Thonga Trails Foundation
Conservation and Community Empowerment
The Thonga Trails Foundation is dedicated to protecting the breathtaking Maputaland coastline while uplifting the local communities that call it home. As the nonprofit arm of Thonga Trails eco-tourism, we focus on creating a sustainable future where nature and people thrive together.


About the Thonga Trails Foundation

At the Thonga Trails Foundation, we believe in building a future where people and nature thrive together. Our mission is simple: empower rural communities along the stunning Maputaland coastline to protect and benefit from their incredible natural heritage.
We work hand-in-hand with local communities to create a sustainable balance between conservation and development. By linking tourism, education, and environmental stewardship, we ensure that the beauty of this unique region benefits the people who call it home.
Education for a Brighter Future
We take children from under-resourced schools into nature—beaches, rock pools, forests—where they experience the magic of conservation firsthand. Through these adventures, they learn about the value of their environment and its role in creating opportunities for their future.
Empowering Communities and Sustainable tourism
We champion skills training, eco-friendly businesses, and job creation, helping communities see conservation not as a barrier but as an opportunity for growth and prosperity. Through eco-tourism we promote a way for communities to benefit from preserving their natural environment.
Preserving Nature
and Culture
From protecting endangered species to celebrating traditional Zulu heritage, we ensure the natural and cultural treasures of this region are safeguarded for generations to come. We’re also involved and donating to research projects in the area, conserving the local wildlife both on the land and in the ocean.
every contribution helps us...
Inspire young minds, empower local families, and protect this extraordinary environment. Together, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future for the Maputaland coastline and its people.
Our mission
We aim to educate and empower communities along the coastline, fostering a sense of responsibility and pride in preserving their natural and cultural heritage. By connecting conservation with practical benefits, we ensure that future generations can enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of this unique region.
Our vision
We envision a future where thriving communities proudly protect their natural treasures, inspired by a shared commitment to conservation and sustainable development.
join us!
Your support can empower communities, protect wildlife, and preserve the Maputaland coastline for future generations. Donate today and become part of this incredible journey!
Things we did last year
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Built long-drop toilets in the community
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Provide dogs with deworming & anti-tick tablets
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Purchased marine educational books for children to hand out on our marine beach days as well as at local community library and centres it the Hubs at Mabibi, Bhanga Nek and Enkovekeni.
our focus this year
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Tablets & spaying of local dogs
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Anti-poaching initiatives
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Sea-school for local kids