Bonamanzi Adventures Lodge

Budget Getaways Review

This great group getaway really is a family and friends adventure in the making. Rigged out to sleep a few families or a bunch of friends looking for a chilled spot surrounded by nature, Bonamanzi sits right on the banks of the Breede River, just on 15 kays downstream from Worcester.

Before we delve deeper, Bonamanzi comes in two different guises, the well laid-out campsite (find out more about that here) can also be booked either along with the lodge, or on its own, but the two are never booked together. This means whatever your choice, you and your group are alone on the property.

Looking at the lay of the land, the lodge itself is set back from the river and fronted by a large expanse of terraced lawn which leads down to the water’s edge. The indoor and outdoor flow of the living space really does make using the large sun deck, shaded braai area and plunge pool a pleasure. Talking about living space, this is made up of an expansive room, with exposed timber beams, the sweet smell of thatch, simple cement screed floors, large dining tables and some sofas.

The open-plan and fully equipped kitchen makes up the far end of the living area and includes everything you’d need for a weekend of self-catering. If the washing up seems like anything but a holiday, there’s even a daily cleaning service which can be arranged prior to your arrival.

Sleeping wise, the building is split into two levels, with an outdoor staircase leading to the downstairs level from the deck. Upstairs you’ve got three twin rooms, all ensuite. Linen is provided for these rooms, but you’ll need to bring your own towels.

Heading downstairs you’ve got a family room which sleeps six (two single beds and two bunks), then there’s a dorm room ideal for the kids which has a total of seven triple bunk beds, as well as a second dorm room with a further eight triple bunks. There are communal bathrooms downstairs (mens and ladies) with three loo’s and showers in each. Take note: you’ll need to bring your own bedding and towels for the downstairs bedrooms.

As far as activities go, the river is the primary focus here. Swim, fish, canoe or take a stroll along the river’s edge and do a spot of birding.

As a fun-filled, easy going getaway, that’s built to handle the numbers, if you’re after a destination where you want to include everyone, you’d go a long way to beat Bonamanzi.