iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Learn of indigenous fishing traditions and relax on countless stretches of pristine and secluded beaches in South Africa’s first World Heritage Site.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a spectacular preserved region with thousands of species of birds, fascinating animals and ancient coastal dunes. It comprises 820,390 acres (332,000 hectares) of stunning swamp forests, lake networks and coral reef systems. Take a guided tour of parts of this enormous park for a fuller understanding of its ecosystems and history.

Embark on a walking tour of Kosi Bay in the northeastern part of the park to track turtles and find out about their plight and their mating and feeding rituals. Go snorkeling or scuba diving with a tour operator to see the range of colorful fish in the coral reef network.

Wander along the mazy paths that carve up the coastal forest, which contains several beaches. Sunbathe on Mabibi, Island Rock or Black Rock and admire the views of sand dunes.

In the southern part of the park, take a boat out on Lake St. Lucia, which is the largest estuary in South Africa. Spot exotic creatures, such as hippos and crocodiles, in this vast lake. This part of the park has many campgrounds, such as False Bay, uMkhuze Mantuma Camp and St. Lucia Estuary.

The largest lake in the country is Lake Sibaya. Capture photos of the huge water basin with a backdrop of mountains and forested dunes. Kayak on the water and spot hippos and crocodiles.

In the southern part of the park is Maphelane, where you can see fishermen returning with their catch. Gaze up at the Maphelane Dune, which is the park’s highest vegetated dune.

The park became the country’s first World Heritage Site in 1999. Its name means “miracle” and “wonder” in reference to its beauty.

Note that the park opens daily from early morning until late afternoon. There is a fee to enter; children are eligible for discounts.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park stretches north from the northern point of the town of St. Lucia. It is in the northeastern part of South Africa, not far from the borders with Swaziland and Mozambique. Purchase a vehicle permit to drive through the park.