Our story – Emigrating with heart
The Pure Nature Familodge isn't just a place to stay – it's a life project. Born out of a desire to truly experience nature, it was lovingly built by Marie & Olaf and their three children. What once began as a vision – a sustainable family life in the middle of the African bush – is now a place for people seeking the real thing: warmth, wilderness, and a sense of freedom. This isn't about luxury in the traditional sense. It's about reconnecting – with nature, with yourself, with others. Many guests say after their stay: "That was more than a vacation – it was an experience."
Where we live – Between bush, mountains & buffalo
Our lodge is located north of Port Elizabeth, directly adjacent to Addo Elephant National Park. From the terrace, the view sweeps over rolling hills, golden grass, and a constantly changing landscape. 🦓 Sometimes zebras stand on the hillside, 🦌 sometimes antelopes wander through the bushes, 🐘 sometimes you can see the back of an elephant in the distance.
🌍 Here you live with nature – not just next to it.
The place is secluded and yet safe.
The nearest small towns with shops are easily accessible – and yet everything here feels like its own little world.
“You wake up, open the tent entrance – and look directly into the wilderness.”
Animals up close – Not a zoo, but a home
What sets us apart? Our animal companions—and your direct access to them.
Here, you'll encounter animals not through a fence, but as neighbors, eye to eye. Many live right on the property: some on the small farm, some roam freely – and stay.
Our animal community:
Goats 🐐
To pet, feed & observe – curious, sociable and always there.
Horses 🐎
For short rides or just to cuddle in the yard.
Chickens 🐓
Run around freely – fresh eggs included.
Peacocks 🦚
Proudly spinning my cartwheel across the yard – sometimes loud, but beautiful.
Turkeys 🦃
Curious observers – on the move with their little gang.
Pigs 🐖
Smarter than you think – part of our farm.
Cattle 🐄
Our African “Nguni” – colorfully patterned & peacefully grazing.
Turtles 🐢
Slow, quiet – but always fascinating for young and old.
Rabbit 🐰
For feeding, petting & marveling – especially popular with the little ones.
Cats 🐱
Max, Schnuffi & Co. roam freely and love attention.
Dogs 🐶
Farm dogs like Milo – loyal, friendly & happy to be there.
Children are welcome to help, feed the animals, or simply observe them – not as part of the program, but as a part of everyday life. Along the way, they experience responsibility, closeness, and respect for life. 👧👦
Self-sufficient by conviction
The lodge is based on a simple principle: independence with comfort. Each accommodation is equipped for self-catering – meaning: cooking, grilling, eating, and living at your own pace.
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Outdoor kitchens with gas, refrigerator & everything you need
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Hot water via gas boiler
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Power via solar (12V)
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Evening light from oil lamps & rechargeable LEDs
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Private fire pits for campfire romance
What is missing: televisions in the accommodations, artificial lighting, Wi-Fi in the houses.
What you get: time. Peace. Nature. Interaction. Wi-Fi is available in the main building, so anyone who wants to can stay connected.
“For us, self-sufficiency does not mean renunciation – but freedom.”
Safari – without a jeep
Right on the edge of Addo Park, elephants, buffalo, and zebras can often be observed just beyond the fence – without a tour. Awesome wilderness, safe and close.
Elephants 🐘
Just a few meters away—often directly behind the fence. These gentle giants are frequent visitors to the Addo border.
Buffalo 🐃
African buffalo roam the adjacent areas – often visible in the early morning or late afternoon.
Zebras 🦓
Sometimes they appear in small groups behind the fence – a magical moment when they pass by at dusk.
Giraffes in the distance 🦒
With a little luck, you'll spot them – elegantly and serenely towering above the treetops. A truly special spectacle.
Antelopes & Kudus 🦌
They are among the shy visitors to the border landscape – if you are quiet, you will see them grazing in the bushes.
Lions 🦁
You'll only see lions with a lot of luck – but their calls can sometimes be heard from the grounds at night. Goosebumps guaranteed.
"If you look closely, you'll discover more than on any guided tour."
For little adventurers – Our children’s concept
Our lodge was created by a family for families. Here, children can simply be children: free, curious, and unfettered. Instead of "no touching" signs, there are spaces for discovery – whether in the playground, on pony rides, in the open-air natural kitchen, or among goats and turtles. Trails lead directly to adventure, and while the little ones explore, parents can relax – because the setting is just right.
Directions & Location – How to find us
The lodge is located about 45 minutes from Port Elizabeth. From the main road, the lodge is accessed via a dirt road – easily accessible in dry weather. In case of heavy rain, we recommend:
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Shuttle transfer from us (for a small fee)
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Off-road vehicle (can be rented directly in PE)
After booking, you will receive detailed directions to help you reach your destination safely.
