St Lucia , South Africa

St Lucia : Epic Two Parks Explorer

Active

10h - 12h

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A fantastic flexible option to experience both of KwaZulu-Natal's iconic parks - on one day! You can decide which of the two parks you visit first. Let's start with the oldest park in Africa and the genetic home of all white rhinos alive in the world today - the magnificent Big 5 Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. Winding along the dirt roads and through the bush you will be treated to a spectacle of fascinating wildlife, from the smallest creatures, bugs and birds to possibly all of the Big 5. It's never a guarantee, but they are out there somewhere!

Heading back to St Lucia, you can decide to have lunch at Barraca which may take up some of your iSimangaliso Wetland Park visit or take a stroll through St Lucia and grab a quick bite and some snacks before heading off through the park to the beach at Cape Vidal! Your guide will drop you at your accommodation to freshen up, or he can drop you directly at Barraca for dinner!

Available options

St Lucia : Epic Two Parks Explorer

Pickup included

What's included

All entry fees and levies for both parks you'll visit are included

Your expert local guide for the day

We carry 2 extra bottled waters per traveller

Sunrise Coffee & Rusks at an open picnic site surrounded by nature

A light bush breakfast at a picnic sight in the park or at the beach

Detailed itinerary

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park or simply referred to locally as HIP, this 96000 hectare wildlife wonderland isn 't just your everyday game reserve. Steeped in natural and cultural history, this is the oldes park in all of Africa. Once the hunting grounds of great Zulu King Shaka, it is also the park that saved the white rhino from almost certain extinction with "Project Rhino" that began in the late 1950's into the 1960's. HIP can also proudly boast to be the genetic home to every rhino in the world today! Incredible landscapes and lookout points that over amazing views acroos the park. Not only do have an excellent chance of discovering the "Big 5", but also highly endangered African Wild Dogs or Painted Dogs as they are also called, but also the sleek and beautiful cheetah. An unforgettable park you'l never ever forget!

Curio & local craft shops, restaurants and an open market for you to stroll through.

Stop 3

South Africa's first declared UNESCO World Heritage Site, with 4 designated RAMSAR Sites within the park boundries, this section is home to 4 of the "Big 5" and some of the highest vegetated sandunes in the world. Translated from the local Zulu language, iSimangaliso means "Place of Miracle or Wonder"...and it truly is a wonderous place. The natural unbounded beauty is as incredible as the tapestry of diversity in animal, plant and birdlife! With a pristine beach to relax and enjoy at the far end of your inbound safari...then a second chance to marvel at the bountiful wildlife as you head back out of the park!

What's not included

Gratuities

Personal purchases (curios, snack, drinks, etc)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Your guide for the day will have all the relevant details, once you've booked and we've confirmed the finer details, there is nothing more for you to do, except wait for the day to arrive and head off into the wild! Please do not hesitate to get in touch should you require any further information or assistance.

About St Lucia

St Lucia is a charming coastal town in KwaZulu-Natal, known for its estuary, beaches, and rich biodiversity. It's a gateway to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a unique blend of marine and wildlife experiences.

Top Attractions

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing a diverse range of ecosystems, including lakes, wetlands, and coastal forests.

Nature Full day Moderate

St Lucia Estuary

A large estuary system home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles.

Nature Half day Budget to Moderate

Cape Vidal

A beautiful beach within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, known for its white sand and clear waters.

Beach Half day to full day Free to Moderate (park fees may apply)

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve

South Africa's oldest game reserve, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Nature Full day Moderate to Expensive (safari fees apply)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, originating from the Indian community.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available

Braai (Barbecue)

Grilled meats, often served with pap (maize porridge) and chakalaka (spicy vegetable relish).

Dinner Can be adapted for various dietary preferences

Fish and Chips

Freshly caught fish, battered and fried, served with chips (fries).

Lunch/Dinner Gluten-free options may be available

Popular Activities

Scuba diving Snorkeling Game drives Beach relaxation Sunset cruises Picnicking Traditional dance performances Cultural tours

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. It's peak season due to the comfortable temperatures and lower humidity.

20-28°C 68-82°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

St Lucia is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Be cautious, especially at night and in isolated areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Use reputable tour operators

Getting there

By air

King Shaka International Airport • 200 km

By bus

Durban

Getting around

Public transport

Minibus taxis are the primary form of public transport but are not tourist-friendly. They operate on fixed routes within the town.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Town Center Beachfront

Day trips

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve

50 km • Full day

South Africa's oldest game reserve, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Sodwana Bay

100 km • Full day

A renowned diving and snorkeling destination with pristine beaches and coral reefs.

Festivals

Siyafunda Boat Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the estuary at dawn or dusk for the best wildlife viewing opportunities
Book guided tours in advance, especially during peak season
Pack binoculars for wildlife viewing and a good camera for capturing the beautiful scenery
Respect the local culture and traditions, and engage with the community for a more authentic experience
Be cautious of wildlife, especially near the estuary and in game reserves