Welcome to Paradise
Haga Haga Conservancy & Marine protected area
so nice - you say it twice
Our Aim Is To Protect
We strive to protect - the more than 300 documented animal species such as the Cape Clawless Otter and Blue Duiker, as well as our countless and rare fauna and flora.
We strive to preserve - the co-habitation and survival of all these amazing species.
When you visit, please observe our regulations.
Help us combat unlawful behaviour, environmental pollution and overfishing, the illegal removal of our sea creatures as well as our indigenous fauna and flora.
Located just a stones throw from East London, Haga Haga will revive your love for nature.
Breathe in the fresh sea air, meander along our beaches and hikes and keep your eyes peeled to spot the hundreds of species that call Haga Haga their home.
Haga Haga is a picturesque, pristine seaside village within a registered Conservancy on the Eastern Cape Coast of South Africa.
The origin of the name Haga Haga could well be as fascinating as the history of our village itself.
There is reference by J.B. Peires in his book "The House of Phalo" of a Khoisan sub-chief "Harha - Harha" who apparently had his shelter on the West side of the Haga Haga lagoon. His entire group was murdered by Rarabe , the infamous brother of Gcaleka , chief of the Xhosa people in the Transkei . It is believed that Rarabe systematically wiped out many of the Khoisan groups on the coast between Port Alfred and Port Edward .
In the late 1800's early 1900's many farmers from Khomga, Cathcart, Stutterheim, Bolo and surrounding areas purchased land at the coast for their livestock winter grazing. Haga was no exception, added to that was the fact that it was also a favourite holiday destination even though roads were virtually non-existent. The journey from the inland farms and towns were made by ox wagon which took at least two days. Months of preparation for the journey and the long stay was carefully planned - everything from rusks, oil lamps, chickens and pets were loaded with the cow in tow for fresh milk.
Arriving at Haga Haga the sandy beach and often-hazardous river had to be crossed with the teams of oxen pulling these tremendous loads. One span of 16 oxen was insufficient for the heavy crossing, therefore the driver of the second wagon would disconnect his span and the driver of the first wagon would give the instruction to “HAKA HAKA”, which in Xhosa means “ HOOK ON, HOOK ON “. So with a team of 32 oxen the haul could be successfully pulled across the beach and river.
Be it as it may, the name is officially registered as Haga Haga of which we are proud. Although many of the original families still reside or visit here, the village has seen a steady increase in new families that have made this home, and as it was then, remains a family destination where there is great appreciation and support for our environment today and for future generations to enjoy.
Where to find us
Hit the link below for a detail description on how to get to Haga Haga.
