Well, you may want to plan a trip to the Bulungula Lodge, located on the Wild Coast. Bulungula has been rated one of South Africa’s top ethical and eco-friendly destinations. It was among the first to be certified by Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa. It’s become a legend in ethical travel circles as well as a model for tourism-based communities.
So what makes the Bulungula Lodge so extra special? For starters- the Wild Coast is a paradise! The lodge is built amongst green, rolling hills and glistening white beaches. At night, visitors can gaze at the clear night sky, untroubled by light pollution. The real beauty to this place lies in the fact that it hasn’t been disturbed by tourism. The lodge uses solar energy to power its facilities and it is the only place in the entire village that has electricity! Bulungula offers a chance for travellers to embrace local culture and share the daily routines of the native villagers. You can spend your time sampling traditional dances, home-grown food, locally prepared drinks and unique rituals. This is the kind of travel that is both relaxing and insightful!
The concept of Bulungula began with a desire to help small South African communities in need. The most sustainable way to do so is to create a lodge in a local community and employ their members to build and run the establishment. The Nqileni community owns 40% of Bulungula and this arrangement has definitely helped their village thrive. Bulungula funds projects aimed at developing health, education, agriculture and small businesses in Nqileni Village.
We actually had the chance to talk to Dave Martin, Founder of the Bulungula Lodge, about the origin of this eco-friendly destination.
