29 October 2019
My husband and I met this amazing man a few years ago. He told us that he was busy creating an off-the-grid lifestyle in the Transkei.
Time went by and we always had it in the back of our minds to visit as we were curious to see what he was so excited about.
Eventually, we took the opportunity as we were driving back from Mozamboogie in 2017 with our friends Martin and Chi-Chi.
We were truly blown away…
Driving through the majestic forest, we arrived at the most stunning destination.
We had the privilege to be invited for a sleep-over. Louis is a hospitable host and apologetically offered us an unfinished rondavel to sleep in. Nowadays there are even dorm rooms available.
He is always busy building and creating his perfect space ever since his arrival. He remembers when this was as a ground ceremony was held on that day – 26 March 2005.
When asked why he would leave civilization, his answer was understandable – he says he wanted to be as far away as possible from the ‘money world’ as he believed there had to be something more sacred to this life than just being caught up in the rat race – working, maybe getting sick and then dying…
He was searching for more as he believes that money transforms the modern westerner into just simply ‘being rude’.
Louis definitely has remarkable manners, that is for sure. He is a stand-up guy who loves and respects nature and enjoys breathing the freshest of air. He loves his wide, open space and amazing views.
He offers guided breathing meditation journeys.
We are absolutely sold after spending just a night and have put it on our wishlist to visit for much longer next time.
Louis is very fortunate to have found a likeness amongst the local tribe who still lives a pure untouched African lifestyle.
What a blessing as his garden borders the Gosa forest and overlooks a Plateau which carries on to the most stunning views imaginable. A wide variety of birds lives here and lovely birdsong can be heard throughout the day.
Obviously, sustainability is his main focus and he plants for all their needs to be met. Plants for healthy eating as well as medicine. This man is self-educated in permaculture – soil rebuilding and soil reactivation, the many techniques to compost, especially focusing on the methods of our forefathers. Check out his facebook page, Back to Roots.
Louis creates not only outside, but loves working with leather. He has all the required machinery to even make shoes and clothes. Here is his facebook page for Louis Magwa Leather.
This is definitely one of the most creative men I have met. I was very impressed as he also showed us a stove he designed for the locals especially.
Louis loves his lifestyle and is always in need of and has space for volunteers.
For the four of us, still being on our road trip from Mozambique, it felt like our adventure simply continued by spending time with this family, especially that evening as we sat around the fire breathing the purest oxygen and looking up to an unbelievable array of stars.
Louis’ Mom stays with him and it is heartwarming to see how much respect this man has for his Mother. Together they have everything they need in their home, the biggest rondavel I have ever seen. The kitchen is fully equipped and we were thoroughly spoiled by these two lovely humans.
The next day we were pressed for time, so Louis went to show us some easier views over the cliffs. All I can say is that this is a breathtaking series of Natural Wonders, a must-see bucket list thing to do.
Louis can be contacted for trails of Waterfall Bluff to Magwa Falls. Probably the most scenic 2-day hike ever! This hike includes camping in their garden on the edge of the plateau after driving thru Goso Forest.
This man enjoys getting up very early in the morning as he believes it’s the best part of the day and he is wildly excited about life. Time in wonderful nature!
With his hikes, he takes you to Lupathana where the top of the plateau meets the ocean. The hike starts with crashing waves splashing many meters into the air… mind-boggling!
He can take you on an easy coastal hike towards Waterfall Bluff from close to sea level and around the corner…you will be in awe. Here you can just be and spend some time staring at nature at its best. Swimming at Bluff Pools above Waterfall Bluff. His hikes also include places like Cathedral Rock and Secret Falls.
Contact Louis on his fb page for amazing walks on beaches, to cross rivers, through indigenous forests, around hills to view, from a distance, the Magwa gorge. He will take you to ascend a plateau next to a crack in mother earth, then walk next to the 2km long wonder with the 144m Magwa waterfalls at the start.
Viewpoints that will make you drool…and the most amazing stars in the night sky.