Club Med will make its debut in South Africa with the launch of Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari, a new all-inclusive resort on the Dolphin Coast in KwaZulu-Natal.
Scheduled to open in July 2026, the property marks the brand’s first footprint in the country and introduces a dual beach-and-safari concept – combining coastal resort experiences with access to a private Big Five wildlife reserve.
“The launch of Club Med South Africa Beach & Safari marks an exciting first for our brand,” said Rachael Harding, CEO of Club Med East, South Asia and Pacific (ESAP). “It introduces a one-of-a-kind combination of beach and safari experiences.”
Located about 30 minutes from King Shaka International Airport, the 32-hectare resort will feature 411 rooms, including an Exclusive Collection Ilanga section with 66 suites.
Designed by South African firm Craft of Architecture alongside Paris-based studios Mobius and MHNA, the resort will incorporate locally sourced materials and design elements inspired by Zulu culture.
Beach meets safari
The property will offer a wide range of facilities, including four swimming pools, multiple dining venues and Club Med’s signature entertainment programming.
Dining highlights include Oceana, an all-day international restaurant, and the Nguni Gourmet Club, which will showcase South African seafood and regional produce.
A key differentiator is the integration of a private safari experience. Guests will have access to Mpilo Safari Lodge, located within an 18,000-hectare game reserve and reserved exclusively for Club Med guests.
The lodge will offer tented accommodation, guided game drives led by professional rangers, and opportunities to encounter Africa’s Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalo. Family-friendly safari programmes and traditional Boma evenings will also form part of the experience.
Back on the coast, the resort will house Club Med’s first-ever surf school, alongside activities such as gravel biking, yoga, flying trapeze, padel, tennis and water sports.
A wellness centre featuring spa treatments, hammam rituals and dedicated relaxation spaces will complement the offering, while children’s programmes – from Baby Club Med to teen-focused activities – will cater to multi-generational travellers.