Freedom O Clock Backpacking Retreat

Freedom O Clock Backpacking Retreat is a small, family-run holiday spot located in the rural Pondo village of Mngcibe, Eastern Cape, Wild Coast. It is situated on the eastern side of the Mdumbi River mouth and offers mind-blowing views of the ocean, beach, rare mangroves, and forest-lined Mdumbi River. The incredible views and access to the beach and river in this un-spoilt rural area make it an ideal laid-back place for families, friends, couples, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts to visit.

Freedom O Clock can accommodate 17 people indoors and also offers camping space. Guests can explore the safe, secluded, pristine beaches, river estuaries, rare white mangrove swamps, and other Wild Coast treasures, making the two-hour trip from the main road worthwhile. Coffee Bay is just a 45-minute drive away, and there is a scenic three-hour hike between Coffee Bay and Mdumbi.

The retreat is owned and managed by Otto, Lu, and their daughter Coral-Bella, who have a great love for nature and the ocean. They enjoy spending time with guests, sharing information about the area, and exchanging stories around the fire while watching the stunning sunsets.

Freedom O Clock is completely off the water grid and relies solely on harvesting rainwater. The area recently received electricity, but the retreat tries to stay off the grid as much as possible, utilizing solar power for lights and device charging. Refrigeration is run off electricity, and gas is used for the stoves. The retreat strives for a Zero Waste Journey and requests that guests consider the use of "convenience packaging" and non-reusable/refundable bottles due to the lack of municipal infrastructure and dumps in nearby towns.

It is important to note that Freedom O Clock is located in an underdeveloped region, and the variety and quality of goods and services may be limited compared to what some guests are accustomed to. The retreat is set in a remote and primitive region where even the provision of fresh water cannot be taken for granted. If luxury is preferred over comfortable living, Freedom O Clock may not be the best choice.

As the name implies, Freedom O Clock offers guests the freedom to do as they please, whether it's relaxing on the beach, reading, or simply doing nothing. The retreat is responsibly 420 friendly. For those seeking a romantic getaway, Freedom O Clock offers picnics on secluded beaches or sunrise pancake breakfasts overlooking the ocean, surrounded by Mother Nature.

Families are welcome to share in the paradise and beautiful outdoor lifestyle offered by this family-run retreat. The area is extremely safe, and children can play outside without concern. All rooms offer incredible ocean, beach, and river views. The beach was also rated as South Africa's best beach by Getaway magazine. Freedom O Clock provides limited camping space in the bottom of the garden, set away from the main house, which they call "Freestyle camping." This is best suited for self-sufficient campers, as there is no electricity or running water on site, but it offers tranquility and beautiful views.