FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Quagga River Lodge

What are the arrival & departure times

Check-in and Check-out

Check-in is from 14h00 on the day of arrival. If you expect to arrive later in the afternoon, please notify reception in advance so that arrangements can be made.

Check-out is at 10h00 on the day of departure to allow sufficient time for the chalets to be prepared for incoming guests.

Please return all keys to the office upon departure.

During your stay at Quagga River Lodge, guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities that showcase the natural beauty of the property. Join a game drive to spot the famous Quaggas along with species such as Blonde Wildebeest, Blonde Gemsbok, Sable, Springbok and Buffalo.

For those seeking adventure, quad bikes (coming soon) and kayaks are available, allowing guests to explore both the surrounding landscapes and the tranquil Berg River. Nature walks along the river offer a more relaxed way to enjoy the scenery, birdlife and peaceful countryside.

From early August to the end of September, the region also comes alive with the spectacular West Coast Flower Season, when the surrounding fields burst into colour with seasonal wildflowers.

Quagga River Lodge offers five modern off-grid chalets set directly on the banks of the Berg River. Each chalet accommodates up to four guests and is designed for travellers seeking a peaceful, nature-focused escape.

The chalets provide comfortable, self-catering living spaces while maintaining a light environmental footprint through off-grid energy systems.

All chalets operate under a STRICT non-smoking policy. Smoking is not permitted inside any chalet under any circumstances. Clear signage is displayed within each chalet indicating this rule.

Failure to comply with this policy will result in a non-negotiable fine of R2000, which will be added to your bill.

Guests are required to use designated outdoor areas for smoking and to dispose of cigarette waste responsibly.

By occupying the chalet, guests acknowledge and agree to abide by this policy.

Each chalet accommodates up to four guests, allowing the property to host a limited number of visitors at a time. This smaller scale helps maintain the quiet, secluded atmosphere of the lodge.

Yes. Each chalet includes an indoor and outdoor braai.

Yes. Quagga River Lodge operates off-grid, using sustainable energy solutions. Guests are encouraged to be mindful of electricity and water usage during their stay.

Yes. The chalets are well suited to families, couples, and small groups looking for a relaxed West Coast getaway. Children often enjoy the outdoor space, river activities, and wildlife in the surrounding area.

Yes. Quagga River Lodge offers Wi-Fi access for guests staying at the chalets. While the lodge provides connectivity, the setting along the Berg River encourages guests to slow down and enjoy the surrounding nature, from birdlife and fishing to quiet evenings by the water.

Mobile reception is generally available in the area, though signal strength may vary depending on network provider.

Guests may wish to bring:

  • Food (self-catering)
  • Fishing gear

  • Binoculars for birdwatching

  • Kayaks or paddle boards

  • Comfortable outdoor clothing

  • Sunscreen and hats

  • Cameras for photography

  • Warm clothing for cooler evenings

Yes. Essential supplies are easy to find in the nearby town of Velddrif, located about a 10-minute drive from Quagga River Lodge.

Both a Super Spar and OK Foods are available in town (Velddrif), offering groceries, fresh produce, braai supplies, and everyday essentials.

There is a Wimpy, hardware and a few quaint restaurants too. 

Guests can easily stock up on food and drinks before settling in at the lodge, making self-catering stays along the Berg River convenient and relaxed.

Yes. Guests staying at the chalets have secure on-site parking close to their accommodation.

Yes. Quagga River Lodge is home to several wildlife species, including quaggas, springbok, and golden oryx.

What activities can guests enjoy at the lodge?

The Berg River setting offers a variety of nature-based activities, including:

  • Fishing along the lower Berg River

  • Kayaking

  • Game drives
  • *Quad biking
  • Birdwatching

  • Riverside relaxation

  • Photography

  • Stargazing

The lodge is designed for guests who enjoy slow travel, nature, and quiet outdoor experiences.

The property has one quad bike available for guest use. Please note that the vehicle is fitted with a tracking device for monitoring purposes.

Guests are strictly required to remain on the designated routes at all times. This is essential to prevent environmental damage, route destruction, and disturbance to wildlife.

Failure to adhere to the designated routes will result in a non-negotiable fine of R2000, which will be automatically added to your bill.

By using the quad bike, guests acknowledge and agree to these terms and accept full responsibility for compliance.

Yes. The Berg River is well known for recreational fishing. Anglers can fish directly from the riverbanks or nearby access points. Fishing permits may be required depending on the species and location, and ethical fishing practices are encouraged.

Yes, the lodge offers single and double kayak to hire, allowing visitors to explore the calm stretches of the Berg River at their own pace. Guests are welcome to bring their own kayaks or paddle craft.

Yes. The Lower Berg River estuary is one of the Western Cape’s most rewarding birding regions, attracting a wide variety of resident and migratory birds.

Habitats in the area include mudflats, reedbeds, salt marshes and tidal channels, making it a popular location for waterbirds, waders, and estuary species.

Birdlife can be seen throughout the year, though spring and summer months often bring an increase in migratory species. Early mornings and late afternoons are usually the most active times.

Yes. With minimal light pollution along the Berg River, clear evenings often reveal spectacular night skies, making the lodge a wonderful place to enjoy quiet stargazing.

The Lower Berg River near Quagga River Lodge is known for a variety of estuarine fish species. Anglers may encounter:

  • Elf (Shad)

  • Garrick (Leervis)

  • Cob (Kabeljou)

  • Harders (Mullet)

  • Karanteen

  • Steentjie

  • Catfish

  • Cape Salmon

  • White Stumpnose

  • White Steenbras

Fishing success often depends on the tides, season, and time of day, with early mornings and tidal changes typically producing the best results.

Yes. A recreational fishing permit is generally required when fishing in South African coastal and estuarine waters. Guests should ensure they have the correct permit before fishing.

Swimming in the Berg River is at your own risk and is generally not recommended. As with any natural river system, conditions can change and the water may contain strong currents, boats, and wildlife. Guests are advised to enjoy the river from the banks or while paddling instead.

Guests can easily explore nearby West Coast destinations including:

  • Velddrif – a working fishing town along the Berg River

  • Port Owen – known for its marina and waterfront restaurants

  • Paternoster – a historic fishing village

  • Langebaan – famous for its lagoon and beaches

Best Routes from Cape Town

From the Cape Town CBD, follow the directions on this map. You will be provided with two route options to get to the Quagga River Lodge in Velddrif. 

Breakfast Basket

Pre-order your breakfast basket when making your booking. Orders must be placed at least 24 hours in advance.

What’s Included:

  • Farm fresh eggs 
  • Breakfast sausage 
  • Bacon
  • Two slices of ciabatta 
  • Cheese, Jam & Butter
  • Fresh Pastry (selection changes daily) 
  • Muesli, Yoghurt 
  • Seasonal Fruit 
  • Fruit juice, Milk
  • *Vegetarian option available on request.
 
Price:
R195 per adult  |   R150 per child (0–12 years)

Picnic Basket

  • Reservations required 24 hours in advance 
  • 50% deposit required to confirm booking 
  • Weekend picnic baskets must be booked by 12h00 on Fridays 


What’s Included

  • Selection of local cheeses 
  • Selection of cold meats
  • Preserves 
  • Olives 
  • Fresh baguette 
  • Selection of pâtés 
  • Seasonal fruit 
  • Salad of the day 
  • A sweet treat
  • *Vegetarian and kiddies options available on request.
  • Please inform us of any dietary requirements or allergies when booking.
 
Contact Us to Book:
info@quaggariverlodge.com

Braai and Burger Basket

Pre-order your braai basket when booking your stay. Orders must be placed at least 24 hours in advance.
 

What’s Included

  • Boerewors* 
  • Steak* 
  • Fresh garden green salad 
  • Side starch (pasta salad, potato salad, or bean salad) 
  • Bread side (roosterkoek, braaibroodjie, or garlic bread) 
  • Marshmallow skewers for the fire
  • *Vegetarian options available on request. Please enquire for available selections.
 
Price:
R275 per adult | R160 per child (0–12 years)