{"title":"Maputaland Marine Protected Area","description":"\u003cp\u003eMaputaland Marine Protected Area\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"big-skies-gugs-215676","title":"Big Skies Gugs","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGugs Camp is situated on KwaZulu-Natal’s north eastern seaboard, a diverse region of forested dunes, wetlands, sandy beaches, woodlands and warm seas. It lies just outside of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, one of South Africa’s UNESCO world heritage sites which spans a range of ecological zones. Situated offshore is the sanctuary of the Maputaland Marine Reserve with prolific marine life, spectacular coral landscape, dolphins and whales.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe camp is located 4km from the beach with breathtaking views overlooking the coastal forest and ocean. Enjoy the 8 en suite rooms (including 1 family room with two bedrooms and a shared bathroom), as well as the bar, kitchen, lounge, pool deck and boma. At Gugs you can set your own schedule, guided only by the tides and your own wishes. This is your time, and however you choose to spend it is just fine by us.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt Big Skies, we value a holistic model of tourism, a model that emphasises community, environmental conservation and an outstanding guest experience. The most important members of our community are the people who work in and live near our camps. They are the original custodians of the land and the people who know it best. By partnering with local communities, we have been able to benefit from their profound knowledge of the area and offer incredible experiences to our guests. The warm hospitality that you’ll experience in our camps has been extended to us from the earliest days of Big Skies and gives us the privilege of feeling that we also belong here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn season, passing humpback whales can be spotted from Big Skies Gugs strategic location, just 4km inland. Quite different in feel to the sultry seaside forest, this camp is noted for the beauty of the early morning and late afternoon light shining on the surrounding sea of grass. Situated above the superb snorkelling site at Lala Nek, Gugs provides everything for the ideal family-and-friends holiday. The open, airy location lends itself to daydreaming, while kids can burn off their excess energy in safety. Guests can enjoy the 8 en-suite rooms including 1 family room with 2 bedrooms and a shared bathroom, as well as the bar, kitchen, lounge, pool deck and boma. When the ocean calls, a short 4×4 drive brings guests to endless beaches, rockpools, and all the wildlife-spotting possibilities that Maputaland offers.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"WETU","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43761674387515,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0582\/6776\/2747\/files\/215676_2F1739782657870_BSGugs_CaseyPratt_2412-3655.jpg?v=1783584844"},{"product_id":"big-skies-research-230925","title":"Big Skies Research","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBig Skies Research – a secret hideaway named for the scientists and researchers for whom it was originally built, offers a different Maputaland experience. The tented lodge offers four twin rooms with superb sea views. Each tent has two single beds and an en-suite bathroom with hot water provided by wood-burning donkey boilers which staff ensure are kept warm. The rooms are set far enough apart to be private, yet close enough to feel inclusive. Fairy lights, Mozambican design elements, and vibrant carpets contribute to a welcome sense of relaxation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe beautiful main area offers superb views across the grasslands to the ocean. Tastefully decorated with a chic yet homely feel and modern rustic charm, it’s an inviting space in which to gather, cook, eat, and entertain. The lounge deck and braai area also offer the chance to relax, with the splash pool just a few steps away. Big Skies Research is a self-catered camp, however for an additional cost, the services of a chef can be provided.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe area teems with wildlife, with singing frogs and skinks and palm-nut vultures. In particular, the snorkelling opportunities are outstanding. Mid-October to mid-March sees loggerhead and leatherback turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs with turtle hatchlings emerging from their nests, later in the season. June to October can produce breathtaking sightings of humpback whales during their annual migration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBig Skies Research – a secret, self drive hideaway named for the scientists and researchers for whom it was originally built, offers a different Maputaland experience. The tented lodge offers four twin rooms with sea views. Each tent has two single beds and an en-suite bathroom with hot water provided by wood-burning donkey boilers. The rooms are set far enough apart to be private, yet close enough to feel inclusive.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe camp requires guests to self drive with a 4x4 vehicle. No transfers are available for this camp and is intended for those that prefer an unguided experience. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe main area offers superb views across the grasslands to the ocean. Tastefully decorated with a chic yet homely feel and modern rustic charm, it’s an inviting space in which to gather, cook, eat, and entertain. The lounge deck and braai area also offer the chance to relax, with the splash pool just a few steps away. Big Skies Research is a self-catered camp, however for an additional cost, the services of a chef can be provided. The kitchen in the main area has everything guests need to prepare snacks, braais, and dinner party food.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"WETU","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43761681760315,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}]},{"product_id":"big-skies-ubunye-279873","title":"Big Skies Ubunye","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBig Skies Ubunye is an intimate camp situated just 4km from the beach, perched on the rolling green hills of Northern KwaZulu-Natal and south of Big Skies Gugs, but within walking distance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe site boasts a breathtaking view of the coastal forest and ocean. The camp lies on the border of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, one of South Africa’s World Heritage Sites. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAlthough the camp is located alongside a coastal forest reserve, this is not a traditional terrestrial game viewing area or experience. Rather, the experience offered is one of immersion in environment, with emphasis placed on the quiet, slow and small delights of the natural world.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA guided stroll through the dunes sees guests reconnecting with the landscape beyond just sight, as guests are encouraged to taste the delicious fruits from the Indigenous date palm or to learn more about the naming practices of the abundant herds of Nguni cattle roaming the fields.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt Big Skies Ubunye, the aim is to emphasise the importance of reconnecting with embodied experience and with the land. To aid relaxation, we offer a range of massage treatments, at an additional cost. Our vegetarian cuisine connects guests to a sustainable way of eating and living.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe area teems with wildlife, with singing frogs and skinks and palm-nut vultures. In particular, the snorkelling opportunities are outstanding. Mid-October to mid-March sees loggerhead and leatherback turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs with turtle hatchlings emerging from their nests, later in the season. June to October can produce breathtaking sightings of humpback whales during their annual migration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBig Skies Ubunye is a secret hideaway, located a short walking distance from Big Skies Gugs. Surrounded by forest, grassland and ocean, guests may enjoy activities such as whale watching in season, snorkelling, beach days, boat tours and visiting the nearby community. The 4 comfort rooms are each equipped with an en-suite bathroom and outdoor shower. Each room can accommodate 2 adults sharing and 2 of these rooms can also include 2 children (14 years or younger).\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"WETU","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43761711841339,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0582\/6776\/2747\/files\/279873_2F1739793529226_BSUbunye_CaseyPratt_24.12-5270.jpg?v=1783584903"},{"product_id":"thonga-beach-lodge-13101","title":"Thonga Beach Lodge","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThonga Beach Lodge is set on the pristine shores of the Maputuland Coast, KwaZulu-Natal. This 24 bed luxury lodge is the ideal place to discover one of Africa’s last unspoilt wilderness beaches. It is a magical place of coastal forests, grasslands, bush, shimmering lakes and exquisite sandy beaches. Its crystal clear, warm waters offer South Africa’s best snorkelling and excellent off-shore SCUBA diving and excellent birding opportunities. Guided birding, scorpion \u0026amp; spider walks \u0026amp; Turtle Tracking are offered in season. The 12 thatched bush suites offer either Ocean or Forest Views with Deluxe Ocean Views room sporting private plunge pools. The suites are positioned to afford maximum privacy \u0026amp; minimal environmental impact. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e Excellent cuisine is enjoyed al fresco on the dining deck or beach deck overlooking the sea. This is an ideal choice for honeymooners, families, SCUBA divers or anyone who wants to simply relax. A civilized distance from civilization.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThonga Beach Lodge is set on the pristine shores of the Maputuland Coast, KwaZulu-Natal. This 24 bed luxury lodge is the ideal place to discover one of Africa’s last unspoilt wilderness beaches. It is a magical place of coastal forests, grasslands, bush, shimmering lakes and exquisite sandy beaches. Its crystal clear, warm waters offer South Africa’s best snorkelling and excellent off-shore SCUBA diving and excellent birding opportunities. Guided birding, scorpion \u0026amp; spider walks \u0026amp; Turtle Tracking are offered in season. The 12 thatched bush suites offer either Ocean or Forest Views with Deluxe Ocean Views room sporting private plunge pools. The suites are positioned to afford maximum privacy \u0026amp; minimal environmental impact.  Excellent cuisine is enjoyed al fresco on the dining deck or beach deck overlooking the sea. This is an ideal choice for honeymooners, families, SCUBA divers or anyone who wants to simply relax. A civilized distance from civilization.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"WETU","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43761731829819,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}]}],"url":"https:\/\/plekify.com\/collections\/place-maputaland-marine-protected-area.oembed","provider":"Plekify","version":"1.0","type":"link"}