Full-Day iSimangaliso Wetlands Tour Boat Cruise and Safari

Durban , South Africa

Full-Day iSimangaliso Wetlands Tour Boat Cruise and Safari

Active

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on this full-day tour from Durban. Enjoy a hippo and crocodile boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary, where you can see the largest hippo populations and diverse birdlife. After a lunch break in St Lucia, embark on a thrilling safari in the Dukuduku section, renowned for its rich wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, and countless bird species. This tour uniquely combines water and land adventures, offering insights from experienced guides. Perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

- Full-day tour includes a hippo and crocodile boat cruise
- Guided safari in the Dukuduku section of iSimangaliso Wetland Park
- Explore diverse ecosystems with opportunities for wildlife spotting
- Lunch break in St Lucia at your own expense

Available options

Full-Day iSimangaliso Wetlands Tour Boat Cruise and Safari

Pickup included

What's included

Tour guide

Hippo and croc boat cruise in St Lucia Estuary, one of the biggest estuaries in Africa.

See hippos, crocodiles, birds

Game safari in Isimangaliso Wetlands Park

Detailed itinerary

Depart from Durban at 6am and head to Isimangaliso Wetlands Park. Your adventure starts on the St Lucia Estuary, one of South Africa’s richest and most biodiverse waterways. Here, you will embark on a hippo and crocodile boat cruise, a must-do experience that provides close-up encounters with the estuary’s wildlife. The calm waters are home to one of the largest hippo populations in the country, and it is common to spot pods of hippos wallowing or yawning as the boat passes by. Nile crocodiles can often be seen sunning themselves along the banks, while an impressive variety of birdlife.

After the boat cruise, lunch break, own cost.

Stop 2

After lunch, the tour continues with a game safari in the Dukuduku section of iSimangaliso Wetland Park. This area of the park is known for its diverse habitats, ranging from coastal forests and wetlands to savannah grasslands. With your experienced guide leading the way, you will venture into this pristine wilderness in search of wildlife. The park is home to elephants, buffalo, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and an incredible variety of antelope. Bird enthusiasts will also be delighted, as iSimangaliso boasts over 500 species of birds, making it one of the country’s premier birding destinations.

After the safari we depart for Durban in the afternoon.

What's not included

Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

no health restrictions

About Durban

Durban is a vibrant coastal city in South Africa known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and warm tropical climate. It's a melting pot of cultures, offering a unique blend of African, Indian, and colonial influences.

Top Attractions

Golden Mile

A stretch of beautiful beaches along the Durban coastline, offering a variety of water sports, beach activities, and a vibrant promenade.

Beach Half day to full day Free to enter, activities vary in cost

uShaka Marine World

A popular theme park and marine park featuring a variety of attractions, including a water park, aquarium, and dolphin shows.

Entertainment Full day Moderate to expensive

Durban Botanical Gardens

A beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plant species, walking trails, and a heritage site.

Nature 1-2 hours Free to enter, small fee for special exhibits

Victoria Street Market

A bustling market offering a variety of goods, including spices, textiles, and handmade crafts.

Market 1-2 hours Budget to moderate

Durban Museum

A museum showcasing the natural and cultural history of Durban and the surrounding region.

Museum 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, lamb, or beans. It's a popular street food in Durban.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available

Biltong

Dried, cured meat, similar to jerky, made from various types of meat such as beef, game, or ostrich.

Snack Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, lamb, or beans. It's a popular street food in Durban.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available

Durban Curry

A spicy curry dish with roots in Indian cuisine, often made with chicken, lamb, or seafood, and flavored with local spices.

Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Surfing Hiking Mountain biking Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga Cultural tours Museum visits

Best Time to Visit

December to February

This is the summer season with warm temperatures, frequent rain showers, and bustling beaches. It's the peak tourist season with vibrant festivals and events.

23°C to 30°C 73°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Zulu, English
Widely spoken: Zulu, English, Afrikaans, Xhosa
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Durban is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and violent crime can occur, particularly in certain areas and at night. Exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night

Getting there

By air

King Shaka International Airport • 35 km from city center

By train

Durban Station

By bus

Durban Bus Terminal, Grey Street Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

DART buses are affordable and convenient for getting around. They operate on dedicated bus lanes, making them faster than regular buses.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Berea Morningside Umgeni Road

Day trips

Valley of a Thousand Hills

30 km from Durban • Half day to full day

A scenic region known for its rolling hills, traditional Zulu villages, and cultural experiences. It offers a glimpse into rural Zulu life and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

St. Lucia

200 km from Durban • Full day or overnight

A coastal town in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and water activities. It's a popular destination for boat cruises, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting.

Drakensberg Mountains

250 km from Durban • Full day or overnight

A stunning mountain range known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a break from the city.

Festivals

Durban July • July Durban International Film Festival • October Sugar Rush Festival • December to January

Pro tips

Visit the beach early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures
Try local street food like bunny chow and samosas for an authentic Durban culinary experience
Explore the city's cultural heritage by visiting the Victoria Street Market and the Durban Botanical Gardens
Take a day trip to the Valley of a Thousand Hills for a scenic and cultural experience
Attend a local event or festival, such as the Durban July or the Durban International Film Festival, for a unique and memorable experience