iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Lake St. Lucia at iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Photo: Gerry Lynch / Flickr

Along the most northern parts of KwaZulu-Natal’s east coast, also known as the Elephant Coast, lies the iSimangaliso Wetland Park area. The park is South Africa’s second largest protected area, and in 1999, became the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage site. With unique interlinking ecosystems, the park offers an abundance of diverse wildlife and bird species – including dolphins, turtles, whales, hippos, giraffes, rhinos, herons, pelicans and fish eagles.

The park encompasses the areas of Lake St. Lucia, Kosi Bay, Cape Vidal, Sodwana Bay, and numerous other wildlife reserves and sanctuaries. Previously called “St. Lucia Wetland Park”, the name was changed to iSimangaliso Wetland Park in 2007. iSimangaliso translates to “a miracle” or “something wondrous” in the Zulu language – and is incredibly apt, given the extraordinary beauty of the area. With the marine and terrestrial areas combined, the park stands at a massive 1.3 million hectares in size – meaning you’ll have to spend at least a week even just attempting to take in all the sights, sounds and activities – of which there are plenty!

The charming little town of St. Lucia in the heart of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, functions as the main accommodation, restaurant and activity-booking hub for visitors. It’s a place to relax, lay your head and fill your belly, before heading out again on your next adventure.

The park is a 230km drive from Durban via the N2. Fly into King Shaka International Airport from any of South Africa’s major cities and make the short drive to paradise.

What to do in the iSimangaliso

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is an eco-tourists dream. Take your pick of activities – from game drives, hippo and croc cruises, turtle tours or whale watching. The beaches at Cape Vidal make for ideal swimming and scuba-diving spots. There are also adventure activities like kayaking, horse riding, and hiking.

Where to stay in the iSimangaliso

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