Amapondo Backpackers

Amapondo is Ama-azing. From the moment you walk in and meet their friendly pet donkey (who’s a bit of a barfly), you’ll know it’s an Ama-Awesome spot. Amapondo is nestled on a hill on the verge of a tropical rain forest and only 2 minutes walk from the beautiful 2'nd Beach.

Head down to sun bathe or plunge inthe clear warm waters of the deep rock pools nearby.

The African-themed rooms and delux private self-catering cottages all have their own unique design and style. The quirkily designed cottages have incredible views, are really comfortable and come at a price that you’ll find hard to match. Turtle Cove has one of the best views on the Wild Coast from its upstairs bubble bath, whilst Crystal House, with its glass frontage, offers classic panoramic ocean views.

Whether you want a quiet, relaxing break in your own piece of paradise, a base from which you can explore the natural beauty of the area, an adventure on one of their many tours, close interactions with locals, genuine cultural experiences, yoga lessons, a deep tissue massage, or a thumping all-out party at their buzzy bar, you’ll find it at Amapondo.

The friendly Amapondo staff and owners go all out to respect and accommodate all tastes, and cater to all needs. 

Feast on their scrumptious à la-carte menu - great for both vegetarians and meat lovers. Tuck into one of their homemade burgers or delicious international dinners. Yummy.

We have a great campsite set on a terraced hill surrounded by dense African jungle. Find your ideal spot, with a view of the beach of course, and ideally near one of our garden lights. Pitch your tent close enough to our communal shower and toilet block, and close enough to the bar so you don’t have far to walk. You may be visited by our donkeys who love to graze in our campsite. They’re super friendly so save them a carrot. Watch out for monkeys though, and keep your tent closed just in case they decide to visit. But not to worry, they’re totally harmless, just a little naughty, and love to steal bananas.

Ama-Adventurous!
Bulolo Waterfall is an exciting hike that leaves from their back gate - don’t chicken out of the 11m jump. Amapondo is also the official start to exciting hikes heading to Coffee Bay or even Port Edward.

Isinuka sulphur mud caves offer some good ol’ muddy fun, while the old air-strip runway (where Blood Diamond was filmed) is magical at sunset with an ice-cold beer.

Take their donkey for a sunrise beach run, have lunch or even spend a night in a traditional Xhosa village, enjoy a game of pool, poker, table tennis, volleyball or foosball.

Get involved in the community development program! Stay longer and teach in the rural school, plant veggies at the orphanage or join the local kids for beach soccer.

Ama-azing Amapondo arranges ocean safaris with whale and dolphin watching, scuba diving, booze cruises, horse riding, canoeing, quad biking and awe-inspiring 144m Magwa Waterfall trips that will blow your mind.

Amapondo is situated in the buzzy town of Port St Johns where you’ll find shops, restaurants, banks and loads of quirky folk.

Getting here:  From Port St Johns town, turn Left at 1st junction, Over 2 speed bumps, Right at sign-posted tarred road. Follow road 4km to Second Beach. Amapondo is on right, next to sign. From Mthatha: Daily shuttle from Baz Bus stop.