Travel tip South Africa: Bulungula Eco-Lodge empowers women in the Xhosa community
The journey? An adventure.
Because we foolishly listened to Google Maps and took a supposed shortcut – never do that! We rocked back and forth for hours at walking pace over sandy tracks. Potholes as big as paddling pools. River crossings. Steep slopes. I covered my eyes and repeated aloud: “Please let us arrive safely!”
It became particularly absurd when we had to build up speed in the car to get over a large concrete pipe sticking out of the ground.
On top of that: lots of cow dung. And on the edge on the other side: cows staring at us in disbelief, as if to say, “Are you serious?” My concern was getting stuck in the middle of nowhere on a pile of cow dung. The car fully loaded, the underbody damaged — and towing? No chance. I wanted to turn around. But we wouldn't have been able to get back up the steep slope. My friend just grinned and wanted to prove that the impossible was possible. We took three runs at it. The wheels spun briefly – then a jolt. And we were over it.
What came next actually felt like a small miracle.
In the middle of nowhere, surrounded by huge dunes, lush green grass, and the endless Indian Ocean, lies a lodge that is not only sustainably built but has been designed with so much love that you want to marvel at every little work of art. Walls painted in bright colors, decorated with stones and mirrors – and small works of art to be discovered in every corner. Even the toilets – composting toilets – are individually painted and a little experience in themselves.
It is a place that is both simple and full of life. And it shows that sustainability can be beautiful. And welcoming.
The Bulungula Eco-Lodge is located on the Wild Coast in South Africa's Eastern Cape. It is 100% owned and operated by the local Xhosa community of Nqileni. The lodge is Fair Trade certified, climate neutral, and part of a social project that combines sustainable tourism, nature conservation, and economic independence. Accommodations range from colorfully painted traditional round huts with sea views to simple hammocks under trees. There is a vegetarian kitchen serving local dishes, a small bar, yoga classes, herb walks, canoe tours, horseback riding, and beautiful, large, deserted beaches. At the lodge, we meet backpackers from all over the world – barefoot, relaxed, in search of peace and real encounters. And those who fill this place with life: the women from the local community.
In the past, women were not allowed to work away from home. Today, they shape this place – earning their own money and making their own decisions.
They welcome guests, cook, organize, and lead tours through the village. And they do so with a naturalness that gives the lodge its magic. They gain freedom and independence – without losing their roots.
What touched me most there? Perhaps it was the moment I looked into the faces of these women. Some were radiant – open, warm, with infectious smiles. Others looked more serious. It is noticeable: they work hard. They are still housewives, mothers – and at the same time, thanks to the lodge, a little more independent.
Everyone who supports this lodge is strengthening structures in which women from the Xhosa community can experience their own self-efficacy – and that makes a difference in the entire community.
And yes – there is also a much easier route to get there. Don't let Google Maps mislead you.
All information, prices, and bookings can be found at:
In the video, Anisa shares how Bulungula Lodge has transformed the lives of women in her community – from traditional dependence to self-determined work and new independence.