blogEight reasons to fall in love with iSimangaliso Wetland Park

While the Kruger National Park often steals the spotlight as the must-see destination for African safaris, there is a hidden gem in South Africa that should also be on the nature-oriented traveller’s radar. Nestled in the north-eastern corner of KwaZulu-Natal, stretching from St Lucia right up to the Mozambique border and a mere two-and-a-half-hour drive from Durban, iSimangaliso Wetland Park boasts an almost untouched and quite extraordinary variety of ecosystems, making it one of South Africa’s most pristine natural wonders.

Here are eight compelling reasons to embrace iSimangaliso Wetland Park and ensure it’s on your South African travel itinerary.

1. South Africa’s First World Heritage Site

Back in 1999, UNESCO bestowed the prestigious title of World Heritage Site upon iSimangaliso (meaning “a miracle” or “something wondrous” in Zulu), recognizing its breathtaking beauty and rich diversity of fragile ecosystems that occur in a relatively small area, as well as its intrinsic value to both South Africans and global visitors. This accolade, the first to be proclaimed in South Africa, comes with a significant responsibility for the government and private sector to safeguard the region’s flora and fauna while promoting sustainable economic growth. Saved from the brink of becoming a dune mine, iSimangaliso thankfully remains a historical, cultural, and natural jewel in South Africa’s crown.

The singular uniqueness of iSimangaliso is perhaps best highlighted in the words of Nelson Mandela: “iSimangaliso must be the only place on earth where the oldest land mammal (rhinoceros) and the world’s biggest terrestrial mammal (elephant) share an ecosystem with the world’s oldest fish (coelacanth) and the world’s biggest marine mammal (whale)”.

2. See the mighty Big Seven

In addition to encountering Africa’s renowned Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo), iSimangaliso offers the unique opportunity to see the southern right whale and the great white shark which make up the phenomenal Big Seven. As one Australian guest expressed on TripAdvisor, the area’s diverse ecosystems make it a “must-visit” destination, with several days required to truly appreciate its wonders, from whale watching to game drives. iSimangaliso Wetland Park is undeniably a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

3. Luxurious Accommodations

For an unforgettable stay, Thonga Beach Lodge and Kosi Forest Lodge stand out as two of the finest private lodges within iSimangaliso. While both offer stunning accommodations and an abundance of nature-based activities, they are entirely different in style. Kosi Forest Lodge, nestled under a dappled forest canopy on the shores of Lake Shengeza, provides a serene closer-to-nature experience in the protected ancient sand forest. On the other hand, Thonga Beach Lodge is a bespoke seaside haven offering a unique barefoot luxury experience, allowing guests to savour the scent of the Indian Ocean from private decks overlooking a vast untouched beach.

4. Turtle Tours in iSimangaliso Wetland Park
   

The warm embrace of the azure Indian Ocean and the expansive sandy beaches along iSimangaliso’s coastline provide an ideal haven for endangered leatherback and loggerhead turtles to nest. This is the only location in South Africa where you have the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of a mother turtle heaving herself up the beach to lay her eggs. Two months later, the sight of hundreds of hatchlings making their short but perilous journey back to the ocean is an unforgettable highlight that adds a touch of adventure to your safari experience. Guided turtle tours are offered by Thonga Beach Lodge and Kosi Forest Lodge within the designated nesting season.

5. Birdwatcher’s Paradise

With over 526 bird species thriving in iSimangaliso, it’s a dream destination for birding enthusiasts. From lakes and forests to coastal inlets and sandy beaches, every corner of the park presents a different mini-ecosystem, attracting an enormous variety of resident and migratory bird species. Capturing every birdwatching moment presents the avid birdwatcher with an irresistible challenge.

6. Snorkeling and scuba diving

The clear warm sub-tropical waters of the Indian Ocean offer phenomenal opportunities for scuba diving and snorkeling on pristine coral reefs within the iSimangaliso Marine Protected Area where over 1250 fish species are known to occur. Beneath the surface, a whole kaleidoscope of vibrant marine life is yours to discover including the chance of sharing the deep with dolphins and even sea turtles. Thonga Beach Lodge operates their own dive boat directly from the lodge while both Thonga and Kosi Forest Lodge offer exquisite guided snorkeling excursions.

7. Take a serene boat cruise or a canoeing adventure.

There are numerous picturesque lakes and estuaries to discover within iSimangaliso. Guided canoeing trips explore the labyrinth of Raphia Palm-lined channels that feed into the system of lakes, which are best enjoyed from the comfort of a tranquil boat cruise. This allows guests sightings of Nile crocodiles and the hefty hippopotamus from the safety of a sturdy vessel. The abundance of aquatic life that inhabits the lakes is truly astounding and don’t forget your camera to capture that iconic African sunset.

8. Heartwarming Hospitality of the Locals

Beyond its natural wonders, iSimangaliso Wetland Park reveals evidence of human occupation dating back to the Stone and Iron Ages. To this day there are visible examples of subsistence and cultural practices dating back centuries. Visitors to the area consistently attest to the friendly smiles and warm hospitality extended by the local people, creating a unique and heartwarming dimension to the overall experience.

If you are looking to make the most of your time in iSimangaliso Wetland Park, let Isibindi Africa be your guide. Get in touch and see how we can make your stay in our part of the world unforgettable.