixed Male & Female Dorm

Guests: 1

Please note that our dorm rooms are shared by male and female dorms. Book per bed. Shared ablution. They are located in a quiet spot in the back of our garden and come with forest views. Sleeps up to 7 people in single beds (no bunks!)

Camp Site

Guests: 4

No matter which one you choose, they all have one thing in common: you will fall asleep and wake up to the beautiful sound of the waves. Shared ablution. Please note that we can’t accept campervans and camper trailers. Please bring your own tent.

Traditional Rondawel 4 Sleeper

Guests: 4

Traditional Rondawels are cosy and traditional, to give you the full Xhosa experience. Shared ablution. If you leave the door open, you will see the villagers passing by. Please let us know if you would prefer a single or double bed configured on request.

En-suite Rondawel 4 Sleeper

Guests: 4

Traditional Rondawels are cosy and traditional, to give you the full village experience. This rondawel has an en-suite, open-air hot shower and a separate, enclosed compost loo. Let us know if you would prefer a single or double bed configured on request.