Half Day Isimangaliso Wetlands Park Boat Tour from Durban

Durban , South Africa

Half Day Isimangaliso Wetlands Park Boat Tour from Durban

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About this experience

This tour is suitable for solo travelers, couples, families and groups. What makes a hippo and croc boat cruise in the St Lucia Estuary unique is the rare opportunity to observe these formidable creatures up close in their natural habitat. As one of the few places in the world where large populations of hippos and crocodiles coexist, the estuary provides an extraordinary wildlife spectacle. The guided boat tour allows visitors to safely view these animals, often just meters away, while learning about their behaviors and the surrounding ecosystem. The combination of diverse birdlife, rich mangrove forests, and the peaceful estuary waters makes this cruise a truly special experience in the heart of iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Available options

Half Day Isimangaliso Wetlands Park Boat Tour from Durban

Pickup included

What's included

Pick ups and drop offs in Durban, 50km radius

Tour guide

Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise in St Lucia Estuary

Crocs, Hippos, birds and other wildlife

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Depart from Durban at 6am and head north to Isimangaliso Wetlands Park for a Hippo and Croc Boat Cruise at St Lucia Estuary. A hippo and croc boat cruise in St Lucia, located within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, offers an exciting and up-close encounter with some of Africa's most fascinating wildlife. As you cruise through the calm waters of the St Lucia Estuary, you'll spot pods of hippos lounging in the shallows and crocodiles basking on the riverbanks. The knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary on the ecosystem and its inhabitants. Surrounded by lush mangroves and birdlife, this cruise is a unique way to experience the biodiversity of South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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