The Aloes Wild Coast Lodge
Some basic cottage handover information For The Lodge…..
Bedroom's & Bathrooms There are 3 bedrooms.
The Main, has a Queen bed & double bunk, toilet, basin, bath (with hot water) The bunk can be separated and made to sleep both singles on one level, for older children or younger folk.
2nd bedroom - two larger single beds
3rd bedroom - Queen bed.
The cottage sleeps 8 adults comfortably. There are an additional two single floor mattresses, ideal for young children. (note, extras over 8 persons, to be discussed prior, Rates apply).
There is another toilet, basin & large shower at the end of the large veranda (with hot water)
All bedding, pillows duvets etc are provided (additional blankets etc in the cupboard in the main bedroom) Just ask the Maid “Anna” for support.
There is a 55” Smart TV, connected to Wifi and has Android access to movies and series etc. a Subscription for : @My Family Cinema@ subscription, Youtube and other.
**Important: bring your Netflix and DSTV codes for accessing your own accounts to view for during your stay.
There are Fans in every room, as well as two fans in the lounge area.
The Lodge water mains run’s off a pressure pump, which boosts pressure for showers and Lodge use. If the pump does not kick in and run pressure the water when used, then we have an airlock, or a lack of water. They usually happen in tandem. The pump needs to be bled and rebooted. (please call me for support, if I’m not at Mngazana due to my personal travels, then I’ll talk you through the procedure to rectify)
Dining room/Kitchen - Cutlery, plates, glasses cooking pots, pans etc all available , 2 x Fridge/freezers, 2 x chest freezers (small one for bait only), 5 burner gas stove (electric oven) Toaster, Microwave, Kettle. *I note that we recently lost the use of two of the gas plates (marked with x ) The maid can show you, so we’ve added a gas cooker top next to stove.
There is a braai area outside the back door and a light switch that turns those lights on is on the scullery wall. There is also a braai light, which has a switch hanging on the wall near braai. Wood and charcoal is normally available from the Mngazana Spaza shop, not to far from the Lodge. They also sell other basic supplies, and alcohol, etc. Its worth a visit, just for the experience.
Staff – (Maid) Anna 0723668769 - She works from aprox 9am to 3pm, unless you need her for longer. Makes beds, Cleans the inside of the Lodge - dishes, sweeps, mops, makes beds etc. She can assist with the odd item for washing, but please note, our water is from the heavens, so we are “extremely” limited with this. (Note, there’s no ironing). Hand washing powder is required, if you think you may want the odd item washed and rinsed. (just bring some with)
Gillie contact; “Sandile”; 0781171197 (Whatsapp) (Anna’s husband), but just chat to her and see if he’s available. (or Tim if he’s available?!) Rates apply.
Refuse - Note, Mngazana has no municipal refuse removal, so Please separate glass & take it home if possible, plastic & paper will be burnt by the staff at the Lodge in our waste pit. (*Bring your own black bags for trash.)
Sceptic tanks - the Lodge is on sceptic tanks, (not linked to mains) so no foreign objects can be flushed that aren’t biodegradable. (Plastics, tampons, wet wipes etc)
Thank you for your mindfulness and letting your guests know re the above.
Water (very important) - We are off-grid here with a 35 000lt tank capacity, and completely reliant on Rainwater for our water needs, with no main feed from council. We have never run out of water ourselves, but we always look at our water situation prior to Guests arriving.
Note, that once our water is completely used up, we do have a back up, but we have to buy water in on trucks which is “extremely” costly for us at (R400 rands per 1000 litres). When guests arrive, we allocate a reasonable amount of water for the period booked and amount of guests. The rest of the water tanks are isolated, ready for the next guests bookings, and only those designated for your stay are opened. It really is a 50 to 60 litres per person per day situation, due to Rain water reliance. No standing under showers for long periods. Open taps, get wet, close taps, soap up and wash, then reopen taps and rinse off. Thanks ))
NB: please bring your own drinking water with for tea, coffee and drinking. Although we’ve had no issues personally drinking water from our tanks, we would rather you not take the chance. Thankyou.
Eskom power - Like most of the country, we do experience blackouts, and for this reason, we advise bringing torches and headlamps for easier getting around and Lodge functionality. We also offer a generator, mainly for the water pump, and fridge freezers, in case the power is out for longer than anticipated periods. There are extension leads in the storeroom for connecting everything up for use. You will need to pay for fuel only, genny use is on the house. We generally keep a 5 litre can in the storeroom, just for support and your back up. (note, the fuel is poured straight into the genny, no oil mixing before) Extra fuel is available from the Top Store above the lodge at R150 for 5 litres, as a convenience. Delivery can be arranged at a small fee. R20 bucks. But we advise bringing some fuel along with you, for Genny purpose. (boat fuel, if not mixed, is perfect for use.
Note, we do sometimes also experience low voltage phase issues with Eskom here, generally when the demand from all the cottages is at peak, or after rains, we sometimes temporarily have a weakened phase and supply is too low to operate kettles, microwaves, toaster, geyser, pressure pump etc. During this time, we normally use the Genny on and off, to keep fridges and freezers running, and shower pump. *It’s the remote Wild Coast experience, all part of the journey and memory making ))
You can call me for the plug and play talk thru on the genny.
Wifi comms - We have a unlimited Wifi link for your convenience with comms, in case you require better and stable comms than the Networks. The name is “Indigo Eden”. The code is: BrodyKlette!2023 (Its also written on a note on the fridge door)
Pets – Only allowed with “prior approval” from Lodge Owner Andrew. (no vicious breeds will be considered, or unruly ill-disciplined animals) – no guarantee’s of approval. NB: This is a rabies area.
Rates & Maid (* rate includes domestic helper)
Our base rate is R2800/night throughout the year, for 8 persons (above 8 pay an extra R300 per person). The rate ‘excludes’ the maid @ R200 a day, and or Gillie @ R200/day.
*You are welcome to give Anna a Tip if you are happy with her service during your stay. Thank you kindly, every bit counts for them.
Gillies are organised on behalf of guests, at their request, and must be paid directly by the guests for this service. The going rate is R200 per day. (please log your days with them, to avoid any issues)
Breakages and or damages to property Lodge assets – as a rule, we don’t take deposits for breakages and damages, but instead we choose to rely on honesty and your notification should something accidentally be broken, or mislaid. Please just notify us in these events, so that we can come to some agreement on value, to replace the broken or damaged item/s. Thanks
We prefer that nothing be removed off site from Lodge for picnics and or other use while enjoying your holiday, but should you do so, please return them in same condition.
When packing up, kindly make certain with all your family and friends, that all Lodge towels and other Lodge assets remain in and at the Lodge on departure. Should something be taken by mistake while packing up, please notify us and send it back to us via PostNet counter to counter. (Address to be provided on comms with us) We thank you for your support.
River and Ocean points to note; - the River, the best time on the river is on the pushing tide. It generally gets cleaner and makes the river more navigable with the sand banks. The outgoing tides can produce a lot of outgoing current exiting through the river mouth to ocean, so please be cautious not to be caught in this rip. Note that on the banks of the river, more at low tides, the banks can be very slippery and a wipeout on the slipways in front of boathouses can be rather painful. Also be aware of the abundant oysters growing on the banks, they can cut you very easily.
The Ocean, - the beach is enjoyable at low tides with the rock pools and large open spaces to chill and relax. Its best to head to the centre of the beach, between pathway entering and the big cave at the end. This is the best place to swim. Its quite protected and has a lot of shells underfoot.
See pic with arrow for swim area.
Boat and trailer parking and launching - there are two choices, but I would suggest this one. Codesa Farm (Mngazana River Lodge) . It’s literally on your route to the Lodge, you pass right by it, and the launch site is also just down from that location to the river, about 300 to 400 meters.
The lady at reception, informed me that a boat and trailer is R80 rands a day, and a trailer is only R20 rands per day. Therefore, I suggest that you drop the boats there for the afternoon and or night when on route here, and collect them for the launch the following day, then return trailers to Codesa for secure parking for your stay. It will save you a lot of hassles and towing. The Codesa Farm, (Mngazana River Lodge) contact number is 047 0501046. Just pop in at reception, and they’ll help you ok. I’ll send a pin location at their entrance, so you can see its positioning is literally on the same road as what you’re coming in on. https://maps.app.goo.gl/Cf5F9D25HPyWG7uL8
Have a look at this on maps, and chat to me if any questions.
*Launching ski-boats just below Codesa farm (Mngazana River Lodge) area at river, River navigation, Mooring on Jetty’s, river to Ocean launching;
1. Launching; - I suggest launching at high tide. The rivers a lot deeper, the boats should float easier off the trailers and there’s less mud.
2. River navigation; at high tide, the river is way deeper and I suggest just taking “Sandile” your Gilliewith on the boat, he’ll have a feel for the river. But, if you just stick to the centre of the river, in general you’ll be fine. Its also best just to go slow and ease your way down river so that you get used to the depths etc. The river is very tidal and vastly different at high tide, the best time in my opinion. At low tide, you’ll get a very good visual feel for the sand banks and shallow parts.
3. Mooring; If you bring boats, we can arrange to show you where to tie up etc. We all try work together down here, because the jetty’s are a limited number and we share were we can. When mooring, leave enough slack in ropes for ebb and flow of tides ok. Your Gillie (if you’ve hired one), can also just check on your boats during the day, when he cleans them etc.
4. River to Ocean launch; ok, this is an important one! Mngazana launch is not the easiest launch, it is tight and you have to keep your head. I never race out, I take my time and wait for my break. You can turn left, but it does get tight with a large sand bank immediately left, depending on tides. There’s a current that tends to flatten waves quite a bit for the first part, then you get exposed to the bigger surf as you move further out, but by then, you’ve got a lot of room to turn and move. Pic below of mouth of river, for launching guide.
Note, coming back into the river mouth on a low tide is not a good idea, its very shallow and you can hit down very easily. Below is a river mouth pic. Note the reef ridge that runs right out to the mouth exit, and the sand spit that is on the others side. The yellow line is approximate run line thru the mouth. Its best to take a walk there at low tide and witness the features I’m mentioning here ok. Be aware of two large blind rocks on your right, a bit further out about 150 meters from the mouth entrance, they’re an extension of the rock line from the bank.
Of course, there are days where you can literally idle out the mouth with no waves and challenges, accept the sand, reef and such, but really easy. I suggest that you go and visually check the Mouth out at both low tide and high tides. NB: On the Low, you’ll see the sand banks on left and rocks and reef etc on right, that get covered at high tide. Note, there are now two red buoys in place, locating the two major rock issues within the mouth. (best to view the mouth at low tide before launching!)
Medical support – we are remote and quite isolated here, but the closest support is Isilimela Hosital, 047 564 2805 , its about 12 kilometres away from the Lodge. It’s your first and best call in this area. There are Doctors and Physios serving their Community Service year here, so you’ll get good support. The cues can be lengthy, but emergencies are prioritized. Its best just to go there directly for help.
Here are the directions; https://maps.app.goo.gl/BM5qSuTrYRgyxKPLA
Shopping – it is best to shop in Port St Johns at either Spar, Boxer, or U Save stores. You can get most things you need there. The are Chemists there, also Doctors, and most basic infrastructure. They stock bait, some tackle, and you can buy your alcohol needs near the Shell service station, called “ Undercliff Bottle Store, it’s just before you enter the Town, opposite The Spotted Grunter Resort, on your right.
Keys of Lodge: NB: When leaving on departure day, please lock up (pull front door closed on latch), and leave keys in Veranda Bathroom, on top of blue cupboard next to the loo.
The Aloes Wild Coast Lodge - **Please note, the Lodge is approximately 80 years old, built by our late Grand Father, it is humble, charming, super functional, cosy, characterful, and offers a classic and authentic ‘Wild Coast Cottage experience’ for you to relax, create memories, and enjoy with your friends and family. The Lodge location is perfect for all spontaneous activities both for Ocean and River use. Mngazana River and the Lodges location to these, is the main feature, and certainly promotes an ease into a Wild paradise. The Aloes Lodge is a self-catering experience; however, we will endeavour to make your stay comfortable and relaxed. In the event of any unforeseen issues and challenges you may or may not experience during your visit, we Thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation, while we try and remedy or assist with an alternative remedy/solution. Due to our remote location, Eskom and Water issues are our main challenges, which are largely out of our hands. Please use sparingly.
NB: basic reminders of what to bring for your stay; beach towels & umbrella/s, sunblock, bath soaps/shampoos, after sun creams, toilet paper, sunlight dish wash liquid, black rubbish bags, mosquito repellents (spray on and wall socket fume tabs for next to bed), sun screen, insect bite ointment, eye drops, basic medical travel kit (plasters, bandages, antiseptic Dettol, Swabs, cotton wool, antiseptic cream etc), hand washing powder soap for clothes, braai wood and or charcoal & fire lighters, matches, head torches and rechargeable table lamps (in case of outages), and fresh bottled water for drinking. Personal fishing gear, tackle, and bait. Note; some basics can be purchased from the Mngazana spaza shop. (you can send Anna the maid to collect for you, or go yourselves.) or plan an early morning shop in Port St Johns aprox 45 minutes away.
Fireworks: - please, no fireworks are to be set off at or near the Lodge, or anywhere else for that matter. The community has voted against this due to their livestock and issues surrounding the noise. Thank you for your cooperation.
Partying: - please do have fun, but be considerate with our neighbours past ten o clock at night. Folk tend to enjoy the outdoors here, wake up early and are tired from the day’s enjoyment, thus sleep earlier too. Just manage it respectfully and enjoy yourselves. Best is, to invite them to join you if it’s a big skop. ))
NB: Lodge assets: - please, no Lodge assets including towels, glasses, books, chairs, knives etc, are to be removed from the Lodge premises, or left lying on the beach or elsewhere. All items belonging to the Lodge are to be left in place where they are part of the Lodges function, for the next guests to enjoy and utilize. Should anything be mistakenly taken home with you, kindly notify us immediately, and you can post these items back to us timeously via PostNet. Your cooperation is appreciated.
We hope you enjoy your Holiday at The Aloes Wild Coast Lodge, Mngazana River! *Any questions, please drop me a WhatsApp or email message, and I’ll reply as soon as I possibly can.
Many Thanks,
Andrew (Owner)
0817738041 (Whatsapp)
andrewklette@gmail.com
