Morukuru Family De Hoop Launches Coastal Conservation with a Purpose

29 September 2023

Morukuru Family De Hoop, a beacon of responsible eco-tourism nestled within the breath taking De Hoop Nature Reserve, proudly introduces "Coastal Conservation with a Purpose." This innovative initiative reflects the unwavering commitment of Morukuru Family to conservation, community support, and sustainable travel experiences.

The roots of conservation and community engagement run deep in the DNA of Morukuru Family. Since its inception in 2005 within the Madikwe Game Reserve, the founders of Morukuru Family have been staunch advocates of nature preservation. A testament to their dedication, the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation was established, nurturing the vital bond between conservation and communities.

Over the years, many of Morukuru Family guests have supported the initiative by bringing supplies and goods for the local school, or by donating funds for conservation and for local communities. Others have been actively involved in hands on conservation work through the ‘Safaris with a Purpose’ package that was launched in Madikwe Game Reserve in 2018.

In 2010, the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation expanded its reach to the De Hoop Nature Reserve, ensuring the preservation of this invaluable gem for future generations. Occupying a mere 0.04% of the world's landmass, the De Hoop Nature Reserve, nestled at the southern tip of Africa, is a Marine Protected Area and a World Heritage Site within the Cape Floral Kingdom, the only Floral Kingdom encompassed entirely by a single nation. With the Potberg Mountains and the Indian Ocean enveloping 34,000 hectares of fynbos, beaches, dunes, and vlei wetlands, the De Hoop Nature Reserve stands as an unspoiled haven for nature enthusiasts.

Recognising the potential for responsible eco-tourism within the De Hoop Nature Reserve, Morukuru Family embraced the "low impact – high yield" ethos. This approach ensures minimal disruption to the delicate Fynbos ecosystem. Overcoming rigorous building regulations set by Cape Nature, Morukuru Ocean House, a 4-bedroom exclusive-use house, opened its doors in 2014, followed by Morukuru Beach Lodge, a 5-suite retreat, in 2018. Both establishments operate off-grid, relying on solar power and borehole water. These lodges stand as testaments to Morukuru Family's commitment to coexisting harmoniously with the environment.

In September 2022, a pivotal moment was the catalyst for an unprecedented collaboration. A stranded juvenile green turtle was discovered on De Hoop Nature Reserve's shore by a Morukuru Family team member. Swift action to save the turtle has led to a partnership between Morukuru Goodwill Foundation and the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, specifically for their turtle rescue and rehabilitation program. The Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation has been at the forefront of marine conservation, striving to protect endangered marine species and ecosystems in the Western Cape. This partnership underscores the shared goal of preserving the diverse marine life that graces South Africa's coastline.

Amigo, a juvenile green turtle, after an 8-month recovery period, was triumphantly released at Koppie Alleen within the De Hoop Nature Reserve in May 2023. This auspicious event marked the beginning of a transformative journey. A few weeks later a further three turtles have been released at the same site as well. Subsequently, the De Hoop Nature Reserve has now been declared an official turtle release site. Have a look at the Turtle release Video

Drawing inspiration from the success of the 'Safaris with a Purpose' program, Morukuru Family is delighted to launch the 'Coastal Conservation with a Purpose' initiative. Available to guests staying at Morukuru Family De Hoop who book a minimum two-night stay at Morukuru Beach Lodge or Morukuru Ocean House, this package delves into the heart of conservation.

On top of the regular (guided) activities at Morukuru Beach Lodge and at Morukuru Ocean House, the following additional activities are part of the ‘Coastal Conservation with a Purpose’ package:

A behind the scenes visit of the Two Oceans Aquarium Turtle Rescue centre in Cape Town, pre/post the stay at Morukuru Family De Hoop. (Limited to maximum 8 guests).
Informative talk about the challenges faced when building both Morukuru Ocean House and Morukuru Beach Lodge
Behind the scenes visit of the solar plant at Morukuru Family De Hoop, explaining the details of operating off grid, on solar power
See our Rooikrans removal team at work, as they assist Cape Nature in eradicating the alien and invasive Rooikrans trees from De Hoop Nature Reserve

This package can only be pre-booked – at least one month prior to arrival - together with a minimum two nights stay at Morukuru Beach Lodge or Morukuru Ocean House. Subject to availability.

Guests are also able to get involved in keeping our beautiful beaches clean by booking for our annual beach clean-up weekend from 17-19 May 2024. Additionally, when you visit Bites Beach Café, both day guests and Morukuru patrons can take part in our "Plastic 4 Coffee" initiative. Simply gather a bag of litter using the eco-friendly bags we provide, and in return, enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee.