KwaZulu-Natal has entered a new chapter in international luxury tourism following the inauguration of Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari, the global hospitality group’s first resort in the country.
The resort was officially inaugurated on 17 September 2026 in KwaDukuza, bringing together an international beach holiday and a Big Five safari experience under one tourism offering.
The more than R2 billion development is a partnership involving Club Med and South African partners, including Tinley Leisure.
The inauguration was attended by Club Med President and CEO Stéphane Maquaire, Tinley Leisure Chairman Moses Tembe and Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille, among other international and local representatives.
Located at Tinley Manor on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast, the beachfront resort occupies a 32-hectare oceanfront site approximately 30 minutes from King Shaka International Airport.
The property offers more than 400 rooms, suites and villas, four swimming pools, restaurants and facilities catering for families and adults.
Its activities include surfing, sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, padel, yoga and the brand’s signature flying trapeze experience.
One of the most distinctive features of the development is its connection to Vikela Safari Lodge in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
The safari component is situated within an approximately 18,000-hectare private reserve, offering visitors access to Big Five wildlife experiences, guided game drives and luxury tented accommodation.
The combined beach and safari experience gives international visitors an opportunity to experience two of South Africa’s most recognised tourism attractions within one holiday package.
The investment is also expected to strengthen KwaZulu-Natal’s profile in Club Med’s international tourism distribution network.
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