Kingfisher Country cottage is situated on a timber, beef and herb farm in the foothills of the Drakensberg. Kingfisher offers self-catering accommodation, with meals on request, in a serviced, comfortable cottage with all amenities. Visitors in groups from two to eight can be accommodated. There are two en-suite bedrooms, a loft room, a twin-bedded room and a separate shower room, a well-equipped kitchen and a lounge with a log fireplace. There are also braai (barbeque) facilities and a campfire with complimentary firewood.

Visitors can also enjoy the water activities – there is a foofie slide, a slip-and-slide and a swimming pool. There is abundant birdlife and bass fishing in several dams. Guests are free to walk all over the farm. Children are very welcome.

]]> 29.75000000000000000,-27.81669998168945312 Dinizulu Cottage offers two self-catering apartments in a fully furnished house in the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park heritage site area (1km from the entrance to False Bay Park, 13km from Hluhluwe). One apartment has two bedrooms, a bathroom, kitchen and living area, as well as a gauze-enclosed veranda with two beds. The other has one bedroom, an en-suite bathroom, kitchen, dining area and a gauze-enclosed veranda with two beds. Interleading doors allow them be used as one unit.

All bedrooms are air-conditioned, and linen, cutlery, crockery and appliances are provided. Outside the cottage is a paved patio with braai (barbecue) facilities. Guests can enjoy walks on the property, horse riding in False Bay Park, game drives, boat cruises, and many more activities nearby.

]]> 32.35309982299804688,-27.41950035095214844 Bonamanzi Game Park is a 400ha property bordering the Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park. It has a 3-star main camp, 4-star luxury lodge, 3-star tree house and six campsites.

Birding walks, trips to the local Zulu cultural village, game drives, boat trips on the Hluhluwe River and cycle tours are popular activities. Zulu rangers at the park have excellent birding skills and excellent knowledge of the vegetation and bushveld animals.

Bonamanzi also has a conference facility with two breakaway rooms at the main camp. Team building activities and candlelit bush dinners can be arranged.

]]> 32.30739974975585938,-28.06669998168945312 Drifter’s Zululand Inn is a rustic inn located on a small private property in a sand forest overlooking False Bay. It is ideally positioned for access to the coast and Lake St Lucia as well as to the northern KwaZulu-Natal game reserves. The property offers a self-guided nature trail with excellent chances of sighting indigenous wildlife, and a swimming pool for relaxing and cooling off. Self-drive clients stay in luxury en-suite rooms while Drifter’s Tour Groups use the camp in an acacia forest away from the lodge. Drifters Inn operates as a bed and breakfast with self-catering facilities, but provides dinners on request.

Established in 1983, Drifter’s has a philosophy of sustainability – the long-term assurance that whatever activity conducted in a natural area must contribute to the conservation and wellbeing of the inhabitants of the area. On acquiring the property in Zululand – which was an old pineapple farm – the challenge was to restore the land to its natural state. A decade later the owners are proud to say that there are no alien plants and indigenous wildlife and amazing birdlife occupy this little paradise.

“If you really wish to spend your time on an African safari and you relish the thought of nature and beauty combined with luxury and comfort, Drifter’s Zululand Inn will provide that for you.”

]]> 32.34880065917968750,-27.67749977111816406 Ehlathini (pronounced ey-hla-tini) is a Zulu word meaning 'in the bush'. Visitors who seek to unwind from the stresses of modern lifes and spend a little quality time close to nature will love Ehlathini, which is 20km east of Hluhluwe. From its location on the boundary of the False Bay Nature Reserve, the camp overlooks the northern section of the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park – declared a World Heritage Site in 2000.

Ehlathini offers comprehensive self-catering facilities, pool and gazebo. The camp has five thatched chalets under a magnificent stand of trees. Each chalet has two beds and two stacked beds (suitable for children), a shower, toilet and washbasin. They all have outward-facing verandas, which offer complete privacy in the bush. Two other hutted chalets are suitable for four adults each.

The main lodge peeps out of the trees and the upper deck provides a panoramic view of the lake and resident wildlife. It is the ideal viewing point to watch herds of zebra grazing while enjoying sundowners. The lodge has a lounge, bar/dining area and kitchen. The kitchen is fully equipped to cater for up to 30. The sparkling pool and gazebo offer an alternate entertainment area, much enjoyed during the Zululand summer, and there are braai (barbecue) facilities. The camp staff clean the rooms, make beds and wash dishes, but are willing to help in other ways to ensure a comfortable stay.

The natural pan on the property attracts outstanding varieties of birdlife and small. The lush vegetation, sand forest and panoramic views make for a relaxing dawn or dusk outing along one of the footpaths. Ehlathini is centrally located for exploring the delights of the area.

]]> 32.38299942016601562,-27.89979934692382812 In 1918 one of the first white families to settle in Hluhluwe were the Mares. Since then, four generations of Mares and Hassards have made this idyllic spot their home, finally establishing the Falaza Game Park in 1990. Many of the staff are descendants of the dedicated folk who have served the family since the early days. Highly personalised service is the hallmark here, and a visit to Falaza is an invitation to join the family for a unique African safari.

Falaza is tailored to accommodate small exclusive groups. It is easily accessible from the village of Hluhluwe and a three-hour drive from Durban. Falaza Game Park occupies 800ha rich in indigenous fauna and flora. Surrounded by spacious lawns (that are frequented by the resident rhino!), the camp shelters beneath a canopy of indigenous trees. After the day’s activities of the day, a dip in the pool or sipping sundowners are temptations few can resist.

Leisurely breakfasts in the dining room or a succulent meal around the boma fire are a gastronomic delight. Traditional South African cuisine is prepared by well-trained local chefs and is complemented by select wines from the cellar.

Falaza’s 5-star tented accommodation evokes memories of African Safaris of a bygone colonial era. En-suite tents are graciously appointed, with no compromise on comfort.
Falaza is conveniently located close to some of South Africa’s finest wildlife conservation areas, but is itself an amazing reserve, offering day or night drives with experienced rangers, guided walks and early morning horse trails in Falaza, leisurely boat cruises on the Mzinene River to spot crocodiles and hippos, as well as many species of birds. Other activities available in the region include deep-sea fishing, snorkelling, visiting traditional Zulu cultural villages and a visit to the local cheetah project.

Falaza also has a luxury health spa – just the place to connect with nature while rejuvenating mind, body and spirit. Combining up-to-date facilities with impeccable service, the spa is nestled among the indigenous bush – a peaceful, natural haven. Dedicated therapists are on hand to offer a full range of spa treatments – including advanced skin and body treatments, a wide range of massages (Swedish, aromatherapy, Kahuna), hydrotherapy, phytotherapy, hot-stone therapy and seaweed mud treatments. The Falaza Health Spa specialises in treatment packages – which range from one-day treatments to 3-5 day detoxification and rejuvenation plans. Once your relaxing spa treatment is over, take a relaxing walk or meditate on the private lookout deck.

]]> 32.34510040283203125,-27.99410057067871094 False Bay Guesthouse offers 3-star accommodation. A warm welcome and tranquillity awaits visitors, with its magnificent view of Hell’s Gate, which forms part of the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park. A fifteen minute drive from the N2 highway, this guesthouse is the gateway to exploring game and marine reserves in the area. It is also the perfect stopover en route to Swaziland, Kruger National Park and Mozambique.

Bushbabies and purple crested loeries are company in the spectacular garden. Whether on foot or on horseback, the adjacent False Bay Park is sure to reveal the smaller wonders of nature such as antelope, birds and butterflies. Lucky visitors might even spy the resident hippo.

False Bay guesthouse offers affordable accommodation – spacious rooms with en-suite bathroom, fridge, television, tea/coffee facilities, ceiling fan, air-conditioning and mosquito screens. Safe parking and a warm swimming pool are also available. Personal service, traditional fare and dedication makes a stay here an unforgettable experience.

]]> 32.35189819335937500,-27.98220062255859375 Are you looking for peaceful, comfortable and affordable accommodation in Hluhluwe, just 300 km north of Durban... from where you can explore the splendid nature of South Africa's Elephant Coast in KwaZulu-Natal? Wildebees ecolodge offers you the comfort of country living in the heart of the Zulu Kingdom. The lodge is surrounded by the Hluhluwe Umfolozi and Mkuze Park, and is part of the Greater Isimangaliso Wetlands park (St Lucia Wetland Park).

Wildebees ecolodge is situated in a tropical garden, amidst large trees and flowering shrubs that attract a large variety of birds. On our reserve you will find walking trails and you might encounter several game species like reedbuck, nyala, suni, duikers, baboons, vervet monkeys, hyena and several smaller common species.

Our restaurant is open daily and serves breakfast, lunch (on request) and a fixed 3-course dinner. After dinner you might want to hang around in the bar and lounge area where local and international drinks are served whilst listening to the cracking sounds of our fireplace.

We are proud to offer you the difference, this is not only noticed by the personal service, relaxed atmosphere and value for money accommodation, but it also includes our measures to conserve the environment and sustain the well-being of local people with our ecolabel projects. Experience the difference, welcome to Wildebees ecolodge.

Wildebees ecolodge is proudly graded with three stars by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa.

Activities:

Game drives;
Bushwalks;
Diving;
Bird-watching;
Mountain biking;
Quad biking;
Cultural interaction tours; and
Cheetah breeding project.

]]> 32.34180068969726562,-28.02440071105957031 Exclusively situated in the middle of the proclaimed Greater St Lucia Wetland Park (which has the largest marine lake in Africa), Makakatana remains the only privately owned lodge within this World Heritage Site, owned by the Morrison family since the 1930's.

Hugging the banks of the lake, this 12-bed luxury lodge welcomes visitors to an elegantly decorated home from home. Private air-conditioned suites, lined with glass doors (and insect screens), showcase Eastern and African decor. The architecture is stunning and a feel for nature has been carried into the bathrooms where one can lie back and watch the stars though the glass ceiling. The suites also have outdoor showers, ceiling fans, minibars and private decks.

At night soft lights line the boardwalks linking the suites leading to a well-stocked bar where a cocktail prepares one for the evening feast. A private bush pool situated on the lake edge is an ideal place from which to watch the wildlife around the lake. The lodge also offers satellite television, a craft shop, bar and reading area.

Makakatana is the perfect base from which to launch an adventures – walks, drives, boat trips, beach trips to snorkel and swim or watch whales and dolphins (in season). Full-day packages to the beach or Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve can be arranged. Early morning wetland walks with a ranger are a must.

]]> 32.41299819946289062,-28.23699951171875000 Nibela Lake Lodge is situated in one of Africa’s World Heritage Sites, with a unique diversity of scenery, fauna and flora forming part of the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park (Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park).

An eleven bedroom luxury lodge built above a lush sand forest. Each chalet is inter-connected by spectacular raised wooden walkways that lead to the main lodge facility area. The open restaurant which seats 30 people, and focuses on personalized service and excellent cuisine. A lounge area housing a variety of wildlife books and board games leads out onto a wooden viewing deck with breathtaking views of the lake and unsurpassed bushveld.

Accommodation:

Double rooms;
Twin rooms;
Inter-leading family rooms; and
Honeymoon suite.

Each chalet has a lounge area for relaxing and an en-suite bathroom with a shower.

Own private wooden viewing deck;
Dressing room;
Mosquito netting;
Bar fridge;
Safes;
Air-con/sealing fans;
Tea / coffee making facilities;
Hair-dryers;
Cellular coverage; and
No television or telephones in rooms.

Please note: Should a guest arrive at the lodge with more people (including children) than specified on the confirmation letter we cannot guarantee that there will be accommodation for the extra people. Overcrowding is NOT tolerated and those extra people will be asked to leave if the Lodge is fully booked. If the Lodge is not fully ked another unit will be allocated at full cost.

Leisure:

A restaurant;
A bar with access to an outdoor terrace and DSTV;
Wooden viewing deck adjacent to the swimming pool overlooking the lake;
A comfortable lounge stocked with exclusive books;
Sundowners at bush boma;
Games room - pool table, air hockey, table soccer and table tennis;
Swimming pool;
A choice of three guide walks (caves, fossils and birding);
Bird-watching;
Guided quad-bikes trails;
Mountain bike trails;
Zulu dancing;
Canoeing;
Fishing; and
Lake cruises.

]]> 32.42539978027343750,-27.98130035400390625 Sand Forest Lodge was started by the Sutton family in 1998, and is conveniently situated between the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, Sodwana Bay, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve and Mkuze Game Reserve. It offers self-catering accommodation, as well as the option to dine at the restaurant.

A nature trail on the property meanders through the ancient sand forest, and a dip in the pool is a treat at the end of a hot day. Game on the property includes wildebeest, impala, zebra, suni, red duiker and steenbuck, as well as many birds.

Activities such as game drives, horse trails, rhino tracking on foot, hippo boat cruises and other adventures can be arranged from the lodge.

]]> 32.32920074462890625,-27.97529983520507812 Bahati Bushcamp is situated in the heart of Zululand and Big 5 territory, and is within a short drive of Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve, Lake St Lucia and Sodwana Bay. The bushcamp is set within a superb bush environment – each accommodation unit positioned to give complete privacy. Each unit has an en-suite shower/toilet, private kitchen and braai (barbecue) facility. All are fully equipped for self-catering. Catering for small tour groups can be arranged, but there are also several good restaurants available within close proximity.

The game farm has a wonderful diversity of vegetation that includes sand forest, riverine land with fever trees, ilala palms and plenty of open thornveld. The farm is home to zebra, wildebeest, impala, caracal, leopard and many other smaller species. There are approximately 350 bird species in the area.

Activities on the farm include boat trips (your own boat), horse trails, game-viewing, birding, fishing and walking.

Injomane Adventures:

Injomane Adventures is situated on Bahati Bushcamp and Game Farm. Horse riding is a fantastic way to experience the bush as the horses can go reasonably close to the wildlife – while the guide explains the flora and fauna of the area. Drinks are provided, but it is also possible to book a breakfast, lunch or sundowner ride. Novice riders are welcome. The longer rides also cover some land in Bonamanzi Game Park – where riders may see elephant and giraffe.

]]> 32.34510040283203125,-27.99410057067871094 Accommodation at Bushbaby Lodge is in wooden cabins (some twin, some double) or in caravan/camping sites with electrical points. The communal ablution blocks have shower, bath and toilet facilities. There is also a communal kitchen area, as well as a braai (barbecue) and boma. Breakfast only or dinner, bed and breakfast are also options. Bushbaby is also an ideal conference venue.

Among the numerous activities in the area are walks, swims in the pool, horse trails, game drives, boat trips and many others. Bushbaby is an ideal base from which to explore the Elephant Coast.

]]> 32.29119873046875000,-28.08160018920898438 This lodge takes its name from the Velvet Bushwillow tree (Combretum molle) which occurs in an around the camp. It is a deciduous tree (leaves turn reddish-brown) and is found in the sand forest regions – enjoying and surviving well in the sandy soils. The Combretum family typically has simple leaves, small flowers and a characteristic four-winged pod, with a seed in the middle. The seeds are poisonous and the boiled leaves produce a red dye – used by the Zulus in their traditional craft of basket making.

Bushwillow offers 4-star accommodation and is best described as a bush home. It is ideal for families or small groups. It is a sole-use destination for those wanting a little privacy and seclusion. There is a central facility with a spacious lounge, dining area and well-equipped kitchen. The central area opens onto a large deck with a pool. The en-suite bedrooms are linked by wooden walkways to the central facility. No expense has been spared to ensure a high-quality establishment with every finishing touch that the discerning traveller may expect. Bushwillow comfortably accommodates up to six people.

Visitors may choose to self-cater or to have meals prepared. Breakfast, picnic lunches and evening meals of good international standard are available, suiting all dietary needs.

Just as the seed is the centre of the pod, so is Bushwillow at the centre of things to do in the area – allowing the visitor to enjoy both bush and beach with little travel required.

Kuleni Game Park is 170ha of pristine indigenous bushveld. Visitors can enjoy walks on the self-guided trails and experience the fascination with the smaller fauna and flora – and may encounter zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, impala and nyala. The abundance of birdlife, the variety of trees and other flora will impress the most avid follower.

]]> 32.35530090332031250,-27.90519905090332031 Hluhluwe Guesthouse is a SATOUR accredited establishment with a 3-star rating with the Tourism Grading Council. The utmost hospitality and professional attention is assured at all times.

The guesthouse has seven double/twin rooms and one family rooms that sleeps four. All the bedrooms are en-suite, and have ceiling fans and air-conditioning. All the rooms lead out onto the large tropical garden with swimming pool and thatched lapa where one can relax or challenge friends to a game of pool or darts.

Full English breakfasts and three-course traditional South African dinners are served – with venison being one of the main dishes.

Game drives into the Hluhluwe Game Reserve or beach drives depart from Hluhluwe Guesthouse and are conducted in open vehicle by a qualified guide. Boat trips can also be arranged.
The guesthouse is ideally situated in a quiet part of Hluhluwe with an African atmosphere, exceptional comfort, beautifully decorated bedrooms and warm hospitality. A ladies bar, laundry service and credit card facilities are only a few extras to mention.

]]> 32.26739883422851562,-28.01650047302246094 The Hluhluwe Hotel is only 15 minutes' drive from the renowned Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve (the second oldest game reserve in the world – after Yellowstone Park in the USA). The hotel is also 20 minutes drive from the fossil-lined shores of False Bay, less than one hour from Sodwana Bay, St Lucia, Lake Sibaya, Cape Vidal and Mkuze Game Reserve.

Hluhluwe Safaris provides guests of the hotel with game drives to the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi park. All special packages include dinner, bed, breakfast, a boat cruise on the St Lucia estuary and a three hour game drive. Transport to and from the hotel is also included.

The hotel has 67 spacious fully air-conditioned rooms with en-suite bathrooms, television, tea/coffee facilities and a telephone. Daily laundry facilities are available. The restaurant is also air-conditioned and serves buffet breakfasts, à la Carte lunches and either a buffet or braai (barbecue) dinner. There is a Rhino Bar in the hotel and another outdoor bar alongside the swimming pool. The hotel conference facility can seat up to 80 people and is equipped with a projector, white board, video machine, television and flip chart.

The hotel also has a lounge area and a curio shop. Zulu dancing performances traditionally occur after dinner if there is a large group in the hotel.

]]> 32.26620101928710938,-28.01679992675781250 This owner-managed safari company is based in Hluhluwe from where it conducts half- and full-day guided open-vehicle game drives in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve and the Dumazulu Cultural Village, Ilala Weavers and Lake St Lucia.

Coach groups can also be catered for. Vehicles are equipped with two-way radio systems, so every vehicle has the best chance of seeing game. Dedicated and experienced guides ensure good game viewing and an educational trip.

]]> 32.27280044555664062,-28.01819992065429688 Hluhluwe Tourism Association is an association of private stakeholder in the tourism industry falling within the district council area of Umkanyakude (which stretches from the Umfolozi River in the south to the Mozambique border in the north). This area – which is now collectively called The Elephant Coast – was previously known as Zululand and Maputaland.

The Hluhluwe Tourism Association information and administration office is situated in the main street of Hluhluwe village. The office gathers information under one umbrella and makes this available to travellers and business people through a website, maps and brochures. The office also offers an accommodation and activity booking service.

]]> 32.26670074462890625,-28.01749992370605469 Ilala Weavers came into being in the 1980’s with the objective of reviving some of the traditional Zulu handcrafts that were in danger of dying out at that time. As well as providing a guideline for self-sufficiency for Zulu women of the area, the main objective of the project is employment and income-generation.

The Ilala mission statement is “to improve the income and living standards of the Zulu people through their own efforts by developing cottage industry, providing guidance as to market requirements and marketing the resultant products”.
Ilala Weavers has the largest collection of traditional Zulu baskets in the world, magnificent Zulu beadwork and many other crafts. The Khaki Klub clothing section is a well-stocked bushwear shop – with comfortable, durable and desirable clothing.

Ilala Weavers is open seven days a week and the complex also contains a museum.

Zulu Cultural Museum:

The museum at Ilala Weavers contains unique and antique artefacts dating back to early in the last century. The displays include artefacts of dress, eating and drinking, hunting and fighting, music and dance. The museum shop sells some of these items.

The Thembalethu Craft Village:

The Thembalethu Craft Village is a community driven employment project. Thembalethu is a contemporary version of a traditional Zulu kraal. An interesting feature of this homestead style is that the headman’s hut is built in a square shape to distinguish it from the others. Here visitors can interact with the resident people – watch the beautiful beer basket weaving, beadwork, wood-carving and other crafts. A guide will explain the significance of various items in the homestead or ‘kraal’.

]]> 32.27690124511718750,-28.00729942321777344 A private game reserve, Bushlands Game Lodge, is centrally situated in Zululand and is surrounded by over 300 000ha of reserves and parks. The lodge is unique in many respects and offers its clients exclusivity and reasonable rates due to the small and personal nature of the lodge, where the focus is on personal attention and service excellence.

Luxurious wooden lodges built on stilts are elevated above a sand forest where many local game species such as zebra and warthog wander… and are often found roaming the swimming pool area. Each lodge is en-suite and beautifully decorated in ethnic style fabrics, offset by wooden furniture and trimmings.

The lodges are connected by raised wooden walkways that lead to the main dining room, bar, swimming pool and boma, where guests enjoy drinks around the campfire before dinner. The resident chef prepares mouth-watering meals and specialises in succulent venison and other game dishes.

The convenient location of Bushlands Game Lodge makes it a popular base from which to visit the nearby attractions – such as game parks to spot the Big 5. Scuba diving, snorkelling, chartered fishing trips, hiking, Lake St Lucia cruises and many other activities that can be arranged by the Bushlands guides and rangers. A trip to the Dumazulu Traditional Village is a must as there one can see Zulu people showcasing the ancient traditions of the Zulu nation, such as Sangoma bone-throwing, spear and shield making, basket weaving, bead-making and Zulu dancing.

]]> 32.30580139160156250,-28.08130073547363281 Dumazulu Lodge is situated near Hluhluwe Game Reserve, just off the Bushlands turnoff. Here guests can watch and learn about Zulu traditions, including basket weaving, spear and shield making, beadwork, pottery, Sangoma bone-throwing and Zulu dancing. Dumazulu (which means ‘thundering Zulu’) is the largest Zulu village of its kind (it is home to over fifty residents) and is the only Zulu cultural village to be opened by King Goodwill Zwelithini – placing the royal stamp of approval on the objectives and the authenticity of Dumazulu.

A qualified guide will accompany guests on a tour of the village and explain the various ancient manufacturing traditions. The guide will provide insight into the heritage and culture of the Zulu nation. The village is connected by walkways to the main dining area and bar where visitors can end off their tour by enjoying a delicious meal and beverages.

Dumazulu Lodge consists of 23 sleeping units (each sleeping two to four people) and is connected by walkways to the village. It offers an unrivalled ethnic experience where visitors can spend the night in a ‘hut’ resembling the different tribal peoples of Southern Africa on the exterior, but furnished with a modern interior tastefully decorated in ethnic fabrics and tribal memorabilia.

Guests will be able to gain a deeper insight into the tribal customs and heritage of Southern Africa by reading the storyboards at the entrance to each unit. An added attraction is a snake pit – host to indigenous South African snakes and a crocodile park with one of the largest crocodiles (measuring around 4m and weighing 350kg). Game drives and tours to surrounding attractions can also be arranged from Dumazulu.

]]> 32.28530120849609375,-28.10580062866210938 Emdoneni Lodge offers tourists an attractive base from which to enjoy the surrounding area – including game-viewing, cultural tours, boat cruises and many more attractions.

The lodge has 38 en-suite rooms and an executive suite. The lodge restaurant offers buffet meals of true South African cooking by South Africans. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar or relax at the swimming pool in a very tranquil garden. The boma also allows for dinners under the open skies alongside a warm log fire.

The lodge also has a cheetah and serval cat project – which is very educational. Game drives in open vehicles can be arranged from the lodge.

Their rate include dinner, bed and breakfast. They have various packages available for a 2-4 day stay.

]]> 32.27529907226562500,-28.10280036926269531 Malala Lodge is a family-run, 3-star lodge situated on a 300acre private estate south of Hluhluwe – therefore the ideal base from which to explore the vast and singular beauty of the Zulu Kingdom.

At the main lodge, which overlooks indigenous forest, guests can relax around the swimming pool and enjoy sundowners at the bush pub. Malala Lodge offers self-catering thatched chalets or family cottages set in and on the verge of the sand forest.

Delicious home-cooked meals are available in the attractive thatched dining room or under the stars in the open-air boma. A host of activities can be arranged from Malala, including game drives in Malala’s own open vehicle.

]]> 32.27930068969726562,-28.09530067443847656 Janet describes her business in her own words:

“My B&B isn’t a big business… it is my hobby and I love meeting people and promoting the area where I live. There is so much to see here… and it is all natural – the unspoilt beaches, parks, birds, whales, turtles, peoples… Zululand is so special and unique. I have been told many times that it is the first true feeling of being in Africa that overseas visitors experience. The weather is incredible, and it is the only place in the world where you have the sea, wetlands and big 5 game reserves within a half hour of each other. Which is why Nelson Mandela declared it a World Heritage Site. This is a world within a world – you enter into a true African experience. And we live here – and so try hard to provide the peace and tranquillity that is part of the ‘out of Africa – in Africa’ holiday of a lifetime.”

Janet’s 'Ukuthula' B&B (Ukuthula meaning ‘peace’) offers total privacy in three garden units, or in two double en-suite rooms in the house. Tea/coffee facilities are provided, as are air-conditioning, secure parking and a full English breakfast. Picnic baskets and light refreshments are available on request.

Janet’s is within five minutes walk of the post office, bank and shops. This is very affordable, very comfortable accommodation.

]]> 32.19189834594726562,-28.41659927368164062 The Circle B&B is set in a park-like tropical garden with prolific birdlife and a sparkling pool. There are two garden cottages with en-suite, television, bar fridges and air-conditioning. One of these units is self-catering. Rooms are also available in the main house and all rooms have hospitality trays, television, air-conditioning and en-suite.

South African breakfasts are served while generous picnic baskets and dinners are available by arrangement. The guesthouse is only twenty minutes from the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve, as well as St Lucia Estuary. Fishing, boating, golf, hippo and crocodile tours, horse riding, whale-watching and wilderness walks nearby. Children are welcome.

]]> 32.19620132446289062,-28.41559982299804688 Wendy’s Country Lodge is ideally situated as a base for the numerous activities in the St Lucia area – including game drives, golf, fishing, horse safaris, scuba diving, kayaking and boat trips.

]]> 32.17900085449218750,-23.43510055541992188 African Ambience is a guesthouse with just that. It is a luxury thatched-roofed facility with four bedrooms – all with air-conditioners and en-suite bathrooms. The guesthouse looks out over the coastal forest that lines the banks of the St Lucia Estuary. All the town’s facilities and restaurants are within walking distance.

The Engelbrecht family has lived in St Lucia for many years, operating a deep sea fishing charter service. They therefore have in-depth knowledge of all the activities and tours available in the area.

]]> 32.41180038452148438,-28.38109970092773438 Avalone Guesthouse is set in the picturesque town of St Lucia, which is in the heart of the famous Greater St Lucia Wetland Park – South Africa’s first of what have become several World Heritage Sites. The guesthouse offers five double en-suite air-conditioned rooms with extra-length twin beds, tea/coffee facilities, hairdryers and refrigerators.

Guests can enjoy a full English breakfast served on the patio area overlooking the sparkling pool and lush tropical garden bordering on the nature reserve. By prior arrangement and as an optional extra, Avalone staff can provide their guests with dinners, snack lunches and beach picnic baskets. Braai (barbecue) facilities are available for guests to use. Avalone Guesthouse also offers secure parking, internet, e-mail, fax and laundry facilities.

St Lucia is considered one of the leading nature interactive destinations in South Africa and the area offers a wealth of activities. Boat cruises, whale-watching, birding, hiking, kayaking, horse riding, fishing, snorkelling and golf are some of the many options. The Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Park is only an hour drive from Avalone – making the guesthouse the ideal base from which to see the largest land mammal (elephant) and the largest sea mammal (whale) all in one day. Bookings to the major attractions in the area can be done from Avalone.

]]> 32.41949844360351562,-28.37579917907714844 Bhangazi Lodge is set in tranquil tropical garden near the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park. The comfortable bedrooms each have a private terrace, air-conditioner, television, mosquito net, fan, hairdryer and safety deposit box. The lodge also has a large swimming pool and is within walking distance of restaurants. The beach is a short trip away, as are local game reserves, snorkelling sites and many other adventure activities.

Children are welcome at Bhangazi, which is a 3-star bed and breakfast establishment. A laundry service is offered and credit cards accepted. German is spoken.

]]> 32.41600036621093750,-28.37540054321289062 Buya Futhi Guesthouse is a unique stone building – the only slasto building in St Lucia – built in 1982 when there was a brick shortage in KwaZulu-Natal. Buya Futhi in Zulu means ‘come back again’, and most guests do return! This guesthouse is located approximately 1km from the main road, lake and beach – making it ideally central.

The four guestrooms (three twin and one double) are all en-suite and have tea/coffee facilities. The house has a braai (barbecue) area and swimming pool.

Numerous paintings by local artist, Johan van Rooyen, are on display and are for sale.

]]> 32.41930007934570312,-28.37599945068359375 Hornbill House is situated in a lush tropical garden, surrounded by the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park. The guesthouse provides visitor peace and tranquillity, and the swimming pool offers respite from the warm summer days.

Various tours and activities can be booked from the Hornbill House office. The Hornbill House hosts are both qualified tour guides and runs tours from the establishment. Admin and laundry services are available from the office as well.
The bedrooms are en-suite (shower) and

]]> 32.41579818725585938,-28.37619972229003906 There is only one access point to St Lucia town over the estuary bridge, making this a safe, insular destination for nature lovers and those wanting a little peace. Over the years, the authorities have ensured that all developments have a low impact on the natural surroundings.

The Tait family is very nature-conscious and enjoy the fact that wild animals share their garden – even if it is a troop of vervet monkeys that steal fruit! Sometimes hippos even block the road late at night. iGwalagwala (which is the Zulu name for the purple crested loerie – now called the purple crested tauraco) Guesthouse offers a comfortable stay in the heart of St Lucia and has wonderful nature surrounds. iGwalagwala has a warm and friendly atmosphere with personal service guaranteed.

]]> 32.41239929199218750,-28.37940025329589844 This beautiful guesthouse is situated in the last street of St Lucia, away from the main street’s hustle and bustle. Here one can hear the ocean’s call from the back garden – which is a tropical paradise with a rock swimming pool.

A leisurely breakfast (English and continental) is served on a wooden patio facing a spectacular view over the pool and garden. There is an abundance of small animals such as buck, birds and monkeys.

Lalapanzi – The name:

Lalapanzi is a Zulu word. ‘Lala’ means ‘to sleep’ and ‘phanzi’ or ‘panzi’ means ‘at the bottom.’

When the first owners of the guesthouse had to accommodate their first foreign guests (December 1995), they needed five rooms, but they only had four. It had been an emergency booking by a travel agent and in December St Lucia is full! The travel agent begged the owners to make a plan as no accommodation could be found anywhere. The owners therefore vacated their own private bedroom and slept in the garage (at the bottom or ‘phanzi’ of the house) with the whole family who were visiting for the Christmas weekend. The staff promptly named the episode ‘Lalapanzi’ and the owners decided to rename the guesthouse as it was such a nice-sounding word!

The five comfortably furnished double bedrooms and one twin room are equipped with small refrigerators and air-conditioners, as well as tea/coffee facilities. All bedrooms are en-suite with a bath or shower or both. Up to 12 guests can be accommodated in this non-smoking establishment (guests are welcome to smoke in the garden). Packages with local activities can be arranged.

]]> 32.41979980468750000,-28.37520027160644531 Maputaland Guesthouse was the first of its kind in St Lucia. The guesthouse consists of five en-suite rooms with ceiling fans (a welcome addition for the hot summer months), tea/coffee facilities and hairdryers. Guests can relax at the swimming pool and enjoy the abundance of birdlife in the garden.

The guesthouse is renowned for its mouth-watering breakfast, and dinners and delicious packed lunches are available on request. Maputaland Guesthouse will also arrange all activities and excursions – such as game drives, night drives, estuary tours, kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving, whale watching and turtle tours (seasonal).

]]> 32.41799926757812500,-28.37520027160644531 The Namib Safari Lodge on St Lucia’s main street offers 27 air-conditioned rooms. It is close to shops and amenities, but also a few minutes drive from the wonders of the wetlands. The complex is ideal for tour groups and families. All meals are served at the traditional lapa beside the large swimming pool. A bar is available.

The lodge has its own in-house tour operator – Heritage Tours and Safaris – who conducts tours to Cape Vidal and Hluhluwe Game Reserve in open game drive vehicles. The lodge also has its own curio shop for guests.

Tours on offer from Namib Safari Lodge:

Turtle Tours:

Come on a journey to discover an age-old phenomenon that has been taking place for centuries – the nesting of the leatherback and loggerhead turtles. Nesting season starts in November and ends in March. En-route guests can enjoy a night drive on the way to the turtle nesting sites – with a chance of spotting elephant, hyena, kudu, leopard and hippo.

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Big 5 Safari:

This is the park with the highest concentration of white and black rhino, a variety of bird life, scenic drives, and unique waterholes, rivers and hides. This is a full day tour with lunch and refreshments provided.

Cape Vidal Heritage and Snorkelling Tours:

After a game drive to Cape Vidal, snorkelling equipment is provided for those who would like to discover the underwater wonderland of tropical fish. This is a full day tour with lunch.

]]> 32.41019821166992188,-28.37910079956054688 Santa Lucia Guesthouse is a Mediterranean-style home set in a tranquil tropical garden with a pool. The bedrooms are all en-suite and equipped with tea/coffee facilities, air-conditioner, ceiling fan, bar refrigerator, radio and safety deposit box. Some bedrooms have doors leading to the patio and pool area.

Santa Lucia serves a superb breakfast that includes tropical fruit. Off-street parking is available and credit cards are accepted. German in spoken. Santa Lucia Guesthouse has been chosen as a semi-finalist and finalist in the prestigious AA Accommodation Awards Program, which denotes excellent service.

Santa Lucia Guesthouse will be pleased to assist their guests in planning and booking their activities during their stay.

]]> 32.41429901123046875,-28.37500000000000000 Seasands Lodge in St Lucia, which has a four star grading, nestles in a tropical garden with breathtaking views over the wetlands and the estuary mouth, and is hard to beat as a destination. The lodge is situated away from the busiest part of town, but with easy access to supermarkets, restaurants and other amenities. Seasands offers a shuttle service from the Richards Bay airport.

Seasands can easily accommodate large groups, as there are 27 cottages. All rooms have ceiling fans and/or air-conditioning and satellite television. The rooms are en-suite and have an open-plan lounge and fully fitted kitchenette.

All meals are available in the lapa as an optional extra. Traditional South African cuisine is on offer and the fish dishes are world-renowned. Vegetarians and special dietary requirements can also be catered for. The lapa also has bar facilities, an overhead projector, television and VCR – making it the ideal small conference venue for up to 35 delegates.
Seasands will assist guests with information regarding activities and tours in the area and can provide a booking service. Picnic baskets and light lunches are available.

]]> 32.41320037841796875,-28.38199996948242188 "St. Lucia's warmest welcome!"

St. Lucia Wetlands Guesthouse is owner run and managed ensuring a highly personalized service catering for guests every need. The guesthouse is well positioned to explore the many attractions of the Isimangaliso Wetland Park (previously known as The Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park). The business centre, with its quaint restaurants, is within walking distance from the guesthouse and apart from the hippopotamus that frequent the village at night in search for grazing, the village of St. Lucia is considered a safe haven.

The tranquil ambiance of the guesthouse is reflected in six elegantly decorated, spacious bedrooms offering a selection of single, twin, double, triple rooms and one family unit consisting of two en-suite bedrooms. Each room has its own private bathroom, air-conditioner, in-house telephone and complimentary wireless internet connection, toiletries, hairdryer and wall safe. The beds are large for unlimited comfort. The comfortable lounge with DSTV, offers local-interest books and brochures.

Facilities and services include, licensed bar, secure off street parking and valet vehicle service, swimming pool and credit card facilities. Complimentary drink on arrival with orientation and excursion bookings. Laundry service can be arranged and smoker's patio available. All this and more at the rate of R410 per person per night or R1 200 for the two bedroom family unit.

Guesthouse visuals: www.stluciawetlands.com/hires.htm

Area visuals: www.youtube.com/watch?v=91kA_R5BC5Q

Webpage: www.stluciawetlands.com

]]> 32.41780090332031250,-28.37529945373535156 St Lucia Wilds is in the St Lucia main street, but at the end of the road – away from the town buzz, but still close enough to walk to the town shops and restaurants. The property borders onto Lake St Lucia and has a lovely view of the lake and access to a jetty.

St Lucia Wilds has five units, all self-catering, in a natural garden setting with an abundance of birds and other animals. The units are neat, open and comfortably furnished with items (such as bathmats) hand-made by local crafters to create a welcoming and easy-living effect.

The chalets have separate bedrooms and a bathroom with bath and shower. One bedroom in each unit has a double bed, while the other beds are single. The budget flats are part of the original house, but have their own entrances, kitchens and bathrooms. They have one bedroom each with single beds.

All the units have their own braai (barbecue) facilities and are serviced daily. A communal entertainment area in the garden is the ideal place to eat or watch the sunset. A laundry service is available on request.

St Lucia Wilds is the ideal base from which to explore the area to experience the cultural and nature-based activities on offer. Try special tours such as whale-watching, snorkelling, game drives or many others. Or simply relax and enjoy St Lucia village – the local crafts and market places.

St Lucia Wilds is owned and managed by one family. Crafts made by the staff are on sale at reception. Special occasions can be catered for (e.g. birthday cakes). This is simple, no-nonsense accommodation in a natural relaxed setting.

Please note: No cheques, credit cards or pets are accepted.

]]> 32.40829849243164062,-28.38279914855957031 This luxury bed and breakfast is one of the best choices in upper-class accommodation. Early morning birding, up close to humpback whales after breakfast, face-to-face with hippos and crocodiles after lunch… This is the Zulani experience. Many visitors see Zulani as their base because of its proximity to all these major attractions in this Zululand area.

Zulani is an open spacious guesthouse, which offers accommodation in luxurious air-conditioned en-suite bedrooms. For the romantics, there is the exclusive Honeymoon suite with Jacuzzi. A full South African breakfast is served, consisting of tasty cuisine, including a variety of tropical fruits.

Enjoy the end of a busy day by relaxing in the private pool while enjoying the serenity of the dusk. Or relax at the private bar enjoying some of South Africa’s award winning wines. The guesthouse is within walking distance of shops and restaurants.

]]> 32.41080093383789062,-28.38069915771484375 The safaris are taken from the eastern shores of the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park. Bhangazi offers day rides or overnight packages of two to six nights. Activities included in the overnight packages are kayaking, walks, night drives, lake cruises and many more. Ride from Kosi Bay to St Lucia or into the Mkuze Game Reserve.

Accommodation is under canvas amongst the umdoni trees with all comforts and requests catered for.

This is a unique way of experiencing the game reserve and beaches of KwaZulu-Natal and is ideal for experienced riders.

]]> 32.42020034790039062,-28.35639953613281250 Fannas – the Spirit of St Lucia and Born Free are the transport of choice on the waters of Lake St Lucia. The two boats are skippered by people who know the lake well, and the tour commentators are experienced guides. Hippopotamus and crocodiles are the main attraction on the lake, but there is a variety of birdlife too – and some fascinating landscapes such as mangrove swamps and mudflats.

The boats are powered by smoke-free motors, have a licensed bar and toilet facilities. Fannas even has kitchen facilities for hot meals. This boat is ideal for office parties, conferences, weddings and other functions. Advance booking is essential.

Ten percent of the fare received by the boat tours is donated to nature conservation. St Lucia Safaris is also a one-stop tourist information and reservation office where tours to Cape Vidal, deep-sea fishing charters, horse-riding, kayaking and game drives can be arranged.

]]> 32.41239929199218750,-28.37380027770996094 Canerat Crafts started out of a need for local crafters to sell their goods. It is housed in a building that was the old farm school in the 1950’s.

A wide range of ceramics, candles, lamps, pictures, wrought iron products, decoupage, fabric painting, stationary, beadwork, African crafts, baked and bottled goods are on sale. Canerat is open seven days a week from 09:00 to 16:00.

]]> 32.29919815063476562,-28.43379974365234375 The diverse lifestyle of the Duku-Duku people is an interesting one. In Khula Village today, traditional healing is very strongly believed in and sangomas and inyangas (healers and herbalists) are visited regularly. Most people are subsistence farmers, and the ever-growing population puts a strain on this way of life.

Fafa Tours and Craft offers guests the opportunity to accompany a Zulu guide in an open vehicle to meet the local Zulu people, consult a sangoma, experience day-to-day activities in the township (no commercialised acting), visit local schools and churches, and learn a bit of Zulu culture and history.

Guests can also learn more about spiritual healing with a sangoma, and discover the nightlife of the township at a local shebeen (tavern). Lunch, Zulu dancing and a visit to local curio stalls are other options.

Donations to schools and churches are appreciated, as are tips for dancers and guides. Remember to bring cameras and sunscreen. Money generated by the tours helps to support local schools.

Snippet of Zulu history:

The Zulus are a proud nation with a colourful past. The most well-known aspect of this is probably the reign of Shaka – the greatest warrior chief in Zulu history. During his reign, Shaka conquered most of KwaZulu-Natal – and while many recall his bravery and strength, he was also notable for his tyranny. Shaka devised and improved upon the close-contact stabbing spear (assegai), giving it a shorter handle and longer, broader blade – which contributed immensely to his success in various wars.

To provide quality spears for his warriors, Shaka and his chosen workers had to learn the art of metal work from the Portuguese in Mozambique. These metal workers were hidden in the Duku-Duku forests (near St Lucia), where their knowledge was kept a secret.

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