iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of South Africa’s most remarkable natural destinations. Located on the KwaZulu-Natal coast, the park protects an extraordinary range of ecosystems, including lakes, wetlands, coastal forests, dunes, beaches and marine environments. This diversity supports abundant wildlife, birdlife and marine species, making iSimangaliso ideal for travellers who enjoy nature, photography and outdoor adventure. Visitors can experience boat cruises, turtle tours, birdwatching, game drives, snorkelling and beach excursions. The region offers a rare combination of wetland, ocean and bush experiences in one protected landscape, making it a standout destination for eco-conscious travellers and nature lovers.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a huge protected area along the coast of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Province. The park’s centrepiece is the vast Lake St. Lucia, home to large numbers of hippos, crocodiles, pelicans and flamingos. Elephants, giraffes and leopards inhabit the grasslands and forests of the nearby Western Shores and Charters Creek areas. To the north, Sodwana Bay is known for its colourful coral reefs . The word isimangaliso means “a miracle” or “something wondrous” in Zulu .
At a glance
Why stay in iSimangaliso Wetland Park?
iSimangaliso offers an extraordinary mix of beaches, wetlands, wildlife and marine experiences in one protected destination.
Accommodation & specials in iSimangaliso Wetland Park
Malkoha Lake St Lucia
KwaZulu Natal, iSimangaliso Wetland Park
From R2,955
From 11 Aug 2026 to 31 Mar 2027
Kosi Forest Lodge
KwaZulu Natal, iSimangaliso Wetland Park
From R3,250
Last Minute Book Within 7 DaysFrom 01 Jul to 31 Dec 2026
Makakatana Bay Lodge
KwaZulu Natal, iSimangaliso Wetland Park
From R5,500
Last Minute book within 30 DaysFrom 01 Mar to 20 Dec 2026
Thonga Beach Lodge
KwaZulu Natal, iSimangaliso Wetland Park
From R5,898
Last Minute Book Within 7 DaysFrom 01 Sep to 31 Oct 2026
More about iSimangaliso Wetland Park
Wetlands, lakes, beaches, wildlife, turtles and biodiversity.
iSimangaliso is internationally recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its ecological importance.
Hippos, crocodiles, turtles, antelope, birdlife, coastal forests and marine life.
Boat cruises, turtle tours, birdwatching, game drives, snorkelling and beach visits.
Warm subtropical climate, with humid summers and mild winters.
The surrounding region has strong Zulu cultural roots, with isiZulu and English widely spoken.