The iSimangaliso Wetland Park was listed as South Africa’s first World Heritage Site in December 1999 in recognition of its superlative natural beauty and unique global values.
The 332,000 hectare Park contains three major lake systems, eight interlinking ecosystems, 700 year old fishing traditions, most of South Africa’s remaining swamp forests, Africa’s largest estuarine system, 526 bird species and 25,000 year-old coastal dunes – among the highest in the world. The name iSimangaliso means miracle and wonder, which aptly describes this unique place.
ISIMANGALISO GATE TIMES
1 April – 31 October: 06h00–18h00
1 November – 31 March: 05h00–19h00
Please note that gate opening and closing times are strictly enforced.
Maximum speed limits are 50km/h on tar roads and 40km/h on gravel, with an average of 20km/h when game viewing.
ISIMANGALISO GATE ENTRY FEES
Eastern & Western Shores
Adults: R51
Children (under the age of 12): R37
Accommodated visitors: R8 per person per night
Community Levy: R5 per person
Vehicle entry charge Eastern & Western Shores
1-5 people: R61
6-12 people: R90
13-20 people: R124
21+ people: R213
Maphelane
Adults: R45
Children (under the age of 12): R27
Community Levy: R5 per person
Accommodated visitors: R8 per person per night
Vehicle entry: R20 per vehicle
EASTERN SHORES & CAPE VIDAL
At Mtubatuba, leave the N2 and drive towards the town of St Lucia along the R618.
As you reach the town, cross the bridge over the Lake St Lucia Estuary and turn left at the T-junction.
Continue for 3km until you reach the Bhangazi Gate.
Cape Vidal is 33km north of this gate.
Ice, books, curios, basic food stuffs and cold drinks are available in the curio shop at Cape Vidal.
Restrooms are available at designated rest areas.
WESTERN SHORES & CHARTERS CREEK
Dukukduku Gate: Follow the R618 from Mtubatuba to St Lucia, to the Dukuduku Gate situated on the left hand side 2km before reaching the town of St Lucia.
Nhlozi Gate: Turn off the N2 20km north of Mtubatuba or 32km south of Hluhluwe towards Charters Creek. Continue along the tar road for 13km to reach the Nhlozi Gate. Follow the road signs pointing right onto the Western Shores.
To reach Charters Creek, travel a further 5km on gravel road to get to the Charters Creek day visitor facility.
Restrooms are available at designated rest areas.
CONTACT ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK
24 Hour emergency hotline | +27 82 797 7944
Office telephone | +27 35 590 1633/1602
E-mail | info@isimangaliso.com
Reception hours:
08h00 to 16h00 (Mon – Sat)
07h00 to 15h00 (Sun)
THINGS TO TAKE
EAT & DRINK
Take something to eat and drink.
Note that NO alcohol is allowed into the park.
ENOUGH FUEL
Make sure your vehicle has enough fuel for your trip.
There are no fuel stations in the park.
COMFY SHOES & CLOTHES
Wear comfortable shoes.
There are designated areas where you can leave your vehicle and explore the area.
GEAR
Take your camera or binoculars. There is always something amazing to see.
St Lucia is a small town on the East coast of South Africa. Surrounded by an UNESCO World Heritage Site, this town is at the heart of magnificent natural coastal forests, wild animals, majestic bird life, breathtaking beaches and hospitable people.
St Lucia SA is an online booking platform for accommodation, tours, safari packages and activities in St Lucia.
Email | Reservations
Phone | +27 (0)83 442 1896
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