Club Med to Open South Africa’s First Beach & Safari Resort in July 2026
Club Med has confirmed July 2026 as the launch date for its highly anticipated South African debut — an all-inclusive resort that combines a beachfront escape on KwaZulu-Natal’s Dolphin Coast with a private Big Five safari experience in Zululand.
The R2 billion development, currently under construction, is being led by the Collins Residential Consortium and funded by a South African investment group, as reported by Bizcommunity. Set across 32 hectares of rehabilitated coastal land, the resort is just 30 minutes from King Shaka International Airport and is expected to be a landmark offering in Southern African tourism.
“Our new project seeks to create value for the local communities and enhance the international appeal of the magnificent province of KwaZulu-Natal,” said Henri Giscard d’Estaing, president of Club Med.
Coastal Design Meets Cultural Heritage
Crafted by local architecture firm Craft of Architecture, with interiors by Paris-based MHNA and Cape Town’s Mobius Studio, the resort embraces natural textures and Zulu-inspired elements. Accommodation will include 345 rooms (310 Superior and 35 Deluxe), plus an exclusive Ilanga section featuring 66 suites with a private pool and lounge.
Guests will have access to four pools — including a family pool, adult-only Zen pool, main pool, and a private Ilanga pool — alongside a spa, surf school (the first in Club Med’s global portfolio), gravel bike trails, yoga decks, and South Africa’s first flying trapeze.
Dining options span from international cuisine at Oceana to locally inspired seafood dishes at Nguni Gourmet Club, with drinks and ocean views served at Injabulo Bar and the Dunes Beach Bar.
From Beach to Bush: A Dual Escape
For those seeking a wild contrast to the coast, the resort offers an optional add-on safari experience at Mpilo Safari Lodge, located in an 18,000-hectare Big Five reserve in northern KwaZulu-Natal. The lodge will feature 75 premium safari tents, guided game drives, family activities, a restaurant, pool, and a kids’ play zone.
A Commitment to Community and Sustainability
The resort has already created more than 1,200 construction jobs, mostly filled by local community members. Additionally, 110 youth have enrolled in hospitality training through the NukaKamma Hospitality School, with many expected to join the resort team upon opening.
“Our vision is to celebrate South Africa’s rich natural heritage in every experience,” said Murray Collins, CEO of Collins Residential Consortium. “This resort is about authenticity, hospitality, and real impact — not just luxury.”
Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari is also aiming for both Green Globe certification and a 4-star Green Star rating. Built on a former sugarcane estate, the resort integrates solar carports, green roofing, water-saving infrastructure, and natural airflow. Its “Bye-Bye Plastics” programme will also be rolled out on-site.
Bookings open in October 2025, and with its blend of beachside bliss and wild safari adventure, this one-of-a-kind resort is set to redefine the South African travel experience.
Image: Supplied by Club Med via Bizcommunity
