Madrugada

We camped on the lawn in from of the main chalet. As some of us were elderly we were allowed to use the bathroom in that chalet, as the other ablution is a bit had to reach when you are 60+ and have a knee problem. A small ablution at campers level would really make a stunning, beautiful place just perfect! We had only 2 nights but enjoyed every moment bird watching and walking in the amazing woods. Would love to return one day! Very friendly caretaker and very well behaved dogs.

We were not able to find Madrugada Magic under hotel listings on Trip Advisor— only in vacation rentals. But know that this property also has a full-board option, provided it is arranged in advance. Also know that there is a two-bedroom chalet with en-suite bath and full kitchen available that has an adjoining deck with spectacular views. The chalet is well designed, full of light, spotless and gleaming, and less than 10 yards up the hill from parking. The proprietors are nature lovers and keep two friendly and quiet German shepherds. It would be a sin to just spend one night here. A full day is needed to hike in or just appreciate the primeval bush of the Vumba Mountains. The pleasure of hiking here is that the climate is cool (especially on top of the ridge behind the property) and free of biting insects. The hardest part of the stay is getting there. You must follow the signage for Eden Lodge before the Madrugada signs start popping up. The last quarter mile is very steep. Most of the route is dirt road that can be hard for low-slung vehicles.

This property offers a 2-bedroom en-suite bath with kitchen and deck with stellar views of the Vumba mountains and Mozambique, but we didn’t get to stay due to a mixup with our reservation: the property didn’t have it owing to illness of the proprietor. Full board is available provided it is arranged in advance, but we couldn’t get replies to our messages, emails and phone calls owing to the proprietor’s illness. We were only able to see our reserved chalet after we were obliged to take other lodging nearby. It was absolutely stunning in design, condition and location. We would have loved it!